bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pattern of Skin Disease in Ethiopian HIV-Infected Patients on Combination Antiretroviral Therapy: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Dermatology Referral Hospital
Authors: Shikur F. , Yeung H. , Amogne W. , Weller R.
Published: May 2021

Background

More than 90% of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients will develop at least one type of skin disorder during the course of the disease. The prevalence and severity of skin disease commonly seen in HIV-infected patients has decreased in the era of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART). Few studies in Ethiopia have shown the magnitude of skin problems among adult patients on cART. The aim of this study is to describe the pattern of skin disease among adult patients who are on cART.

Methods

Cross-sectional observational study at ALERT Hospital from April 2018 to November 2018. Patterns of clinically diagnosed skin diseases were summarized descriptively.

Result

A total of 572 patients were evaluated. In total, 412 (72%) were female and the mean age of study participants was 40 (SD = 10.4). The median CD4 count at the time of diagnosis and start of cART were 178 (R 5-2000) and 168 cells/μl (R 5-1327), respectively. The mean duration of cART was 8 (SD = 3) years. 89.3% of patients were on first line and 7% on second line of cART regimen. Noninfectious inflammatory skin disorders (40.9%) were the most common concomitant diagnosis followed by infectious diseases (34.9%), infestation (7.7%), pigmentary disorders (6.3%) and cutaneous drug eruption (0.7%), respectively. Among the inflammatory skin disorders, 56.5% presented with eczema. One patient had Kaposi sarcoma.

Conclusion

Noninfectious inflammatory skin disorders are the most common concomitant skin disease in HIV-infected patients, with eczema being most prevalent. Infectious skin diseases were also common presentations. In our study, AIDS-defining skin conditions were rare.
Social capital and entrepreneur resilience: Entrepreneur performance during violent protests in Togo
Authors: Dimitriadis Stefan
Published: May 2021

Research Summary

This study explores how entrepreneurs' social capital affects their resilience to localized shocks. Using a unique longitudinal survey of entrepreneurs during a surge of violent protests in Togo during 2017 and 2018, I explore how different kinds of relationships affect entrepreneurs' performance. Results show that proximity to violent protests caused entrepreneurs' profits to drop by 20%. This decrease, however, was mitigated by entrepreneurs' ties to their local communities and by their non‐colocated advice relationships, which were ties to geographically distant advisers. In contrast, colocated advisers, those who were spatially proximate, were harmful to their performance. These findings show that social capital can have conflicting effects on entrepreneurs' resilience, depending on the kinds of relationships they consist of and how those relationships are exposed to the shock.

Managerial Summary

Relationships are critical to entrepreneurs' performance. Yet, during local crises, such as violent protests, it can be difficult to know which relationships to rely on. Studying entrepreneurs in Togo during a sudden surge of violent protests, I found that two kinds of relationships reduced the negative impact of the localized shock: ties to local communities and advisers located outside the crisis area. In contrast, advisers located nearby, who were also affected by the crisis, amplified the protests' negative effects. These findings suggest that entrepreneurs who can afford to build stronger ties to their local communities and have more distant advisers may be better positioned to minimize losses during localized shocks.
Understanding and deciphering of social engineering attack scenarios
Authors: Yasin Affan , Fatima Rubia , Liu Lin , Wang Jianmin , Ali Raian , Wei Ziqi
Published: May 2021

Malicious scammers and social engineers are causing great harms to modern society, as they have led to the loss of data, information, money, and many more for individuals and companies. Knowledge about social engineering (SE) is wide‐spread and it exits in non‐academic papers and communication channels. Knowledge is mostly based on expert opinion and experience reports. Such knowledge, if articulated, can provide a valid source of knowledge and information. We performed the analysis of such sources, guided by academic principles around SE, and solicit existing SE scenarios from public awareness education materials, news stories, research literature, official advisories to public departments. We adopted grounded theory to extract the general knowledge behind SE, such as, attacking cycles, information gathering strategies, psychological principles, attack vectors, and so on. In this article, we aim to review and synthesize a body of knowledge (rationale and motivation of social engineers). The study aims to: (a) understand the rationale of social engineers; (b) capture the knowledge of SE attacks and extract important information from the sources; (c) propose an activity for counteracting SE attacks, and how it can be used in security education.
In Situ Monitoring of Lithium Metal Anodes and Their Solid Electrolyte Interphases by Transmission Electron Microscopy
Authors: Chen Chih-Yao , Tsuda Tetsuya , Oshima Yoshifumi , Kuwabata Susumu
Published: May 2021

