bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unpacking the “O” in VRIO: The role of workflow interdependence in the loss and replacement of strategic human capital
Authors: Kim Jongsoo , Makadok Richard
Published: November 2021

Research Summary: An underresearched and undertheorized factor in the resource‐based view's VRIO acronym is the “O”: organizational deployment. Exploiting a rule change that exogenously shifted the workflow interdependence of NBA basketball teams, we examine how the benefit provided by a resource depends upon the way it is deployed in an organization's workflow. We also examine how workflow interdependence influences the relative effectiveness of two capabilities for obtaining resources—external acquisition versus internal development. We find that losing star players is more damaging under conditions of greater pooled interdependence and that external acquisition capabilities are more effective for mitigating this damage. Conversely, we find that losing non‐star players is more damaging under conditions of greater reciprocal interdependence and that internal development capabilities are more effective for mitigating this damage.

Managerial Summary: Different organizations arrange their workflows in different ways. Some organizations use more individual‐focused workflows, where the performance of each employee is relatively independent of the performance of coworkers, while others use more team‐focused workflows, where the performance of each employee depends critically on the performance of coworkers. Does an organization's way of arranging its workflow affect the amount of damage done when a key employee quits? Does the answer depend upon whether the departing employee is a star performer? Does it depend upon the organization's capability for recruiting high‐potential replacements from other organizations, or its capability for improving the performance of its existing employees? By analyzing data from NBA basketball teams, we find that the loss of a star player is more damaging when teams use a more individual‐focused workflow, but that capability for recruiting high‐potential players mitigates this damage. Conversely, we also find that the loss of a non‑star player is more damaging when teams use a more team‐focused workflow, but that capability for improving performance of a team's existing players mitigates this damage. So, our results suggest that organizations should develop capabilities that fit their workflow and their relative risk of losing star employees versus non‑stars.
Spatial Separation of Photogenerated Charges on Well‐Defined Bismuth Vanadate Square Nanocrystals
Authors: Deng Yuting , Zhou Hongpeng , Zhao Yue , Yang Bin , Shi Ming , Tao Xiaoping , Yang Songqiu , Li Rengui , Li Can
Published: November 2021

Crystal facet engineering has been recognized as a powerful strategy to finely modulate the charge separation behavior in semiconductor photocatalysis; however, disclosing the intrinsic roles that the morphologies and crystal facets play on photogenerated charge separation of semiconductor nanocrystals remains elusive. Herein, exemplified on the typical visible‐light‐responsive photocatalyst bismuth vanadate (BiVO4), for the first time, the successful fabrication is reported of well‐defined BiVO4square nanocrystals with precisely controllable (040)/(200) facet proportion, which undergo a dissolution‐recrystallization‐facet growth process accompanied with tetragonal to monoclinic phase transition. Spatial separation of photogenerated electrons and holes has been evidently demonstrated to take place between (040) and (200) facets of BiVO4nanocrystals, on which the charge separation efficiency is verified to definitely depend on the facet proportion of (040)/(200). Further theoretical simulation reveals that the matching degree of charge collection length and crystal configuration is considered to be the major factor determining charge separation efficiency of BiVO4nanocrystals. This study presents a strategy to fabricate morphology‐tailored semiconductors, which will be favorable to advance the understanding of spatial charge separation in semiconductor photocatalysis.
Engineering Multidefects on CexSi1−xO2−δ Nanocomposites for the Catalytic Ozonation Reaction
Authors: Esmailpour Ali Asghar , Horlyck Jonathan , Kumar Priyank , Tsounis Constantine , Yun Jimmy , Amal Rose , Scott Jason
Published: November 2021

