bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new imaging concept in spin polarimetry based on the spin-filter effect
Authors: Tereshchenko Oleg E. , Golyashov Vladimir A. , Rusetsky Vadim S. , Mironov Andrey V. , Demin Alexander Yu. , Aksenov Vladimir V.
Published: March 2021

The concept of an imaging-type 3D spin detector, based on the combination of spin-exchange interactions in the ferromagnetic (FM) film and spin selectivity of the electron–photon conversion effect in a semiconductor heterostructure, is proposed and demonstrated on a model system. This novel multichannel concept is based on the idea of direct transfer of a 2D spin-polarized electron distribution to image cathodoluminescence (CL). The detector is a hybrid structure consisting of a thin magnetic layer deposited on a semiconductor structure allowing measurement of the spatial and polarization-dependent CL intensity from injected spin-polarized free electrons. The idea is to use spin-dependent electron transmission through in-plane magnetized FM film for in-plane spin detection by measuring the CL intensity from recombined electrons transmitted in the semiconductor. For the incoming electrons with out-of-plane spin polarization, the intensity of circularly polarized CL light can be detected from recombined polarized electrons with holes in the semiconductor. In order to demonstrate the ability of the solid-state spin detector in the image-type mode operation, a spin detector prototype was developed, which consists of a compact proximity focused vacuum tube with a spin-polarized electron source [p-GaAs(Cs,O)], a negative electron affinity (NEA) photocathode and the target [semiconductor heterostructure with quantum wells also with NEA]. The injection of polarized low-energy electrons into the target by varying the kinetic energy in the range 0.5–3.0 eV and up to 1.3 keV was studied in image-type mode. The figure of merit as a function of electron kinetic energy and the target temperature is determined. The spin asymmetry of the CL intensity in a ferromagnetic/semiconductor (FM-SC) junction provides a compact optical method for measuring spin polarization of free-electron beams in image-type mode. The FM-SC detector has the potential for realizing multichannel 3D vectorial reconstruction of spin polarization in momentum microscope and angle-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy systems.
Using
RELION
software within the Scipion framework
Authors: Sharov Grigory , Morado Dustin R. , Carroni Marta , de la Rosa-Trevín José Miguel
Published: March 2021

Scipion is a modular image-processing framework that integrates several software packages under a unified interface while taking care of file formats and conversions. Here, new developments and capabilities of the Scipion plugin for the widely used RELION software package are presented and illustrated with an image-processing pipeline for published data. The user interfaces of Scipion and RELION are compared and the key differences are highlighted, allowing this manuscript to be used as a guide for both new and experienced users of this software. Different on-the-fly image-processing options are also discussed, demonstrating the flexibility of the Scipion framework.
Chinese consumers’ willingness-to-pay for nutrition claims on processed meat products, using functional sausages as a food medium
Authors: Hong Xinyi , Li Chenguang , Bai Junfei , Gao Zhifeng , Wang Liming
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Following the standard practice of using nutrition claims to denote food functionality, this study empirically explores Chinese consumers’ willingness-to-pay for functional processed meat products by using three nutrition claims (namely “increased calcium,” “containing omega-3”, and “reduced salt”) made on pork sausages. It also aims to outline the typical characteristics of Chinese consumer segments based on preferences.

Design/methodology/approach

A choice-based choice experiment is utilized to investigate Chinese consumers’ valuation on attributes of interest regarding functional sausage products. First-hand data was collected in the two cities of Xi'an and Beijing.

Findings

There are market potentials for domestic and/or imported functional processed meat products among Chinese consumers. Nutrition claims made on pork sausages are appealing to Chinese consumers, and therefore, monetarily rewarded by them. Being imported from a more developed country of origin could both positively and negatively impact consumers’ WTP for nutrition claims made on pork sausages. Furthermore, specific functional modification strategies should be taken into account when addressing different segments of the Chinese market. In addition, regional impacts between Xi'an and Beijing are implied in terms of consumers’ valuation for functional pork sausages.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations in the current study are mainly two folds. First, the WTP estimation magnitudes are subject to a hypothetical bias by using a stated preference approach. Second, this study only focuses on pork sausages to explore consumers’ perceptions and selects three nutrition claims among many other relevant options.

Practical implications

Implications are provided for meat marketers and for Chinese official food policymakers, such that promoting meat products with a nutrition claim is an attractive marketing strategy for foreign food manufacturers in China, and more reformulated meat products with better nutritional compositions should be allowed in the Chinese market.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this research is the first to fill in the literature blank on investigating the consumers’ valuation for functional meat in the emerging market of China. Because when taking Chinese consumers as a target market and evaluating their perceptions of food quality-related labeling and certifications, the existing literature is mainly limited to topics of product safety, organic/green products, and geographical origins. However, nutrition claims, as marketable credence attributes that associate closely to the main characteristics of the functional food products, have been explored to a much lesser extent among Chinese consumers.
Does income shock affect informal employment? Evidence from Russia
Authors: Kim Olivia Hye
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine whether participating informality is attributed to income shocks such as wage arrears, unexpected wage cuts or compulsory unpaid leaves. The current research uses Russia longitudinal Monitoring Survey 2002–2015.

