bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent trends in labor productivity
Authors: Salimova Guzel , Ableeva Alisa , Galimova Aygul , Bakirova Ramzilya , Lubova Tatiana , Sharafutdinov Aidar , Araslanbaev Irek
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Using the example of Russia, this paper studied and analyzed productivity of the labor force in agriculture as an important industry for ensuring the sustainable development of the country.

Design/methodology/approach

At the first examination stage, the time series of data on labor productivity and real wages in agri-food companies were examined as modern works on the matter tend to highlight the relationship between productivity and remuneration insufficiently. At the second stage, labor productivity was assessed through the rate of change in the share of wages in the gross domestic product. At the last stage, an applied model of the relationship between labor productivity in agriculture and various impact factors was developed.

Findings

It showed that the efficiency of the labor force in the considered area depends greatly on technical equipment and crop yield. Besides, the study findings revealed that the traditional economic relationship between productivity and wages is invalid in the examined regions of Russia. There is a significant reserve for increasing labor productivity by providing additional motivation for employees.

Originality/value

The successful development of agricultural production can be achieved by implementing innovations, facilitating digitalization, attracting investments, increasing the level of interest of those employed in labor results and producing high-quality goods.
Tornadoes, poverty and race in the USA: A five-decade analysis
Authors: Kashian Russ D. , Buchman Tracy , Drago Robert
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The study aims to analyze the roles of poverty and African American status in terms of vulnerability to tornado damages and barriers to recovery afterward.

Design/methodology/approach

Using five decades of county-level data on tornadoes, the authors test whether economic damages from tornadoes are correlated with vulnerability (proxied by poverty and African American status) and wealth (proxied by median income and educational attainment), controlling for tornado risk. A multinomial logistic difference-in-difference (DID) estimator is used to analyze long-run effects of tornadoes in terms of displacement (reduced proportions of the poor and African Americans), abandonment (increased proportions of those groups) and neither or both.

Findings

Controlling for tornado risk, poverty and African American status are linked to greater tornado damages, as is wealth. Absent tornadoes, displacement and abandonment are both more likely to occur in urban settings and communities with high levels of vulnerability, while abandonment is more likely to occur in wealthy communities, consistent with on-going forces of segregation. Tornado damages significantly increase abandonment in vulnerable communities, thereby increasing the prevalence of poor African Americans in those communities. Therefore, the authors conclude that tornadoes contribute to on-going processes generating inequality by poverty/race.

Originality/value

The current paper is the first study connecting tornado damages to race and poverty. It is also the first study finding that tornadoes contribute to long-term processes of segregation and inequality.
(Un)disclosed. Disease disclosure in people living with rheumatic diseases: An exploratory study
Authors: Ostuzzi Silvia Maria Teresa , Ingegnoli Francesca , Pistarini Caterina , Aiello Edoardo Nicolò , Fiabane Elena Maria
Published: December 2021

Objective

Little is known about disease‐related disclosure (DD) in patients with rheumatic musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs). We aim to investigate DD behaviors and to explore which socio‐demographic, clinical and psychological factors play a role in this self‐disclosure process among patients with RMDs.

Methods

A cross‐sectional Italian nationwide study captured DD in RMDs in different contexts (workplace, family, friends, partner, social networks). An ad hoc survey was developed and disseminated by the Patients' Association ALOMAR ODV (Lombard Association for Rheumatic Diseases) between June and July 2020. Patient demographics, clinical data, and questionnaires assessing anxiety, depression, anticipated stigma, patient health engagement, perceived social support, and perceived general health status were collected.

Results

There were 376 rheumatic patients who completed the survey. There were 73.9% of the participants who talk to others about their RMD “sometimes”; 18.7% disclose their RMD “always/very often”, while 7.4% “never” talk about their RMD. A significant association was detected between DD and both perceived visibility (P = .04) and psychological support (P = .01). Moreover, participants who never/sometimes disclose their RMD reported significantly lower scores in the “Total” Social Support (P < .01) and in the “Friends” subscale (P < .001) compared to others. Psychological support and the “Friends” subscale were the only significant predictors of DD (both P = .002).

Conclusions

The majority of RMD patients disclosed their disease “sometimes”. The DD behavior is not associated with any specific demographic or clinical variables. Further research on the subject might help to foster better DD decision‐making processes for rheumatic patients in different contexts of daily life.
Primary hyperparathyroidism in adults—(Part I) assessment and medical management: Position statement of the endocrine society of Australia, the Australian & New Zealand endocrine surgeons, and the Australian & New Zealand bone and mineral society
Authors: Milat Frances , Ramchand Sabashini K. , Herath Madhuni , Gundara Justin , Harper Simon , Farrell Stephen , Girgis Christian M. , Clifton‐Bligh Roderick , Schneider Hans G. , De Sousa Sunita M. C. , Gill Anthony J. , Serpell Jonathan , Taubman Kim , Christie James , Carroll Richard W. , Miller Julie A. , Grossmann Mathis
Published: December 2021

Objective

To formulate clinical consensus recommendations on the presentation, assessment, and management of primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) in adults.

Methods

Representatives from relevant Australian and New Zealand Societies used a systematic approach for adaptation of guidelines (ADAPTE) to derive an evidence‐informed position statement addressing nine key questions.