Lithium (Li) metal anodes (LMAs) are considered to be the holy grail of electrodes to enable advanced battery chemistry for energy‐intensive applications. However, the formation of Li dendrites and their intricate interplay with the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) remain unclear to date. Herein, a simple yet efficient methodology for in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observation is reported, and the relationship between the SEI chemistry and the morphology of LMAs is unraveled by a combination of TEM imaging and selected area electron diffraction analysis in an unprecedented way. The authors find that the coexistence of LiF and Li3N in the SEI layer helps realize dendrite‐free Li deposition and directly visualize the deposition–dissolution behavior of individual Li deposits with different microstructures. The approach should be applicable to scrutinize a broad range of interfacial reactions in nonvolatile electrolytes (e.g., ionic liquid, glass‐, and ceramic‐based electrolytes) relevant to future energy storage devices, including magnesium secondary batteries.
Testing of adaptive and context‐aware systems: approaches and challenges
Authors: Siqueira Bento R. , Ferrari Fabiano C. , Souza Kathiani E. , Camargo Valter V. , de Lemos Rogério
Published: May 2021

Adaptive systems (ASs) and context‐aware systems (CASs) are able to evaluate their own behaviour and toadaptit when the system fails to accomplish its goals or when better functionality or performance is possible. Ensuring the reliability of ASs and CASs is demanding because failures might have undesirable consequences. Testing ASs and CASs effectively is not trivial because of the inherent characteristics of these systems. The literature lacks a comprehensive review that provides a broad picture of the area; current reviews are outdated and incomplete. The objectives of this study are characterizing the state of the art in AS and CAS testing and discussing approaches, challenges, observed trends, and research limitations and directions. We performed a systematic literature review (SLR) and a thematic analysis of studies, reporting up‐to‐date, refined and extended results when compared with existing reviews. Based on 102 selected studies, we (i) characterized testing approaches by grouping techniques for ASs and CASs; (ii) updated and refined a characterization of testing challenges for ASs and CASs; and (iii) analysed and discussed research trends and implications for AS and CAS testing. There are recurring research concerns regarding AS and CAS testing. Examples are the generation of test cases and built‐in tests. Moreover, we also identified recurring testing challenges such as context monitoring and runtime decisions. Moreover, there are some trends such as model‐based testing and hybrid techniques and some little investigated issues like uncertainty and prediction of changes. All in all, our results may provide guidance for developers and researchers with respect to the practice and the future research on AS and CAS testing.
Recent advances in TiO2‐based catalysts for N2 reduction reaction
Authors: Chen Jiayin , Zhang Wei , Li Haoze , Li Wei , Zhao Dongyuan
Published: May 2021

Nitrogen (N2) fixation under mild conditions is a promising approach for green production of ammonia (NH3). In the past decades, various advanced catalysts have been fabricated to achieve this goal through electrocatalytic and photocatalytic processes. Among them, the TiO2‐based catalysts have been recognized as promising candidates due to their high activity, low cost, chemical stability, and nontoxicity. In this review, recent advances in the fabrication of high‐performance TiO2‐based materials for N2 reduction reaction (NRR) under mild conditions are summarized, including electrocatalytic and photocatalytic NRR. The design principles, synthetic strategies, and corresponding chemical/physical properties of TiO2‐based NRR catalysts are described in detail. Moreover, the key challenges and potential opportunities in this field are presented and discussed.
United European Gastroenterology (UEG) and European Society for Neurogastroenterology and Motility (ESNM) consensus on gastroparesis
Authors: Schol Jolien , Wauters Lucas , Dickman Ram , Drug Vasile , Mulak Agata , Serra Jordi , Enck Paul , Tack Jan ,   the ESNM Gastroparesis Consensus Group
Published: May 2021

Background

Gastroparesis is a condition characterized by epigastric symptoms and delayed gastric emptying (GE) rate in the absence of any mechanical obstruction. The condition is challenging in clinical practice by the lack of guidance concerning diagnosis and management of gastroparesis.

Methods

A Delphi consensus was undertaken by 40 experts from 19 European countries who conducted a literature summary and voting process on 89 statements. Quality of evidence was evaluated using grading of recommendations assessment, development, and evaluation criteria. Consensus (defined as ≥80% agreement) was reached for 25 statements.

Results

The European consensus defined gastroparesis as the presence of symptoms associated with delayed GE in the absence of mechanical obstruction. Nausea and vomiting were identified as cardinal symptoms, with often coexisting postprandial distress syndrome symptoms of dyspepsia. The true epidemiology of gastroparesis is not known in detail, but diabetes, gastric surgery, certain neurological and connective tissue diseases, and the use of certain drugs recognized as risk factors. While the panel agreed that severely impaired gastric motor function is present in these patients, there was no consensus on underlying pathophysiology. The panel agreed that an upper endoscopy and a GE test are required for diagnosis. Only dietary therapy, dopamine‐2 antagonists and 5‐HT4 receptor agonists were considered appropriate therapies, in addition to nutritional support in case of severe weight loss. No consensus was reached on the use of proton pump inhibitors, other classes of antiemetics or prokinetics, neuromodulators, complimentary, psychological, or more invasive therapies. Finally, there was consensus that gastroparesis adversely impacts on quality of life and healthcare costs and that the long‐term prognosis of gastroparesis depends on the cause.

