bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of customers' digital banking adoption on hidden defection: A combined analytical–empirical approach
Authors: Son Yoonseock , Kwon Hyeokkoo Eric , Tayi Giri K. , Oh Wonseok
Published: November 2019

The implementation of digital channels as avenues for economic transactions (e.g., online and mobile banking/FinTech) has shifted the paradigm of customer–bank interactions, providing unprecedented opportunities for both parties. The prevailing belief is that digital banking has several advantages, such as lower costs and higher information transferability for customers. These benefits can also promote competition between banks given customers' predilection for “multi‐homing,” or engagement with multiple banks. This study investigated the impact of customers' digital banking adoption on hidden defection, in which customers purchase financial products from competing banks instead of their primary banks. To this end, we developed an analytical model to provide insights into the effects of digital banking adoption while taking customers' multi‐homing behaviors into consideration. We then conducted a series of empirical analyses using comprehensive individual‐level transaction data to provide evidence of hidden defection. Our findings indicate that customers with higher loyalty exhibit greater hidden defection after digital banking adoption. Customers who engage primarily with personal‐service channels (e.g., branches) show stronger hidden defection than do self‐service channel (e.g., ATMs) users, and this effect is more prevalent among loyal customers. Our results provide valuable implications for omni‐channel services in a market characterized by multi‐homing behavior of customers.
Worry and anger from flight delay: Antecedents and consequences
Authors: Jiang Yawei , Li Shanshi , Huang Jingzhe , Scott Noel
Published: November 2019

Tourists may experience the same negative event during their travel but evoke different emotions, some may express anger, and others undertake dangerous actions. An understanding of the relationship between such negative events, the emotions elicited, and tourists' subsequent actions will help in managing these emotional situations. This study adopts cognitive appraisal theory to examine the antecedents of tourists' negative emotions (worry and anger) evoked by a flight delay and their respective effects on tourists' behavioural intentions. Data were collected from 610 tourists who experienced a flight delay during travel. The results demonstrate that, as predicted by cognitive appraisal theory, the appraisal dimensions of goal incongruence, certainty, and other agency are the common determinants of worry and anger, whereas the appraisal of circumstance agency is negatively related with anger. The results also reveal that anger can lead to tourists' switching intentions, complaining behaviours, and negative word‐of‐mouth, whereas worry only affects complaining behaviours. This study extends our knowledge of appraisal dimensions that lead to tourists' emotions of worry and anger. It also discusses the impacts of such emotions have on tourists' behavioural intentions.
Environmental R&D and privatization in a mixed duopoly market
Authors: Xing Mingqing , Tan Tingting , Wang Xia , Liu Linlin
Published: November 2019

The study examines strategic environmental research and development (ER&D) under environmental tax in a mixed duopoly and further analyzes the impact of privatization on it. We show that the environmental tax may not necessarily promote the private (or public) firm's ER&D, and the relative ER&D performance between firms depends on the public firm's environmental attitudes and the tax rate. When the public firm cares much for environment, it can be used as an instrument to correct the private firm's underinvestment (or overinvestment) in ER&D. Moreover, privatization can (cannot) raise both firms' ER&D simultaneously if the tax rate is high (low).
The Vicious Cycle Between α‐Synuclein Aggregation and Autophagic‐Lysosomal Dysfunction
Authors: Bellomo Giovanni , Paciotti Silvia , Gatticchi Leonardo , Parnetti Lucilla
Published: November 2019

The accumulation and misfolding of α‐synuclein (α‐syn) represent the main pathological hallmark of PD. Overexpression of α‐syn and failure of cellular protein degradation systems play a major role in α‐syn aggregation. The discovery of PD‐associated genes related to the autophagic‐lysosomal pathway, such as VPS35, LRRK2, GBA1, SMPD1, GALC, ASAH1, SCARB2, CTSD, CTSB, and GLA, confirms the involvement of cellular clearance systems dysfunction in PD pathogenesis. Of importance, lysosomal enzyme activity is altered both in genetic and sporadic PD. Decreased lysosomal enzymes activities were measured in the same brain regions where α‐syn accumulates, suggesting that a crosstalk between α‐syn aggregation and autophagic‐lysosomal impairment may exist. The understanding of autophagic‐lysosomal pathway dysfunctions’ role in the pathogenesis and progression of synucleinopathies opened new perspectives for novel possible therapeutic strategies. In this article, the evidences and mechanisms of the reciprocal relation between autophagic‐lysosomal pathway impairment and misfolded α‐syn aggregation and propagation are reviewed, together with the most promising compounds targeting autophagic‐lysosomal pathway restoration as a disease‐modifying strategy for PD treatment. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Convergence analysis of modified iterative approaches in geodesic spaces with curvature bounded above
Authors: Thounthong Phatiphat , Pakkaranang Nuttapol , Saipara Phachara , Phairatchatniyom Pawicha , Kumam Poom
Published: November 2019