Results

PHPT is a biochemical diagnosis. Serum calcium should be measured in patients with suggestive symptoms, reduced bone mineral density or minimal trauma fractures, and in those with renal stones. Other indications are detailed in the manuscript. In patients with hypercalcaemia, intact parathyroid hormone, 25‐hydroxy vitamin D, phosphate, and renal function should be measured. In established PHPT, assessment of bone mineral density, vertebral fractures, urinary tract calculi/nephrocalcinosis and quantification of urinary calcium excretion is warranted. Parathyroidectomy is the only definitive treatment and is warranted for all symptomatic patients and should be considered for asymptomatic patients without contraindications to surgery and with >10 years life expectancy. In patients who do not undergo surgery, we recommend annual evaluation for disease progression. Where the diagnosis is not clear or the risk‐benefit ratio is not obvious, multidisciplinary discussion and formulation of a consensus management plan is appropriate. Genetic testing for familial hyperparathyroidism is recommended in selected patients.

Conclusions

These clinical consensus recommendations were developed to provide clinicians with contemporary guidance on the assessment and management of PHPT in adults. It is anticipated that improved health outcomes for individuals and the population will be achieved at a decreased cost to the community.
Long‐term monitoring of wildlife populations for protected area management in Southeast Asia
Authors: Nuttall Matthew N. , Griffin Olly , Fewster Rachel M. , McGowan Philip J. K. , Abernethy Katharine , O'Kelly Hannah , Nut Menghor , Sot Vandoeun , Bunnefeld Nils
Published: December 2021

Long‐term monitoring of biodiversity in protected areas (PAs) is critical to assess threats, link conservation action to species outcomes, and facilitate improved management. Yet, rigorous longitudinal monitoring within PAs is rare. In Southeast Asia (SEA), there is a paucity of long‐term wildlife monitoring within PAs, and many threatened species lack population estimates from anywhere in their range, making global assessments difficult. Here, we present new abundance estimates and population trends for 11 species between 2010 and 2020, and spatial distributions for 7 species, based on long‐term line transect distance sampling surveys in Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary in Cambodia. These represent the first robust population estimates for four threatened species from anywhere in their range and are among the first long‐term wildlife population trend analyses from the entire SEA region. Our study revealed that arboreal primates and green peafowl (Pavo muticus) generally had either stable or increasing population trends, whereas ungulates and semiarboreal primates generally had declining trends. These results suggest that ground‐based threats, such as snares and domestic dogs, are having serious negative effects on terrestrial species. These findings have important conservation implications for PAs across SEA that face similar threats yet lack reliable monitoring data.
Where can you wear your Libre? Using the FreeStyle Libre continuous glucose monitor on alternative sites
Authors: Hall Rosemary M. , Dyhrberg Sophie , McTavish Arthur , McTavish Lindsay , Corley Brian , Krebs Jeremy D.
Published: December 2021

Aim

To investigate the accuracy and acceptability of the FreeStyle Libre Flash continuous glucose monitoring system (FSL‐CGM) at alternative sites during free living and under experimental conditions.

Materials and Methods

Participants with type 1 diabetes were provided with three FSL‐CGM sensors applied to the upper arm, the lower back, and the anterior chest. On day 2 or 3, FSL‐CGM sensor glucose was compared with venous glucose following a standard meal, during and after an exercise test, and after skin cooling. Participants completed 14‐day use of the sensors with concomitant sensor scanning at all sites and capillary glucose tests. The primary outcome was accuracy between sensor sites of 14‐day mean glucose. Clarke's error grids, precision absolute relative deviation, and mean absolute relative deviation were calculated.

Results

In the 20 participants, compared with the arm sensor, the accuracy of the back sensor and the chest sensor was 97.9% and 98%, respectively. Under experimental conditions, the arm sensor was more accurate than that of the back and chest. All the sensors recorded higher glucose concentration than venous samples during exercise. The arm and chest sites were most preferred, with the greatest sensor failures from the back.

Conclusions

The FSL‐CGM is clinically accurate when the sensors are applied to alternate chest or back sites. Greater variability occurs during rapid changes in glucose concentration with all sensor sites compared with venous glucose. Understanding these variabilities allows appropriate use of an economically viable continuous glucose monitor.
miR‐24‐3p obstructs the proliferation and migration of human skin fibroblasts after thermal injury by targeting PPAR‐β and positively regulated by NF‐κB
Authors: Cui Xu , Huang Xu , Huang Mitao , Zhou Situo , Le Guo , Yu Wenchang , Duan Mengting , Jiang Bimei , Zeng Jizhang , Zhou Jie , Huang Xiaoyuan , Liang Pengfei , Zhang Pihong
Published: December 2021

