bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The evaluation of low cut‐off index values of Elecsys® HIV combi PT assay in predicting false‐positive results
Authors: Tang Zhuoyun , Gou Yu , Zhang Keyi , Zhao Zhongyi , Wei Yinhao , Li Dongdong , Chen Li , Tao Chuanmin
Published: August 2020

Objective

To analyze the results of different cut‐off index (COI) values of Elecsys® HIV combi PT assay and to assess the role of COI in reducing the frequency of false‐positive results.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of samples analyzed by Elecsys® HIV combi PT assay, a 4th‐generation ECLIA, between 2016 and 2017. A total amount of 379 122 samples were collected for HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) screening.

Results

A total of 379 122 samples were analyzed. 2528 (0.67%) were positive by Elecsys® HIV combi PT. Of these, 468 were false‐positive results, and most of them (94.87%) were in samples with 1 < COI < 15. The false‐positive rate was 0.12%. Patients with false‐positive samples were more distributed in elder (P < .001) and female (P < .001) than true‐positive specimens. The median COI in true‐positive specimens was (385.20), which is significantly higher than false‐positive specimens (2.08). The consistency between Elecsys® HIV combi PT assay and 3rd‐generation and positive predictive value (PPV) increased with higher COI values. Cancer, infection, and neurological diseases were considered the potential confounding factors of HIV false‐positive results (19.44%, 11.11%, and 6.62%, respectively).

Conclusion

Samples with low COI values, especially those contain confounding factors, need to be further scrutinized to determine whether the confounding factors may cause false‐positive problem. In addition, the hypothesis that low COI values may predict false‐positive results is valid.
Analysis of circular RNA expression profiles of lung cancer in Xuanwei, China
Authors: Wang Yan , Lu Ling‐Jiao , Duan Yong , Liu Xiao , Mao Yue , Chen Yu , Zhang Yan‐Liang
Published: August 2020

Background

Mounting evidence indicates that circular RNAs (circRNAs) could play a pivotal role in cancers. However, due to the lack of sensitive biomarkers, most lung cancer in Xuanwei (LCXW) patients are still diagnosed at an advanced stage accompany with distant metastasis.

Methods

According to the stage of LCXW patients and tissue sources, circRNAs microarray detection was carried out in six groups. Considering fold change, raw intensity, the length of circRNAs, and P‐value, we selected eightcircRNAs for further study. A total of 50 paired LCXW tissues were carried out real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) in order to extended sample size to verify the expression of these circRNAs.

Results

We designed 13 617 human circRNA probes for the human circular RNA microarray, detected 10 819 circRNA in six groups of samples; 537 circRNAs were differentially expressed consistently in every stage. Through RT‐qPCR, we selected 8 circRNAs, three of which were upregulated (hsa_circ_0005927, hsa_circ_0069397 and hsa_circ_0000937) and five were downregulated (hsa_circ_0001936, hsa_circ_0005255, hsa_circRNA_406010, hsa_circ_0007064, hsa_circ_0000907) in tumor tissues, only hsa_circ_0001936 showed the opposite expression between microarray and RT‐qPCR, others were consistent. Additionally, hsa_circ_0005927 and hsa_circ_0001936 were significantly correlated with tumor size, and hsa_circRNA_406010 was related to the prognosis of LCXW patients.

Conclusion

Together, these results suggest that hsa_circ_0005927, hsa_circ_0001936, and hsa_circRNA_406010 may serve as the novel potential biomarkers for LCXW. Moreover, these results may provide a new insight for the pathogenesis of LCXW.
National Parent Survey 2017: Worries, hopes, and child well‐being
Authors: Bonuck Karen , McGrath Kathleen , Gao Qi
Published: August 2020

Sociopolitical events impact population health; parents' perspective of such events crosses demographics, geography, and generations. We elicited changes in U.S. parents' hopes and worries for their children 1 year after the 2016 election via an online survey of school climate, discrimination against child, family health care and security, and macrolevel/future concerns (e.g., environment, postsecondary options). Among n = 1189 respondents, national security (39%), the environment (30.5%), and “continued place in America” (25.7%) were most worrisome. In general linear mixed models, employment buffered against social and material stressors such as discrimination (odds ratio [OR] = 0.67; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.49–0.92), and family health care/security (OR = 0.62; 95% CI = 0.45–0.86) while being of a dominant religion and ethnicity buffered future macrolevel (Christianity, OR = 70; 95% CI = 0.54–0.92/non‐Hispanic, OR = 59; 95% CI = 0.39–0.90) and existential “continued place in America” (Christianity, OR = 69; 95% CI = 0.51–0.94/non‐Hispanic, OR = 56; 95% CI = 0.36–0.88) worries. Qualitative comments underscored macrolevel worries. Parents represent a unique vantage for gauging how sociopolitical events impact health and well‐being.
Hospital characteristics preferred by medical students for their residency programs: A nationwide matching data analysis
Authors: Nishizaki Yuji , Ueda Rieko , Shinozaki Tomohiro , Tokuda Yasuharu
Published: August 2020

Background

In 2004, Japan introduced a mandatory 2‐year postgraduate training program for graduating medical students with a super‐rotation curriculum. A national matching system was established to determine the hospital residency programs best suited for the students. We examined the hospital characteristics preferred by applicants for residencies.