Herein, it is shown that by engineering defects on CexSi1−xO2−δ nanocomposites synthesized via flame spray pyrolysis, oxygen vacancies can be created with an increased density of trapped electrons, enhancing the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROSs) and hydroxyl radicals in an ozone‐filled environment. Spectroscopic analysis and density functional theory calculations indicate that two‐electron oxygen vacancies (OV0) or peroxide species, and their degree of clustering, play a critical role in forming reactive radicals. It is also found that a higher Si content in the binary oxide imposes a high OV0 ratio and, consequently, higher catalytic activity. Si inclusion in the nanocomposite appears to stabilize the surface oxygen vacancies as well as increase the reactive electron density at these sites. A mechanistic study on effective ROSs generated during catalytic ozonation reveals that the hydroxyl radical is the most effective ROS for organic degradation and is formed primarily through H2O2 generation in the presence of the OV0. Examining the binary oxides offers insights on the contribution of oxygen vacancies and their state of charge to catalytic reactions, in this instance for the catalytic ozonation of organic compounds.
Co‐Assembly of Biosynthetic Chiral Nematic Adhesive Materials with Dynamic Polarized Luminescence
Authors: Kim Minkyu , Lee Hansol , Snipes Randall T. , Han Moon Jong , Tsukruk Vladimir V.
Published: November 2021

There is currently an extensive demand for simple and effective synthetic methods to allow the design and fabrication of robust and flexible chiral materials that can generate strong and switchable circularly polarized luminescence (CPL). Herein, biosynthetic light‐emitting adhesive materials based upon chiral nematic cellulose nanocrystal–polyelectrolyte complexes with universal high adhesion on both hydrophilic and hydrophobic substrates are reported. Strong and dynamic photoluminescence with highly asymmetric and switchable circular polarization is induced by minute rare earth europium doping without compromising adhesive strength and initial iridescent properties. The photoluminescence can be temporarily quenched with highly volatile acetone vapor and liquid followed by fast recovery after drying with full restoration of initial emission. The unique properties of light‐emitting bio‐adhesives with universal adhesion, amplified and dynamic photoluminescence, and large and switchable CPL can be utilized for security optical coding, bio‐optical memory, hidden communication, and biochemical sensing as wearable stickers, prints, and tattoos to directly adhere to human clothes, gadgets, and skin by using adhesive stickers with bright tailored photoluminescence.
Eingerastert: das dritte Leben der Schule Auen in Frauenfeld – Sanierung und Erweiterung eines Schulensembles aus den 1960er‐Jahren
Authors: Wehrle Manuel , Pauli Jacqueline , Fiebrandt Katja
Published: November 2021

Die Sanierung und Erweiterung der Schulanlage Auen in Frauenfeld, einem exemplarischen Werk der Solothurner Schule der Architekten Barth und Zaugg aus den 1960er‐Jahren und im Hinweisinventar der Denkmalpflege des Kantons Thurgau als „bemerkenswert nach 1959“ geführt, bestärkt das vorgefundene Ensemble und macht dessen ursprüngliche Idee wieder spürbar. Entlang der Mittelachse der Anlage sitzen zwischen den bestehenden Gebäuden drei pavillonartige Neubauten. Diese „dritte Spur“ führt zu einer Verdichtung, in der die ursprüngliche Komposition des Ensembles erhalten bleibt und gleichzeitig gestärkt wird. Die Architektur der Neubauten – Pavillon, Pausendach und Velodach – nimmt die strukturelle Logik der Bestandsgebäude auf. Als offene, in den Freiraum gestellte Pavillons in Stahl treten diese allerdings nicht körperlich, sondern primär als von Stützen getragene Dächer in Erscheinung. Auch um die Verwandtschaft der beiden Neubauten zu betonen, liegt das Stahltragwerk beider Pavillons jeweils außen. Konsequenterweise sind die Stahlstützen aus den Ecken geschoben und machen bei aller Verwandtschaft den gegenüber dem Bestand differenzierten Charakter der Neubauten ablesbar.
Molecular Self‐Assembly as a Tool to Construct Transmembrane Supramolecular Ion Channels
Authors: Malla Javid Ahmad , Ahmad Manzoor , Talukdar Pinaki
Published: November 2021

Self‐assembly has become a powerful tool for building various supramolecular architectures with applications in material science, environmental science, and chemical biology. One such area is the development of artificial transmembrane ion channels that mimic naturally occurring channel‐forming proteins to unveil various structural and functional aspects of these complex biological systems, hoping to replace the defective protein channels with these synthetically accessible moieties. This account describes our recent approaches to construct supramolecular ion channels using synthetic molecules and their applications in medicinal chemistry.
Control in Life
Authors: Kremer Monique , Went Robert , Engbersen Godfried
Published: November 2021