Thermal injury repair is a complex process during which the maintenance of the proliferation and migration of human skin fibroblasts (HSFs) exert a crucial role. MicroRNAs have been proven to exert an essential function in repairing skin burns. This study delves into the regulatory effects of miR‐24‐3p on the migration and proliferation of HSFs that have sustained a thermal injury, thereby, providing deeper insight into thermal injury repair pathogenesis. The PPAR‐β protein expression level progressively increased in a time‐dependent manner on the 12th, 24th and 48th hour following the thermal injury of the HSFs. The knockdown of PPAR‐β markedly suppressed the proliferation of and migration of HSF. Following thermal injury, the knockdown also promoted the inflammatory cytokine IL‐6, TNF‐α, PTGS‐2 and P65 expression. PPAR‐β contrastingly exhibited an opposite trend. A targeted relationship between PPAR‐β and miR‐24‐3p was predicted and verified. miR‐24‐3p inhibited thermal injured HSF proliferation and migration and facilitated inflammatory cytokine expression through the regulation of PPAR‐β. p65 directly targeted the transcriptional precursor of miR‐24 and promoted miR‐24 expression. A negative correlation between miR‐24‐3p expression level and PPAR‐β expression level in rats’ burnt dermal tissues was observed. Our findings reveal that miR‐24‐3p is conducive to rehabilitating the denatured dermis, which may be beneficial in providing effective therapy of skin burns.
Toward tailored care for families with multiple problems: A quasi‐experimental study on effective elements of care
Authors: Visscher Loraine , Reijneveld Sijmen A. , Knot‐Dickscheit Jana , van Yperen Tom A. , Scholte Ron H.J. , Delsing Marc J.M.H. , Evenboer K. Els , Jansen Danielle E.M.C.
Published: December 2021

Several effective interventions have been developed for families with multiple problems (FMP), but knowledge is lacking as to which specific practice and program elements of these interventions deliver positive outcomes. The aim of this study is to assess the degree to which practice and program elements (contents of and structure in which care is provided) contribute to the effectiveness of interventions for FMP in general and for subgroups with child and/or parental psychiatric problems, intellectual disabilities, or substance use. We performed a quasi‐experimental study on the effectiveness of practice and program elements provided in attested FMP interventions. Using self‐report questionnaires, we measured primary (child's internalizing and externalizing problems) and secondary (parental stress and social contacts) outcomes at the beginning, end, and three months thereafter. By means of Latent Profile Analysis, we identified groups of families receiving similar combinations of practice elements (“profiles”), and we calculated propensity scores. Next, we assessed how practice element profiles and program elements affected improvement in outcomes, and whether these effects were moderated by subgroup characteristics. We found three practice element profiles (explorative/supportive, action‐oriented, and their combination), which were equally effective. Regarding program elements, effects were enhanced by more frequent telephone contact between visits and more frequent intervision. Effectiveness of practice and program elements varied for specific FMP subgroups. Variations in the content of care for FMP do not affect its effectiveness, but variations in the structure of the care do. This finding can help to further improve effective interventions.
Fulton's flaw: In the constitutional clash between religious liberty and LGBTQ+ rights, foster kids are neither seen nor heard
Authors: Hicks Tanya Washington
Published: December 2021

This essay asserts the primacy of children's interests as a constitutional check on the religious liberty interests of government contractors that express in ways adverse to the best interests of foster children harmed by discriminatory foster care screening processes. The piece begins with an examination of child welfare realities characterized by increasing numbers of foster children and shrinking pools of prospective parents. It goes on to highlight the harmful effects of discriminatory, faith‐based placement and certification services on foster children; explains how such policies and practices breach the City's parens patriae duty to maximize the pool of prospective foster families for foster children; and presents data documenting negative outcomes for foster youth when placement options are circumscribed by categorical exclusion of LGBTQ+ families. The piece concludes with a critical examination of the Supreme Court's failure to factor children's best interests in its constitutional calculus and how the Court's holding endorses religious based action by government contractors that will harm vulnerable children confined to our nation's overcrowded foster care systems.
Calcimimetic use in US hemodialysis facilities in first 2 years after the launch of etelcalcetide: A descriptive analysis of real‐world clinical practice and outcomes
Authors: Stephens John Mark , Fox Kathleen M. , Desai Pooja , Cheng Sunfa , Goodman William G. , Kendrick Jessica B.
Published: December 2021

Introduction

This study described control of parathyroid hormone (PTH), phosphorus, and corrected calcium in adults initiating calcimimetics in small dialysis organizations after the introduction of etelcalcetide.

Methods

This retrospective study using Visonex Clarity electronic health records between October 1, 2017, and December 31, 2019, identified adults ≥ 18 years of age receiving in‐center hemodialysis as either a cinacalcet or etelcalcetide initiator based on their first calcimimetic use in 2018 (index date) with no prior calcimimetic use in the 3 months preindex date. Patients were stratified by PTH at index date and were followed for 15 months. Subcohorts of patients who were persistent on a single calcimimetic for 15 months and of patients who had their calcimimetic changed from cinacalcet to etelcalcetide were also analyzed.

Findings

A total of 677 patients initiated cinacalcet and 711 initiated etelcalcetide. Mean PTH (pg/ml), phosphorus, and corrected calcium (mg/dl) at baseline were 864, 5.9, and 9.3 for cinacalcet and 804, 5.9, and 9.4 for etelcalcetide, respectively. During follow‐up, the proportion of initiators considered in‐target (monthly average PTH < 600) increased from 48% to 62% with cinacalcet and from 56% to 86% with etelcalcetide in the baseline PTH 600 to < 800 subgroup; increased from 30% to 64% with cinacalcet and 31% to 59% with etelcalcetide among those with baseline PTH 800 to < 1000; and increased from 14% to 41% with cinacalcet and 12% to 58% with etelcalcetide among those with baseline PTH ≥1000. A similar pattern was observed for persistent users (n = 646). For patients changed from cinacalcet to etelcalcetide (n = 183), the proportion of patients considered in‐target increased from 22% in the month prior to the treatment change to 51% in Month 6 postchange.

