bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The COVID‐19 Pandemic’s Influence on Family Systems Therapists’ Provision of Teletherapy
Authors: McKee Grace B. , Pierce Bradford S. , Tyler Carmen M. , Perrin Paul B. , Elliott Timothy R.
Published: April 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic has altered life globally like no other event in modern history, and psychological service changes to meet the resultant impacts on families have not been assessed in the empirical literature. The purpose of the current study was to examine whether family systems therapists increased their teletherapy use during the pandemic relative to prepandemic usage, and whether projected postpandemic rates would remain at the same level; further, environmental and demographic predictors of these changes were examined. In May 2020, a sample of 626 family systems therapists (58.6% women, 40.6% men; M = 57.4 years old; M years in practice = 25.5) completed a national online study assessing these variables. Results suggested that family systems therapists performed 7.92% of their clinical work using teletherapy before the pandemic and 88.17% during the pandemic. They also projected that they would perform 36.57% of their clinical work using teletherapy after the pandemic. Teletherapy uptake was unrelated to primary practice setting, provider age, gender, race/ethnicity, and practice location (urban/suburban vs. rural) but was higher for family systems therapists who reported increased supportive teletherapy policies and training in their practice setting. Organizational infrastructure and availability of training played an important role in influencing teletherapy uptake during the pandemic. Family systems therapists have a unique opportunity to deploy teletherapy modalities to meet the needs of families during the COVID‐19 pandemic, and infrastructure and training to do so may facilitate that work.
Statistical upscaling of ecosystem CO2 fluxes across the terrestrial tundra and boreal domain: Regional patterns and uncertainties
Authors: Virkkala Anna‐Maria , Aalto Juha , Rogers Brendan M. , Tagesson Torbern , Treat Claire C. , Natali Susan M. , Watts Jennifer D. , Potter Stefano , Lehtonen Aleksi , Mauritz Marguerite , Schuur Edward A. G. , Kochendorfer John , Zona Donatella , Oechel Walter , Kobayashi Hideki , Humphreys Elyn , Goeckede Mathias , Iwata Hiroki , Lafleur Peter M. , Euskirchen Eugenie S. , Bokhorst Stef , Marushchak Maija , Martikainen Pertti J. , Elberling Bo , Voigt Carolina , Biasi Christina , Sonnentag Oliver , Parmentier Frans‐Jan W. , Ueyama Masahito , Celis Gerardo , St.Louis Vincent L. , Emmerton Craig A. , Peichl Matthias , Chi Jinshu , Järveoja Järvi , Nilsson Mats B. , Oberbauer Steven F. , Torn Margaret S. , Park Sang‐Jong , Dolman Han , Mammarella Ivan , Chae Namyi , Poyatos Rafael , López‐Blanco Efrén , Christensen Torben Røjle , Kwon Min Jung , Sachs Torsten , Holl David , Luoto Miska
Published: April 2021

The regional variability in tundra and boreal carbon dioxide (CO2) fluxes can be high, complicating efforts to quantify sink‐source patterns across the entire region. Statistical models are increasingly used to predict (i.e., upscale) CO2 fluxes across large spatial domains, but the reliability of different modeling techniques, each with different specifications and assumptions, has not been assessed in detail. Here, we compile eddy covariance and chamber measurements of annual and growing season CO2 fluxes of gross primary productivity (GPP), ecosystem respiration (ER), and net ecosystem exchange (NEE) during 1990–2015 from 148 terrestrial high‐latitude (i.e., tundra and boreal) sites to analyze the spatial patterns and drivers of CO2 fluxes and test the accuracy and uncertainty of different statistical models. CO2 fluxes were upscaled at relatively high spatial resolution (1 km2) across the high‐latitude region using five commonly used statistical models and their ensemble, that is, the median of all five models, using climatic, vegetation, and soil predictors. We found the performance of machine learning and ensemble predictions to outperform traditional regression methods. We also found the predictive performance of NEE‐focused models to be low, relative to models predicting GPP and ER. Our data compilation and ensemble predictions showed that CO2 sink strength was larger in the boreal biome (observed and predicted average annual NEE −46 and −29 g C m−2 yr−1, respectively) compared to tundra (average annual NEE +10 and −2 g C m−2 yr−1). This pattern was associated with large spatial variability, reflecting local heterogeneity in soil organic carbon stocks, climate, and vegetation productivity. The terrestrial ecosystem CO2 budget, estimated using the annual NEE ensemble prediction, suggests the high‐latitude region was on average an annual CO2 sink during 1990–2015, although uncertainty remains high.
The early development of tempo adjustment and synchronization during joint drumming: A study of 18‐ to 42‐month‐old children
Authors: Yu Lira , Myowa Masako
Published: April 2021