The objective of this article is to establish a new modified iteration process for nonexpansive mappings in complete CAT(κ) spaces. We prove strong and Δ‐convergence theorems of the proposed method in such spaces under some standard conditions. Furthermore, numerical experiments of non‐trivial examples are also provided to show performance and comparison speed of convergence with many previously known methods. Our main result extended and improved the corresponding recent results announced by many researchers.
Dynamical analysis in a diffusive predator‐prey system with a delay and strong Allee effect
Authors: Liu Yuying , Wei Junjie
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we consider the dynamics of a diffusive predator‐prey system with strong Allee effect and delayed Ivlev‐type functional response. At first, we apply the method of upper‐lower solutions and the comparison principle in proving the nonnegativity of the solutions. Then by analyzing the distribution of the eigenvalues, we obtain the bistability of the system and the existence of Hopf bifurcation. Furthermore, by using the center manifolds theory and normal form method, we study the properties of the Hopf bifurcations. Finally, some numerical simulations are carried out for illustrating the theoretical results.
Detecting liver fibrosis using a machine learning‐based approach to the quantification of the heart‐induced deformation in tagged MR images
Authors: Ahmed Yasmine , Hussein Rasha S. , Basha Tamer A. , Khalifa Ayman M. , Ibrahim Ahmed S. , Abdelmoaty Ahmed S. , Abdella Heba M. , Fahmy Ahmed S.
Published: November 2019

Liver disease causes millions of deaths per year worldwide, and approximately half of these cases are due to cirrhosis, which is an advanced stage of liver fibrosis that can be accompanied by liver failure and portal hypertension. Early detection of liver fibrosis helps in improving its treatment and prevents its progression to cirrhosis. In this work, we present a novel noninvasive method to detect liver fibrosis from tagged MRI images using a machine learning‐based approach. Specifically, coronal and sagittal tagged MRI imaging are analyzed separately to capture cardiac‐induced deformation of the liver. The liver is manually delineated and a novel image feature, namely, the histogram of the peak strain (HPS) value, is computed from the segmented liver region and is used to classify the liver as being either normal or fibrotic. Classification is achieved using a support vector machine algorithm. The in vivo study included 15 healthy volunteers (10 males; age range 30–45 years) and 22 patients (15 males; age range 25–50 years) with liver fibrosis verified and graded by transient elastography, and 10 patients only had a liver biopsy and were diagnosed with a score of F3‐F4. The proposed method demonstrates the usefulness and efficiency of extracting the HPS features from the sagittal slices for patients with moderate fibrosis. Cross‐validation of the method showed an accuracy of 83.7% (specificity = 86.6%, sensitivity = 81.8%).
A feasible strategy to constructing hybrid conductive networks in PLA‐based composites modified by CNT‐d‐RGO particles and PEG for mechanical and electrical properties
Authors: Jia Shikui , Yu Demei , Zhu Yan , Su Xiaolong , Wang Zhong , Chen Ligui
Published: November 2019

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) were successfully assembled by chemical reaction to obtain CNT‐d‐RGO particles. Then, a home‐made dynamic impregnating device was used to prepare hybrid CNT‐d‐RGO/polyethylene glycol (PEG). Next, the different modifiers, including CNTs, GO, CNT‐d‐RGO, PEG, and CNT‐d‐RGO/PEG, were, respectively, added into poly‐(lactic acid) (PLA) matrix via melt‐compounding. The dispersed morphology for these different modifiers within the PLA matrix was confirmed by SEM and TEM observations. Especially, compared with the identical weight ratio of CNT‐d‐RGO, the hybrid CNT‐d‐RGO/PEG within the PLA matrix exhibited an excellent exfoliated and interconnected networks morphology. Moreover, compared with pure PLA, not only the crystallinity of all PLA‐based composites notably improved, but half‐crystallization time was also shortened. Furthermore, despite the addition of different modifiers, the crystal form of PLA‐based composites remained unchanged. Noticeably, compared with those of pure PLA, the tensile stress, strain, and modulus of PLA composite added with CNT‐d‐RGO/PEG increased by 29.4%, 4.1%, and 56.1%, respectively, and the V‐notch impact strength slightly improved. In addition, compared with pure PLA, volume resistivity of the PLA composite added with 1 wt% CNT‐d‐RGO/PEG decreased by 93.1%, and its volume conductivity increased by five orders of magnitude.
A DFT probe on the linear and nonlinear optical characteristics of some star‐shaped DI‐π‐DII‐Atype acetylene‐bridged rigid triazines
Authors: V. M. Vidya , Chetti Prabhakar
Published: November 2019

The density functional theory (DFT) computations of linear and nonlinear optical characteristics of nine star‐shaped DI‐π‐DII‐Atype molecules, which encompass electron‐donating phenyl rings connected by acetylene linkage and an electron‐accepting triazine core, were accomplished in present work. The phenyl rings were augmented with functionalities of diverse electron‐donating and electron‐accepting abilities to inspect the effects of substituents on linear and nonlinear optical properties of molecules. The assessment of the potential nonlinear nature of molecules was carried out by computing their second‐order nonlinearities using DFT methods to find that target molecules possessed superior nonlinear optical characteristics. The influence of various DFT methods and basis sets on optical characteristics was also scrutinized.
Unraveling photoexcitation dynamical behavior for bis (salicylidene)‐1,5‐diaminonaphthalene (BSD) system
Authors: Wang Jiemin , Liu Qiang , Yang Dapeng
Published: November 2019