Conclusions and Inferences

A multinational group of European experts summarized the current state of consensus on definition, symptom characteristics, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of gastroparesis.
United European Gastroenterology (UEG) and European Society for Neurogastroenterology and Motility (ESNM) consensus on functional dyspepsia
Authors: Wauters Lucas , Dickman Ram , Drug Vasile , Mulak Agata , Serra Jordi , Enck Paul , Tack Jan ,   ESNM FD Consensus Group, Accarino Anna , Barbara Giovanni , Bor Serhat , Coffin Benoit , Corsetti Maura , De Schepper Heiko , Dumitrascu Dan , Farmer Adam , Gourcerol Guillaume , Hauser Goran , Hausken Trygve , Karamanolis George , Keszthelyi Daniel , Malagelada Carolin , Milosavljevic Tomislav , Muris Jean , O’Morain Colm , Papathanasopoulos Athanassos , Pohl Daniel , Rumyantseva Diana , Sarnelli Giovanni , Savarino Edoardo , Schol Jolien , Sheptulin Arkady , Smet Annemieke , Stengel Andreas , Storonova Olga , Storr Martin , Törnblom Hans , Vanuytsel Tim , Velosa Monica , Waluga Marek , Zarate Natalia , Zerbib Frank
Published: May 2021

Background

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is one of the most common conditions in clinical practice. In spite of its prevalence, FD is associated with major uncertainties in terms of its definition, underlying pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.

Methods

A Delphi consensus was initiated with 41 experts from 22 European countries who conducted a literature summary and voting process on 87 statements. Quality of evidence was evaluated using the grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) criteria. Consensus (defined as >80% agreement) was reached for 36 statements.

Results

The panel agreed with the definition in terms of its cardinal symptoms (early satiation, postprandial fullness, epigastric pain, and epigastric burning), its subdivision into epigastric pain syndrome and postprandial distress syndrome, and the presence of accessory symptoms (upper abdominal bloating, nausea, belching), and overlapping conditions. Also, well accepted are the female predominance of FD, its impact on quality of life and health costs, and acute gastrointestinal infections, and anxiety as risk factors. In terms of pathophysiological mechanisms, the consensus supports a role for impaired gastric accommodation, delayed gastric emptying, hypersensitivity to gastric distention, Helicobacter pylori infection, and altered central processing of signals from the gastroduodenal region. There is consensus that endoscopy is mandatory for establishing a firm diagnosis of FD, but that in primary care, patients without alarm symptoms or risk factors can be managed without endoscopy. There is consensus that H. pylori status should be determined in every patient with dyspeptic symptoms and H. pylori positive patients should receive eradication therapy. Also, proton pump inhibitor therapy is considered an effective therapy for FD, but no other treatment approach reached a consensus. The long‐term prognosis and life expectancy are favorable.

Conclusions and Inferences

A multinational group of European experts summarized the current state of consensus on the definition, diagnosis and management of FD.
Augmentation enterocystoplasty in a polytrauma dog with extensive bladder necrosis
Authors: Gonçalves Ronald , Wade Jennifer , Fransson Boel , Ngwenyama Thandeka
Published: May 2021

An 11‐year‐old male castrated Terrier was referred for multiple pelvic fractures following vehicular trauma. Pertinent clinical findings included a painful abdomen, non‐ambulatory paraparesis, absent anal tone and perineal reflex and urinary incontinence. Relevant findings on abdominal CT were pelvic fractures, prepubic tendon avulsion and retroflexed urinary bladder. A urinary catheter was placed to decompress the bladder, and a positive contrast cystourethrogram showed no evidence of leakage. Intraoperatively, it was found that approximately 90% of the bladder was necrotic; both ureters, prostatic urethra and the sphincter appeared viable. An enterocystoplasty was performed using a vascularized jejunal segment, made into an enteric pouch, and sutured to the remainder of the viable bladder. Ureteral partial obstruction, oliguria and UTI were short‐term complications; the patient also had persistent urinary incontinence. Enterocystoplasty is a surgical procedure that can be considered in patients with extensive bladder necrosis after carefully considering the possible short and long‐term complications.
Merging patterns and processes of diffuse pollution in urban watersheds: A connectivity assessment
Authors: Paton Eva , Haacke Nasrin
Published: May 2021

Urban diffuse pollution affects water resources as much as its rural counterpart does; however, it is considerably less studied. The full complexity of the urban landscape needs to be addressed to apprehend the diversity of surface layouts and covers, multiple pollution sources, and the diverse changes caused by different types of drainage systems. In this article, crucial patterns of pollution source areas are categorized, and current knowledge on their temporal and spatial variations are collated. Urban alterations of transport processes that enhance, delay, or inhibit diffuse pollution transport from source areas through the urban watershed are detailed. Current knowledge regarding diffuse pollution patterns and processes is conceptually merged by the simultaneous assessment of urban structural and functional connectivity relevant for pollutant transfer. Applying a more holistic approach is considered a prerequisite for identifying critical source areas of diffuse pollution within complex urban catchments, to minimize the transfer of particular harmful pollutants and to enhance future management of urban waters.