Methods

A nationwide cross‐sectional study was conducted. Data on salaries, bonuses, and number of accepted ambulances were compiled from the Residency Electronic Information System. Information on the prefectural population, urban area, and number of senior residents (postgraduate years 3–5) for specialty training was extracted from data published on the web page. The ratio of the number of first‐choice applicants to recruitment capacity (matching ratio) for each program was compared between the characteristics of the hospitals and prefectures.

Results

A strong linear relationship was observed between the number of first‐choice applications and the allocated number of resident positions (correlation coefficient, .72). The matching ratio was greater in community hospitals (2.10 times compared with university hospitals; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.75–2.53), in hospitals with higher numbers of accepted ambulance cases (1.05 times per 1000 annually; 95% CI, 1.03–1.08), and in hospitals that served a larger prefectural population (1.05 times per million; 95% CI, 1.02–1.08).

Conclusions

Financial incentives do not seem to attract residency applicants. Applicants prefer non‐university hospitals located in populous areas and those that accept larger number of ambulance cases. To recruit junior residents, an emergency department may need to have higher activity with larger numbers and variety of cases.
Matching‐adjusted indirect comparison of efficacy and safety of bortezomib, thalidomide, and dexamethasone (VTd) as per label compared with modified VTd dosing schedules in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma who are transplant eligible
Authors: Sonneveld Pieter , Mateos María‐Victoria , Alegre Adrian , Facon Thierry , Hulin Cyrille , Hashim Mahmoud , Vincken Talitha , Kampfenkel Tobias , Cote Sarah , He Jianming , Lam Annette , Moreau Philippe
Published: August 2020

Background

The combination of bortezomib, thalidomide, and dexamethasone (VTd) is a standard of care for transplant‐eligible patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM). Although approved labeling for VTd includes an escalating thalidomide dose up to 200 mg daily (VTd‐label), a lower fixed dose of thalidomide (100 mg daily; VTd‐mod) has become commonplace in clinical practice. To date, no clinical trials comparing VTd‐mod with VTd‐label have been performed. Here, we compared outcomes for VTd‐mod with VTd‐label using a matching‐adjusted indirect comparison.

Methods

VTd‐mod data were from NCT02541383 (CASSIOPEIA; phase III) and NCT00531453 (phase II); VTd‐label data were from NCT00461747 (PETHEMA/GEM; phase III). To adjust for heterogeneity, baseline characteristics from VTd‐label were weighted to match VTd‐mod. Outcomes included overall survival (OS), progression‐free survival (PFS), postinduction and posttransplant responses, and safety.

Results

VTd‐mod was noninferior to VTd‐label for OS, postinduction overall response rate (ORR), and very good partial response or better (≥VGPR). VTd‐mod was significantly better than VTd‐label for PFS, posttransplant ORR, and ≥VGPR. VTd‐mod was noninferior to VTd‐label for safety outcomes, and inferior to VTd‐label for postinduction and posttransplant complete response or better.

Conclusions

Our analysis supports the continued use of VTd‐mod in clinical practice in transplant‐eligible NDMM patients.
Is It the Journey That Matters? A Fresh Look at the Impact of World Bank Policy Lending
Authors: Moll Peter , Smets Lodewijk
Published: August 2020

This paper investigates the impact of World Bank policy lending on the quality of economic policy. A new econometric specification distinguishes among two effects that have been conflated hitherto: (i) marginal impacts of additional policy actions and (ii) the length of the policy engagement. Panel estimations on a revised data set indicate that development policy financing has a positive effect on the quality of economic policy. Results are robust to the use of different estimation techniques, sample restrictions, the inclusion of additional controls, omitted variable bias adjustment, a placebo test and a compound IV strategy. Next, the econometric work suggests that the quality of the engagement matters more than the sheer number of policy actions. We provide several arguments of why the process of engagement is key. Finally, there is evidence that longer engagements lead to lower policy impacts, which may be related to a change to more complex, second‐generation reforms. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
LPCGF and EDTA conditioning of the root surface promotes the adhesion, growth, migration and differentiation of periodontal ligament cells
Authors: Zhan Xuan , Yan Wencheng , Yan Jun , Tong Wei , Chen Weirong , Lin Yanfang
Published: August 2020

Background

Liquid‐phase concentrated growth factor (LPCGF), a new‐generation platelet concentrate, may potently stimulate human periodontal ligament (PDL) cells. This study assessed the effectiveness of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and/or LPCGF on periodontally diseased root surfaces through their effects on PDL cells.

Methods

Dentin blocks prepared from periodontal teeth were divided into four groups and treated as follows: group I, scaling and root planning (SRP); group II, SRP + EDTA; group III, SRP + LPCGF; and group IV, SRP+EDTA + LPCGF. PDL cells were cultured on dentin blocks, and LPCGF‐induced biological effects were evaluated by migration and cell adhesion/proliferation assays. Furthermore, PDL cell differentiation was assessed by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results

Significantly more adherent cells were observed in the EDTA, LPCGF and combination treatment groups than in the control group. Root conditioning with EDTA and/or LPCGF enhanced cell proliferation and migration more than SRP did. Compared with the control group, the combined treatment group exhibited significant upregulation of cell differentiation‐related genes. Electron microscopy of the tooth surface revealed removal of the smear layer and exposed dentin holes in the EDTA‐treated group but not in the control group.