In this work, a new excited state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) mechanism of bis (salicylidene)‐1,5‐diaminonaphthalene (BSD) is proposed based on density functional theory (DFT) and time‐dependent DFT methods. Given the intramolecular dual hydrogen bonds of BSD, we explore the excited state hydrogen bonding interactions for BSD and verify that the dual intramolecular hydrogen bonds of BSD molecule should be strengthened in the first excited state. Further, in the analyses about charge distribution upon excitation, we confirm that the charge redistribution around hydrogen bonding moieties plays important roles in enhancing dual hydrogen bonds and in facilitating ESIPT process. To reveal the detailed ESIPT mechanism, we construct the potential energy surfaces (PESs) in both S0 and S1 states along with hydrogen bonds. Via comparing potential energy barriers among the stable structures on the S1‐state PES, we present the excited state intramolecular single proton transfer mechanism for BSD system. Moreover, the phenomenon and properties of fluorescence for BSD in experiment could be explained reasonably based on the ESIPT mechanism presented in this work.
Synthesis and properties of sulfur‐contained poly(silylene arylacetylene)s
Authors: Li Chuan , Luo Jiawei , Ma Manping , Tang Junkun , Yuan Qiaolong , Huang Farong
Published: November 2019

Poly(silylene arylacetylene) (PSA) is a kind of poly(arylacetylene) silicon‐containing resins with excellent heat resistance and good mechanical performances. In this article, the sulfur atom is introduced into the main chain of the PSA molecule to obtain a sulfur‐containing poly(silylene arylacetylene), named S‐PSA. By Williamson and Sonogashira reactions, bis(4‐ethynylphenyl)sulfide and bis(4‐ethynylphenyl)sulfone were synthesized. Thereafter, through Grignard reagent way, the poly(silylene ethynylene phenylene sulfide phenylene ethynylene) (PSESE) and poly(silylene ethynylene phenylene sulfone phenylene ethynylene) (PSESO2E) were synthesized from bis(4‐ethynylphenyl)sulfide, bis(4‐ethynylphenyl)sulfone, and methylphenyl dichlorosilane. Poly(silylene ethynylene phenylene sulfoxide phenylene ethynylene) (PSESOE) was synthesized by the oxidation of PSESE. The structures and properties of these resins were characterized and the mechanical properties of the T300 reinforced composites were tested. The results show that the novel S‐PSA resins have excellent heat resistance and good mechanical properties, and could be used as resin matrices for high‐performance composites in high‐tech fields. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 2324–2332
Thoracic spine manipulation did not improve maximal mouth opening in participants with temporomandibular dysfunction
Authors: Thorp Jacob N. , Willson John
Published: November 2019

Background and Purpose

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) have a prevalence of more than 5% in the general population. A positive correlation exists between temporomandibular joint mobility and cervical spine mobility. Similarly, a relationship exists between thoracic and cervical spine mobility. However, it is unknown if interventions to improve the mobility of the thoracic spine positively impact temporomandibular joint motion and pain. This study tested the hypothesis that a single thoracic thrust joint manipulation (TJM) would improve maximum mouth opening (MMO) compared with participants without TMD as well as decrease TMD symptoms.

Methods

Forty‐eight people with TMD (30.9 years old ±11.3) and 55 people without TMD (28.5 years old ±9.2) participated. Both groups received a seated upper thoracic TJM and were measured for MMO before and immediately following the TJM. The duration of TMD symptoms and pre‐thrust current pain, using the 11‐point Verbal Pain Rating Scale (VPRS), was recorded in the TMD group. Participants in the TMD group were contacted 2–3 days after TJM to report current VPRS and improvement utilizing the Global Rating of Change (GROC) scale.

Results

No difference in MMO treatment response over time was observed between groups (p = .56). The MMO in the TMD group improved from 40 to 41.3 mm, and the non‐TMD similarly improved from 44.5 to 45.4 mm. The VPRS decreased from 2.4 (±1.8) to 1.3 (±1.5) following thoracic TJM (p < .001), and the average GROC score was 1.8 (±2.25), which was statistically different than zero (no change; p < .001). The duration of TMD symptoms prior to TJM was not associated with GROC scores (r = .018, p = .90) or VPRS change scores (r = −.07, p = .64).