Discussion

Patients initiating calcimimetics at lower baseline PTH had better biochemical control than patients starting at higher PTH. Patients changed from cinacalcet to etelcalcetide had improvements in PTH control postchange.
‘You have to do what is best’: The lived reality of having a child who is repeatedly hospitalized because of acute lower respiratory infection
Authors: McBride‐Henry Karen , Miller Charissa , Trenholm Adrian , Officer Tara N.
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Hospitalization of children is traumatic for children and their families. Little is known about the impact of repeated acute admissions on families, or of these experiences in Indigenous populations and ethnic minorities. This study explores the societal and health experiences for families who have a child under two years of age, admitted to hospitals more than twice for lower respiratory infections.

Methods

Underpinned by a reflective lifeworld research methodology, this article presents results from 14 in‐depth interviews in Aotearoa/New Zealand.

Results

Families learn to identify illness early and then navigate hospital systems. These families struggle to create safe spaces for their children at home or in society. Wider social and economic support are central to family resilience, without which they struggle.

Conclusion

This study reinforces the importance of bringing meaningful, culturally‐responsive care to the fore of treatment, particularly when managing vulnerable minorities. Formal referral and support processes are key to this responsiveness to lessen the burdens of acute admissions for families.

Patient or Public Contribution

Families chose to be involved in this study to highlight the importance of the topic and their experiences with accessing health care. The cultural advisors to the project provided feedback on the analysis and its applicability for the participant community.
The 2015 EU‐Africa joint Valletta action plan on immigration: A parable of complex interdependence
Authors: Tawat Mahama , Lamptey Eileen
Published: December 2021

In 2015, as the “refugee crisis” unfolded, the European Union negotiated deals respectively with Turkey and many African countries to stem the influx of asylum seekers. But little comparatively has been said about its African deal, the Joint Valletta Action Plan (JVAP) and its impact. Using migration policy theories, this article shows that the African deal, embodied in the concept of “shared responsibility,” amounts to a special kind of interest, complex interdependence. Specifically, while parties held onto their interests (territorial integrity for the Europeans and economic development for the Africans), there was a new sense, especially on the part of the Europeans, that both parties needed each other's help (cooperation) to advance these interests. As a result, concrete measures such as the EU Emergency Trust Fund were formulated. Looking at their “effects,” these measures have been positive in most policy domains.
Bacteriophages: A weapon against mixed-species biofilms in the food processing environment
Authors: Mgomi Fedrick C. , Yuan Lei , Chen Cao-wei , Zhang Yuan-song , Yang Zhen-quan
Published: December 2021

Mixed-species biofilms represent the most frequent actual lifestyles of microorganisms in food processing environments, and they are usually more resistant to control methods than single-species biofilms. The persistence of biofilms formed by foodborne pathogens is believed to cause serious human diseases. These challenges have encouraged researchers to search for novel, natural methods that are more effective towards mixed-species biofilms. Recently, the use of bacteriophages to control mixed-species biofilms have grown significantly in the food industry as an alternative to conventional methods. This review highlights a comprehensive introduction of mixed-species biofilms formed by foodborne pathogens and their enhanced resistance to anti-biofilm removal strategies. Additionally, several methods for controlling mixed-species biofilms briefly focused on applying bacteriophages in the food industry have also been discussed. This article concludes by suggesting that using bacteriophage, combined with other ‘green’ methods, could effectively control mixed-species biofilms in the food industry.
Galangin as a direct inhibitor of vWbp protects mice from Staphylococcus aureus‐induced pneumonia
Authors: Jin Yingli , Yang Panpan , Wang Li , Gao Zeyuan , Lv Jia , Cui Zheyu , Wang Tiedong , Wang Dacheng , Wang Lin
Published: December 2021

The surge in multidrug resistance in Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and the lag in antibiotic discovery necessitate the development of new anti‐infective strategies to reduce S. aureus infections. In S. aureus, von Willebrand factor‐binding protein (vWbp) is not only the main coagulase that triggers host prothrombin activation and formation of fibrin cables but also bridges the bacterial cell wall and von Willebrand factor, thereby allowing S. aureus to bind to platelets and endothelial cells, playing a vital role in pathogenesis of S. aureus infections. Here, we have identified that galangin, a bioactive compound found in honey and Alpinia officinarum Hance, is a potent and direct inhibitor of vWbp by coagulation activity inhibition assay, thermal shift assay and biolayer interferometry assay. Molecular dynamic simulations and verification experiments revealed that the Trp‐64 and Leu‐69 residues are necessary for the binding of galangin to vWbp. Significantly, galangin attenuated S. aureus virulence in a mouse S. aureus‐induced pneumonia model. In addition, we also identified that galangin can enhance the therapeutic effect of latamoxef on S. aureus‐induced pneumonia. Taken together, the results suggest that galangin may be used for the development of therapeutic drugs or utilized as adjuvants to combine with antibiotics to combat S. aureus‐related infections.
Pulsed light treatment reduces microorganisms and mycotoxins naturally present in red pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) powder
Authors: Woldemariam Henock Woldemichael , Harmeling Hanna , Emire Shimelis Admassu , Teshome Paulos Getachew , Toepfl Stefan , Aganovic Kemal
Published: December 2021