This chapter focuses on part-time work as well as other ingredients necessary to improve control in life including paid leave, good childcare, care for the elderly and workers’ ability to determine their own working hours. How are new technogies, flexible contracts and the intensification of work affecting people’s own control in life?
Better Work: Conclusions and Recommendations
Authors: Kremer Monique , Went Robert , Engbersen Godfried
Published: November 2021

Good work is crucial for our well-being but is under pressure from the application of new technologies, the use of flexible employment contracts and the intensification of work. In this book we have argued that achieving better work – good work for everyone who can and wants to work – is a crucial mission for policymakers, employers and labour organizations. In this final chapter we advance recommendations for how the government and other stakeholders can promote better work for more people.
Introduction
Authors: Hadler Markus , Klösch Beate , Schwarzinger Stephan , Schweighart Markus , Wardana Rebecca , Bird David Neil
Published: November 2021

This introduction offers an overview of our research approach, discusses the connection between sociology and climate research, and presents our two research aims. In substantive terms, we address the question of which behaviors are of climate relevance, who is engaging in these behaviors, in which contexts do these behaviors occur, and which individual perceptions and values are related to them. In terms of research methods, we focus on the measurement of climate-relevant behaviors using population surveys. Our goal in this regard is to develop an instrument that allows a valid estimate of an individual’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions with as few questions as possible.
Introduction
Authors: Kinzelbach Wolfgang , Wang Haijing , Li Yu , Wang Lu , Li Ning
Published: November 2021

The depletion of aquifers by excessive pumping is one of the prominent global sustainability issues in the field of water resources. It is mainly caused by the water needs of irrigated agriculture. The North China Plain is a global hotspot of groundwater overexploitation.
Cropping Choices and Farmers’ Options
Authors: Kinzelbach Wolfgang , Wang Haijing , Li Yu , Wang Lu , Li Ning
Published: November 2021

Irrigation being the main cause of aquifer depletion, agriculture is the first candidate to contribute to its solution. Options of agricultural planting structure in Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region are analyzed using various planting scenarios.
Agglomeration, Institution, and Social Capital: Main Concepts and Methodologies
Authors: Azis Iwan J.
Published: November 2021

The concepts and methodologies used to develop the survey questionnaires are discussed here. The dualism and inequality are not merely the results of policies but also the consequence of agglomeration forces and the interplay of policies and prevailing institution. On the other hand, potential benefits of the same forces could provide incentives for MSMEs to operate in clusters for collective action, the effectiveness of which depends crucially on the interplay of policies and social capital.
Mitigating Dualism and Exploiting the Interplay of Policy-Social Capital
Authors: Azis Iwan J.
Published: November 2021

The centripetal forces of agglomeration, reflected among others in the structure of the economy and the nature of interrelations among regions (interregional multipliers), limit the effectiveness of spatial policies. Meanwhile, the importance of social capital is revealed from the MSE survey. Social planners could improve the design of policies by understanding the perceptions and aspirations of MSEs to make any measures more compatible with the prevailing social capital.
Case-Based Evidence and Local Custom
Authors: Azis Iwan J.
Published: November 2021

How do institutional arrangements and social capital work, and do cases on the ground corroborate what has been conceptualized? Some case-based evidence of MSMEs in different regions provide clues to that question. The role of trust and local solution to achieve a particular goal, including fostering environmental-friendly activities, is highlighted. The evidence also helps permeate the practical and moral thinking of the issues related to MSME operations influenced by local customs and customary laws.
Summary
Authors: Azis Iwan J.
Published: November 2021

Counterbalancing the endogenous forces of agglomeration by addressing any institutional bottlenecks, and incorporating a set of design principles to ensure that any proposed policies are compatible with the prevailing institutions are key to resolving dualism and inequalities. In many cases, they are more important than finding the right policies. Alas, reforming policies is far more difficult than reforming institution. Be that as it may, listening and understanding the perceptions of local people and MSME is a necessary starting point.
Component actions of liberated $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 1 supergravity and new Fayet-Iliopoulos terms in superconformal tensor calculus
Authors: Jang Hun , Porrati Massimo
Published: November 2021