Conclusion

EDTA and LPCGF application to periodontitis‐affected root surfaces forms a surface suitable for cell attachment, growth, migration and differentiation. Thus, LPCGF is promising in clinical periodontics applications. Further studies to support these results are necessary.
Immunohistological composition of peri‐implantitis affected tissue around ceramic implants—A pilot study
Authors: Fretwurst Tobias , Müller Janina , Larsson Lena , Bronsert Peter , Hazard Derek , Castilho Rogerio M. , Kohal Ralf , Nelson Katja , Iglhaut Gerhard
Published: August 2020

Background

Aim of the pilot study was the histologic classification of the inflamed peri‐implant soft tissue around ceramic implants (CI) in comparison with titanium implants (TI).

Methods

Peri‐implant tissue were retrieved from 15 patients (aged 34 to 88 years, seven males/eight females) with severe peri‐implantitis (eight CI, seven TI). The peri‐implant soft tissue samples were retrieved from the sites during scheduled removal of the implant and prepared for immunohistochemical analysis. Monoclonal antibodies (targeting CD3, CD20, CD138, and CD68) were used to identify T‐ and B‐cells, plasma cells and macrophages. Quantitative assessment was performed by one histologically trained investigator. Linear mixed regression models were used.

Results

A similar numerical distribution of the cell population was found in peri‐implantitis around CI compared with TI. CD3 (TI, 17% to 85% versus CI, 20% to 70% of total cell number) and CD138 (TI, 1% to 73% versus CI, 12% to 69% of total cell number) were predominantly expressed. Notably, patient‐individual differences of numerical cell distribution were detected. Co‐localization of B‐ and T‐lymphocytes was observed.

Conclusions

Peri‐implantitis around CI in comparison with TI seems to have a similar histological appearance. Differences in cellular composition of peri‐implantitis lesions might also depend on the patient's specific immune status and not only on the material used.
Analytical solutions for the surface‐ and orientation‐averaged SERS enhancement factor of small plasmonic particles
Authors: Khlebtsov Nikolai G. , Le Ru Eric C.
Published: August 2020

We derive analytical expressions for the surface‐ and orientation‐averaged surface enhanced Raman scattering factor (SERS EF) for small plasmonic spheroids. These expressions are derived taking into account the Stokes shift and are shown to result in very different EFs to those in the |E|4‐approximation for experimentally relevant parameters. The optical properties of spheroids are treated in terms of the common and improved electrostatic approximations (EA and IEA). The latter is newly introduced here and includes radiative damping, depolarization effects, and interactions with higher order multipoles, thus giving perfect agreement with exact T‐matrix calculations of far‐field cross sections and near‐field SERS EFs over a much wider range of sizes. These accurate analytical expressions will be particularly relevant to SERS experiments in colloidal solutions where surface averaging (because of random molecular adsorption) and particle orientation averaging must both be taken into account. Comparison with recent experimental data and simulations for cigar‐like particles show that the spheroid model tends to overestimate the SERS EF because of the higher curvature at the tips. Possible ways to generalize the analytic solution to other axially symmetrical particles are discussed.
A passionate travel to mind green turtles—Unpacking the complexity of visitors' green behaviour
Authors: Akhshik Arash , Ozturen Ali , Rezapouraghdam Hamed
Published: August 2020

The current studies in the tourism‐environmental domain often take a reductionist approach towards the complex issue of human behaviour that is criticized for its shortcomings. Therefore, to fill this gap, the authors developed and tested a theoretical model drawing on the complexity theory with emerging concepts, that is, dualistic‐passion paradigm, and mindfulness notion to predict the potential source of pro‐environmental behaviour. Following Fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) of a sample from visitors to marine turtles in Cyprus, the study found seven unique causal recipes that lead to a high level of pro‐environmental behaviour. Implications and guidelines for further research are discussed.
Quantitative Ultrasound Image Analysis Helps in the Differentiation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) From Borderline Lesions and Predicting the Histologic Grade of HCC and Microvascular Invasion
Authors: Matsumoto Naoki , Ogawa Masahiro , Kaneko Masahiro , Kumagawa Mariko , Watanabe Yukinobu , Hirayama Midori , Nakagawara Hiroshi , Masuzaki Ryota , Kanda Tatsuo , Moriyama Mitsuhiko , Takayama Tadatoshi , Sugitani Masahiko
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Quantitative image analysis is one of the methods to overcome the lack of objectivity of ultrasound (US). The aim of this study was to clarify the correlation between the features from a US image analysis and the histologic grade and microvascular invasion (MVI) of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and differentiation of HCC smaller than 2 cm from borderline lesions.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed grayscale US images with histopathologic evidence of HCC or a precancerous lesion using ImageJ version 1.47 software (National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD).

Results

A total of 148 nodules were included (borderline lesion, n = 31; early HCC [eHCC], n = 3; well‐differentiated HCC [wHCC], n = 16; moderately differentiated HCC [mHCC], n = 79; and poorly differentiated HCC [pHCC], n = 19). A multivariate analysis selected lower minimum gray values (odds ratio [OR], 0.431; P = .003) and a higher standard deviation (OR, 1.880; P = .019) as predictors of HCC smaller than 2 cm. Median (range) minimum gray values of borderline lesions, eHCC, wHCC, mHCC, and pHCC were 29 (0–103), 7 (0–47), 6 (0–60), 10 (0–53), and 2 (0–38), respectively, and gradually decreased from borderline lesions to pHCC (P < 0.001). The multivariate analysis showed a higher aspect ratio (OR, 2.170; P = .001) and lower minimum gray value (OR, 0.475; P = .043) as predictors of MVI. An anechoic area diagnosed by a subjective evaluation was correlated with the minimum gray value (P < .0001). The proportion of the anechoic area gradually increased from eHCC to pHCC (P = .031).