This article is categorized under:

Science of Water > Water Quality

Engineering Water > Planning Water
Combine and conquer: event reconstruction with Bayesian Ensemble Neural Networks
Authors: Araz Jack Y. , Spannowsky Michael
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Ensemble learning is a technique where multiple component learners are combined through a protocol. We propose an Ensemble Neural Network (ENN) that uses the combined latent-feature space of multiple neural network classifiers to improve the representation of the network hypothesis. We apply this approach to construct an ENN from Convolutional and Recurrent Neural Networks to discriminate top-quark jets from QCD jets. Such ENN provides the flexibility to improve the classification beyond simple prediction combining methods by linking different sources of error correlations, hence improving the representation between data and hypothesis. In combination with Bayesian techniques, we show that it can reduce epistemic uncertainties and the entropy of the hypothesis by simultaneously exploiting various kinematic correlations of the system, which also makes the network less susceptible to a limitation in training sample size.
Balanced partial entanglement and the entanglement wedge cross section
Authors: Wen Qiang
Published: May 2021

Abstract

In this article we define a new information theoretical quantity for any bipartite mixed state ρAB. We call it the balanced partial entanglement (BPE). The BPE is the partial entanglement entropy, which is an integral of the entanglement contour in a subregion, that satisfies certain balance requirements. The BPE depends on the purification hence is not intrinsic. However, the BPE could be a useful way to classify the purifications. We discuss the entropy relations satisfied by BPE and find they are quite similar to those satisfied by the entanglement of purification. We show that in holographic CFT2 the BPE equals to the area of the entanglement wedge cross section (EWCS) divided by 4G. More interestingly, when we consider the canonical purification the BPE is just half of the reflected entropy, which also directly relate to the EWCS. The BPE can be considered as an generalization of the reflected entropy for a generic purification of the mixed state ρAB. We interpret the correspondence between the BPE and EWCS using the holographic picture of the entanglement contour.
Analytic Functions in Local Shift-Invariant Spaces and Analytic Limits of Level Dependent Subdivision
Authors: Charina Maria , Protasov Vladimir Yu.
Published: May 2021

In this paper we characterize all subspaces of analytic functions in finitely generated shift-invariant spaces with compactly supported generators and provide explicit descriptions of their elements. We illustrate the differences between our characterizations and Strang-Fix or zero conditions on several examples. Consequently, we depict the analytic functions generated by scalar or vector subdivision with masks of bounded and unbounded support. In particular, we prove that exponential polynomials are indeed the only analytic limits of level dependent scalar subdivision schemes with finitely supported masks.
Default and determinacy under quantitative easing
Authors: Romanidis Nikolaos , Tsomocos Dimitrios P.
Published: May 2021

We show that the path of inflation under quantitative easing policies that target interest rates, is determinate in the presence of default. We achieve this through different payoff profiles that a collateralised defaultable bond achieves in different states of nature with distinct default outcomes. In the model, heterogeneous households trade this bond and other shorter maturity risk-free bonds to maximize their intertemporal utility of consumption and labour. The differentiated payoffs of the collateralised bond, in an equilibrium with active default, span the full state space giving determinacy of prices and inflation as an outcome. This, implies that quantitative easing as implemented by the ECB in the recent years, can control the stochastic path of inflation.
A biomechanical comparison of steel screws versus PLLA and magnesium screws for the Latarjet procedure
Authors: Bockmann Benjamin , Jaeger E. , Dankl L. , Nebelung W. , Frey S. , Schmölz W. , Schulte T. L.
Published: May 2021

Introduction

The fixation of the coracoid process onto the glenoid is an important step of the Latarjet procedure, and implant-associated complications are a relevant and severe problem. This study compares the fixation strength and failure mode of two biodegradable materials with stainless-steel screws.

Methods

24 Fresh-frozen cadaveric scapulae were divided into three groups of equal size and received a coracoid transfer. Cadavers were matched according to their bone mineral density (BMD). In group 1, small-fragment screws made of stainless steel were used. In the second group, magnesium screws were used, and in the third group, screws consisted of polylactic acid (PLLA). A continuously increasing sinusoidal cyclic compression force was applied until failure occurred, which was defined as graft displacement relative to its initial position of more than 5 mm.

Results

At 5-mm displacement, the axial force values showed a mean of 374 ± 92 N (range 219–479 N) in group 1 (steel). The force values in group 2 (magnesium) had a mean of 299 ± 57 N (range 190–357 N). In group 3 (PLLA), failure occurred at 231 ± 83 N (range 109–355 N). The difference between group 1 (steel) and group 2 (magnesium) was not statistically significant (P = 0.212), while the difference between group 1 (steel) and group 3 (PLLA) was significant (P = 0.005).

Conclusion

Stainless-Steel screws showed the highest stability. However, all three screw types showed axial force values of more than 200 N. Stainless steel screws and PLLA screws showed screw cut-out as the most common failure mode, while magnesium screws showed screw breakage in the majority of cases.