Conclusion

The observed treatment effects did not exceed previously reported standards for clinical relevance (5 mm and 2 points, respectively).
Temperature dependence of NMR chemical shifts: Tracking and statistical analysis
Authors: Trainor Kyle , Palumbo Jeffrey A. , MacKenzie Duncan W. S. , Meiering Elizabeth M.
Published: November 2019

Isotropic chemical shifts measured by solution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy offer extensive insights into protein structure and dynamics. Temperature dependences add a valuable dimension; notably, the temperature dependences of amide proton chemical shifts are valuable probes of hydrogen bonding, temperature‐dependent loss of structure, and exchange between distinct protein conformations. Accordingly, their uses include structural analysis of both folded and disordered proteins, and determination of the effects of mutations, binding, or solution conditions on protein energetics. Fundamentally, these temperature dependences result from changes in the local magnetic environments of nuclei, but correlations with global thermodynamic parameters measured via calorimetric methods have been observed. Although the temperature dependences of amide proton and nitrogen chemical shifts are often well approximated by a linear model, deviations from linearity are also observed and may be interpreted as evidence of fast exchange between distinct conformational states. Here, we describe computational methods, accessible via the Shift‐T web server, including an automated tracking algorithm that propagates initial (single temperature) 1H15N cross peak assignments to spectra collected over a range of temperatures. Amide proton and nitrogen temperature coefficients (slopes determined by fitting chemical shift vs. temperature data to a linear model) are subsequently calculated. Also included are methods for the detection of systematic, statistically significant deviation from linearity (curvature) in the temperature dependences of amide proton chemical shifts. The use and utility of these methods are illustrated by example, and the Shift‐T web server is freely available at http://meieringlab.uwaterloo.ca/shiftt.
Current developments in Coot for macromolecular model building of Electron Cryo‐microscopy and Crystallographic Data
Authors: Casañal Ana , Lohkamp Bernhard , Emsley Paul
Published: November 2019

Coot is a tool widely used for model building, refinement, and validation of macromolecular structures. It has been extensively used for crystallography and, more recently, improvements have been introduced to aid in cryo‐EM model building and refinement, as cryo‐EM structures with resolution ranging 2.5–4 A are now routinely available. Model building into these maps can be time‐consuming and requires experience in both biochemistry and building into low‐resolution maps. To simplify and expedite the model building task, and minimize the needed expertise, new tools are being added in Coot. Some examples include morphing, Geman‐McClure restraints, full‐chain refinement, and Fourier‐model based residue‐type‐specific Ramachandran restraints. Here, we present the current state‐of‐the‐art in Coot usage.
Analytical Shannon information entropies for all discrete multidimensional hydrogenic states
Authors: Toranzo Irene V. , Puertas‐Centeno David , Sobrino Nahual , Dehesa Jesús S.
Published: November 2019

The entropic uncertainty measures of the multidimensional hydrogenic states quantify the multiple facets of the spatial delocalization of the electronic probability density of the system. The Shannon entropy is the most adequate uncertainty measure to quantify the electronic spreading and to mathematically formalize the Heisenberg uncertainty principle, partially because it does not depend on any specific point of their multidimensional domain of definition. In this work, the radial and angular parts of the Shannon entropies for all the discrete stationary states of the multidimensional hydrogenic systems are obtained from first principles; that is, they are given in terms of the states' principal and magnetic hyperquantum numbers (n, μ1, μ2, …, μ
D−1), the system's dimensionality D and the nuclear charge Z in an analytical, compact form. Explicit expressions for the total Shannon entropies are given for the quasi‐spherical states, which conform to a relevant class of specific states of the D‐dimensional hydrogenic system characterized by the hyperquantum numbers μ1 = μ2 … = μ
D−1 = n − 1, including the ground state.
Consumer engagement in the circular economy: Exploring clothes swapping in emerging economies from a social practice perspective
Authors: Camacho‐Otero Juana , Pettersen Ida Nilstad , Boks Casper
Published: November 2019

One of the sectors that are being challenged to become circular is the clothing sector. Clothe swapping is considered as an example of a circular solution that enables slowing material loops. However, consumers have failed to widely engage in this type of practice and only a few studies explore this topic using a social practice perspective. This theoretical approach bridges individual and structural approaches to social change. In this study we explore why people in an emerging economy such as Colombia engage in clothe swapping, by exploring it from a social practice perspective. Based on interview and visual data, we explored the configuration of the practice, the interaction between elements, and the reasons why it recruits practitioners. We found that people participate in clothe swapping for economic, environmental, and innovative reasons. In order to perform the practice, three types of elements are involved: material elements such as clothes and place, skills for selecting and preparing the clothes for exchange and rules regarding these materials and behaviours during the event, and images and meanings. We characterised three interconnections between these elements that have been used to enable the practice, and finally, we explored how the participants' networks, histories, and capitals; the social significance of the practice; and its connections to other practices influence recruitment. This approach allowed us to identify paradoxes between the purpose and the implementation of the practice. Future research could use this perspective to compare cases in different socio‐economic context.
Revealing Grain Boundaries and Defect Formation in Nanocrystal Superlattices by Nanodiffraction
Authors: Mukharamova Nastasia , Lapkin Dmitry , Zaluzhnyy Ivan A. , André Alexander , Lazarev Sergey , Kim Young Yong , Sprung Michael , Kurta Ruslan P. , Schreiber Frank , Vartanyants Ivan A. , Scheele Marcus
Published: November 2019