Humans have a unique ability to coordinate their rhythmic behaviors with those of others. Previous studies have demonstrated the early development of spontaneous responses to external rhythmic stimuli; however, there is little evidence regarding when and how infants begin to adjust their movement tempo and synchronize it with that of others, due to the difficulty of detecting continuous rhythmic movements of infants in a laboratory setting. In the current study, we analyzed children in age‐groups of 18, 30, and 42 months and adapted a joint‐drumming task used by Kirschner and Tomasello (Journal of Experimental Child Psychology, 2009, 102, 299–314). The children were enticed to play the drum under four conditions (Speed: 400 or 600 ms ISI; Partner: mother or robot). The results demonstrated that children's ability to adjust their tempo and synchronize with that of 600 ms ISI, which is slower than the spontaneous motor tempo of children at these ages, starts to develop at around 30‐month‐olds. We also found early evidence of this ability in 18‐month‐old infants who drummed with their mother. These findings indicate that children's ability for rhythmic coordination develops dynamically between 18 and 30 months of age, and a child's social partner plays an important role in facilitating this development.
Reproduction and early life stages of the poecilosclerid sponge Crella incrustans
Authors: Strano Francesca , Micaroni Valerio , Davy Simon K. , Maldonado Manuel , Bell James J.
Published: April 2021

Despite their important ecological roles in marine ecosystems, reproduction and early life stages of the majority of marine sponges remain undescribed. Here we characterize the mode of reproduction and the early life stages of an abundant sponge in temperate Pacific waters, Crella incrustans. Through histology, we characterized the production of gametes and the sequential steps of larval ontogeny. Using in vivo observations, we described larval release, settlement, and metamorphosis. Specimens of C. incrustans presented spermatocytes, oocytes, and several developmental stages in the sponge mesohyl during the Australasian summer (from January to March 2020), demonstrating this sponge to be a simultaneous hermaphrodite with internal fertilization, asynchronous development, and brooded embryos. As in other viviparous demosponges, mature embryos were released during the Australasian summer as free‐swimming non‐tufted parenchymella larvae. Under laboratory conditions, 94.3% of larvae settled within 2 days and metamorphosed into functional settlers within a week. Gametogenesis, embryonic development, larval characteristics, settlement, and metamorphosis of C. incrustans are consistent with the reproductive features common to the majority of poecilosclerid sponges. Overall, our study provides important information on the early life stages of this temperate model species for future ecophysiological experiments.
Overwintering and migration behaviour of post‐spawned Atlantic salmon Salmo salar in a large hydropower‐regulated river and reservoir
Authors: Babin Amanda B. , Ndong Mouhamed , Haralampides Katy , Peake Stephan , Jones Ross , Curry R. Allen , Linnansaari Tommi
Published: April 2021

Tracking 47 post‐spawned adult Atlantic salmon Salmo salar L. in a hydropower‐regulated river through autumn, winter and spring revealed that winter survival was 56% and 75% in two study years, respectively, with higher mortality of males than females (50% vs. 33% and 100% vs. 13%, respectively). Some kelts (n = 7) displayed nondirected movements that were interpreted as a reconditioning period for an average of 9–17 days prior to directed downstream movements indicating the initiation of migration. Survival after the initiation of migration in spring was 83% and 94% to the hydropower dam in the first and second study years, and decreased to 60 and 63%, respectively, after dam passage. There were no further losses in the downriver reach in the second year, with the first year having a cumulative survival estimate of 53% to the river mouth. Kelts approached the dam when the spillway gates were available as a passage option most of the time (64%–75%), but some kelts arrived at the dam or had not yet passed when spillways were closed (n = 6) and the only remaining passage option was restricted to the turbines. However, all but one kelt that must have passed via turbine were successful in reaching the river mouth. Migratory delay presumably due to searching behaviour caused by low water flow was estimated at approximately 6 days as migration rates were significantly slower in the reservoir (median ± s.e. 8.5 ± 2.5 km day−1) than up‐ (29.7 ± 5.0 km day−1) or downriver (22.1 ± 3.1 km day−1). The proportion of time (median 30%) that kelts spent swimming upstream (searching behaviour) in the reservoir was a significant variable for migration success.
Complications of colonoscopy in Japan: An analysis using large‐scale health insurance claims data
Authors: Yoshida Naohisa , Mano Yasunari , Matsuda Takahisa , Sano Yasushi , Inoue Ken , Hirose Ryohei , Dohi Osamu , Itoh Yoshito , Goto Akari , Sobue Tomotaka , Takeuchi Yoji , Nakayama Tomio , Muto Michihiro , Ishikawa Hideki
Published: April 2021

Background and Aim

In Japan, screening colonoscopy for colorectal cancer is expected to reduce colorectal cancer mortality, although its complication rate has not been sufficiently examined. The aim of this study is to analyze severe complications due to colonoscopy.

Methods

As a study population, we retrospectively used commercially anonymized health insurance claims data covering 5.71 million patients from January 2005 to August 2018. We extracted patients who received colonoscopy with lesions resection or without treatment. Main outcomes were rates of hemorrhage, perforation, fatal events, and their risk factors.