Design/methodology/approach

Using formal jobs as the base category, the authors conducted pooled multinomial logit regressions allowing for the two additional employment statuses: workers without contracts and unincorporated business workers.

Findings

The overall results mainly suggest that no effects occur. In other words, unexpected negative income shocks are not the main driving force of informality. Although the majority of previous studies are based on survey questions on unexpected income shock which has sample selection bias, to obtain robustness, the current study used Russian minimum wage reforms as income shocks. This research shows that Russian minimum wage reform does not affect the decision of informality in the labor market.

Research limitations/implications

Given the data limitations, the authors only observed and examined the supply-side of the labor market. Tax-evading motives would be the main reason for informality; to ensure this conjecture, however, demand and supply sides need to be simultaneously examined which is beyond the scope of this study.

Originality/value

In contrast to a large number of studies on cross-sectional differences in determinants of informal job holding, emphasis on the effects of income shocks on informal employment across business cycles has been minimal. The current study focuses on the business cycles because trends of informal employment can be interpreted differently regardless of whether in an economic boom or recession. Russia, as a unique natural experiment, provides us to examine informal job holdings over the business cycle.
A cross-level examination of team-directed empowering leadership and subordinates' innovative performance: an AMO theory perspective
Authors: Cui Yang , Yu Guilan
Published: March 2021

Purpose

In the field of innovation, individual innovative performance also has an important impact on team and organizational innovative performance, thus it is necessary to identify factors that increase individual innovative performance. One key to unlock individual innovative performance is empowering leadership. Drawing on the Ability-Motivation-Opportunity (AMO) theoretical framework, this study investigates the cross-level influence of team-directed empowering leadership on subordinates' innovative performance and verifies the mediating role of creative self-efficacy (A), intrinsic motivation (M), team knowledge sharing (O) and the moderating effect of feedback seeking climate.

Design/methodology/approach

With a sample of 102 teams and 722 employees, this study uses Mplus7.4 software to carry out cross-level model analysis based on MSEM multilevel mediation test methodology.

Findings

The results from cross-level analysis indicate that: (1) Team-directed empowering leadership has a significant positive impact on subordinates' innovative performance. (2) Team-directed empowering leadership enhances subordinates' innovative performance through the improvement of creative self-efficacy, intrinsic motivation and team knowledge sharing. (3) Based on the feedback perspective, feedback seeking climate moderates the relationship between team-directed empowering leadership and creative self-efficacy, intrinsic motivation and team knowledge sharing.

Originality/value

This study introduced the AMO theory into the research on cross-level mediating mechanism between team-directed empowering leadership and subordinates' innovative performance, which broadens the theoretical research perspective. Considering the difference between empowering leadership and laissez-faire leadership and the guiding role of feedback, this study selects feedback seeking climate as a moderator in view of feedback, which riches the contingency factors on the cross-level effect of team-directed empowering leadership.
Tracking technology diffusion in-store: a fashion retail perspective
Authors: Alexander Bethan , Kent Anthony
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Continuous change has long been recognized as a core characteristic of retailing, its recent acceleration unprecedented, yet innovation in retailing remains under-researched, especially within fashion retailing. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to generate a deeper understanding of if, and to what extent, fashion retailers across different market segments are innovating in terms of in-store technology diffusion over time by taking a long-term perspective over five years.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on retail change and innovation diffusion theory, the study takes a qualitative approach, using direct observation of 71 fashion stores in London (UK) in 2014 and 2019. In total, 142 stores were tabulated in Excel and qualitatively analysed manually and with NVivo.

Findings

The findings identify the innovation adoption strategies implemented, the types of in-store technologies adopted over time and the fashion retail innovation adopters.

Originality/value

The research offers new knowledge in terms of retail innovation and retail change, specifically on retail diffusion of innovation and the importance of in-store technology integration. Several practical implications for improving technology innovation management are also identified.
Impact of psychosocial factors on academic performance of nursing students in Thailand
Authors: Ratanasiripong Paul , Wang Chiachih DC , Ratanasiripong Nop , Hanklang Suda , Kathalae Duangrat , Chumchai Pornlert
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the psychosocial factors that impact the academic performance of nursing students.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 767 nursing students from three nursing colleges in Thailand. Instruments included Counseling Center Assessment for Psychological Symptoms and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Path model analyses with the maximum likelihood method were utilized to examine the proposed model. Model fit was estimated using multiple indexes, including chi-square/df ratio (χ2/df), comparative fit index (CFI), Tucker-Lewis index (TLI) and the root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA).

Findings

Results indicated that family distress, emotional negativity, self-esteem and substance use were factors that related to nursing students' academic performance. Findings of path analyses indicated that the model demonstrated good fit: χ2 (2, N = 767) = 3.11, p = 0.48; χ2/df = 1.56; CFI = 1.00; TLI = 0.99; RMSEA = 0.027, (90% CI = [0.000, 0.082], PCLOSE = 0.68).