Evidence

Controlled laboratory study.
A modular microfluidic bioreactor to investigate plant cell–cell interactions
Authors: Finkbeiner T. , Manz C. , Raorane M. L. , Metzger C. , Schmidt-Speicher L. , Shen N. , Ahrens R. , Maisch J. , Nick P. , Guber A. E.
Published: May 2021

Plants produce a wide variety of secondary metabolites, which often are of interest to pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industry. Plant-cell cultures allow producing these metabolites in a standardised manner, independently from various biotic and abiotic factors difficult to control during conventional cultivation. However, plant-cell fermentation proves to be very difficult, since these chemically complex compounds often result from the interaction of different biosynthetic pathways operating in different cell types. To simulate such interactions in cultured cells is a challenge. Here, we present a microfluidic bioreactor for plant-cell cultivation to mimic the cell–cell interactions occurring in real plant tissues. In a modular set-up of several microfluidic bioreactors, different cell types can connect through a flow that transports signals or metabolites from module to module. The fabrication of the chip includes hot embossing of a polycarbonate housing and subsequent integration of a porous membrane and in-plane tube fittings in a two-step ultrasonic welding process. The resulting microfluidic chip is biocompatible and transparent. Simulation of mass transfer for the nutrient sucrose predicts a sufficient nutrient supply through the membrane. We demonstrate the potential of this chip for plant cell biology in three proof-of-concept applications. First, we use the chip to show that tobacco BY-2 cells in suspension divide depending on a “quorum-sensing factor” secreted by proliferating cells. Second, we show that a combination of two Catharanthus roseus cell strains with complementary metabolic potency allows obtaining vindoline, a precursor of the anti-tumour compound vincristine. Third, we extend the approach to operationalise secretion of phytotoxins by the fungus Neofusicoccum parvum as a step towards systems to screen for interorganismal chemical signalling.
Confocal microscopy reveals alterations of thylakoids in Limnospira fusiformis during prophage induction
Authors: Zekri Maryam Alsadat , Schagerl Michael , Schweichhart Johannes , Lang Ingeborg
Published: May 2021

The alkaliphilic cyanobacteriumLimnospira fusiformisis an integral part in food webs of tropical soda lakes. Recently, sudden breakdowns ofLimnospirasp. blooms in their natural environment have been linked to cyanophage infections. We studied ultrastructural details and prophage components in the laboratory by means of confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). For a comparison at the subcellular level, we included transmission electron microscopy (TEM) material of infected cells collected during a field survey. Compared to TEM, CLSM has the advantage to rapidly providing results for whole, intact cells. Moreover, many cells can be studied at once. We chemically induced lysogenic cyanophages by means of mitomycin C (MMC) treatments and studied the ultrastructural alterations of host cells. In parallel, the number of cyanophages was obtained by flow cytometry. After treatment of the culture with MMC, flow cytometry showed a strong increase in viral counts, i.e., prophage induction. CLSM reflected the re-organization ofL. fusiformiswith remarkable alterations of thylakoid arrangements after prophage induction. Our study provides a first step towards 3D visualization of ultrastructure of cyanobacteria and showed the high potential of CLSM to investigate viral-mediated modifications in these groups.
Recreational Drug Use in People Living with HIV in Spain: Factors Associated with Drug Use and the Impact on Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Castro-Granell Vanessa , Garin Noé , Jaén Ángeles , Casado José Luis , Leal Lorna , Cenoz Santiago , Fuster-RuizdeApodaca María José
Published: May 2021

We analysed the impact of recreational drug use (RDU) on different outcomes in people living with HIV (PLHIV). A multicentre retrospective cohort study was performed with two cohorts of PLHIV included: people using recreational drugs (PURD) vs. people not using recreational drugs (PNURD). Overall, 275 PLHIV were included. RDU was associated with men having sex with men (OR 4.14, 95% CI [1.14, 5.19]), previous sexually transmitted infections (OR 4.00, 95% CI [1.97, 8.13]), and current smoking (OR 2.74, 95% CI [1.44, 5.19]). While the CD4/CD8 ratio increased amongst PNURD during the follow-up year, it decreased amongst PURD (p = 0.050). PURD presented lower scores of self-reported and multi-interval antiretroviral adherence (p = 0.017, and p = 0.006, respectively), emotional well-being (p < 0.0001), and regular follow-up (p = 0.059), but paid more visits to the emergency unit (p = 0.046). RDU worsens clinical, immunological, and mental health outcomes amongst PLHIV.
Volatility transmission and spillover dynamics across financial markets: the role of geopolitical risk
Authors: Elsayed Ahmed H. , Helmi Mohamad Husam
Published: May 2021