Results

Among 341 852 colonoscopy without treatment in 260 128 patients (mean age: 49.6 ± 11.7 years), the rates of hemorrhage, perforation, and fatal events were 0.0059% (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.0031–0.0085), 0.0032% (95% CI 0.0011–0.0052), and 0.00029% (95% CI 0–0.0012), respectively. Regarding hemorrhage, compared with the rate for patients <50 years old (0.0050%), the rates for those 50–59, 60–69, and ≥70 years old were 0.0095% (P = 0.17), 0.0031% (P = 0.17), and 0%, respectively. Regarding perforation, compared with patients <50 years old (0.0056%), the rates for those 50–59, 60–69, and ≥70 years old were 0%, 0.0015% (P = 0.99), and 0.0102% (P = 0.99), respectively. A multivariate analysis for risk factors showed no significant findings for hemorrhage and perforation without treatment. Among 123 087 colonoscopy with lesions resection in 102 058 patients (mean age: 53.7 ± 9.3 years), the rates of hemorrhage, perforation, and fatal events were 0.136% (95% CI 0.1157–0.1572), 0.033% (95% CI 0.0228–0.0437), and 0.00081% (95% CI 0–0.0035), respectively.

Conclusions

The analysis using health insurance claims data demonstrated the safety of colonoscopy.
An academic–practice partnership during COVID‐19 pandemic: Transitioning from a clinical to virtual fellowship
Authors: Gillett Claire , Mason Susan , Fleming Louise , Mayer Deborah K. , Bryant Ashley Leak
Published: April 2021

Aims

Discuss the needed modifications that occurred to the academic–practice oncology partnership during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Background

To meet the workforce needs of nurses who care for adults with cancer, an academic–practice partnership was created in 2016. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Nursing, North Carolina Cancer Hospital and UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center collaborated to provide structured clinical and didactic practice experiences for undergraduate nursing students interested in oncology nursing. With COVID‐19, nursing students were not permitted to be in the clinical setting.

Design

Discursive paper.

Method

An innovative and collaborative partnership created reflective and interactive activities. The majority of the learning activities were created at the revised Bloom's taxonomy level of application or higher, with some encompassing multiple levels. Students engaged in a variety of meaningful experiences requiring multiple learning processes that promoted professional development in the interpersonal and critical thinking domains.

Conclusions

Despite the challenges of COVID‐19, the delivery of oncology nurse fellowship was successful because of innovative virtual strategies.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Our academic–practice partnership allowed the nursing students to develop their interpersonal and critical thinking skills without entering the clinical site. This is an approach encouraged by the authors for other schools of nursing.

This manuscript is submitted as a Special Issue Discursive Article, and thus, the authors declare that an EQUATOR Checklist has not been used.
Under Western Eyes? Elements for a Transnational and International History of Sociology in Asia (1960s–1980s)
Authors: Dufoix Stéphane
Published: April 2021

Very few articles or chapters account for the history of sociology in Asia as a whole or for its inception from the late 19th century, especially in Japan, China and India. The following article, partly based on archival evidence, takes into consideration two important elements that bind together the various developments of sociology in Asia after World War II, namely calls for a better relevance of concepts and theories in order to fight academic colonialism, and strivings in the 1970s for the organization of an Asian sociological or social science organization. It will end with a short reflection and interrogation on the role of Asia in the world social science archipelago.
The development and validation of an electronic job crafting intervention: Testing the links with job crafting and person‐job fit
Authors: Verelst Lorenz , De Cooman Rein , Verbruggen Marijke , van Laar Colette , Meeussen Loes
Published: April 2021

Using two intervention studies, this article examines the effectiveness of a newly developed electronic job crafting intervention (i.e., e‐intervention) that aims to stimulate task, relational, and cognitive crafting and offers a time‐efficient and cost‐effective alternative to traditional face‐to‐face job crafting interventions. In Study 1, we quantitatively and qualitatively investigate the effects of the job crafting e‐intervention on general levels of job crafting, while in study 2, we further test its direct relationship with task, relational, and cognitive crafting, and its indirect relationship with perceived person–job fit. In Study 1 (N = 59), multilevel analyses showed that the e‐intervention indeed increased general levels of job crafting immediately after the 3 weeks lasting e‐intervention. Moreover, by qualitatively investigating adherence to the intervention in the intervention group (n = 25), we found that mainly goal setting is important in stimulating job crafting. In Study 2 (N = 106), we further validated the effect on job crafting by confirming relationships with task crafting two weeks after the e‐intervention and found an indirect relationship with needs–supplies fit via task crafting. We conclude that the e‐intervention is a promising and accessible alternative to face‐to‐face job crafting interventions, especially for the specific form of task crafting.

Practitioner points

We developed an electronic job crafting intervention that makes use of online technology to create a more accessible, cheaper, and less time‐consuming alternative compared with traditional face‐to‐face job crafting interventions.

We found this electronic job crafting intervention to be able to foster job crafting among employees. In particular, after completing the electronic intervention, employees were found to make more changes in their job to optimize their functioning compared with before the intervention, and compared with a control group not completing the intervention.

Employees who completed the e‐intervention were especially engaged in task crafting (i.e., making changes in one’s task roles), which was also related to perceived levels of needs–supplies fit.
Epidemiology, aetiology and outcome of paediatric ocular trauma in Sydney
Authors: Liu Ying , Hoskin Annette K , Watson Stephanie L
Published: April 2021

Aim

Report epidemiology, aetiology and outcomes of eye injuries in children 0–16 years treated at quaternary referral and paediatric hospitals in Sydney, Australia.

Methods

A retrospective review of cases January 2009 to December 2015 using hospital diagnostic and International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision codes. Medical records confirmed open globe injury (OGI) or closed globe injury (CGI) diagnosis and demographic, injury mechanism, ocular and best‐corrected visual acuities (BCVA) before and after treatment.