Originality/value

While prior research has examined some facets leading to academic success for nursing students, psychosocial factors have not received adequate attention. This study presents a model of family and individual psychosocial factors that impact academic performance of nursing students along with recommendations to help improve their well-being.
Availability and cost assessment of systems with dormant failure undergoing sequential inspections
Authors: Pant Himani , Singh S.B.
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The system encountering dormant failure subject to sequential inspections is modeled and the emphasis is made on determining the availability and long-run average cost rate for the model. The derived results are then utilized to obtain the optimal inspection period minimizing the cost.

Design/methodology/approach

Explicitly, a system with a functional and a failed state is taken into account. Inspections are performed to reveal the dormant failures and are assumed to be carried out at time T, T + aT, T + aT+a2 T, … where 0 < a = 1 in each cycle. Perfect repairs taking random times are performed if the system is found in a failed state during any inspection.

Findings

Some theorems on the point availability, limiting availability and long-run average cost rate are obtained in the study. An illustration is shown to explain the results obtained in the proposed work. The effect of inspection time on the availability and cost rate is also analyzed graphically.

Originality/value

The availability and cost rate for a system with dormant failure under a sequential inspection policy are figured out unlike previous research.
The nascence of a springboard subsidiary: drivers of the evolution of a subsidiary role
Authors: Magomedova Nina , Achcaoucaou Fariza , Miravitlles Paloma
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The aim of this study is to explore the drivers of the evolution of a subsidiary’s strategic role from an ordinary subsidiary into a springboard subsidiary in multinational corporations, paying special attention to the role of subsidiary management in this transformation.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors apply a case study methodology to analyse the transformation of three Spanish subsidiaries of European multinational companies into springboard subsidiaries to pursue opportunities in the Latin American region.

Findings

The results present evidence that the development of a springboard subsidiary’s role is influenced by a set of preliminary factors that include: (1) the coincidence of a favourable economic change in the target region of expansion and unfavourable market conditions in the springboard subsidiary’s home market; (2) location-specific advantages of a subsidiary that allow it to develop unique capabilities, such as the ability to reduce the psychic distance between the headquarters and target region, to balance intra-regional conflicts within the target region, and to effectively transfer knowledge from the headquarters to the target region; and (3) micro-political headquarters-subsidiary negotiation processes as a result of the subsidiary’s strong initiative, peculiarities of the structure of a multinational company, and a strong dependency of the headquarters on the subsidiary’s unique capabilities.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the International Business literature by providing an in-depth analysis of the evolution of springboard subsidiaries and explaining how ordinary subsidiaries located in saturated markets can trigger organisational change and achieve the extension of their strategic role.
The New Trading ‘Relationship’ between Great Britain and Northern Ireland: Why, What and How
Authors: Hayward Katy
Published: March 2021

The protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland proved to be the trickiest element of the UK‐EU Withdrawal Agreement to negotiate. The version that was finally agreed to by both sides sees the EU's customs code and regulatory rules applying in Northern Ireland. In avoiding a hard border for the movement of goods on the island of Ireland, there are new frictions on the movement of goods within the United Kingdom (across the Irish Sea). Implementing the protocol is a complex practical as well as political challenge. What it means in practice is largely dependent on the nature of the UK‐EU relationship.
Our Postpandemic World: What Will It Take to Build a Better Future for People and Planet?
Authors: VAN SCHALKWYK MAY CI , MAANI NASON , COHEN JONATHAN , MCKEE MARTIN , PETTICREW MARK
Published: March 2021

Policy Points

Despite the pandemic's ongoing devastating impacts, it also offers the opportunity and lessons for building a better, fairer, and sustainable world.

Transformational change will require new ways of working, challenging powerful individuals and industries who worsened the crisis, will act to exploit it for personal gain, and will work to ensure that the future aligns with their interests.

A flourishing world needs strong and equitable structures and systems, including strengthened democratic, research, and educational institutions, supported by ideas and discourses that are free of opaque and conflicted influence and that challenge the status quo and inequitable distribution of power.
miRNAs targeting CYP6ER1 and CarE1 are involved in nitenpyram resistance in Nilaparvata lugens
Authors: Mao Kaikai , Jin Ruoheng , Ren Zhijie , Zhang Junjie , Li Zhao , He Shun , Ma Kangsheng , Wan Hu , Li Jianhong
Published: March 2021

The evolution of nitenpyram resistance has been confirmed to be related to overexpression of two key metabolic enzyme genes, CYP6ER1 and CarE1, in Nilaparvata lugens, a highly destructive rice pest that causes substantial economic losses and has developed insecticide resistance. As microRNAs (miRNAs) are important post‐transcriptional regulators of gene expression, whether they are involved in nitenpyram resistance is poorly understood in N. lugens. In this study, knockdown of key genes in the miRNA biogenesis pathway (Dicer1, Drosha, and Argonaute1) changed CYP6ER1 and CarE1 abundance, which confirmed the importance of miRNAs in nitenpyram resistance. Furthermore, global screening of miRNAs associated with nitenpyram resistance in N. lugens was performed, and a total of 42 known and 178 novel miRNAs were identified; of these, 57 were differentially expressed between the susceptible and resistant strains, and two (novel_85 and novel_191) were predicted to target CYP6ER1 and CarE1, respectively. Luciferase reporter assays demonstrated that novel_85 and novel_191 bind to the CYP6ER1 and CarE1 coding regions, respectively, and downregulate their expression. Moreover, modulating novel_85 and novel_191 expression by injection of miRNA inhibitors and mimics significantly altered N. lugens nitenpyram susceptibility. This is the first study to systematically screen and identify miRNAs associated with N. lugens nitenpyram resistance, and provides important information that can be used to develop new miRNA‐based targets in insecticide resistance management.
Geochronology, Fluid Inclusions and Isotopic Characteristics of the Dongjun Pb‐Zn‐Ag Deposit, Inner Mongolia, NE China
Authors: XIE Wei , WEN Shouqin , ZHANG Guangliang , TANG Tieqiao
Published: March 2021