Abstract

We explicitly compute the component action of certain recently discovered new $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 supergravity actions which enlarge the space of scalar potentials allowed by supersymmetry and also contain fermionic interaction terms that become singular when supersymmetry is unbroken. They are the “Liberated Supergravity” introduced by Farakos, Kehagias and Riotto, and supergravities with a new Kähler-invariant Fayet-Iliopoulos term proposed by Antoniadis, Chatrabhuti, Isono, and Knoops. This paper is complementary to our previous papers [Phys. Rev. D103 (2021) 025008 and 105006], in which new constraints on the coupling constants of those new theories were found. In this paper we spell out many details that were left out of our previous papers.
Constant-rate inflation: primordial black holes from conformal weight transitions
Authors: Ng Kin-Wang , Wu Yi-Peng
Published: November 2021

Abstract

Constant-rate inflation, including ultra-slow-roll inflation as a special case, has been widely applied to the formation of primordial black holes with a significant deviation from the standard slow-roll conditions at both the growing and decaying phases of the power spectrum. We derive analytic solutions for the curvature perturbations with respect to the late-time scaling dimensions (conformal weights) constrained by the dilatation symmetry of the de Sitter background and show that the continuity of conformal weights across different rolling phases is protected by the adiabatic condition of the inflaton perturbation. The temporal excitation of subleading states (with the next-to-lowest conformal weights), recorded as the “steepest growth” of the power spectrum, is triggered by the entropy production in the transition from the slow-roll to the constant-rate phases.
On the quantisation and anomalies of antisymmetric tensor-spinors
Authors: Lekeu Victor , Zhang Yi
Published: November 2021

Abstract

We perform the quantisation of antisymmetric tensor-spinors (fermionic p-forms) $$ {\psi}_{\mu_1\dots {\mu}_p}^{\alpha } $$

ψ

μ
1

…

μ
p

α

using the Batalin-Vilkovisky field-antifield formalism. Just as for the gravitino (p = 1), an extra propagating Nielsen-Kallosh ghost appears in quadratic gauges containing a differential operator. The appearance of this ‘third ghost’ is described within the BV formalism for arbitrary reducible gauge theories. We then use the resulting spectrum of ghosts and the Atiyah-Singer index theorem to compute gravitational anomalies.
On the Enumeration of the Set of Numerical Semigroups with Fixed Frobenius Number and Fixed Number of Second Kind Gaps
Authors: Robles-Pérez Aureliano M. , Rosales José Carlos
Published: November 2021

We study how certain invariants of numerical semigroups relate to the number of second kind gaps. Furthermore, given two fixed non-negative integers F and k, we provide an algorithm to compute all the numerical semigroups whose Frobenius number is F and which have exactly k second kind gaps.
Metagenomics Analysis to Investigate the Microbial Communities and Their Functional Profile During Cyanobacterial Blooms in Lake Varese
Authors: Sanseverino Isabella , Pretto Patrizia , António Diana Conduto , Lahm Armin , Facca Chiara , Loos Robert , Skejo Helle , Beghi Andrea , Pandolfi Franca , Genoni Pietro , Lettieri Teresa
Published: November 2021

Toxic cyanobacterial blooms represent a natural phenomenon caused by a mass proliferation of photosynthetic prokaryotic microorganisms in water environments. Bloom events have been increasingly reported worldwide and their occurrence can pose serious threats to aquatic organisms and human health. In this study, we assessed the microbial composition, with a focus on Cyanobacteria, in Lake Varese, a eutrophic lake located in northern Italy. Water samples were collected and used for obtaining a 16S-based taxonomic profile and performing a shotgun sequencing analysis. The phyla found to exhibit the greatest relative abundance in the lake included Proteobacteria, Cyanobacteria, Actinobacteriota and Bacteroidota. In the epilimnion and at 2.5 × Secchi depth, Cyanobacteria were found to be more abundant compared to the low levels detected at greater depths. The blooms appear to be dominated mainly by the species Lyngbya robusta, and a specific functional profile was identified, suggesting that distinct metabolic processes characterized the bacterial population along the water column. Finally, analysis of the shotgun data also indicated the presence of a large and diverse phage population.
Interventions for the Prevention of Retained Surgical Items: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sirihorachai Rattima , Saylor Kate M. , Manojlovich Milisa
Published: November 2021

Background

Retained surgical items (RSI) are preventable error events. Interest in reducing RSI is increasing globally because of increasing demand for safe surgery. While research of interventions to prevent RSI have been reported, no rigorous analysis of the type and effectiveness of interventions exists. This systematic review examines (1) what types of intervention have been implemented to prevent RSI; and (2) what is the effectiveness of those interventions.