Results

A total of 295 patients, 298 eyes were included (96 OGIs, 202 CGIs.) Injuries were commonest in males (72%) with OGI peaks in 3–5‐, and CGI, 12–14‐year‐old males. A projectile was the commonest mechanism (106, 36%) then being struck (101, 34%). Commonest agents were sporting equipment (13%), toys (10%) and sticks (10%). Another child was involved in 32.9% OGI and 27.6% CGI. Initial BCVA was a good predictor of final BCVA. Poor prognostic factors included lens injury, vitreous haemorrhage and relative afferent pupillary defect. Final BCVA 6/12 or better was achieved in 69% cases, including 40% of OGIs and 85% of CGIs. Enucleation and evisceration rates were both 1% (n = 3).

Conclusion

Paediatric ocular trauma most commonly occurred in males from projectiles or being struck, with injuries commonly occurring from sporting equipment, toys and sticks. Vision was poorer with open than closed globe injuries.
Association between sleep disorders and osteoarthritis: A case–control study of 351,932 adults in the UK
Authors: Jacob Louis , Smith Lee , Konrad Marcel , Kostev Karel
Published: April 2021

This study aimed to analyse the association between sleep disorders and osteoarthritis in adults in the UK. This case–control study included patients aged ≥ 18 years who were diagnosed with osteoarthritis for the first time in one of 256 general practices in the UK between 1997 and 2016 (index date). Patients without osteoarthritis were matched (1:1) to those with osteoarthritis by sex, age, index year, general practice, observation time prior to index date (in years), obesity, injuries, and other types of arthritis. For patients without osteoarthritis, the index date was a randomly selected visit date between 1997 and 2016. The presence of sleep disorders prior to index date was assessed in the two groups. Finally, conditional logistic regression analyses were conducted to investigate the association between sleep disorders and osteoarthritis. This case–control study included 351,932 adults (61.5% women; mean [SD] age 64.9 [14.2] years). Overall, there was a significant association between sleep disorders and osteoarthritis (odds ratio = 1.25, 95% confidence interval = 1.22–1.29). This finding was corroborated in all sex and age subgroups, except in patients aged > 80 years. In terms of the type of sleep disorder, non‐organic sleep disorders, hypersomnia and sleep apnea were associated to a significant extent with higher odds of developing osteoarthritis. Finally, the relationship between sleep disorders and osteoarthritis was significant in all osteoarthritis subgroups, except in that of patients with knee osteoarthritis. Based on these results, it can be concluded that sleep disorders may play a role in the development of osteoarthritis.
Obstructive sleep apnea in airline pilots during daytime sleep following overnight flights
Authors: Han Su‐Hyun , Lee Gun‐Young , Hyun Wooseok , Kim Yongsung , Jang Joung Soon
Published: April 2021

To identify the vulnerability of recovery sleep, this study investigated the occurrence of obstructive sleep apnea during daytime sleep following overnight flights in healthy airline pilots. We conducted daytime polysomnography following a long‐haul night‐time flight in 103 pilots. The following variables were assessed: apnea–hypopnea index, respiratory disturbance index and oxygen desaturation index. Moderate‐to‐severe obstructive sleep apnea was defined as an apnea–hypopnea index ≥15. Seventy‐three pilots (70.9%) with no known history of obstructive sleep apnea presented with moderate‐to‐severe obstructive sleep apnea. Pilots showed high mean apnea–hypopnea, respiratory disturbance and oxygen desaturation indices. The body mass index, Berlin questionnaire score and cumulative flight time contributed to these indices, with both body mass index and cumulative flight time remaining significant at an apnea–hypopnea index ≥15. We found that pilots are vulnerable to obstructive sleep apnea during daytime sleep after night‐time flights, which may deteriorate their health, increase fatigue and impair overall flight safety. Further research is needed to ensure flight safety, as daytime recovery sleep is unavoidable for night‐time flight pilots. The pilots' normal and recovery sleep patterns should both be studied to develop an effective sleep management protocol.
Rhinofacial conidiobolomycosis: Clinical and microbiological characterisation and shift in the management of a rare disease
Authors: Varghese Lalee , Kurien Regi , Diana Sahni Rani , Manesh Abi , Mary Cherian Lisa , Peter Dincy , Dayanand Divya , Sarojini Michael Joy , Thomas Meera , Rupa V , Pulimood Susanne , Varghese George M.
Published: April 2021

Background

Conidiobolomycosis is a rare tropical rhinofacial fungal infection which has not been well characterised. The available evidence in its management is sparse due to lack of clinical studies and the limited data on antifungal susceptibility patterns.

Objective

To analyse the clinical manifestations, antifungal treatment and outcomes of patients with conidiobolomycosis and to determine antifungal susceptibility profiles of the isolates.

Patients/methods

Retrospective analysis of data of all patients with a diagnosis of conidiobolomycosis confirmed by histopathology and culture at a tertiary care hospital from 2012 to 2019 was done.