X‐ray nanodiffraction is applied to study the formation and correlation of domain boundaries in mesocrystalline superlattices of PbS nanocrystals with face‐centered cubic structure. Each domain of the superlattice can be described with one of two mesocrystalline polymorphs with different orientational orders. Close to a grain boundary, the lattice constant decreases and the superlattice undergoes an out‐of‐plane rotation, while the orientation of the nanocrystals with respect to the superlattice remains unchanged. These findings are explained with the release of stress on the expense of specific nanocrystal–substrate interactions. The fact that correlations between adjacent nanocrystals are found to survive the structural changes at most grain boundaries implies that the key to nanocrystal superlattices with macroscopic domain sizes are strengthened interactions with the substrate.
Semolina Pasta Replaced with Whole Unripe Plantain Flour: Chemical, Cooking Quality, Texture, and Starch Digestibility
Authors: Garcia‐Valle Daniel E. , Agama‐Acevedo Edith , Alvarez‐Ramirez Jose , Bello‐Perez Luis A.
Published: November 2019

Spaghetti pasta is prepared with semolina and whole unripe plantain flour (WUPF) as dietary fiber source at three different fractions (0.15, 0.25, and 0.35 w/w). Hi‐Maize 260 (HM) is used as commercial dietary fiber to compare the results. It is found that HM producs pasta with cooking parameters similar to pasta containing only semolina. However, WUPF addition increases cooking loss about threefold. Hardness of pasta formulations containing dietary fiber is lowered by about 30% by the addition of either HM or WUPF. In contrast, adhesiveness is reduced by about 80% by the effect of the dietary fiber addition. The digestibility of the cooked pasta is largely affected by the presence of dietary fiber, with similar results for WUPF and HM. The slowly digestible starch fraction is increased from about 15% for pasta made with semolina, to about 75–85% for pasta incorporating dietary fiber, either WUPF or HM. The resistant starch fraction is only marginally affected by dietary fiber. Overall, the results show that WUPF is a viable alternative to commercial dietary fiber sources (like HM) for improving the digestibility characteristics of semolina‐based pasta.
Modeling the microstructure at steel–concrete interface in reinforced concrete
Authors: Chen Fangjie , Baji Hassan , Li Chun‐Qing , Lau Ian , Ma Baoguo
Published: November 2019

The microstructure at the steel–concrete interface can significantly affect corrosion of steel and corrosion‐induced cracking of reinforced concrete (RC). This paper aims to model the thickness of porous band around the steel–concrete interface as a function of concrete design parameters. Both the maximum (d
0,max) and equivalent uniform thickness (

0) of the porous band are thoroughly examined. The developed model is robust in predicting the thickness around the steel–concrete interface, the maximum and equivalent uniform thickness of the porous band. It is found in the paper that water to cement ratio and concrete cover show strong correlations with the porous band (d
0) while aggregate size shows no correlation. The contribution of the paper is that the developed models for porous band around the steel–concrete interface can improve the prediction of corrosion‐induced cracking of RC and hence prevent premature and avoidable failures of corrosion affected concrete structures.
Calculation of visible crack width of concrete surface under temperature and shrinkage gradient deformations
Authors: Xu Zhaoquan
Published: November 2019

Temperature and humidity conducting gradient and segregation of materials, could cause obvious gradient deformation and terrible‐looking cracks on concrete surface. Because of the complicated cracking mechanism and numerous influencing factors, the prediction work of this cracks width in engineering is always very difficult. Combined with material segregation characteristics, the deformations of temperature change and shrinkage are considered by layers, and the inter stresses between layers are calculated out. After taking into account the crack toughness, the crack depth and width are determined. When the width exceeds 0.05 mm that is the recognized macro‐fracture index, visible crack of concrete is considered to occur. Using this method, the crack widths under several typical working conditions were calculated, and their distribution and development characteristics were analyzed.
Professional programming offers pathways to two degrees in five years
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: November 2019

Serving adult learners who might be returning to higher education — or stepping onto a campus for the first time —might involve unusual pathways to completion for your institution. For Columbus State Community College, it meant partnering with Huntington Bank and Franklin University to offer the Exact Track business degree program for Huntington employees.
Timeliness, academic integrity among top priorities of longtime registrar
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: November 2019

The evidence suggests Ted Witryk was born to be a registrar. His first exposure to the office dates back to a summer job during high school, when he stunned supervisors by completing in less than a week an envelope‐stuffing task that in the prior year had taken three graduate assistants the entire summer.
Serosurvey for Brucella spp. and Coxiella burnetii in animals on Caribbean islands
Authors: Johnson Jason W. , Lucas Helene , King Sharon , Caron Tyler , Wang Chengming , Kelly Patrick J.
Published: November 2019