The Dongjun Pb‐Zn‐Ag deposit in the northern part of the Great Xing'an Range (NE China) consists of quartz‐sulfide vein‐type and breccia‐type mineralization, related to granite porphyry. Hydrothermal alteration is well‐developed and includes potassic‐silicic‐sericitic alteration, phyllic alteration and propylitic alteration. Three stages of mineralization are recognized on the basis of field evidence and petrographic observation, demarcated by assemblages of quartz‐pyrite‐arsenopyrite (early stage), quartz‐polymetallic sulfide (intermediate stage) and quartz‐carbonate‐pyrite (late stage). Zircon LA‐ICP‐MS U‐Pb dating indicates that the granite porphyry was emplaced at 146.7 ± 1.2 Ma (Late Jurassic). Microthermometry and laser Raman spectroscopy shows that ore minerals were deposited in conditions of intermediate temperatures (175–359°C), low salinity (0.5–9.3 wt% NaCl eqv.) and low density (0.60–0.91 g/cm3). Ore‐forming fluids were derived largely from magmatic hydrothermal processes, with late‐stage addition of meteoric water, belonging to a H2O‐NaCl‐CO2 ± CH4 system. The δ34SV‐CDT values range from 0.75‰ to 4.70‰. The 206Pb/204Pb, 207Pb/204Pb, and 208Pb/204Pb values of the ore minerals are in the ranges of 18.240–18.371, 15.542–15.570, and 38.100–38.178, respectively. Data for the S and Pb isotopic systems indicate that the ore‐forming metals and sulfur were derived from Mesozoic magma. Based on the geological characteristics and geochemical signatures documented in this study, we conclude that the Dongjun deposit is a mesothermal magmatic hydrothermal vein‐type Pb‐Zn‐Ag deposit controlled by fractures and related to granite porphyry, in response to Late Jurassic tectonic–magmatic–hydrothermal activity. We further conclude that fluid immiscibility, fluid mixing and fluid‐rock interactions were the dominant mechanisms for deposition of the ore‐forming materials.
Characteristics of Hydrogen‐rich Coals in Southern China: Implications from Organic Geochemistry and Carbon Isotopic Compositions
Authors: LIN Yuhan , WANG Shaoqing , YANG Zongda , ZHAO Yungang , YANG Yi
Published: March 2021

The organic geochemical characteristics of hydrogen‐rich coal in southern China were investigated synthetically through organic geochemistry and carbon isotope analyses. The results showed that the hydrogen contents of the test samples were more than 5.0% and the H/C atomic ratios were between 0.76–1.06. Samples were found to be composed mostly of Type II‐III kerogen, consistent with good hydrocarbon‐generation potential. The Ro (0.54–1.10%) and Tmax (430–453°C) values imply that the hydrogen‐rich coals were in low maturity to mature stages. Stable carbon isotopic ratios (δ13Corg) of the samples used varied from –24.5‰ to –23.4‰, the barkinite content ranging from 13.9% to 83.3%, indicating a predominantly terrestrial origin with marine influence during coal formation. Some organic geochemical parameters showed corresponding changes as the hydrogen content increased from 5.0% to 7.0%, however, the source inputs changed significantly when hydrogen content was greater than 6.0%. Terrestrial higher plants gradually become predominant within the coal‐forming materials, whereas this dominant position is not apparent at lower hydrogen contents, which is attributable to the strong seawater effect during the hydrogen‐rich coal formation process.
Genesis of Geothermal Fluid in Typical Geothermal Fields in Western Sichuan, China
Authors: ZHAO Jiayi , WANG Guiling , ZHANG Cuiyun , XING Linxiao , LI Man , ZHANG Wei
Published: March 2021