Results

There were 22 patients, 21 males and one female, with a mean age of 37.1 years. Most common presenting symptom was nasal obstruction, found in 20 (90.90%) patients. Patients who presented within 12 months had a better cure rate (85%) compared to those who presented late (67%). Among the 19 patients who had a follow‐up, good outcome was seen in 15 of the 17 (88.24%) patients who were on itraconazole or potassium iodide containing regimen. Of the six patients who received additional trimethoprim‐sulphamethoxazole (co‐trimoxazole), 67% showed good outcome with two patients showing complete cure and two patients still on treatment with significant improvement. High minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were noted for azoles and amphotericin B, whereas co‐trimoxazole showed lowest MIC ranges.

Conclusion

Itraconazole and potassium iodide are reasonable first‐line options for the treatment of conidiobolomycosis. Good clinical response to KI and comparatively lower MIC of co‐trimoxazole are promising. Further studies are required for developing clinical breakpoints that can predict therapeutic outcomes.
Physician and nurses' perception of paediatric trauma care in Israeli emergency departments
Authors: Madar Raya , Adini Bruria , Greenberg David , Waisman Yehezkel , Eshkoli Tamar , Newman Nitza , Goldberg Avishay
Published: April 2021

Background

Treatment of paediatric trauma requires specialized infrastructure, medical equipment, medical staff and ancillary support personnel that have been specifically trained for such tasks.

Aims and Objectives

To examine the perceptions and attitudes of physicians and nurses in general and paediatric emergency departments (PEDs) on training, confidence, and management of paediatric trauma in order to facilitate the establishment of an optimal model for admitting and treating paediatric trauma patients.

Design

Drawing on published literature and a previously conducted qualitative study that explored the provision of medical care to paediatric trauma patients, we conducted an attitude survey.

Methods

A 26‐item paper‐based questionnaire was distributed by nurse managers to all staff working within general EDs and PEDs of 22 medical centres across Israel.

Results

Of 843 physicians and nurses who completed the survey, 61.1% considered PEDs the most appropriate facility for treating both minor and severe paediatric trauma, 88.5% believed that minor paediatric trauma should be treated in designated paediatric trauma centres, and 53.6% deemed that paediatric emergency medicine specialists are the most suitable primary decision makers in paediatric trauma. PED teams expressed greater professional confidence for treating paediatric trauma and multiple casualty incident patients. Greater professional confidence was positively correlated with paediatric trauma training, greater exposure to paediatric trauma cases, and working in larger medical centres.

Conclusions

The results of the current study suggest that PEDs are perceived to be more appropriate for dealing with paediatric trauma. Also, treatment of severe trauma may be more appropriate in centres that admit large numbers of paediatric trauma cases.

Relevance to clinical practice

Emergency medicine teams should undergo training for dealing with paediatric trauma. Such training would develop their skills, increase their confidence, and enhance their emotional abilities to cope with paediatric trauma.
Repeatability of an automated ETDRS contrast threshold measurement
Authors: Pang Yi , Sparschu Lauren , Wang Jingyun
Published: April 2021

This technical report presents the repeatability of an automated Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) contrast threshold (ETDRS‐CT) test in participants (N = 40) with normal vision as well as in subjects with reduced visual acuity. The automated ETDRS‐CT test showed good test‐retest repeatability between the two administrations in both normal and reduced vision participants. Measurement at the retest yielded 0.05 log higher contrast sensitivity than at the first measurement, which might be due to a learning effect among participants.
Once an entrepreneur, always an entrepreneur? Entrepreneurial identity, job characteristics, and voluntary turnover of former entrepreneurs in paid employment
Authors: Feng Jie , Allen David G. , Seibert Scott E.
Published: April 2021

We focus on former entrepreneurs’ employment in established firms. Understanding the retention of former entrepreneurs—those who were previously founders of business ventures—is important to firms hoping to reap the benefits of their entrepreneurial experience. We compare the duration of their retention to other employees without entrepreneurial experience and propose a theoretical model in which entrepreneurial identity and job characteristics play a central role. The time‐dependent risk of voluntary turnover was estimated using survival analysis. Results from a primary survey collected from multiple firms in 2015–2018 (Study 1) reveal that former entrepreneurs quit sooner than others, and this effect was mediated by entrepreneurial identity. A second study using the NLSY79 and O*Net longitudinal dataset (Study 2) again supports this mediated relationship and further shows that the indirect effect through entrepreneurial identity was moderated such that employees with entrepreneurial identity stayed longer in jobs with favorable characteristics (i.e., high levels of work autonomy and more entrepreneurial opportunities) than other jobs. In Study 2, we were able to observe individuals’ careers over decades to capture the patterns of individual mobility—the back‐and‐forth exploration between businesses owned by self and others. The supplementary analysis provides additional evidence regarding turnover destinations. The findings offer implications for firms endeavoring to retain entrepreneurial talent and individuals pursuing a career that may involve both paid employment and entrepreneurship.
Differential inflammatory responses associated with Leishmania major and L tropica in culture
Authors: Darzi Fatemeh , Davoudian Roshanak , Nateghi Rostami Mahmoud
Published: April 2021

Background

Anthroponotic cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL) due to Leishmania tropica and zoonotic CL (ZCL) due to L major have different clinical and epidemiological features.

Objectives

To determine whether pro‐inflammatory cytokines are involved in diverse pathogenicity of Leishmania species causing CL.