To determine the prevalence of antibodies to Brucella melitensis, Brucella abortus and Coxiella burnetii in animals on Caribbean islands we obtained sera from convenience samples of cattle (C), sheep (S), goats (G) and cats (F) from Dominica (C, S, G), Grenada (C, S, G), Montserrat (C, S, G), Puerto Rico (C), Nevis (C, S, G), St Kitts (C, S, G, F) and St Lucia (C, G). The sera were tested for antibodies against the Brucella spp. using commercial ELISA kits. Some sera were also tested at 1/80 for antibodies to C. burnetii using an indirect fluorescent antibody test. Positive sera were also tested at 1/640. None of 599 cattle, 462 sheep or 434 goats were positive in the Brucella ELISAs. None of 230 cattle had antibodies against C. burnetii, but one of 299 sheep was positive at 1/80 (Dominica – 1/54, 2%, 95% CI (0%–5.6%)), as were two of 314 goats, at 1/80 (Grenada – 1/53, 2%, 95% CI (0%–7.5%)) and 1/640 (St Kitts − 1/18, 5.6%, 95% CI (0%–16.7%)), and one of 34 cats, at 1/80 (St Kitts − 1/34; 3%, 95% CI (0%–8.8%)). Our data suggests that there is a very low prevalence or absence of B. melitensis and B. abortus on Caribbean islands. Coxiella burnetii, however, is present but it appears to be present on only some islands and then only at low levels. Overall, there appears to be a low threat to human and animal health from these organisms in the Caribbean.
Resolution of inflammation during multiple sclerosis
Authors: Ruiz F. , Vigne S. , Pot C.
Published: November 2019

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a frequent autoimmune demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS). There are three clinical forms described: relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), the most common initial presentation (85%) among which, if not treated, about half will transform, into the secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) and the primary progressive MS (PPMS) (15%) that is directly progressive without superimposed clinical relapses. Inflammation is present in all subsets of MS. The relapsing/remitting form could represent itself a particular interest for the study of inflammation resolution even though it remains incomplete in MS. Successful resolution of acute inflammation is a highly regulated process and dependent on mechanisms engaged early in the inflammatory response that are scarcely studied in MS. Moreover, recent classes of disease-modifying treatment (DMTs) that are effective against RRMS act by re-establishing the inflammatory imbalance, taking advantage of the pre-existing endogenous suppressor. In this review, we will discuss the active role of regulatory immune cells in inflammation resolution as well as the role of tissue and non-hematopoietic cells as contributors to inflammation resolution. Finally, we will explore how DMTs, more specifically induction therapies, impact the resolution of inflammation during MS.
Ruthenium dioxide nanoparticles as a high-capacity transducer in solid-contact polymer membrane-based pH-selective electrodes
Authors: Lenar Nikola , Paczosa-Bator Beata , Piech Robert
Published: November 2019

A new approach is presented for the design of ion selective electrodes. Ruthenium dioxide nanoparticles were incorporated into solid-contact electrodes, and their properties were studied for the case of pH-selective electrodes. The use of the RuO2is shown to significantly improve the potentiometric response, while no redox response is observed. The use of RuO2results in a Nernstian slope (59 mV/decade) towards hydrogen ions over a wide linear range (pH 2 to 12). The results obtained by chronopotentiometry reveal small resistance, and the capacitance is as high as 1.12 mF. This results in a good stability of the response and in a low potential drift (0.89 μV∙s−1). The electrodes exhibit properties nearly as excellent as those of a glass electrode, but they are much smaller, less fragile, and easy to use.
Incremental community discovery via latent network representation and probabilistic inference
Authors: Cui Zhe , Park Noseong , Chakraborty Tanmoy
Published: November 2019

Most of the community detection algorithms assume that thecompletenetwork structure$$\mathcal {G}=(\mathcal {V},\mathcal {E})$$G=(V,E)is available in advance for analysis. However, in reality this may not be true due to several reasons, such as privacy constraints and restricted access, which result in a partial snapshot of the entire network. In addition, we may be interested in identifying the community information of only a selected subset of nodes (denoted by$$\mathcal {V}_{{\mathrm{T}}} \subseteq \mathcal {V}$$VT⊆V), rather than obtaining the community structure of all the nodes in$$\mathcal {G}$$G. To this end, we propose an incremental community detection method that repeats two stages—(i) network scan and (ii) community update. In the first stage, our method selects an appropriate node in such a way that the discovery of its local neighborhood structure leads to an accurate community detection in the second stage. We propose a novel criterion, calledInformation Gain, based on existing network embedding algorithms (Deepwalk and node2vec) to scan a node. The proposed community update stage consists of expectation–maximization and Markov Random Field-based denoising strategy. Experiments with 5 diverse networks with known ground-truth community structure show that our algorithm achieves 10.2% higher accuracy on average over state-of-the-art algorithms for both network scan and community update steps.
How Do Mothers’ Parental Attributions Affect Child Outcomes from a Positive Parenting Intervention? A Mediation Study
Authors: Sawrikar Vilas , Hawes David J. , Moul Caroline , Dadds Mark R.
Published: November 2019