Methods

We performed a systematic review of PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Scopus, ClinicalTrials.gov, Mednar, and OpenGrey databases. Two reviewers independently screened a total of 1,792 titles and abstracts, and reviewed 87 full‐text articles, resulting in 17 articles in the final analysis. Study characteristics included qualitative and quantitative studies that examined the effectiveness of RSI prevention interventions for adult patients who undergo open surgery. The primary outcome was RSI and related error events.

Results

Four studies and 13 quality improvement projects described RSI interventions categorized into four groups: (1) technology‐based, (2) communication‐based, (3) practice‐ or guideline‐based, (4) interventions that fell into more than one category. Following guidance in the Quality Improvement minimum quality criteria set, the quality of all studies ranged from poor to fair. Heterogeneity in the interventions used and variable study quality limit our confidence in the interventions’ ability to reduce RSI.

Conclusion

Since technology‐based interventions may not be financially feasible in low and middle‐income countries (LMIC), in those settings interventions that target the social system may be more appropriate. Rigorous methods to investigate local contexts and build knowledge are needed so that interventions to prevent RSI have a greater likelihood of success.
Imaging evaluation of uterine arteries in potential living donors for uterus transplantation: a comparative study of MRA, CTA, and DSA
Authors: Leonhardt Henrik , Thilander-Klang Anne , Båth John , Johannesson Marit , Kvarnström Niclas , Dahm-Kähler Pernilla , Brännström Mats
Published: November 2021

Objective

To evaluate uterine arteries (UA) of potential living donors for uterus transplantation (UTx) by comparison of CT angiography (CTA), digital subtraction angiography (DSA), and MR angiography (MRA) with care taken to minimize radiation doses.

Methods

Prospective donors for a clinical UTx trial were included. CTA, DSA, and MRA measurements in three predefined segments of the UAs were evaluated. Radiation doses were estimated and 1-year graft survival was recorded.

Results

Twelve potential donors (age 37–62 years) were investigated. There was no difference in visualized average UA lumen diameter when comparing CTA (mean 2.0 mm, SD 0.4), DSA (mean 2.1 mm, SD 0.6), and MRA (mean 2.0 mm, SD 0.3). MRA was not able to fully evaluate 10 (43%) out of 23 UA that proved to be patent on DSA. One UA was not identified by any of the modalities, and three MRA-absent UAs were identified by both CTA and DSA. The estimated mean effective dose was lower for DSA (5.1 mSv, SD 2.8) than CTA (7.1 mSv, SD 2.0), but not significantly (p value = 0.06). Three potential donors were excluded due to UA pathology and one due to adenomyosis. Eight donors underwent hysterectomy, with 1-year graft survival in six women.

Conclusion

MRI including MRA should be the initial modality to examine potential UTx donors to acquire valuable details of uterine anatomy, and if UAs are fully visualized, there is no need for further angiographic methods with radiation. If UAs are not visualized by MRA, CTA may be performed and in selective cases with addition of the invasive modality DSA.

Key Points

• For uterine transplantation, pelvic MRI with MRA provides information of the uterine structure and of the diameters of uterine arteries in living donors.

• Failure of MRA to demonstrate uterine arteries could be followed by CTA which will visualize the uterine arteries in a majority of cases. If MRA and additional CTA provide inconclusive results, the uterine arteries should be further evaluated by DSA.

• Information of CTA can be used in the angio-system for DSA settings to minimize the radiation and contrast media doses.
Ephemeral hypoxia reduces oxygen consumption in the Caribbean coral Orbicella faveolata
Authors: Gravinese Philip M. , Douwes Alex , Eaton Katherine R. , Muller Erinn M.
Published: November 2021