Patients/Methods

The capacity of L major/L tropica to modulate expression of IL‐1β, IL‐8 (CXCL8), IFN‐γ, TNF‐α and MCP‐1 (CCL2) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and monocyte‐derived macrophages (MDMs) was evaluated by real‐time RT‐PCR technique.

Results

PBMCs from both ZCL and ACL cases expressed significantly higher IFN‐γ (P < .001) and TNF‐α (P < .05) compared with healthy controls (HC). PBMCs from ACL patients expressed significantly higher IL‐1β and IL‐8 compared with ZCL patients and HC when stimulated with live L major or L tropica promastigotes (P < .001). After 4 and 10 hours, L major‐infected MDMs expressed significantly higher IFN‐γ (P < .05), and after 10 hours, L tropica‐infected MDMs expressed significantly higher IL‐1β, IFN‐γ and IL‐8 compared with noninfected cells (P < .05).

Conclusions

This study shows differential parasite‐mediated stimulations of the inflammatory response with L major vs L tropica ex vivo. Pro‐inflammatory cytokines particularly IL‐8 (CXCL8) and IL‐1β might contribute in diverse clinical features of CL such as longer duration of lesion persistence in ACL patients.
Assessing the positional accuracy of perceptual landscape data: A study from Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy
Authors: Bressan Giorgia
Published: April 2021

Online GIS‐based applications that combine mapping and public participation to collect citizens' voices on their surrounding environment are a way to collect original spatial data that do not already figure in authoritative data sets. However, these applications, relying on non‐expert users, might produce spatial data of insufficient quality for the purpose for which they are collected. This article presents an approach for assessing the positional accuracy of vague landscape features, using the results from a map‐based survey completed by a group of volunteers in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region of Italy. The spatial section of the survey, gathering both georeferenced data and textual information on the mapping activity, allows the assessment of whether there is a correspondence between the mapped features and the intended map locations. The findings reveal a greater accuracy among participants in completing the mapping activity relating to degraded sites than to those of beauty.
Divide and Conquer: Dividing Lines and Universality
Authors: Shelah Saharon
Published: April 2021

We discuss dividing lines (in model theory) and some test questions, mainly the universality spectrum. So there is much on conjectures, problems and old results, mainly of the author and also on some recent results.
Evaluation of the hemostatic capacity of methylene blue‐treated liquid (not frozen) plasma stored up 14 days at 2° to 6°C
Authors: Rapaille André , Lotens Anaïs , de Valensart Nicolas , Najdovski Tome , Green Laura
Published: April 2021

Background

Early plasma transfusion for management of bleeding, particularly trauma, is associated with better outcomes. Improving the availability/safety of plasma transfusion for patients is essential for transfusion services. The aim of this study is to evaluate the hemostatic capacity of methylene‐blue (MB) liquid (not frozen) plasma over time.

Materials and methods

Twenty whole blood‐derived plasma units collected from male donors were separated and processed within 18 h of collection. Individual plasmas were treated with MB and stored in liquid status at 2–6°C for 14 days. A range of coagulation assays, including thrombin generation, rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM), and Thrombodynamics were tested at different time‐points, together with bacterial growth.

Results

Apart from Factor (F)XII, other coagulation factors (fibrinogen, FV, FVIII, FXI) reduced significantly after MB treatment, with levels remaining stable except for FVIII afterward. By day 14, most clotting factors were >0.7 IU/ml, apart from FVIII. There was a disproportionate decrease in Protein S (PS) activity compared to free PS antigen and by day 14 its value was ~50%. There was no significant difference in maximum clot formation (ROTEM) and clot‐density (Thrombodynamics) over time. Endogenous thrombin potential (Thrombin‐Generation), clot‐size, and velocity index (Thrombodynamics) decreased significantly over time consistent with clotting factor reduction. There was no bacterial growth.

Conclusions

MB‐treated liquid plasma stored at 2‐6°C can be used for up to 14 days: the long shelf‐life, the liquid status, and the MB treatment will improve its availability for management of bleeding as well as providing a safe component from pathogens.
Reconstruction of the cranial cruciate ligament using a semitendinosus autograft in a lapine model
Authors: Wei Feng , Haut Donahue Tammy , Haut Roger C. , Porcel Sanchez Maria Dolores , Dejardin Loic M.
Published: April 2021

Objective

To clarify and improve a cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) deficient stifle stabilization technique using a semitendinosus tendon (ST) autograft fixed with an interference fit screw (IFS) in a closed‐joint trauma lapine osteoarthritis (OA) model.

Study Design

Experimental OA model.

Animals

Forty‐one Flemish Giant rabbits.

Methods

Following arthrotomy of traumatized lapine stifles, the ST insertion on the tibial plateau was exposed and the ST was transected near its origin. The graft was passed through tibial and femoral tunnels, manually tensioned and then secured in place with a custom IFS and periosteal sutures. Drawer was manually assessed during and immediately after surgery intraoperatively. Upon euthanasia, joint laxity was measured at 2, 10, or 22 weeks postoperatively and compared to that of the contralateral, intact stifles and stifles with a surgically transected CrCL.