The impact of pulsed light (PL) treatment on naturally occurring microorganisms, mycotoxins, and on physicochemical properties in red pepper powder was investigated. Powder samples were exposed to different PL treatments up to 61 pulses, with fluence ranging from 1.0 to 9.1 J/cm2. The highest fluence applied (9.1 J/cm2, 61 pulses, 20 s) resulted in 2.7, 3.1, and 4.1 log CFU/g reduction of yeasts, molds, and total plate counts (TPC), where initial microbial loads were 4.6, 5.5, and 6.5 log CFU/g, respectively. At the same fluence intensity, a maximum reduction of 67.2, 50.9, and 36.9% of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), total aflatoxins (AF), and ochratoxin A (OTA) were detected, respectively. Proportional increase in temperature of the samples was observed from the absorbed PL energy, reaching maximum of 59.8°C. The inactivation of investigated microorganisms and mycotoxins followed first‐order kinetics (R2 > 0.95). The fluence intensity at 6.9 and 9.1 J/cm2 did not cause degradation, but rather a significant (p < .05) and apparent increase of total phenols. Total color difference (ΔE*) revealed only “slight differences,” compared to the untreated sample. In conclusion, higher reduction of microbial load and mycotoxins in red pepper powder could be achieved, when higher treatment intensity was applied. This suggests the PL as a potential technology for decontamination of red pepper powder and other spice powders.

Practical Applications

Pulsed light could be used for the decontamination of foods and reduce variety of spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms. Exposure of red pepper powder to different levels of doses proposed in this study demonstrates alternative approaches for microbial inactivation and mycotoxins degradation of the product. Moreover, pulsed light treatment is a young technology using short treatment times with potential feasibility. The technique can be of great interest for the scientific and industrial R&D community dealing with pulsed light technology, microbial, and mycotoxins inactivation kinetics, food safety, and quality control.
Exclusive breastfeeding of full‐term infants during the first 6 months after discharge from a neonatal unit in China: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Wang Li , He Junli
Published: December 2021

Objectives

To elucidate breastfeeding patterns, the reasons for stopping exclusive breastfeeding, and the sociodemographic characteristics associated with exclusive breastfeeding of full‐term infants during the 6 months after discharge from a neonatal unit in China.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included mothers of full‐term infants who were discharged from the 40‐bed neonatal unit (level IIA) of a tertiary hospital in Hunan province, China between August 2019 and September 2020. Information on breastfeeding patterns was collected through telephone interviews with the mothers 6 months after their infants had been discharged from the neonatal unit. Binary logistic regression was used to determine the factors associated with exclusive breastfeeding.

Results

This study included 489 mother–infant dyads. At 6 months after discharge, 51.5% of mothers were exclusively breastfeeding, 29.0% of mothers were partially breastfeeding, and 19.4% of mothers were not breastfeeding. The most common reason for stopping breastfeeding was “poor milk supply” (81.2%). Factors associated with exclusive breastfeeding included multiparity, exclusive breastfeeding before the hospitalization, providing breast milk to the hospitalized infant, and a high level of maternal education.

Conclusions

In the Chinese culture, mothers who experienced multiparity and higher‐level education were more likely to breastfeed their infants to 6 months after discharge from the neonatal unit. In addition, infants who were exclusively breastfed before and during hospitalization were also more likely to be exclusively breastfed after discharge. The results will help inform future research aimed at identifying interventions to reduce early breastfeeding cessation.
Reactive astrogliosis: A friend or foe in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Kumar Amit , Fontana Igor C. , Nordberg Agneta
Published: December 2021

Astrocytes are highly efficient homeostatic glial cells playing a crucial role in optimal brain functioning and homeostasis. Astrocytes respond to changes in brain homoeostasis following central nervous system (CNS) injury/diseased state by a specific defence mechanism called reactive astrogliosis. Recent studies have implicated and placed reactive astrogliosis in the centre of pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other neurodegenerative disorders. The AD biomarker field is evolving rapidly with new findings providing strong evidence which supports the notion that a reactive astrogliosis is an early event in the time course of AD progression which may precede other pathological hallmarks of AD. Clinical/translational in vivo PET and in vitro postmortem brain imaging studies demonstrated ‘a first and second wave’ of reactive astrogliosis in AD with distinct close‐loop relationships with other pathological biomarkers at different stages of the disease. At the end stages, reactive astrocytes are found to be associated, or in proximity, with amyloid plaque and tau pathological deposits in postmortem AD brains. Several new PET‐tracers, which are being in pipeline and validated at a very fast pace for mapping and visualising reactive astrogliosis in the brain, will provide further invaluable mechanistic insights into AD and other non‐AD dementia pathologies. The complementary roles of microglia and astrocyte activation in AD progression, along with the clinical value of new fluid astrocytes biomarkers in the context of existing biomarkers, are the latest avenue that needs further exploration.
Public spending, monetary policy and macroeconomic instability
Authors: Fu Zhiming , Le Riche Antoine
Published: December 2021