The hydrogeochemical characteristics of geothermal fluids can reveal the genesis of geothermal systems and act as important references for developing and using geothermal resources. This study presents hydrogeochemical processes and thermal cycle mechanisms of typical geothermal fields in Western Sichuan. Based on the geological conditions in Western Sichuan, 29 hot springs in three geothermal fields in the Batang and Litang areas were selected for hydrochemical and isotopic (δD and δ18O) analyses. Furthermore, the temperature of the thermal reservoir was calculated and the upflow cooling process of the hot springs was analyzed. Most of the subterranean hot waters in Batang and Litang are of the HCO3‐Na hydrochemical type. The ion variation in Batang is primarily affected by water‐rock interactions. There is a strong positive correlation between Na+, B−, and Cl− in Litang, suggesting that they have the same material source. The Na+ and metaboric acid content is relatively high, which indicates that the groundwater runoff in both areas is relatively long‐lasting, with reduced flow velocity; moreover, the metasilicic acid content is relatively high, which supports this conclusion. Both hydrogen and oxygen isotopes plot near the atmospheric precipitation line, indicating that groundwater recharge is functionally obtained from precipitation. The calculated thermal storage temperatures in Batang and Litang were 88–199°C and 96–154°C, respectively. The proportion of cold water mixing in Batang was 64%–67%, while that in Litang was 60%–68%. According to the calculated results, the initial thermal cycle depth of the Batang area (4540–4780 m) was greater than that of the Litang area (3150–3960 m). The enthalpy of the deep parental geothermal fluid in Batang was 1550 J/g with a Cl− concentration of 37 mg/L, while that in Litang was 2100 J/g with a Cl− concentration of 48 mg/L.
The site of Al‐Qurainiyah: Topography and phases of an early Islamic coastal settlement on Failaka Island
Authors: Di Miceli Andrea
Published: March 2021

This paper presents the latest finds from the early Islamic site of Al‐Qurainiyah on Failaka Island, Kuwait. Trenches opened to the west of the main late Islamic village led to the identification of residential buildings and a workshop located along the shoreline, while the pottery assemblage suggests a permanent occupation from at least the seventh century CE to the early ninth century CE. The last two years of excavations allowed us to uncover archaeological contexts that seem to indicate a previous occupation, dating to the late Hellenistic period (second century BC). The long‐term occupation, strategic position of the settlement facing a wide and well‐sheltered lagoon, as well as the installation of a stable settlement in the same period of Al‐Qusur—the main early Islamic site of the island—seem to suggest the interpretation of Al‐Qurainiyah as a landing place used both in the early Islamic period and beforehand.
Mesenchymal stem cell‐conditioned medium attenuates the retinal pathology in amyloid‐β‐induced rat model of Alzheimer's disease: Underlying mechanisms
Authors: Kuo Shu‐Chun , Chio Chung‐Ching , Yeh Chao‐Hung , Ma Jui‐Ti , Liu Wen‐Pin , Lin Mao‐Tsun , Lin Kao‐Chang , Chang Ching‐Ping
Published: March 2021

Amyloid‐beta (Aβ) oligomer is known to contribute to the pathophysiology of age‐related macular degeneration. Herein, we aimed to elucidate the in vivo and in vitro effects of Aβ1‐42 application on retinal morphology in rats. Our in vivo studies revealed that intracerebroventricular administration of Aβ1‐42 oligomer caused dysmorphological changes in both retinal ganglion cells and retinal pigment epithelium. In addition, in vitro studies revealed that ARPE‐19 cells following Aβ1‐42 oligomer application had decreased viability along with apoptosis and decreased expression of the tight junction proteins, increased expression of both phosphor‐AKT and phosphor‐GSK3β and decreased expression of both SIRT1 and β‐catenin. Application of conditioned medium (CM) obtained from mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) protected against Aβ1‐42 oligomer‐induced retinal pathology in both rats and ARPE‐19 cells. In order to explore the potential role of peptides secreted from the MSCs, we applied mass spectrometry to compare the peptidomics profiles of the MSC‐CM. Gene ontology enrichment analysis and String analysis were performed to explore the differentially expressed peptides by predicting the functions of their precursor proteins. Bioinformatics analysis showed that 3‐8 out of 155–163 proteins in the MSC‐CM maybe associated with SIRT1/pAKT/pGSK3β/β‐catenin, tight junction proteins, and apoptosis pathway. In particular, the secretomes information on the MSC‐CM may be helpful for the prevention and treatment of retinal pathology in age‐related macular degeneration.
Substance Use, Gambling, Binge‐Eating, and Hypersexuality Symptoms Among Patients Receiving Opioid Agonist Therapies
Authors: Carr Meagan M. , Ellis Jennifer D. , Saules Karen K. , Page Jamie L. , Staples Angela , Ledgerwood David M.
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives

Patients receiving opioid agonist therapies have high rates of psychiatric comorbidity. Some data suggest that comorbidity is associated with poorer treatment outcomes. The current study assessed predictors of multiple putative addictive behaviors among patients receiving opioid agonist therapies.

Methods

Adults (N = 176) recruited from an outpatient clinic providing opioid agonist therapy completed self‐report measures of depression, anxiety, impulsivity, adverse childhood events, and the Recognizing Addictive Disorders (RAD) scale, which includes seven subscales assessing symptoms related to alcohol use, drug use, tobacco use, gambling, binge‐eating, hypersexual behavior, and excessive video‐gaming. Linear regression and hurdle models identified significant predictors of RAD subscales. Hurdle models included logistic regression estimation for the presence/absence of symptoms and negative binomial regression for estimation of the severity of symptoms.