Results

Minimal postoperative drawer was present in 34% of the rabbits and potentially correlated with meniscal injury and subsequent meniscectomy. CrCL reconstruction significantly reduced joint laxity to a level (3.6 ± 1.6 mm) similar to that (2.7 ± 0.8 mm) in contralateral intact stifles.

Conclusion

Surgical replacement of a traumatically injured CrCL using a ST autograft fixed with an IFS replicated a common human surgical technique and effectively restored joint stability in the short, medium, and long terms of the study.

Clinical Significance

The study provides researchers a useful, clinically relevant, post‐traumatic CrCL deficient rabbit model for the study of OA and investigations of interventions to mitigate or prevent long‐term joint degeneration.
Optimization With Discrete Variables via Recursive Quadratic Programming: Part II — Algorithm and Results
Authors: Cha J. C. , Wayne R. W.
Published: April 2021

A discrete recursive quadratic programming algorithm is developed for mixed discrete constrained nonlinear progrmming (MDCNP) problems. The symmetric rank one (SR1) Hessian update formula is used to generate second order information. Also, strategies, such as the watchdog technique (WT), the monotonicity analysis technique (MA), the contour analysis technique (CA) and the restoration strategy of feasibility have been considered. Heuristic aspects of handling discrete variables are treated via the concepts and convergence discussions of Part I. This paper summarizes the details of the algorithm and its implementation. Test results for 25 different problems are presented to allow evaluation of this approach and provide a basis for performance comparison. The results show that the suggested method is a promising one, efficient and robust for the MDCNP problem.
Mechanical Product General Scheme CAD Based on Expert System Technology
Authors: Jun Yu , Ji Zhou , Qun Wang
Published: April 2021

This paper expounds the requirements and capabilities of the application of expert system technology to mechanical product general scheme (MPGS) in CAD: systems, discusses the structure and the characteristicsof these systems, and studies the key technology in the procedure of system design.
Development of a Versatile Multiple Prehension, Compliance Controlled Robotic End-Effector
Authors: Tsach U. , Melamed R. , Garrison T. J.
Published: April 2021

The development of a versatile, multiple prehension, compliance control robotic end-effector is discussed. The mechanical hand utilizes three rubber fingers which bend when their internal pressure is elevated. The hand has a reduced number of degrees of freedom which simplifies its controller. The controller has been implemented on a personal computer. The maneuverability and kinematic capabilities of the developed hand are very promising.
Computer-Aided Design of the RSSR Function Generating Spatial Mechanism Using the Selective Precision Synthesis Method
Authors: Dhall S. R. , Kramer S. N.
Published: April 2021

Planar function generating mechanisms may be synthesized for a limited number of precision points by carrying out a kinematic inversion about the output link. However, this becomes quite difficult for spatial mechanisms. In this paper the general RSSR spatial function generating mechanism is synthesized using the Selective Precision Synthesis technique. In this computer-aided design method, nonlinear constraint equations relating the generated and desired rotations of the output crank are formulated. These constraints which define accuracy neighborhoods around each of the “n” prescribed output crank rotations, are then solved using the Generalized Reduced Gradient Method of optimization. The mathematical formulation, the general procedure of synthesis and numerical examples are presented in this paper.
Detection of Isomorphism Between Planar Kinematic Chains
Authors: Patel L. K. , Rao A. C.
Published: April 2021

Structural analysis and synthesis of linkages is a very important aspect. Detection of isomorphism (equivalent structural topology) is essential to determine structurally distinct chains. Some methods to detect distinct chains and mechanisms have already been developed. These methods besides being falliable, require enormous computational effort and as such necessitate development of an easy and efficient method. This paper presents a new method based on graph theory, for detection of isomorphism among kinematic chains. A probability scheme is attached with the chains and relative loop positions are determined for the chains having identical probability schemes. Isomorphism is detected between planar kinematic chains having single degree of freedom.
Synthesis of 4-Bar Straight-Line Mechanisms by Moving Direction
Authors: Peifang Wu
Published: April 2021

An analytical formula is deduced concering the direction of movement of coupler point versus the fixed link and moving point on the poleray versus poletangent using infinitesmal Burmester theory. Thus, a new method of synthesis for 4-bar straight-line mechanisms is advanced out of practical necessity. Through this design method, the author finds shortcomings with classioal Chehyshev mechanisms; and a new proportion of dimensions for 4-bar straight-line meohanisms is put forwards.
On the Displacement Analysis of Open-Loop Systems by the Direction Cosine Matrix Method
Authors: Youm Y. , Yih T.
Published: April 2021

In this paper, displacement analysis of a general spatial open-loop system and a computer algorithm for the workspace of the system are developed by applying the direction cosine matrix method. In using this method, one global coordinate system and two joint local coordinate systems must be predefined in order to formulate the direction cosine transformation matrices of the unit vectors of each joint axis and link vector. The 3 × 3 direction cosine transformation matrices for each joint axis and link vector are established based on the known geometric configurations, the preceding unit vectors, and the cofactor property of the direction cosine matrix. The use of cofactor property will provide a unique solution for the transformation matrix. A computer algorithm is developed to illustrate the workspace of spatial n-R open-loop systems projected onto the coordinate X-Y, Y-Z, and X-Z planes. Numerical examples are demonstrated for an industrial robot, an application to human upper extremity, and a hypothetical 9-link open-loop system.
Dynamic Modeling of a Multi-Legged Robotic Vehicle: Part 2 — Dynamic Analysis
Authors: Hart R. A. , Ebrahimi N. D.
Published: April 2021