We analyze sunspot‐driven fluctuations in a standard neoclassical growth model with money holdings and public spending. In our economy, money is needed for transaction purpose, while public spending is financed through a flat income tax. Public spending includes an incompressible component and a variable part, and the latter exerts positive externalities on private utility or production. Our theoretical results show that the composition of public spending and externalities have important effects on local stability properties. First, in the absence of externalities, there is a unique steady state, and local indeterminacy depends on the interplay between the share of the cash‐in‐advance constraint and the intertemporal elasticity of substitution of consumption. Second, in the presence of externalities, multiple equilibria might emerge under weak enough production externality, while uniqueness of the steady state prevails under strong production or under consumption externality. We further show that weak production/consumption externality or strong consumption externality could generate local (in)determinacy of the steady state depending on the share of the cash‐in‐advance constraint while strong production externality generates local determinacy of the steady state. Finally, based on numerical examples, we show that an increase in the variable public spending and the income tax rate exert a local stabilizing effect while externalities promote locally the likelihood of local indeterminacy.
Empirical newsvendor biases: Are target service levels achieved effectively and efficiently?
Authors: Sachs Anna‐Lena , Becker‐Peth Michael , Minner Stefan , Thonemann Ulrich W.
Published: December 2021

Human decision making in the newsvendor context has been analyzed intensively in laboratory experiments, where various decision biases have been identified. However, it is unclear whether the biases also exist in practice. We analyze the ordering decisions of a manufacturer who faces a multiproduct newsvendor problem with an aggregate service‐level constraint. We find that the manufacturer broadly exhibits the same biases as subjects in the laboratory and is prone to another bias that has not been identified before, that is, group aggregation. The bias can be attributed to the multi‐product problem of the manufacturer, and refers to the observation that the service levels are not optimized for individual products, but rather for product groups. Our data allow us to analyze the performance of a manufacturer in detail and we find that target service levels are achieved effectively, but not efficiently. We provide rationales for the manufacturer's ordering behavior, discuss managerial implications, and quantify the financial benefits of debiasing ordering decisions.
Identification of five novel HLA‐B alleles in donors from the Colombian Bone Marrow Donor Registry
Authors: Hernández David Guillermo , Camacho Ramírez Nathalie , Mosquera Martínez Melissa , Cendales Paola Andrea , Camacho Bernardo Armando
Published: December 2021

Identification of five novel HLA‐B alleles in five samples from Colombian bone marrow donors.
HLA‐DRB1*03:190, a novel HLA‐DRB1 allele suspected with microlymphocytoxicity and confirmed by sequencing
Authors: Bonneville Francoise , Calvo De Olmos Orane , Blanchet Gaelle , Walencik Alexandre
Published: December 2021

The novel HLA‐DRB1*03:190 allele was characterized using two next generation sequencing technologies.
Mitogenomics reveals phylogenetic relationships of Patellogastropoda (Mollusca, Gastropoda) and dynamic gene rearrangements
Authors: Xu Tao , Qi Lu , Kong Lingfeng , Li Qi
Published: December 2021

Patellogastropoda has been recognized as the most ‘primitive’ group of living Gastropoda and plays important role in littoral marine ecosystems. Both morphological and molecular works have attempted to resolve the phylogenetic framework of Patellogastropoda, but evolutionary relationships among major lineages remain controversial. In addition, a few mitogenomes sequenced of Patellogastropoda exhibit extensive rearrangements; however, it was unclear that which one can represent the ancestral gene arrangement. In this regard, we sequenced 10 new mitochondrial genomes and analysed them with previously published nine mitogenomes and six transcriptomic data which represent six families of Patellogastropoda. A well‐supported phylogeny was reconstructed based on the amino acid sequences of 13 protein‐coding genes, recovered Lottioidea as non‐monophyletic with two well‐supported lineages. Comprehensive taxon sampling in Lottiidae allows us to recoverLottia digitalissister toLottia cassis. Comparing gene order among families, genera and species showed that Nacellidae has a conserved gene arrangement which is similar to that of hypothetical ancestral Gastropoda, whereas Lottiidae exhibits extensive rearrangements even without considering the changes of tRNA genes. A chronogram dating mayor cladogenetic events within the group was also reconstructed. Our results provide new insights into the phylogenetic relationships of Patellogastropoda and detect dramatic gene rearrangements within the group.
Random Fiber Network Loaded by a Point Force
Authors: Merson J. , Picu R. C.
Published: December 2021

This article presents the displacement field produced by a point force acting on an athermal random fiber network (the Green function for the network). The problem is defined within the limits of linear elasticity, and the field is obtained numerically for nonaffine networks characterized by various parameter sets. The classical Green function solution applies at distances from the point force larger than a threshold which is independent of the network parameters in the range studied. At smaller distances, the nonlocal nature of fiber interactions modifies the solution.
Success and Challenges Associated with Large-Scale Collaborative Surveillance for Carbapenemase Genes in Gram-Negative Bacteria
Authors: Das Sanchita , Bush Karen
Published: December 2021

The emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance, especially in Gram-negative bacteria, has led to significant morbidity and increased cost of health care. Large surveillance studies such as the one performed by the Antibiotic Resistance Laboratory Network are immensely valuable in understanding the scope of resistance mechanisms, especially among carbapenemase-producing Gram-negative bacteria. However, the routine laboratory detection of carbapenemases in these bacteria remains challenging and requires further optimization.
A J Domain Protein Functions as a Histone Chaperone to Maintain Genome Integrity and the Response to DNA Damage in a Human Fungal Pathogen
Authors: Horianopoulos Linda C. , Lee Christopher W. J. , Schmitt Kerstin , Valerius Oliver , Hu Guanggan , Caza Mélissa , Braus Gerhard H. , Kronstad James W.
Published: December 2021

DNA replication, gene expression, and genomic repair all require precise coordination of the many proteins that interact with DNA. This includes the histones as well as their chaperones.
Multi-institutional intervention to improve patient perception of physician empathy in emergency care
Authors: Pettit Katie , Messman Anne , Scott Nathaniel , Puskarich Michael , Wang Hao , Alanis Naomi , Dehon Erin , Konrath Sara , Welch Robert D , Kline Jeffrey
Published: December 2021

Background

Physician empathy has been linked to increased patient satisfaction, improved patient outcomes and reduced provider burnout. Our objective was to test the effectiveness of an educational intervention to improve physician empathy and trust in the ED setting.

Methods

Physician participants from six emergency medicine residencies in the US were studied from 2018 to 2019 using a pre–post, quasi-experimental non-equivalent control group design with randomisation at the site level. Intervention participants at three hospitals received an educational intervention, guided by acognitivemap (the ‘empathy circle’). This intervention was further emphasised by the use of motivational texts delivered to participants throughout the course of the study. The primary outcome was change in E patient perception of resident empathy (Jefferson scale of patient perception of physician empathy (JSPPPE) and Trust in Physicians Scale (Tips)) before (T1) and 3–6 months later (T2).

Results

Data were collected for 221 residents (postgraduate year 1–4.) In controls, the mean (SD) JSPPPE scores at T1 and T2 were 29 (3.8) and 29 (4.0), respectively (mean difference 0.8, 95% CI: −0.7 to 2.4, p=0.20, paired t-test). In the intervention group, the JSPPPE scores at T1 and T2 were 28 (4.4) and 30 (4.0), respectively (mean difference 1.4, 95% CI: 0.0 to 2.8, p=0.08). In controls, the TIPS at T1 was 65 (6.3) and T2 was 66 (5.8) (mean difference −0.1, 95% CI: −3.8 to 3.6, p=0.35). In the intervention group, the TIPS at T1 was 63 (6.9) and T2 was 66 (6.3) (mean difference 2.4, 95% CI: 0.2 to 4.5, p=0.007). Hierarchical regression revealed no effect of time×group interaction for JSPPPE (p=0.71) nor TIPS (p=0.16).

Conclusion

An educational intervention with the addition of text reminders designed to increase empathic behaviour was not associated with a change in patient-perceived empathy, but was associated with a modest improvement in trust in physicians.
Access to advanced-level hospital care: differences in prehospital times calculated using incident locations compared with patients’ usual residence
Authors: Davie Gabrielle , Lilley Rebbecca , de Graaf Brandon , Dicker Bridget , Branas Charles , Ameratunga Shanthi , Civil Ian , Reid Papaarangi , Kool Bridget
Published: December 2021

Studies estimate that 84% of the USA and New Zealand’s (NZ) resident populations have timely access (within 60 min) to advanced-level hospital care. Our aim was to assess whether usual residence (ie, home address) is a suitable proxy for location of injury incidence. In this observational study, injury fatalities registered in NZ’s Mortality Collection during 2008–2012 were linked to Coronial files. Estimated access times via emergency medical services were calculated using locations of incident and home. Using incident locations, 73% (n=4445/6104) had timely access to care compared with 77% when using home location. Access calculations using patients’ home locations overestimated timely access, especially for those injured in industrial/construction areas (18%; 95% CI 6% to 29%) and from drowning (14%; 95% CI 7% to 22%). When considering timely access to definitive care, using the location of the injury as the origin provides important information for health system planning.
Mitigating post-fire regeneration failure in boreal landscapes with reforestation and variable retention harvesting: At what cost?
Authors: Cyr Dominic , Splawinski Tadeusz B. , Pascual Puigdevall Jesus , Valeria Osvaldo , Leduc Alain , Thiffault Nelson , Bergeron Yves , Gauthier Sylvie
Published: December 2021