Conclusions

In a US image analysis, HCC smaller than 2 cm had features of greater heterogeneity and a lower minimum gray value than borderline lesions. Moderately differentiated HCC was smoother than borderline lesions, and the anechoic area correlated with histologic grading. Microvascular invasion was correlated with a slender shape and a lower minimum gray value.
Low‐Normal Platelets and Decreasing Platelets Are Risk Factors for Hearing Impairment Development
Authors: Abe Yasunori , Toyama Kensuke , Kazurayama Masaya , Tanaka Shinji , Yamaizumi Masamitsu , Ueno Megumi , Spin Joshua M. , Hato Naohito , Mogi Masaki
Published: August 2020

Objective

Identification of undefined risk factors will be crucial for the development of therapeutic strategies in hearing impairment. Platelets are likely to affect the development of sudden sensorineural hearing loss, which is a primary risk factor for permanent hearing impairment. This implies that abnormal platelets might contribute to long‐term hearing loss. This study investigated the role of platelets in the development of hearing impairment over a 5‐year period.

Methods

This study was a retrospective cohort study and consisted of a population‐based survey, which was performed for 1,897 participants in 2014 to 2019. To evaluate the effect of platelet level on hearing ability, the subjects were divided into two groups: a high‐normal platelet group (25 ∼ 40 × 104 cells/μL) and a low‐normal platelet group (15 ∼ 25 × 104 cells/μL). Subjects were defined as having hearing impairment when pure tone audiometry was over 25 dB HL in either ear (tested in 2017 and 2019). Incidence of hearing impairment was analyzed.

Results

Incidence of hearing impairment at low frequencies was significantly higher in the low‐normal platelet group than in the high‐normal group year over year. Low‐normal platelet count associated with low‐frequency hearing impairment (LFHI) incidence (odds ratio [OR], 2.34; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.15–4.76). In the low‐normal platelet group, subjects whose counts declined from baseline developed more LFHI than those whose counts increased over time. Further, decreasing platelets appeared to be an independent risk factor contributing to the incidence of LFHI (OR, 2.10; 95%CI, 1.09–4.06) in the low‐normal platelet group.

Conclusion

Both a low‐normal platelet and a declining platelet count were independently associated with the incidence of LFHI.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 131:E1287–E1295, 2021
Long‐term Quality of Life After Treatment of Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Ranta Pihla , Kinnunen Ilpo , Jouhi Lauri , Vahlberg Tero , Back Leif J. J. , Halme Elina , Koivunen Petri , Autio Timo , Pukkila Matti , Irjala Heikki
Published: August 2020

Objectives

To analyze the long‐term quality of life (QOL) among oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) survivors.

Study Design

Retrospective chart analysis and patient response to European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire, Core Module (EORTC QLQ‐C30), Head and Neck Module (EORTC QLQ‐H&N35), and M.D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory (MDADI) survey questionnaires.

Methods

All survivors of OPSCC diagnosed and treated between 2000 and 2009 in Finland were included. There were 263 survivors (44.2% of all curatively treated patients), of which a total of 164 participated in this study (62.4%). Median follow‐up was 11.79 years (range = 8.59–18.53 years, interquartile range [IQR] = 4.64 years). The mean age of the participants was 67.9 years (standard deviation = 8.0 years) at QOL follow‐up.

Results

Most survivors reported a good QOL. The EORTC QLQ‐C30 global health status median was 75.00 (IQR = 31.25). The single modality treatment group had significantly better QOL outcomes than the combined treatment group. Nonsmokers and previous smokers had significantly better QOL outcomes than patients who smoked at the time of diagnosis. A history of heavy alcohol use resulted in significantly worse QOL outcomes. The p16‐positive cancer patients had significantly better QOL outcomes than p16‐negative patients. Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube–dependent patients reported a significantly worse QOL than patients without a PEG tube.

Conclusions

Long‐term QOL in OPSCC survivors is generally good. In line with previous literature, single modality treatment was superior to combined treatment in long‐term QOL outcomes, and it should be pursued whenever possible.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:E1172–E1178, 2021
The role and therapeutic potential of Hsp90, Hsp70, and smaller heat shock proteins in peripheral and central neuropathies
Authors: Chaudhury Subhabrata , Keegan Bradley M. , Blagg Brian S. J.
Published: August 2020

Heat shock proteins (Hsps) are molecular chaperones that also play important roles in the activation of the heat shock response (HSR). The HSR is an evolutionary conserved and protective mechanism that is used to counter abnormal physiological conditions, stressors, and disease states, such as those exemplified in cancer and/or neurodegeneration. In normal cells, heat shock factor‐1 (HSF‐1), the transcription factor that regulates the HSR, remains in a dormant multiprotein complex that is formed upon association with chaperones (Hsp90, Hsp70, etc.), co‐chaperones, and client proteins. However, under cellular stress, HSF‐1 dissociates from Hsp90 and induces the transcriptional upregulation of Hsp70 to afford protection against the encountered cellular stress. As a consequence of both peripheral and central neuropathies, cellular stress occurs and results in the accumulation of unfolded and/or misfolded proteins, which can be counterbalanced by activation of the HSR. Since Hsp90 is the primary regulator of the HSR, modulation of Hsp90 by small molecules represents an attractive therapeutic approach against both peripheral and central neuropathies.
Kretschmann‐ and Otto‐type surface plasmon resonance waveguide sensors in the terahertz regime
Authors: Shibayama Jun , Mitsutake Kota , Yamauchi Junji , Nakano Hisamatsu
Published: August 2020