In Part 1 of this report, we described the overall objective of the investigation; that is, the formulation of a dynamic model for determining the time response of a multi-legged robotic vehicle traveling on a variable-topographic terrain. Specifically, we developed expressions for the joint variables, and their rates, which are essential for describing the system’s links orientations, velocities, and accelerations. This procedure enabled us to determine the kinematic quantities associated with the entire vehicular system in accordance with the Newton-Euler method. In the present paper, we formulate the kinetic equations for the multi-degree-of-freedom leg assemblies, the rigid wheels, and the platform of the vehicle to achieve the prescribed motion and corresponding configuration of the system.
System Independent Product Models in Computer Aided Elastomeric Compact Seal Design
Authors: Johannesson H. L.
Published: April 2021

In this work the problem of designing a CAD-system independent product model data base, to be used in computer aided elastomeric seal design, is treated. It is shown how a general purpose turn-key CAD-system can be used together with an external product model data base and external calculation programs. The importance of storing product information in a CAD-system independent data base instead of on drawings in one particular CAD-system is pointed out. This is of special interest from long time storage point of view, as product related information is expected to live longer in a manufacturing company than one particular CAD-system.

In order to be able to transmit data between the CAD-system and the external product model data base, and between the data base and the external calculation programs, special interfaces must be designed. Here it is demonstrated how such interface programs can be designed using FORTRAN 77 and a particular graphic application program language available in the CAD-system CDM 300. For the creation of the data base and for the data storage and data retrieval, the data base management system TORNADO is used.

Finally the simultaneous use of the CAD-system, the external data base and the calculation program, when designing an elastomeric seal cross section, is demonstrated with a test example.
Nonlinear Integer and Discrete Programming in Mechanical Design
Authors: Sandgren E.
Published: April 2021

A general purpose algorithm for the solution of nonlinear mathematical programming problems containing integer, discrete, zero-one and continuous design variables is described. The algorithm implements a branch and bound procedure in conjunction with both an exterior penalty function and a quadratic programming method. Variable bounds are handled independently from the design constraints which removes the necessity to reformulate the problem at each branching node. Examples are presented to demonstrate the utility of the algorithm for solving design problems. The use of zero-one variables to represent design decisions in order to allow conceptual level design to be performed is demonstrated.
A RQP Based Method for Estimating Parameter Sensitivity Derivatives
Authors: Beltracchi T. J. , Gabriele G. A.
Published: April 2021

Parameter sensitivity analysis is defined as the estimation of changes in the modeling functions and design point due to small changes in the fixed parameters of the formulation. There are currently several methods for estimating parameter sensitivities which either require difficult to obtain second order information, or do not return reliable estimates for the derivatives. This paper presents a new method, based on the use of the recursive quadratic programming method in conjunction with differencing formulas to estimate the parameter sensitivities without the need to calculate second order information. The method is compared to existing methods and is shown to be very competitive in terms of the number of function evaluations required. In terms of accuracy, the method is shown to be equivalent to a modified version of the Kuhn-Tucker method, where the Hessian of the Lagrangian is estimated using the BFS method employed by the RQP algorithm. Initial testing on a test set of known characteristics demonstrates that the method can accurately calculate parameter sensitivities.
Observations on Extrapolations Using Parameter Sensitivity Derivatives
Authors: Beltracchi T. J. , Gabriele G. A.
Published: April 2021

Parameter sensitivity analysis refers to the estimation of changes in the modeling functions and current design point due to small changes in the fixed parameters of the formulation. Several methods exist for estimating these derivatives without performing a reoptimization at the desired values of the parameters. These methods generally assume that the current active set of constraints do not change. When this is not the case, then significant errors in any extrapolations based on the derivatives can occur near the values of the parameters that produce the change in the active set.

This paper will discuss how extrapolations based on sensitivity derivatives are effected by changes in the active set. We identify four different cases of active set changes : a constraint leaving the active set, a constraint entering the active set, an active set change that results in a linear dependency in the constraint gradients, and a change that eliminates the feasible region. We will discuss each of these cases separately, and show that the sources of error in the extrapolations are due primarily to discontinuties in the sensitivity derivatives. We present some examples showing these discontinuities, and describe an algorithm to deal with the first three cases of active set changes.
Optimization Modelling and Optimal Layouts of Heterogeneous, Thick-Walled Chilled Cast-Iron Rollers
Authors: Eschenauer H. A. , Bremicker M.
Published: April 2021

The design and material selection of chilled-cast-iron rollers depend on their field of application. In special applications, they are subjected to permanent changes of temperature with certain temperature distributions. Whereas unalloyed roller materials are relatively temperature resistant, this characteristic does not follow for highly alloyed, wear resistant roller materials. In the case of temperature loadings it must be attempted to reduce the thermal stresses at the critical points of the roller.

This paper gives a survey of the optimization modelling whose goal it is to minimize weight and stresses simultaneously as well as to fulfil the numerous constraints. Some of the optimal layouts will be presented as results of the solution of a multicriterion design optimization problem.