Problematic parental attributions refer to negative causal explanations for child problem behaviour and are known to predict parenting intervention outcomes. This study examines alternative accounts of how mothers’ problematic parental attributions, operationalised as negative pre-treatment and change resistant parental attributions during treatment, may affect child behaviour outcomes from a parenting intervention program. Putative mediators included parental feelings about the child and use of harsh discipline. Participants were 163 families with children aged from 3 to 16 referred to specialist clinics for the treatment of conduct problems. Measures were collected as part of pre-treatment, post-treatment, and 3-month follow-up assessments. Mothers’ pre-treatment and change resistant parental attributions were associated with smaller improvements in parental feelings at the end of treatment which in turn were associated with greater use of harsh discipline. Greater use of harsh discipline was associated with greater conduct problems overall. Smaller improvements in parental feelings mediated the effects of pre-treatment and change resistant parental attributions on outcomes in mothers’ use of harsh discipline and mediated the effects of change resistant parental attributions on outcomes in child conduct problems. Smaller improvements in parental feelings about the child may act as a mechanism that explains the impact of problematic parental attributions on treatment outcomes.
Influence of glass beads filler and orientation process on piezoelectric properties of polyethylene composites
Authors: Kaczmarek Halina , Chylińska Marta , Królikowski Bogusław , Klimiec Ewa , Bajer Dagmara , Kowalonek Jolanta
Published: November 2019

The effect of silica filler (in the form of glass beads) on polyethylene composite properties has been studied. Conditions for obtaining polyethylene-based composites in the extrusion process were developed. Two types of such composites were prepared: non-oriented and oriented in the uniaxial stretching process in a ratio of 3:1. The morphology, microstructure (including crystallinity degree), mechanical resistance, and thermal stability of the obtained composites containing 2.5–10% of the filler were analyzed by the scanning electron microscopy connected with energy dispersive X-ray analysis, X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetry methods, and tensile tests. In order to induce piezoelectric effect, the samples were charged with a direct current of 100 V/μm at 85 °C. The piezoelectric properties of the polyethylene composites were determined by the measurement of charge and voltage of current generated during action of stress up to 120 kPa. Piezoelectric coefficients, d33 and g33, versus applied stress were determined and the stability of electrets stored during 2–5 months was tested too. The best piezoelectric properties were found for medium-density polyethylene composite containing 5% of glass beads.
An observational analysis of meal patterns in overweight and obese pregnancy: exploring meal pattern behaviours and the association with maternal and fetal health measures
Authors: Ainscough Kate M. , Kennelly Maria A. , Lindsay Karen L. , O’Brien Eileen C. , O’Sullivan Elizabeth J. , Mehegan John , Gibney Eileen R. , McAuliffe Fionnuala M.
Published: November 2019

Background

Nutrient intakes are known to be poorer among pregnant women with raised body mass index (BMI) than those with a healthy BMI. While meal patterns have the potential to influence obstetric, metabolic and anthropometric measures for mother and infant, limited data exists regarding meal patterns among pregnant women with raised BMI.

Aim

To identify categories of meal patterns among pregnant women with overweight and obesity and determine whether patterns change with advancing gestation. To determine if maternal meal patterns are associated with dietary intakes and pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

Prospective, observational analysis of pregnant women (n = 143) (BMI 25–39.9 kg/m2). Meal pattern data were analysed from 3-day food diaries at 16 and 28 weeks’ gestation. Outcomes include maternal blood glucose, insulin resistance, gestational diabetes, gestational weight gain and infant anthropometry.

Results

Three meal pattern categories were identified: ‘main meal dominant’ (3 main eating occasions + 0–3 snacks), ‘large meal dominant’ (≤ 2 main eating occasions + < 2 snacks), and ‘snack dominant’ (3 main eating occasions + > 3 snacks and ≤ 2 main + ≥ 2 snacks). A main meal–dominant pattern prevailed at 16 weeks’ (85.3%) and a snack-dominant pattern at 28 weeks’ (68.5%). Dietary glycaemic index was lower among the main meal versus large meal–dominant pattern at 28 weeks (P = 0.018). Infant birth weight (kg) and macrosomia were highest among participants with a large meal–dominant pattern at 28 weeks (P = 0.030 and P = 0.008, respectively).

Conclusion

Women with raised BMI changed eating patterns as pregnancy progressed, moving from main meal–dominant to snack-dominant patterns. Large meal–dominant meal patterns in later pregnancy were associated with higher glycaemic index and greater prevalence of macrosomia.
Growth and Neurodevelopment of HIV-Exposed Uninfected Children: a Conceptual Framework
Authors: Wedderburn Catherine J. , Evans Ceri , Yeung Shunmay , Gibb Diana M. , Donald Kirsten A. , Prendergast Andrew J.
Published: November 2019

Purpose of Review

The population of HIV-exposed uninfected (HEU) children is expanding rapidly, and over one million HEU infants are born each year globally. Several recent studies have reported that HEU children, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, are at risk of poor outcomes, including impaired growth and neurodevelopment. However, the reasons for poor clinical outcomes amongst HEU children remain unclear.

Recent Findings

We summarise the findings from recent large studies that have characterised growth and neurodevelopment in HEU children, identified risk factors and explored underlying mechanistic pathways. We propose a conceptual framework to explain how exposure to HIV and antiretroviral therapy (ART) may lead to adverse growth and neurodevelopment in uninfected children, and review the available evidence and research gaps.