Results

Most patients did not report significant symptoms beyond drug or tobacco use. However, 7% to 47% of participants reported some symptoms of other addictive behaviors (subscale score > 0). Higher impulsivity predicted the presence and/or increased severity of symptoms of drug use, gambling, binge‐eating, and hypersexuality. Higher depression significantly predicted increased severity of drug use and binge‐eating symptoms. Increased anxiety predicted lower severity of alcohol use and binge‐eating and higher severity of smoking symptoms.

Conclusion and Scientific Significance

A broader range of potentially addictive symptoms may be present among patients engaged in treatment for opioid use disorder. Few studies have assessed symptoms of binge‐eating, hypersexuality, and excessive video‐gaming among patients receiving opioid agonist therapy. This study contributes to preliminary findings and highlights important future directions. (Am J Addict 2021;00:00–00)
Should beta‐blockers be continued as a treatment for myocardial infarction in the case of Kounis syndrome?
Authors: Amino Mari , Fukushima Tomokazu , Uehata Atsushi , Nishikawa Chiemi , Morita Seiji , Nakagawa Yoshihide , Murakami Tsutomu , Yoshioka Koichiro , Ikari Yuji
Published: March 2021

A 71‐year‐old male patient reported to our hospital with anaphylactic shock, and the following two issues were focused in this case. First, he was resistant to adrenaline because of taking beta‐blocker, and shock was repeated until glucagon administration was initiated. Second, he developed acute coronary syndrome. Two mechanisms contributing to Kounis syndrome were differentiated: 1) adrenaline induced coronary spasm and platelet activation or 2) a mismatch between oxygen supply and demand due to an allergic reaction. Beta‐blocker therapy was discontinued because his cardiac function was preserved. Secondary preventive beta‐blockers in recovering myocardial infarction with severe anaphylaxis history should be carefully considered.
Transesophageal electrophysiology study in the diagnosis of dual atrioventricular nodal nonreentrant tachycardia
Authors: Chen Jing , Lin Fan , Zuo Ping , Li Shixu , Lin Li , Wang Bei , Yang XiaoYun
Published: March 2021

“Double fire” is generally characterized by 1:2 atrioventricular conduction of sinus beats traveling down fast and slow pathways that result in double ventricular response. When this phenomenon repeats rapidly, dual atrioventricular nodal nonreentrant tachycardia (DAVNNT) occurs. We report a case of an irregular tachycardia with a comprehensive record that includes an electrocardiogram, a transesophageal electrophysiology study, and an intracardiac electrophysiology study. This is the first report of transesophageal electrophysiology study in the diagnosis of DAVNNT. A diagnosis of DAVNNT was deduced, and the patient was successfully treated with radiofrequency ablation of the slow pathway.
Living donor liver transplantation in septuagenarians: Better late than never
Authors: Zidan Ahmed , Sturdevant Mark , Elsarawy Ahmed , Hassan Ramy , Alabbad Saleh , Alghamdi Saad , Bzeizi Khalid , Broering Dieter C.
Published: March 2021

Background

The coupling of increased life expectancy and improvements in both quality and access to chronic liver disease care, is culminating in an expanding population of septuagenarians (≥70 years) in need of liver transplantation (LT). The objective of this study is to partially alleviate this knowledge deficit and to add clarity to the current status and role of LDLT in this recipient population.

Methods

Of 295 adult patients underwent LDLT between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2016. Twelve (4%) of these patients were septuagenarians and this group was compared to younger cohort (n = 283).

Results

Comorbidity profiles between the two groups were similar and no statistically significant differences were noted in warm/cold ischemia times, operative duration, or blood product utilization. ICU and total hospital stays were comparable. Septuagenarian 1‐and 5‐year graft and patient survivals were identical at 91.7%. Their younger counterparts had 1‐and 5‐year patient survivals of 91.1% and 84.0 % accompanied by 1‐and 5‐year graft survivals of 89.8% and 82.7%, respectively.

Conclusion

Our study highlights a recognition that LDLT can afford highly‐selected elderly patients to access to transplant with equivalent outcomes to those realized by younger recipients.
Impact of diabetes specialist nurses on inpatient care: A systematic review
Authors: Akiboye Funke , Sihre Harpreet K. , Al Mulhem Munerah , Rayman Gerry , Nirantharakumar Krishnarajah , Adderley Nicola J.
Published: March 2021

Background

People with diabetes have longer hospital stays and poorer clinical outcomes. Diabetes inpatient specialist nurses have been introduced to improve care.

Aims

To assess the evidence for the benefit of diabetes specialist nurses in the inpatient setting.

Methods

A systematic search of MEDLINE (ovid), Embase (ovid), CINAHL (EBSCO) and Web of Science core collection from January 1998 to September 2019 was performed using key terms for diabetes specialist nurses and hospital setting. Studies measuring patient care using any standardised or validated outcome measures after introduction of a dedicated diabetes specialist nurse or nursing team were eligible for inclusion and findings reported by narrative synthesis.