Kretschmann‐ and Otto‐type surface plasmon resonance (SPR) waveguide sensors are numerically investigated at terahertz frequencies. The reflectance of a three‐layer model for the Kretschmann‐type sensor is examined with the Fresnel equation, in order to determine the angle of incidence of the waveguide. Using the frequency‐dependent finite‐difference time‐domain method, the SPR response of the waveguide sensor is investigated for temperature variations. It is found that a high sensitivity of 2.63 × 10−2 THz/K more than three times as large as that of the conventional SPR waveguide sensor is successfully achieved with a sensing length of about half that of the conventional one. The Otto‐type waveguide sensor is also examined and discussed. It is revealed that the sensor provides steep and stable SPR responses, maintaining the sensitivity of the Kretschmann‐type one.
Fifth‐generation new radio fiber‐wireless system for long‐reach and enhanced mobile broadband scenarios
Authors: Borges Ramon M. , Pereira Luiz Augusto M. , Ferreira Alexandre C. , Mendes Luciano L. , Spadoti Danilo H. , Cerqueira Sodré Arismar
Published: August 2020

This work reports the implementation of a fifth‐generation (5G) new radio (NR) fiber‐wireless (FiWi) system for long‐reach and enhanced mobile broadband scenarios. The proposed 5G NR FiWi system includes a 12.5 km optical distribution network based on radio over fiber technology, a 7.5 km supercell in a rural area using the 700 MHz band, digital pre‐distortion (DPD), equalization and a Gbit/s indoor femtocell operating in the 26 GHz band. The 5G NR standard has been applied and DPD and equalization have been efficiently employed to enhance the system performance in mm‐waves. Furthermore, experimental results demonstrate successful implementations of a femtocell with 4 Gbit/s throughput and only 4.6% error vector magnitude, as well as a large cell with 33 Mbit/s throughput and 7.51‐km reach.
Assessing the substitute employee system of Korean public institutions: Public officials' policy reception perspectives
Authors: Cho Kyung‐Ho , Kim Youngjae , Kim Bok‐Tae
Published: August 2020

With the increasing participation of the female population in economic activities in Korea, various support measures that would ensure a balanced work–life for women has been put in place. As part of such measures, the substitute employee system for individuals on maternity leave is rising as an alternative system that can vitalize the work–life balance. The purpose of this study is to explore the factors that affect public officials' perceptions of the substitute employee system in terms of policy acceptance. Based on a survey of 905 public employees who have experienced child‐care leave, we conducted regression analysis of the workers' receptivity of the substitute employee system, which created three models, followed by a comparative analysis of these models. The results first show that, in all three models, the respondents' degree of satisfaction with the current substitute employee system in Korea is quite low. The results also demonstrate that individual characteristics factor and organizational characteristics factor were both found to have no significant effects on policy reception in all three models. Finally, results suggest that factors influencing the workers' policy reception can vary based on the types of the institution's substitute employee system.
Effects of protected areas on welfare of local households: The case of Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya
Authors: Mojo Dagne , Oduor Ayub M. O. , Fu Chao , Bai Yunli , Long Huaping , Wang Guoqin , Zhang Linxiu
Published: August 2020

Protected areas are vital for biodiversity conservation although some have been criticized for not providing adequate socio‐economic benefits to local people. Yet, empirical studies on socio‐economic impacts of protected areas that control for confounding factors are rare.

Here, we assessed the potential impacts of Maasai Mara National Reserve in south‐western Kenya on welfare (indicated by levels of income, consumption and assets) of, and poverty incidence among, 423 randomly selected local households. We used descriptive statistics to summarize demographic and socio‐economic statuses of the households. Then, we estimated effects of the protected area on welfare of the households using ordinary least‐squares regression models and entropy balancing.

The protected area did not have a statistically significant effect on welfare of, and poverty levels among the households. Households that lived within a 5 km radius of the protected area boundary incurred significantly higher economic costs related to crop destruction and livestock depredation than households that lived 5–25 km from the boundary. Nevertheless, the majority of the households (86%) held positive views about the protected area due to its conservation role and direct and indirect benefits that they had already gained and expected to gain from it in the future.

These results suggest that interventions are needed to reduce economic losses caused by wildlife from the protected area and improve its social and economic benefits to local households.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Sulfonated poly (vinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene) nanocomposite membranes with high selectivity, stability, and vanadium‐ion barrier for vanadium redox flow batteries
Authors: Divya Kumar , Rana Dipak , Saraswathi Meenakshi Sundaram Sri Abirami , Gokila Pandian , Nagendran Alagumalai
Published: August 2020

Polyethyleneimine‐functionalized reduced graphene oxide (PEI‐RGO)‐embedded sulfonated poly (vinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene) (SPVDF‐co‐HFP) acid‐base composite membranes are fabricated by solution casting method for vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB) applications. The denser and crumbled morphology revealed by FESEM images and EDX results indicates the successful synthesis of PEI‐RGO nanosheets. The interfacial acid‐base pairs formed between PEI‐RGO and SPVDF‐co‐HFP matrix of composite membranes result in improvement of ion exchange capacity, water uptake, proton conductivity, as well as effective control in swelling ratio and vanadium‐ion permeability. In addition, the dispersing ability of PEI‐RGO in the SPVDF‐co‐HFP matrix improved the thermal and mechanical stability of the composite membranes. Homogeneous dispersion of PEI‐RGO nanosheets at the SPVDF‐co‐HFP surface is revealed by the FESEM images of the composite membranes, and their presence is confirmed by EDX results. The SPVDF‐co‐HFP membrane with 0.75 wt% PEI‐RGO exhibited the highest proton conductivity of 5.69 × 10−3Scm−1at 25°C, membrane selectivity of 25.52 × 10−4Scm−3min, and lowest vanadium‐ion permeability of 2.23 × 10−8cm2min−1. Overall results suggested that the SPVDF‐co‐HFP‐0.75 nanocomposite membranes are found to be a suitable alternative for commercially costly Nafion in VRFB applications.
Extrusion of highly filled flexible polymer sheet
Authors: Deshmukh Shruti , Burbine Stephen , Keaney Erin , Banerjee Shib Shankar , Panwar Artee , Peters Christopher , Herndon Mary , Rockosi Derrick , Mead Joey , Barry Carol
Published: August 2020