Successive disturbances such as fire can affect post-disturbance regeneration density, with documented adverse effects on subsequent stand productivity. We conducted a simulation study to assess the potential of reactive (reforestation) and proactive (variable retention harvesting) post-fire regeneration failure mitigation strategies in a 1.37 Mha fire-prone boreal landscape dominated by black spruce (Picea mariana (Mill.) B.S.P.) and jack pine (Pinus banksiana Lamb.). We quantified their respective capacity to maintain landscape productivity and post-fire resilience, as well as their associated financial returns under current and projected (RCP 8.5) fire regimes. While post-fire reforestation with jack pine revealed to be the most effective strategy to maintain potential production, associated costs quickly became prohibitive when applied over extensive areas. Proactive strategies such as an extensive use of variable retention harvesting, combined with replanting of fire-adapted jack pine only in easily accessible areas, appeared as a more promising approach. Despite this, our results suggest an inevitable erosion of forest productivity due to post-fire regeneration failure events, highlighting the importance of integrating fire a priori in strategic forest management planning as well as its effects on long-term regeneration dynamics.
Structural and dynamical properties of 13-atom Cu–Co mixed clusters
Authors: Ren Shi-Wei
Published: December 2021

In this paper, the geometric structures and the melting-like processes of the 13-atom pure copper, pure cobalt cluster and their 13-atom mixed clusters are investigated and compared by the molecular dynamics method. The calculation shows that the pure copper and cobalt clusters have the standard icosahedral structures and the mixed clusters take on the deformed icosahedral structures. The quantitative analysis shows that the deformations are slight. Moreover, an element similarity function is introduced by which the contribution of the compositions of the clusters to the deformation of the mixed clusters is analyzed and discussed. With the increase of the temperature, the migrating and recombination of the atoms on the surface of the clusters are observed, indicating the starting of the transition from solid-like to liquid-like state for the clusters. Through the calculating of the relative root-mean-squared pair separation fluctuation and monitoring the dynamical structures of the clusters, it is found that the mixed clusters experience a multi-step process in the transition.
Distributionally Robust Joint Chance Constrained Vessel Fleet Deployment Problem
Authors: Zheng Feifeng , Wang Zhaojie , Zhang E. , Liu Ming
Published: December 2021

This work investigates the problem of vessel fleet deployment for liner shipping. The objective is to minimize the total cost, i.e., the sum of vessel chartering cost and vessel-route operating cost. In the considered problem, the shipment demand for each route is uncertain and its distribution is unknown. Due to lacking historical data, we use the moment-based ambiguity set to characterize the unknown distributions of demands. We then introduce a distributionally robust model and propose a new approximation approach to solve this problem. Finally, numerical experiments are conducted to demonstrate the performance of our approximation approach.
A Fast Method for Detecting Interdependence between Time Series and Its Directionality
Authors: Paolini Gabriele , Sarnari Francesco , Meucci Riccardo , Euzzor Stefano , Ginoux Jean-Mark , Chillemi Santi , Fronzoni Leone , Arecchi Fortunato Tito , Di Garbo Angelo
Published: December 2021

We propose a fast nonlinear method for assessing quantitatively both the existence and directionality of linear and nonlinear couplings between a pair of time series. We test this method, called Boolean Slope Coherence (BSC), on bivariate time series generated by various models, and compare our results with those obtained from different well-known methods. A similar approach is employed to test the BSC’s capability to determine the prevalent coupling directionality. Our results show that the BSC method is successful for both quantifying the coupling level between a pair of signals and determining their directionality. Moreover, the BSC method also works for noisy as well as chaotic signals and, as an example of its application to real data, we tested it by analyzing neurophysiological recordings from visual cortices.
Periodic, Quasi-Periodic and Phase-Locked Oscillations and Stability in the Fiscal Dynamical Model with Tax Collection and Decision-Making Delays
Authors: Pei Lijun , Wang Chenyu
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we consider the complex dynamics of a fiscal dynamical model, which was improved from Wolfstetter classical growth cycle model by Sportelli et al. The main work of the present paper is to study the impact of fiscal policy delays on the national income adjustment processes using a dynamical method, such as double Hopf bifurcation analysis. We first use DDE-BIFTOOL to find the double Hopf bifurcation points of the system, and draw the bifurcation diagrams with two bifurcation parameters, i.e. the tax collection delay [Formula: see text] and the public expenditure decision-making delay [Formula: see text]. Then we employ the method of multiple scales to obtain two amplitude equations. By analyzing these amplitude equations, we derive the classification and unfolding of these double Hopf bifurcation points. And three types of double Hopf bifurcations are found. Finally, we verify the results by numerical simulations. We find complex dynamic behaviors of the system via the analytical method, such as stable equilibrium, stable periodic, quasi-periodic and phase-locked solutions in respective regions. The dynamical phenomena can help policy makers to choose a proper range of the delays so that they could effectively formulate fiscal policies to stabilize the economy.
General Modeling Method of Threshold-Type Multivalued Memristor and Its Application in Digital Logic Circuits
Authors: Wang Xiaoyuan , Li Pu , Jin Chenxi , Dong Zhekang , Iu Herbert H. C.
Published: December 2021

This paper presents a general modeling method for threshold-type multivalued memristors. Through this memristor modeling method, it is very simple to establish threshold-type memristor behavior models with different numbers of memristance elements, and these models are verified by numerical MATLAB simulations. A corresponding circuit-level SPICE model of the ternary memristor behavior model is developed and simulated in LTspice, shown to be consistent with the MATLAB results. Finally, the SPICE model is used to design the AND gate, OR gate, and three NOT gates of ternary state-based logic, and the effectiveness of the circuit is proved by LTSpice simulation.