This paper examines the effect of geopolitical risk (GPR) on return and volatility dynamics in Middle East and North African (MENA) countries by using an ADCC-GARCH model and a spillover approach. Unlike previous studies, we include the GPR index to capture risk associated with wars, terrorist acts, and political tensions. Moreover, we test for both static and dynamic analysis using a rolling window. In brief, the findings highlight that GPR does not contribute to the return spillovers among MENA financial markets. However, the dynamic analysis provides evidence of the high level of responsiveness of the total spillover index to major political events (e.g., the Arab Spring uprising and political tension between Qatar and other Gulf Cooperation Council countries). More interestingly, Qatar, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates are identified as the main transmitters of return spillovers to the rest of the MENA markets. Overall, our results are essential in understanding the impact of the GPR on return spillover among MENA countries, and are of particular importance to policymakers, market regulators, portfolio managers and investors.
Male and female breast cancer: the two faces of the same genetic susceptibility coin
Authors: Silva Susana Nunes , Gomes Bruno Costa , André Saudade , Félix Ana , Rodrigues António Sebastião , Rueff José
Published: May 2021

Background

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer in women. In contrast, male BC is about 100 times less common than in women, being considered a rare disease. Male BC may be a distinctive subtype of BC and available data seems to indicate that male BC has a higher dependence on genetic variants than female BC. Nevertheless, the same prognostic and predictive markers are used to determine optimal management strategies for both male and female BC. Several studies have assessed the role of genetic polymorphisms (SNPs) in DNA repair genes in female BC susceptibility. However, data on male BC is scarce. Thus, the current study aimed to assess the role of SNPs in XRCC1, MUTYH and TP53 genes in a male cohort of BC, and, in addition, compare the male data with matched results previously genotyped in female BC patients.

Methods

The male BC cohort was genotyped through Real-Time PCR using TaqMan Assays for several SNPs previously analysed in Portuguese female BC patients.

Results

The results obtained indicate significant differences in BC susceptibility between males and females for the XRCC1 rs1799782, MUTYH rs3219489 and TP53 rs1042522 and rs8064946 variants.

Conclusions

In males, XRCC1 and TP53 variants, when in heterozygosity, seem to be related with lower susceptibility for BC, contrasting with higher susceptibility for a MUTYH variant in females. These findings may help to explain the difference in incidence of BC between the two sexes.
The Contribution of Professional Youth Work to the Personal Development and Social Participation of Socially Vulnerable Youngsters: A Dutch Longitudinal Cohort Study
Authors: Sonneveld Jolanda , Metz Judith , Manders Willeke , Schalk René , Van Regenmortel Tine
Published: May 2021

This article focuses on how length of participation in professional youth work is associated with five outcome variables: prosocial skills, self-mastery, social network, civic participation (volunteering and organizing activities) and finding support from social care services. The study was designed as a longitudinal cohort study of four waves during a 16-month period, gathering the data of 1597 youngsters aged 10–24 who participated in Dutch professional youth work. The results show that, on average, youngsters who participated longer in youth work scored significantly higher on the outcome variables. Respondents did not show individual improvements on outcome variables over the period, but the results demonstrate a cautious positive trend over time in volunteering. Referring youngsters (33%) by youth workers to care services could prevent an exacerbation of existing problems. The results provide knowledge that legitimizes the role of professional youth workers and which can be used by them to improve the support of socially vulnerable youngsters in their personal development and social participation.
Guidelines for Using Simulation for Online Teaching and Learning of Clinical Social Work Practice in the Time of COVID
Authors: Bay Uschi , Maghidman Marcelo , Waugh Jacinta , Shlonsky Aron
Published: May 2021

Due to COVID 19, Monash University’s Social Work Department moved all clinical practice skills teaching in the Master of Social Work (graduate entry level) fully online using synchronous audio-visual conferencing platform Zoom for the first time from March to June 2020. The innovations associated with this move included the development of clinical practice laboratories (CPLs) to prepare 154 students for a modified version of an Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCE) and their first field education practicum. The use of simulated clients to facilitate experiential learning of active listening skills, rapport-building and empathic communication in this mode of delivery is described in detail to encourage overcoming previous issues in teaching clinical practice skills to students located at a distance from campus.
Extending greedy feature selection algorithms to multiple solutions
Authors: Borboudakis Giorgos , Tsamardinos Ioannis
Published: May 2021

Most feature selection methods identify only a single solution. This is acceptable for predictive purposes, but is not sufficient for knowledge discovery if multiple solutions exist. We propose a strategy to extend a class of greedy methods to efficiently identify multiple solutions, and show under which conditions it identifies all solutions. We also introduce a taxonomy of features that takes the existence of multiple solutions into account. Furthermore, we explore different definitions of statistical equivalence of solutions, as well as methods for testing equivalence. A novel algorithm for compactly representing and visualizing multiple solutions is also introduced. In experiments we show that (a) the proposed algorithm is significantly more computationally efficient than the TIE* algorithm, the only alternative approach with similar theoretical guarantees, while identifying similar solutions to it, and (b) that the identified solutions have similar predictive performance.
Comparing virtual vs real faces expressing emotions in children with autism: An eye-tracking study
Authors: Pino Maria Chiara , Vagnetti Roberto , Valenti Marco , Mazza Monica
Published: May 2021