We propose that HEU children are affected both indirectly, through the augmentation of universal risk factors underlying poor growth and neurodevelopment, and directly through HIV/ART-specific pathways, which ultimately may converge through a series of common pathogenic mechanisms.In the era of universal ART, a better understanding of these pathways is crucial to inform future prevention and intervention strategies.
Identifying and Responding to Child Neglect within Schools: Differing Perspectives and the Implications for Inter-Agency Practice
Authors: Sharley Victoria
Published: November 2019

Child neglect is the most common reason for a child to be placed on the child protection register in Wales. Due to their central position within the community, schools provide opportunities for staff to observe children’s interactions with peers and family members, five days a week, over an extended period of time and development. Although literature acknowledges schools as pivotal sites for the identification of child maltreatment, little is known about the manner in which school staff recognise and respond to child neglect in their roles. This paper brings new understanding about the way in which child neglect is identified by school staff in Wales. The mixed method research design comprises two phases: quantitative social work case file analysis, qualitative semi-structured interviews and non-participant observation. This paper presents two key findings from the thirty interviews with staff in mainstream schools undertaken within the second phase of the study. Findings emphasise the presence of differing professional perspectives between school staff and social services: firstly the identification of child neglect within the boundaries of the school, and secondly the interprofessional challenges which exist for school staff when responding to child neglect. Findings have important implications for future policy and practice in the delivery of school-based service provision, and broader messages for the development of effective inter-professional relationships between staff in all universal services and statutory services when supporting and protecting children who are suspected of living with neglect.
Risk factors associated with the development of moderate to severe chronic graft-versus-host disease after non-myeloablative conditioning allogeneic stem cell transplantation in patients with AML or MDS
Authors: Kok Laurence M. C. , Bungener Laura , de Bock Geertruida H. , Biswana Anouschka , van der Wal Geertiena , van Imhoff Gustaaf W. , Bellido Mar
Published: November 2019

Moderate to severe chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) is associated with high morbidity, hospital dependency and poor quality of life. In this study, we analyzed a well-defined consecutive series of 98 patients with acute myelogenous leukemia/myelodysplastic syndrome (AML/MDS) who received allogeneic stem cell transplantation with non-myeloablative (NMA) conditioning to determine risk factors associated with the severity of cGVHD. cGVHD was defined according to the 2005 National Institute of Health consensus criteria. Transfusions before transplantation, presence of HLA antibodies, composition of the graft (CD3+, CD19+, CD34+ cells), sibling or matched unrelated donor, female donor to male recipient, CMV serology and the development of acute GVHD (aGVHD), were considered potential risk factors. Multivariate Cox regression analysis identified the number of CD19+ 106/kg (HR 2.79; 95% CI 1.35–5.74), CD3+ 106/kg (HR 2.18; 95% CI 1.04–4.59) infused cells and the presence of patient HLA antibodies before transplantation (HR 2.34; CI 1.11–4.95) as significant risk factors for the development of moderate to severe cGVHD. In summary, we identified in a small, but well-defined cohort, 3 risk factors associated with the severity of cGVHD that should be validated in a larger multi-center study.
DNA Methylation and Type 2 Diabetes: the Use of Mendelian Randomization to Assess Causality
Authors: Juvinao-Quintero Diana L. , Hivert Marie-France , Sharp Gemma C. , Relton Caroline L. , Elliott Hannah R.
Published: November 2019

Purpose of Review

This review summarises recent advances in the field of epigenetics in order to understand the aetiology of type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Recent Findings

DNA methylation at a number of loci has been shown to be robustly associated with T2D, including TXNIP, ABCG1, CPT1A, and SREBF1. However, due to the cross-sectional nature of many epidemiological studies and predominant analysis in samples derived from blood rather than disease relevant tissues, inferring causality is difficult. We therefore outline the use of Mendelian randomisation (MR) as one method able to assess causality in epigenetic studies of T2D.

Epidemiological studies have been fruitful in identifying epigenetic markers of T2D. Triangulation of evidence including utilisation of MR is essential to delineate causal from non-causal biomarkers of disease. Understanding the causality of epigenetic markers in T2D more fully will aid prioritisation of CpG sites as early biomarkers to detect disease or in drug development to target epigenetic mechanisms in order to treat patients.
The Future of Midlatitude Cyclones
Authors: Catto Jennifer L. , Ackerley Duncan , Booth James F. , Champion Adrian J. , Colle Brian A. , Pfahl Stephan , Pinto Joaquim G. , Quinting Julian F. , Seiler Christian
Published: November 2019

Purpose of Review

This review brings together recent research on the structure, characteristics, dynamics, and impacts of extratropical cyclones in the future. It draws on research using idealized models and complex climate simulations, to evaluate what is known and unknown about these future changes.

Recent Findings

There are interacting processes that contribute to the uncertainties in future extratropical cyclone changes, e.g., changes in the horizontal and vertical structure of the atmosphere and increasing moisture content due to rising temperatures.

While precipitation intensity will most likely increase, along with associated increased latent heating, it is unclear to what extent and for which particular climate conditions this will feedback to increase the intensity of the cyclones. Future research could focus on bridging the gap between idealized models and complex climate models, as well as better understanding of the regional impacts of future changes in extratropical cyclones.