Results

There were 10 studies which met the inclusion criteria. One was a randomised controlled study and the remaining nine studies were before and after studies with three of them using a time series analysis methodology. The majority reported length of stay (LOS) and showed a reduction in median LOS by between 0.5 and 3 days. Reductions in bed occupancy ranged from 39% to 47%. There was a paucity of evidence for outcomes related to patient care with some measures limited to single studies. These included a 52% reduction in total drug errors, improved patient knowledge, higher patient satisfaction and improved glycaemic control post‐discharge. There was no reduction of mortality observed.

Conclusions

These studies suggest a reduction in LOS and improved clinical care for patients with diabetes after the introduction of diabetes inpatient specialist nurses. Future research should examine a range of benefits associated with diabetes inpatient specialist nurse delivered services, including reduction of inpatient complications such as infections and cardiovascular events.
Selective bargain hunting: A concise test of rational consumer search
Authors: Lee Chloe , Long Wen , Luengo‐Prado María J. , Sørensen Bent E.
Published: March 2021

A model of time‐allocation among work, leisure, and price‐search predicts that rational consumers pay relatively low prices for their preferred goods. Using scanner data, we confirm empirically the implication that consumers find better prices for items (defined by scanner codes, such as a 12‐pack of Pepsi) within categories (such as carbonated drinks) of which they consume relatively more. This provides direct evidence that consumers face constraints on time and/or attention, and that they rationally allocate these scarce resources to optimize welfare.
Subjective stress and proactive and reactive cognitive control strategies
Authors: Husa Robyn A. , Buchanan Tony W. , Kirchhoff Brenda A.
Published: March 2021

Acute stress likely impacts cognitive control. Little is known, however, about the effects that acute stress may have on specific cognitive control strategies. The goal of this research was to investigate the effects of acute stress on proactive and reactive control strategies. Participants completed the Trier Social Stress Test or control tasks. Use of proactive and reactive control strategies was measured with the AX‐Continuous Performance Test. The Trier Social Stress Test was effective at producing subjective, cortisol, and heart rate stress responses, but there was no significant effect of stress on use of proactive or reactive control strategies in between‐group analyses. However, higher subjective stress responses during performance of the AX‐Continuous Performance Test were associated with less frequent use of a proactive control strategy and more frequent use of a reactive control strategy within the stress group.
Interaction diversity explains the maintenance of phytochemical diversity
Authors: Whitehead Susan R. , Bass Ethan , Corrigan Alexsandra , Kessler André , Poveda Katja
Published: March 2021

The production of complex mixtures of secondary metabolites is a ubiquitous feature of plants. Several evolutionary hypotheses seek to explain how phytochemical diversity is maintained, including the synergy hypothesis, the interaction diversity hypothesis, and the screening hypothesis. We experimentally tested a set of predictions derived from these hypotheses by manipulating the richness and structural diversity of phenolic metabolites in the diets of eight plant consumers. Across 3940 total bioassays, there was clear support for the interaction diversity hypothesis over the synergy or screening hypotheses. The number of consumers affected by a particular phenolic composition increased with increasing richness and structural diversity of compounds. Furthermore, the bioactivity of phenolics was consumer‐specific. All compounds tested reduced the performance of at least one consumer, but no compounds affected all consumers. These results show how phytochemical diversity may be maintained in nature by a complex selective landscape exerted by diverse communities of plant consumers.
First report of the papaya mealybug, Paracoccus marginatus (Coccomorpha: Pseudococcidae), in Tahiti, French Polynesia
Authors: Hartmann L. , Grandgirard J. , Germain J. F. , Hostachy B. , Wong M.
Published: March 2021

The papaya mealybug, Paracoccus marginatus Williams and Granara de Willing (Coccomorpha: Pseudococcidae), is a polyphagous pest that damages many tropical crops. It is native to Central America and spread to the Caribbean region and South America in the 1900s. Since then, it has accidentally been introduced to several islands in the Pacific region and some countries in Africa and Asia. The first record of this mealybug in Polynesia was in Hawaii, in 2004. This paper presents the first report of this pest in Tahiti (French Polynesia), where it was found in March 2017 on papaya (Carica papaya) and frangipani trees (Plumeria spp.). Its presence, which is mainly in the inhabited part of the island of Tahiti, suggests the recent introduction of the pest in French Polynesia. Several coccinellid predators have been found feeding on the mealybug in Tahiti: Cryptolaemus montrouzieri, Hyperaspis pantherina and Scymnus spp. None of its parasitoids have been found yet.
Genomic profile of columnar cell variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Janovitz Tyler , Williamson Drew F K , Wong Kristine S , Dong Fei , Barletta Justine A
Published: March 2021

Background and aims

Columnar cell variant (CCV) is a rare papillary thyroid carcinoma subtype. The majority of CCV occur in older patients and are large, invasive tumours that pursue an aggressive clinical course. Rare well‐circumscribed CCV occur in younger female patients and are comparatively indolent.