Difficulties in processing emotional facial expressions is considered a central characteristic of children with autism spectrum condition (ASC). In addition, there is a growing interest in the use of virtual avatars capable of expressing emotions as an intervention aimed at improving the social skills of these individuals. One potential use of avatars is that they could enhance facial recognition and guide attention. However, this aspect needs further investigation. The aim of our study is to assess differences in eye gaze processes in children with ASC when they see avatar faces expressing emotions compared to real faces. Eye-tracking methodology was used to compare the performance of children with ASC between avatar and real faces. A repeated-measures general linear model was adopted to understand which characteristics of the stimuli could influence the stimuli’s fixation times. Survival analysis was performed to understand differences in exploration behaviour between avatar and real faces. Differences between emotion recognition accuracy and the number of fixations were evaluated through a paired t-test. Our results confirm that children with autism have higher capacities to process and recognize emotions when these are presented by avatar faces. Children with autism are more attracted to the mouth or the eyes depending on the stimulus type (avatar or real) and the emotion expressed by the stimulus. Also, they are more attracted to avatar faces expressing negative emotions (anger and sadness), and to real faces expressing surprise. Differences were not found regarding happiness. Finally, they show a higher degree of exploration of avatar faces. All these elements, such as interest in the avatar and reduced attention to the eyes, can offer important elements in planning an efficient intervention.
Smartphone bans and workplace performance
Authors: Chadi Adrian , Mechtel Mario , Mertins Vanessa
Published: May 2021

This paper constitutes the first economic investigation into the potential detrimental role of smartphones in the workplace based on a field experiment. We exploit the conduct of a nationwide telephone survey, for which interviewers were recruited to work individually and in single offices for half a day. This setting allows to randomly impose bans on the use of interviewers’ personal smartphones during worktime while ruling out information spillovers between treatment conditions. Although the ban was not enforceable, we observe substantial effort increases from banning smartphones in the routine task of calling households, without negative implications linked to perceived employer distrust. Analyzing the number of conducted interviews per interviewer suggests that higher efforts do not necessarily translate into economic benefits for the employer. In our broad discussion of smartphone bans and their potential impact on workplace performance, we consider further outcomes of economic relevance based on data from employee surveys and administrative phone records. Finally, we complement the findings of our field experiment with evidence from a survey experiment and a survey among managers.
Expanding the FDS Simulation Capabilities to Fire Tunnel Scenarios Through a Novel Multi-scale Model
Authors: Verda Vittorio , Borchiellini Romano , Cosentino Sara , Guelpa Elisa , Tuni Jesus Mejias
Published: May 2021

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is widely used to simulate tunnels and partially substitute on-site tests. As technology advances, new application opportunities appear; some examples are the optimal operation of ventilation and emergency systems, risk assessment of tunnels and training of the operators. Even when the computational capacity of computers has grown, CFD is still constrained by the large amount of computational resources needed in long tunnels. This introduces a need for methods able to reduce the amount of time required for simulations. To face this need, a novel 1D–3D multiscale model is presented in this paper. The model incorporates the code Whitesmoke into FDS (Fire Dynamics Simulator) through a direct coupling. Whitesmoke manages the fluid dynamics, temperature and concentration of species in the 1D portion, while FDS calculates these fields in the portion where fire occurs. Using this multiscale model, the computation time for long tunnels is reduced, proportionally to the 1D length in the domain. Also, additional simulation capabilities particularly useful for tunnel analysis are obtained. Some new characteristics are pressure boundary conditions can be easily imposed at the tunnel portals or at the ventilation shafts; the characteristic curves of the fans/jet-fans can be included, also considering the degradation effects due to smoke propagation; the piston effect can be properly considered. Our research verifies most of its capabilities, also clarifying its limitations and the criteria used to set the domain for the analysis. As a final step, the model is tested in a tunnel with a cross section of 4.8 m and 600 m of length with a 2 MW fire, comparing its performance with a full 3D FDS simulation. The difference in temperature and velocity is minimal for most of the domain, making It a good way to optimize resource usage in large simulations. Furthermore, the multiscale manages to reduce the computational time of more than a 50%.
Health-Related Quality of Life in Pediatric Patients with Syndromic Autism and their Caregivers
Authors: Bolbocean Corneliu , Andújar Fabiola N. , McCormack Maria , Suter Bernhard , Holder J. Lloyd
Published: May 2021

Children with autism have a significantly lower quality of life compared with their neurotypical peers. While multiple studies have quantified the impact of autism on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) through standardized surveys such as the PedsQL, none have specifically investigated the impact of syndromic autism. Here we evaluate HRQoL in children diagnosed with three genetic disorders that strongly predispose to syndromic autism: Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMD), Rett syndrome (RTT), and SYNGAP1-related intellectual disability (SYNGAP1-ID). We find the most severely impacted dimension is physical functioning. Strikingly, syndromic autism results in worse quality of life than other chronic disorders including idiopathic autism. This study demonstrates the utility of caregiver surveys in prioritizing phenotypes, which may be targeted as clinical endpoints for genetically defined ASDs.
Do museums foster innovation through engagement with the cultural and creative industries?
Authors: Dalle Nogare Chiara , Murzyn-Kupisz Monika
Published: May 2021