Oxygen concentrations in coastal waters have declined globally by 10% since the mid-twentieth century, and ocean warming will further reduce the solubility of oxygen in coastal habitats. Some nearshore reefs experience periodic hypoxic conditions due to eutrophication, especially during the wet season. Here, we determined the combined impacts of hypoxia and elevated temperature on the reef-building coral,Orbicella faveolata, by exposing corals to normoxic or hypoxic conditions and ambient or elevated temperatures. Oxygen consumption was monitored using closed-system respirometry. Corals within hypoxic conditions consumed 34% less oxygen relative to corals in normoxic conditions. Corals in the elevated temperature normoxic treatment experienced a 10% increase in oxygen consumption relative to the control. Corals exposed to both stressors simultaneously experienced a 62% reduction in oxygen consumption. These results suggest that increased temperature may exacerbate the negative effects of hypoxia onO.faveolata.
Super-mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy (SMP) vs retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) in the management of renal calculi ≤ 2 cm: a propensity matched study
Authors: Pillai Sunil Bhaskara , Chawla Arun , de la Rosette Jean , Laguna Pilar , Guddeti Rajsekhar , Reddy Suraj Jayadeva , Sabnis Ravindra , Ganpule Arvind , Desai Mahesh , Parikh Aditya
Published: November 2021

Objective

To compare the effectiveness and safety of Super-Mini PCNL (SMP) and Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS) in the management of renal calculi ≤ 2 cm.

Patients and methods

A prospective, inter-institutional, observational study of patients presenting with renal calculi ≤ 2 cm. Patients underwent either SMP (Group 1) or RIRS (Group 2) and were performed by 2 experienced high-volume surgeons.

Results

Between September 2018 and April 2019, 593 patients underwent PCNL and 239 patients had RIRS in two tertiary centers. Among them, 149 patients were included for the final analysis after propensity-score matching out of which 75 patients underwent SMP in one center and 74 patients underwent RIRS in the other. The stone-free rate (SFR) was statistically significantly higher in Group 1 on POD-1 (98.66% vs. 89.19%;p = 0.015), and was still higher in Group 1 on POD-30 (98.66% vs. 93.24%,p = 0.092) SFR on both POD-1 and POD-30 for lower pole calculi was higher in Group 1 (100 vs. 82.61%,p = 0.047 and 100 vs 92.61%p = 0.171). The mean (SD) operative time was significantly shorter in Group 1 at 36.43 min (14.07) vs 51.15 (17.95) mins (p < 0.0001). The mean hemoglobin drop was significantly less in Group 1 (0.31 vs 0.53 gm%;p = 0.020). There were more Clavien–Dindo complications in Group 2 (p = 0.021). The mean VAS pain score was significantly less in Group 2 at 6 and 12 h postoperatively (2.52 vs 3.67, 1.85 vs 2.40, respectively:p < 0.0001), whereas the mean VAS pain score was significantly less in Group 1 at 24 h postoperatively (0.31 vs 1.01,p < 0.0001). The mean hospital stay was significantly shorter in Group 1 (28.37 vs 45.70 h;p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

SMP has significantly lower operative times, complication rates, shorter hospital stay, with higher stone-free rates compared to RIRS. SMP is associated with more early post-operative pain though.
Exocytotic vesicle fusion classification for early disease diagnosis using a mobile GPU microsystem
Authors: Szczęsny Szymon , Pietrzak Paweł
Published: November 2021

This work addresses monitoring vesicle fusions occurring during the exocytosis process, which is the main way of intercellular communication. Certain vesicle behaviors may also indicate certain precancerous conditions in cells. For this purpose we designed a system able to detect two main types of exocytosis: a full fusion and a kiss-and-run fusion, based on data from multiple amperometric sensors at once. It uses many instances of small perceptron neural networks in a massively parallel manner and runs on Jetson TX2 platform, which uses a GPU for parallel processing. Based on performed benchmarking, approximately 140,000 sensors can be processed in real time within the sensor sampling period equal to 10 ms and an accuracy of 99$$\%$$
%
. The work includes an analysis of the system performance with varying neural network sizes, input data sizes, and sampling periods of fusion signals.
Prognostic factors for acute ischemic stroke in patients undergoing hemodialysis
Authors: Sato Koji , Konta Yusuke , Furuta Kyohei , Kamizato Kenyu , Furukawa Akiko , Ono Akiyuki , Ogawa Ryo , Sato Ryosuke , Endo Kaoru , Yamamoto Tae
Published: November 2021

Background

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is a critical complication in patients undergoing dialysis. Although the improvement of AIS management is an urgent requirement, few studies have evaluated the prognostic factors of AIS in these patients. This study aimed to assess the relationship between clinical factors in patients undergoing dialysis and the prognosis of AIS.