Methods and results

We retrospectively identified CCV with material available to perform targeted next‐generation sequencing and correlated molecular results with clinicopathological features and outcome. Our cohort was comprised of nine CCV. Nearly all were aggressive tumours; however, one was predominantly well‐circumscribed and arose in a thyroglossal duct cyst of a 26‐year‐old woman who had no evidence of disease at last follow‐up. Seven (78%) cases demonstrated activating oncogenic driver alterations in BRAF, including BRAF V600E, an activating N486_P490del deletion, and BRAF–AGK fusions. Activating RAS mutations were seen in two (22%) cases. Additionally, three (33%) cases had TERT promoter mutations, four (44%) had loss of the tumour suppressor CDKN2A and one (11%) case had a loss of function TP53 mutation. Most cases (89%) also demonstrated copy number alterations, including recurrent gain of chromosome 1q (five cases) and losses of chromosome 9p (three cases) and 22q (four cases). The one case without secondary pathogenic mutations or copy number alterations was the tumour in the 26‐year‐old woman.

Conclusions

We found that CCV is primarily a BRAF‐driven tumour, with most also harbouring secondary oncogenic mutations and multiple chromosomal gains and losses. Moreover, our findings suggest that molecular analysis could potentially be used to help risk stratify CCV.
Early‐life childhood obesity risk prediction: A Danish register‐based cohort study exploring the predictive value of infancy weight gain
Authors: Rotevatn Torill Alise , Mortensen Rikke Nørmark , Ullits Line Rosenkilde , Torp‐Pedersen Christian , Overgaard Charlotte , Høstgaard Anna Marie Balling , Bøggild Henrik
Published: March 2021

Background

Information on postnatal weight gain is important for predicting later overweight and obesity, but it is unclear whether inclusion of this postnatal predictor improves the predictive performance of a comprehensive model based on prenatal and birth‐related predictors.

Objectives

To compare performance of prediction models based on predictors available at birth, with and without information on infancy weight gain during the first year when predicting childhood obesity risk.

Methods

A Danish register‐based cohort study including 55.041 term children born between January 2004 and July 2011 with birthweight >2500 g registered in The Children's Database was used to compare model discrimination, reclassification, sensitivity and specificity of two models predicting risk of childhood obesity at school age. Each model consisted of eight predictors available at birth, one additionally including information on weight gain during the first 12 months of life.

Results

The area under the receiving operating characteristic curve increased from 0.785 (95% confidence interval (CI) [0.773‐0.798]) to 0.812 (95% CI [0.801‐0.824]) after adding weight gain information when predicting childhood obesity. Adding this information correctly classified 30% more children without obesity and 21% with obesity and improved sensitivity from 0.42 to 0.48. Specificity remained unchanged at 0.91.

Conclusion

Adding infancy weight gain information improves discrimination, reclassification and sensitivity of a comprehensive prediction model based on predictors available at birth.
Growth and characterization of large size lead‐free ferroelectric K(Ta,Nb)O3 single crystal
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , Li Shuhuan , Liu Fengying , Wang Lihai , Wang Xuping , Zheng Limei , Yang Liekun , Yang Yuguo , Lv Xianshun , Yu Huajian , Liu Bing , Li Jing , Zhao Minglei , Li Jing‐Feng
Published: March 2021

Lead‐free piezoelectric materials with excellent performance are greatly demanded for the environmental issues. The lead‐free ferroelectric single crystals are therefore greatly concerned for their much higher piezoelectricity than the polycrystalline counterparts and the domain‐tunable property. However, the growth of large size and high‐quality lead‐free ferroelectric crystals has always been a great challenge. In this work, a ferroelectric KTa1‐xNbxO3 (KTN) single crystal with an extremely large size of 25 × 25 × 37 mm3 was grown using the modified top‐seeded solution growth method. The large size enabled us to carry out comprehensive investigations on the crystal. The complete sets of dielectric, piezoelectric, and elastic constants for the [001]C‐poled KTN crystal with quasi single domain state were determined. Results showed that the crystal exhibits high electromechanical coupling coefficients with kt~0.642 and k33~0.679. Furthermore, the orientation dependence of the piezoelectric, dielectric, and elastic properties was determined by the tensor matrix transformation technique, and the maximum d33, , and k33 were found along the polar direction [001]C. This work not only provides important guidance for the growth technology of lead‐free ferroelectric crystals but also offers essential datasets of lead‐free alkali niobate system, which is of great importance for both theoretical studies and designs of electromechanical devices.
Food for thought: Recalls and outcomes
Authors: Wowak Kaitlin D. , Craighead Christopher W. , Ketchen David J. , Connelly Brian L.
Published: March 2021

Little is known about the underlying product recall process that food companies go through to identify and remove tainted products from the supply chain or why this process varies. To help fill this void in the literature and close the gap between what we know and what we need to know about product recalls, we use a grounded theory approach to develop mid‐range theorizing about food recalls. In doing so, our findings reveal that two manifestations of complexity—upstream and downstream—introduce recall uncertainty, which is the driving force behind why the recall process varies. Our study is also the first to propose that managers use recall options when trying to manage recall uncertainty. Furthermore, our study reveals that product recalls may not cleanly fall into recall categories as previously thought, but rather take the form of recall layering—that is, nested recalls or a recall within a larger recall. Overall, our mid‐range theorizing (a) offers key insights about why the recall process varies within a massive industry that affects every person; (b) provides a detailed agenda to guide subsequent research; and (c) suggests practical steps managers can take to better manage future recalls.