Highly‐filled polymer systems include color masterbatches, feedstocks for powder injection molding, and rigid sheets with high levels of flame retardants, but they have not been explored for flexible sheet. This work investigated the (a) selecting a polymer matrix with enough melt strength and flexibility to form a stable sheet with high filler loading, (b) the maximum achievable filler loading for the sheet, and (c) optimizing the process of extruding a highly‐filled flexible polymer system. Extrusion grade low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) provided sufficient flexibility and permitted a maximum filler loading of 36 vol% (~78 wt%). Good dispersion of the nanoparticle filler, however, required two passes through multiple screw extruders and a small reduction in the viscosity of the LDPE. Sheet with thickness of 415 μm, surface roughness of <1 μm, and sufficient flexibility was extruded continuously at a rate of 10 m/min., but it required a more traditional coat hanger manifold to prevent filler hang up in the sheet die. The filler particles were distributed uniformly through the core and skin of the sheet, giving the sheet good mechanical properties.
Paying the price for standing tall: Fluid mechanics of prostate pathology
Authors: Gat Yigal , Joshua Sharon , Vuk‐Pavlović Stanimir , Goren Menachem
Published: August 2020

Background

Age‐dependent increase in the incidence of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer (PCa) are both related to cell proliferation and survival controlled by intraprostatic free testosterone (FT) concentration. Paradoxically, BPH and PCa occur as circulating testosterone levels decrease, so any possible relationship between testosterone levels and development of BPH and PCa remains obscure.

Results

In BPH the enlarging prostate is exposed to high testosterone levels arriving directly from the testes at concentrations about hundredfold higher than systemic FT. This occurs because venous blood from the testes is diverted into the prostate due to the elevated hydrostatic pressure of blood in the internal spermatic veins (ISVs). Elevated pressure is caused by the destruction of one‐way valves (clinically detected as varicocele), a unique phenomenon related to human erect posture. While standing, human males are ISVs vertically oriented, resulting in high intraluminal hydrostatic pressures—a phenomenon not found in quadrupeds. In this communication, we demonstrate the fluid mechanics' phenomena at the basis of varicocele leading to prostate pathology.

Conclusions

So far, varicocele has been studied mostly for its etiologic role in male infertility and, thus, for its effects on the testes. It is becoming clear that varicocele is a major etiologic factor in BPH and likely also in PCa. Restoring normal testicular venous pressure by treatment of the abnormal ISV's in varicocele has been shown to avert the flow from the prostate with the effect of reducing prostate volume, alleviating symptoms of BPH, and increasing concentrations of circulating FT.
Escherichia coli, a common constituent of benign prostate hyperplasia‐associated microbiota induces inflammation and DNA damage in prostate epithelial cells
Authors: Jain Sumeet , Samal Ajit Gopal , Das Biswajit , Pradhan Biswaranjan , Sahu Nilanjan , Mohapatra Debasish , Behera Prativa Kumari , Satpathi Partha Sarathi , Mohanty Akshaya K. , Satpathi Sanghamitra , Senapati Shantibhusan
Published: August 2020

Background

The role of microbiota in the pathophysiology of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), especially in creating an inflammatory milieu may not be avoided. The major objectives of this study were to investigate the microbial composition of BPH tissues, its association with inflammation and check the effect of clinically isolated bacteria on prostate epithelial cells.

Methods

The study includes 36 patients with a pathological diagnosis of BPH. Following strict aseptic measures, tissues were collected after transurethral resection of prostate, multiple pieces of the resected tissues were subjected to histopathological analysis, bacterial culture and genomic DNA extraction. Microbial composition was analyzed by culture and/or next‐generation sequencing methods. Annotation of operational taxonomy unit has been done with an in‐house algorithm. The extent of inflammation was scored through histological evaluation of tissue sections. The effect of clinical isolates on nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) activity and induction of DNA‐damage in the prostate epithelial cells were evaluated.

Results

Histopathological analysis of the BPH tissues showed the presence of inflammation in almost all the tissues with a varied level at different regions of the same tissue section and the level of overall inflammation was different from patients to patients. Microbial culture of tissue samples showed the presence of live bacteria in 55.5% (20 out of 36) of the patient tissues. Majority of the isolates were coagulase‐positive Staphylococcus, E. coli and Micrococcus spp. Further, V3 16S rRNA sequencing of the DNA isolated from BPH tissues showed the presence of multiple bacteria and the most common phylum in the BPH tissues were found to be Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and Bacteroidetes. The E. coli, isolated from one of the tissue was able to activate NF‐κB and induce DNA damage in prostate epithelial cells. Phospho‐histone γH2A.X staining confirmed the presence of cells with damaged DNA lesion in BPH tissues and also correlated with the severity of inflammation.