Methods

Among 1267 patients who were hospitalized for AIS in Sendai City Hospital from January 2015 to June 2020, 81 patients undergoing hemodialysis were retrospectively enrolled. Multivariate analysis was performed to evaluate the effect of baseline characteristics, dialysis factors, and neurological severity of patients at admission [National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score] on in-hospital mortality, physical disability, and the need for rehabilitation transfer.

Results

A higher NIHSS score was a critical risk factor for each outcome and the only significant factor for in-hospital mortality [odds ratio (OR)/point 1.156, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.054–1.267]. The risk factors of physical disability were NIHSS score (OR/point 1.458, 95% CI 1.064–1.998), older age (OR/year 1.141, 95% CI 1.022–1.274), diabetic nephropathy (OR 7.096, 95% CI 1.066–47.218), and higher premorbid modified Rankin scale (mRS) score (OR/grade 2.144, 95% CI 1.155–3.978); while those of rehabilitation transfer were a higher NIHSS score (OR/point 1.253, 95% CI 1.080–1.455), dialysis vintage (OR/year 1.175, 95% CI 1.024–1.349), and intradialytic hypotension before onset (OR 5.430, 95% CI 1.320–22.338).

Conclusions

Along with neurological severity, dialysis vintage, intradialytic hypotension, and diabetic nephropathy could worsen the prognosis of patients with AIS undergoing hemodialysis.
Introducing LASSO-type penalisation to generalised joint regression modelling for count data
Authors: van der Wurp Hendrik , Groll Andreas
Published: November 2021

In this work, we propose an extension of the versatile joint regression framework for bivariate count responses of the package by Marra and Radice (R package version 0.2-3, 2020) by incorporating an (adaptive) LASSO-type penalty. The underlying estimation algorithm is based on a quadratic approximation of the penalty. The method enables variable selection and the corresponding estimates guarantee shrinkage and sparsity. Hence, this approach is particularly useful in high-dimensional count response settings. The proposal’s empirical performance is investigated in a simulation study and an application on FIFA World Cup football data.
Why Hungarians Have Sex (YSEX?-HSF)
Authors: Meskó Norbert , Szatmári Dóra , Láng András , Meston Cindy M. , Buss David M.
Published: November 2021

Using the same methodology as Meston and Buss (2007), three studies were conducted on a Hungarian sample (totalN = 4913) which corroborate previous findings on the universal diversity of sexual motivation. Study 1 (N = 2728; 1069 women and 1659 men) identified 197 reasons for having sex based on participants’ free responses. In Study 2 (N = 1161; 820 women and 341 men), participants indicated the extent to which each of the 197 reasons had led them to have sexual intercourse. Factor analyses yielded three factors and 24 subfactors. This differed from the original YSEX? four-factor questionnaire. In Study 3 (N = 1024; 578 women and 446 men), a reliable and valid 73-item short form version of the YSEX? questionnaire was developed in a Hungarian sample (YSEX?-HSF). In addition to similarities and differences in the factor structure, we found important links between reasons for having sex and age, gender, personality, and mating strategy. For example, number of reasons for having sex tended be higher in younger compared to older participants. Men exceeded women on having sex for novelty-seeking and infidelity opportunities, whereas women exceeded men on having sex for relationship commitment and mate retention. Extraversion and neuroticism were linked with reasons for having sex, and those who pursued a short-term mating strategy reported having sex for a larger variety of reasons.
Biodegradation of cellulose fibers functionalized with CuO/Cu2O nanoparticles in combination with polycarboxylic acids
Authors: Tomšič Brigita , Marković Darka , Janković Vukašin , Simončič Barbara , Nikodinovic-Runic Jasmina , Ilic-Tomic Tatjana , Radetić Maja
Published: November 2021