The recent narrative on museums as catalysts of innovation and growth considers their relations with other cultural and creative industries (CCIs) to be very important. We argue that most relations museums establish with CCI firms and institutions are unlikely to produce strong positive externalities that make the latter more innovative. To prove this claim, we propose a conceptual framework qualifying project-based and supply chain relations between museums and CCIs as either strong, moderate, or weak links, according to their potential in terms of knowledge spillovers from museums to CCIs. We apply this taxonomy to data collected from 261 Polish museums. Our findings indicate that strong links are outnumbered by moderate and weak ones. We then suggest that the traditional missions of museums, in particular education and conservation, need to be more thoroughly assessed in terms of their direct and indirect contributions in order to fully capture the impact of museums on innovation in the wider economy.
A pragmatic approach to adjusting early instrumental local magnitudes for seismic hazard assessments in Australia
Authors: Allen Trevor I.
Published: May 2021

Prior to the development of Australian-specific magnitude formulae, the 1935 magnitude correction factors by Charles Richter—originally developed for southern California—were almost exclusively used to calculate earthquake magnitudes throughout Australia prior to the 1990s. Due to the difference in ground-motion attenuation between southern California and much of the Australian continent, many earthquake magnitudes from the early instrumental era are likely to have been overestimated in the Australian earthquake catalogue. A method is developed that adjusts local magnitudes (ML) using the difference between the original (inappropriate) magnitude formulae (or look-up tables) and the Australian-specific formulae at a distance determined by the nearest recording station likely to have recorded the earthquake. Nationally, these adjustments have reduced the number of earthquakes ofML≥ 4.5 in the early instrumental catalogue by approximately 25% since 1900, while the number ofML≥ 5.0 earthquakes has reduced by approximately 32% over the same time period. The reduction in the number of moderate-to-large-magnitude earthquakes over the instrumental period yields long-term earthquake rates that are more consistent with present-day rates, since the development of Australian-specific magnitude formulae (approximately 1990). The adjustment of early instrumental magnitudes to obtain consistently derived earthquake catalogue is important for seismic hazard assessments.
Miquel dynamics, Clifford lattices and the Dimer model
Authors: Affolter Niklas C.
Published: May 2021

Miquel dynamics was introduced by Ramassamy as a discrete time evolution of square grid circle patterns on the torus. In each time step every second circle in the pattern is replaced with a new one by employing Miquel’s six circle theorem. Inspired by this dynamics we consider the local Miquel move, which changes the combinatorics and geometry of a circle pattern. We prove that the circle centers under Miquel dynamics are Clifford lattices, an integrable system considered by Konopelchenko and Schief. Clifford lattices have the combinatorics of an octahedral lattice, and every octahedron contains six intersection points of Clifford’s four circle configuration. The Clifford move replaces one of these circle intersection points with the opposite one. We establish a new connection between circle patterns and the dimer model: If the distances between circle centers are interpreted as edge weights, the Miquel move preserves probabilities in the sense of urban renewal.
Transient vibrations of a fractional Zener viscoelastic cantilever beam with a tip mass
Authors: Freundlich Jan
Published: May 2021

The presented work concerns the kinematically excited transient vibrations of a cantilever beam with a mass element fixed to its free end. The Euler–Bernoulli beam theory and the fractional Zener model of the beam material are assumed. A fractional Caputo derivative is used to formulate a viscoelastic material law. A characteristic equation, modal frequencies, eigenfunction and orthogonality conditions are achieved for the beam considered. The equations of motion of the system are solved numerically. A numerical solution of a multi-term fractional differential equation is obtained by means of a conversion to a mixed system of ordinary and fractional differential equations, each of the order of$$0 < \gamma \le 1$$0<γ≤1. The transient time histories of the beam vibrations during the passage through resonance are calculated. A comparison between the beam responses obtained with a fractional and an integer viscoelastic material model is presented. The calculations performed reveal that use of the fractional damping affects on the time histories of the system. The calculated beam responses show that for some values of the order of the fractional derivative$$\gamma$$γ, the amplitudes occurring in the area of the second resonance are greater than those obtained in the area of the first resonance, which does not occur in the case of the integer order of the fractional derivative. Moreover, an evaluation is made of the difference between the results obtained for the calculations using the fractional Zener model and the fractional Kelvin model. It is shown that for some physical beam parameters, the calculation results obtained using both models are virtually the same for both models, which means that the the simpler, fractional Kelvin–Voigt material can be used instead of the fractional Zener material model. This simplifies the solution and decreases the time needed to make the numerical calculations.