Conclusion

Our study has shown that the BPH tissues do have a divergent microbial composition including the commonly found E. coli (phylum Proteobacteria), and these bacteria might contribute to the BPH‐associated inflammation and/or tissue damage. The BPH‐associated E. coli induced NF‐κB signaling and DNA damage in prostate epithelial cells in vitro.
Half‐metallicity, magnetism, mechanical, thermal, and phonon properties of FeCrTe and FeCrSe half‐Heusler alloys under pressure
Authors: Paudel Ramesh , Kaphle Gopi Chandra , Batouche Mohammed , Zhu Jingchuan
Published: August 2020

The half‐metallicity of Heusler alloys is quite sensitive to high pressure and disorder. To understand this phenomenon better, we systematically studied the half‐metallic nature, magnetism, phonon, and thermomechanical properties of FeCrTe and FeCrSe Heusler alloys under high pressure using ab initio calculations based on density functional theory. The ground‐state lattice constants for FeCrTe and FeCrSe alloys are 5.93 and 5.57 Å, respectively, consistent with available theoretical results. Formation energy, cohesive energy, elastic constants, and phonon dispersion confirmed that both compounds are thermodynamically and mechanically stable. The FeCrTe and FeCrSe alloys showed a half‐metallic character with a band gap of 0.68 and 0.58 eV at 0 GPa pressure, respectively, and magnetic moments of 2.01 μB for both alloys, using generalized gradient approximation (GGA) approximation. FeCrTe alloy changes from metallic to half‐metallic above 30 GPa pressure using GGA + U. The elastic properties were scrutinized, and it was found that, at 0 GPa pressure, FeCrTe is ductile, and FeCrSe is brittle. Under pressure, FeCrSe becomes brittle above 10 GPa pressure. Average sound velocity Vm, Debye temperature ƟD, and heat capacity CV were predicted under pressure. These outcomes will improve the integration of Fe‐based half‐Heusler alloys in spintronic devices.
On‐line balancing of random inputs
Authors: Bansal Nikhil , Spencer Joel H.
Published: August 2020

We consider an online vector balancing game where vectors vt, chosen uniformly at random in {− 1, + 1}n, arrive over time and a sign xt ∈ {− 1, + 1} must be picked immediately upon the arrival of vt. The goal is to minimize the L∞ norm of the signed sum . We give an online strategy for picking the signs xt that has value O(n1/2) with high probability. Up to constants, this is the best possible even when the vectors are given in advance.
A marginal estimate for the overall treatment effect on a survival outcome within the joint modeling framework
Authors: van Oudenhoven Floor M. , Swinkels Sophie H. N. , Ibrahim Joseph G. , Rizopoulos Dimitris
Published: August 2020

Joint models for longitudinal and survival data are increasingly used and enjoy a wide range of application areas. In this article, we focus on the application of joint models on clinical trial data with special interest in the treatment effect on the survival outcome. Within a joint model, the estimated treatment effect on the survival outcome is an aggregate comprising the indirect treatment effect through the longitudinal outcome and the direct treatment effect on the survival outcome. This overall treatment effect is, however, conditional on random effects, and therefore has a subject‐specific interpretation. The conditional interpretation arises from the shared random effects between the longitudinal and survival process in combination with the nonlinear link function of the survival model. The overall treatment effect is, therefore, not valid for population‐based inference, which is the goal for most clinical trials. We propose a method to obtain a marginal estimate of the overall treatment effect on the survival outcome in a joint model. Additionally, we extend our proposal to allow for different parameterizations for the association between the longitudinal and survival outcome. The proposed method is demonstrated on data of a clinical study on the effect of synbiotic on the gut microbiota of cesarean delivered infants, where we estimate the marginal overall treatment effect on the risk of eczema or atopic dermatitis using longitudinal information on fecal bifidobacteria.
CEO emotions and firm valuation in initial coin offerings: An artificial emotional intelligence approach
Authors: Momtaz Paul P.
Published: August 2020

Research Summary

How emotions impact firm valuation is empirically understudied because affective traits are difficult to quantify. However, using artificial emotional intelligence, positive and negative affects can be identified from facial muscle contraction‐relaxation patterns obtained from public CEO photos during initial coin offerings, that is, blockchain‐based issuances of cryptocurrency tokens to raise growth capital. The results suggest that CEO affects impact firm valuation in two ways. First, CEOs' own firm valuations conform more to those of industry peers if negative affects are pronounced (conformity mechanism). Second, investors use CEO affects as signals about firm value and discount when negative affects are salient (signaling mechanism). Both mechanisms are stronger in the presence of asymmetric information.

Managerial Summary

The purpose of this paper is to advance our understanding of how CEOs' affective traits influence firm valuation by both, CEOs themselves and investors. The effect of CEO emotions is plausibly particularly pronounced for start‐up firms, whose success prospects critically depend on their leaders. My results suggest that CEO emotions impact underpricing in initial coin offerings twofold. First, negative emotions are associated with CEOs choosing an underpricing level that closely conforms to their peer firms' average. Second, investors react to negative CEO emotions by demanding higher discounts on firm value. These effects are more pronounced when there is relatively little public information about the ICO firm. My paper is accompanied by artificial emotional intelligence software for implementation in practice and future research.
Polynomization of the Bessenrodt–Ono Inequality
Authors: Heim Bernhard , Neuhauser Markus , Tröger Robert
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we investigate a generalization of the Bessenrodt–Ono inequality by following Gian–Carlo Rota’s advice in studying problems in combinatorics and number theory in terms of roots of polynomials. We consider the number of k-colored partitions of n as special values of polynomials $$P_n(x)$$

P
n

(
x
)

. We prove for all real numbers $$x >2 $$

x
>
2

and $$a,b \in \mathbb {N}$$

a
,
b
∈
N

with $$a+b >2$$

a
+
b
>
2

the inequality: $$\begin{aligned} P_a(x) \, \cdot \, P_b(x) > P_{a+b}(x). \end{aligned}$$

P
a

(
x
)

·

P
b

(
x
)

>

P

a
+
b

(
x
)

.

We show that $$P_n(x) < P_{n+1}(x)$$

P
n

(
x
)

<

P

n
+
1

(
x
)

for $$x \ge 1$$

x
≥
1

, which generalizes $$p(n) < p(n+1)$$

p
(
n
)
<
p
(
n
+
1
)

, where p(n) denotes the partition function. Finally, we observe for small values, the opposite can be true, since, for example: $$P_2(-3+ \sqrt{10}) = P_{3}(-3 + \sqrt{10})$$

P
2

(
-
3
+

10

)

=

P
3

(
-
3
+

10

)

.
Do plant volatiles confuse rather than guide foraging behavior of the aphid hyperparasitoid Dendrocerus aphidum?
Authors: de Boer Jetske G. , Hollander Petra J. , Heinen Daan , Jagger Divya , van Sliedregt Pim , Salis Lucia , Kos Martine , Vet Louise E. M.
Published: August 2020

Many species of parasitoid wasps use plant volatiles to locate their herbivorous hosts. These volatiles are reliable indicators of host presence when their emission in plants is induced by herbivory. Hyperparasitoids may also use information from lower trophic levels to locate their parasitoid hosts but little is known about the role of volatiles from the plant–host complex in the foraging behavior of hyperparasitoids. Here, we studied how Dendrocerus aphidum (Megaspilidae) responds to plant and host volatiles in a series of experiments. This hyperparasitoid uses aphid mummies as its host and hampers biological control of aphids by parasitoids in greenhouse horticulture. We found that D. aphidum females were strongly attracted to volatiles from mummy-infested sweet pepper plants, but only when clean air was offered as an alternative odor source in the Y-tube olfactometer. Hyperparasitoid females did not have a preference for mummy-infested plants when volatiles from aphid-infested or healthy pepper plants were presented as an alternative. These olfactory responses of D. aphidum were mostly independent of prior experience. Volatiles from the host itself were also highly attractive to D. aphidum, but again hyperparasitoid females only had a preference in the absence of plant volatiles. Our findings suggest that plant volatiles may confuse, rather than guide the foraging behavior of D. aphidum. Mummy hyperparasitoids, such as D. aphidum, can use a wide variety of mummies and are thus extreme generalists at the lower trophic levels, which may explain the limited role of (induced) plant volatiles in their host searching behavior.
Central values of L-functions of cubic twists
Authors: Rosu Eugenia
Published: August 2020

We are interested in finding for which positive integersDwe have rational solutions for the equation$$x^3+y^3=D.$$x3+y3=D.The aim of this paper is to compute the value of theL-function$$L(E_D, 1)$$L(ED,1)for the elliptic curves$$E_D: x^3+y^3=D$$ED:x3+y3=D. For the case ofpprime$$p\equiv 1\mod 9$$p≡1mod9, two formulas have been computed by Rodriguez-Villegas and Zagier. We have computed formulas that relate$$L(E_D, 1)$$L(ED,1)to the square of a trace of a modular function at a CM point. This offers a criterion for when the integerDis the sum of two rational cubes. Furthermore, when$$L(E_D, 1)$$L(ED,1)is nonzero we get a formula for the number of elements in the Tate–Shafarevich group and we show that this number is a square whenDis a norm in$${\mathbb {Q}}[\sqrt{-3}]$$Q[-3].
Thermal stress-related spatiotemporal variations in high-latitude coral reef benthic communities
Authors: Jones Nicholas P. , Figueiredo Joana , Gilliam David S.
Published: August 2020

High-latitude coral reef communities have been postulated as the first areas to undergo reorganisation under climate change. Tropicalisation has been identified in some high-latitude communities and is predicted in others, but it is unclear how the resident benthic taxa are affected. We conducted a long-term (2007–2016) assessment of changes to benthic community cover in relation to thermal stress duration on the Southeast Florida Reef Tract (SEFRT). Thermal stress events, both hot and cold, had acute (thermal stress duration affected benthic cover that year) and chronic (thermal stress duration affected benthic cover the following year) impacts on benthic cover. Chronic heat stress was associated with declines in cover of the reef-building coral families Acroporidae, Montastraeidae, Meandrinidae, Mussidae and Siderastreidae, which coupled with the absence of cold stress and rising annual temperatures boosted macroalgae cover. Cover of smaller, weedy coral families, Poritidae, Agariciidae and Astrocoeniidae, was either unaffected or positively related to heat stress duration and rising mean temperature. Thermal stress was related to spatiotemporal variations in benthic cover on the SEFRT, likely enhanced by local stressors, such as elevated nutrients and sedimentation. Coral and octocoral cover declined within four of six sub-regions, sponge cover increased in half of the sub-regions, and macroalgae cover increased in four sub-regions during the study. Under current conditions, increased macroalgae and weedy coral cover are anticipated to inhibit reef recovery.