Sustainable biodegradation of cellulose fibers is critical for composting after the end of a product’s life. In this study, we aimed at investigating the effect of in situ synthesized CuO/Cu2O nanoparticles (NPs) with biocidal concentration on the biodegradation behavior of cotton fibers pretreated with 1,2,3,4-butanetetracarboxylic acid (BTCA) and succinic acid (SUC). Biodegradation of the fibers was evaluated by soil burial tests in garden soil and in model compost after different soil burial times. The results showed that the application of BTCA, SUC, and CuO/Cu2O NPs did not affect the hydrophilicity of the samples and allowed a smooth biodegradation process. The morphological and chemical changes during biodegradation, evaluated by FESEM and FTIR analyses, showed that the presence of CuO/Cu2O NPs slightly hindered biodegradation of the fibers after 18 days in soil. However, biodegradation was much faster in the model compost, where all samples, regardless of their chemical modification, almost completely degraded after only 11 days. Intense microbial growth on the surface of all samples after nine days of burial in garden soil and model compost was confirmed by the presence of proteins produced by the microorganisms. The total number of microorganisms in the garden soil remained almost unchanged and increased in the model compost after the burial test. The only exception was the sample with the highest concentration of CuO/Cu2O NPs, which caused a reduction in microbial growth but not complete growth inhibition. These results clearly showed that during material degradation, the cellulosic material supporting microbial growth prevailed over the suppression of microbial growth by CuO/Cu2O NPs.
Global patterns of disaster and climate risk—an analysis of the consistency of leading index-based assessments and their results
Authors: Garschagen Matthias , Doshi Deepal , Reith Jonathan , Hagenlocher Michael
Published: November 2021

Indices assessing country-level climate and disaster risk at the global scale have experienced a steep rise in popularity both in science and international climate policy. A number of widely cited products have been developed and published over the recent years, argued to contribute critical knowledge for prioritizing action and funding. However, it remains unclear how their results compare, and how consistent their findings are on country-level risk, exposure, vulnerability and lack of coping, as well as adaptive capacity. This paper analyses and compares the design, data, and results of four of the leading global climate and disaster risk indices: The World Risk Index, the INFORM Risk Index, ND-GAIN Index, and the Climate Risk Index. Our analysis clearly shows that there is considerable degree of cross-index variation regarding countries’ risk levels and comparative ranks. At the same time, there is above-average agreement for high-risk countries. In terms of risk sub-components, there is surprisingly little agreement in the results on hazard exposure, while strong inter-index correlations can be observed when ranking countries according to their socio-economic vulnerability and lack of coping as well as adaptive capacity. Vulnerability and capacity hotspots can hence be identified more robustly than risk and exposure hotspots. Our findings speak both to the potential as well as limitations of index-based approaches. They show that a solid understanding of index-based assessment tools, and their conceptual and methodological underpinnings, is necessary to navigate them properly and interpret as well as use their results in triangulation.
Molecular mechanisms of cancer metastasis via the lymphatic versus the blood vessels
Authors: Leong Stanley P. , Naxerova Kamila , Keller Laura , Pantel Klaus , Witte Marlys
Published: November 2021

Cancer metastasis is the process by which primary cancer cells invade through the lymphatic or blood vessels to distant sites. The molecular mechanisms by which cancer cells spread either through the lymphatic versus blood vessels or both are not well established. Two major developments have helped us to understand the process more clearly. First, the development of the sentinel lymph node (SLN) concept which is well established in melanoma and breast cancer. The SLN is the first lymph node in the draining nodal basin to receive cancer cells. Patients with a negative SLN biopsy show a significantly lower incidence of distant metastasis, suggesting that the SLN may be the major gateway for cancer metastasis in these cancer types. Second, the discovery and characterization of several biomarkers including VEGF-C, LYVE-1, Podoplanin and Prox-1 have opened new vistas in the understanding of the induction of lymphangiogenesis by cancer cells. Cancer cells must complete multiple steps to invade the lymphatic system, some of which may be enabled by the evolution of new traits during cancer progression. Thus, cancer cells may spread initially through the main gateway of the SLN, from which evolving cancer clones can invade the blood vessels to distant sites. Cancer cells may also enter the blood vessels directly, bypassing the SLN to establish distant metastases. Future studies need to pinpoint the molecules that are used by cancer cells at different stages of metastasis via different routes so that specific therapies can be targeted against these molecules, with the goal of stopping or preventing cancer metastasis.
Causes, prevention, and interventions regarding classroom disruptions in digital teaching: A systematic review
Authors: Meinokat Pierre , Wagner Ingo
Published: November 2021

Digitization and the Sars-CoV-2 pandemic are accelerating the use of digital tools in teaching. Therefore, this systematic literature review offers an overview of international studies with a particular focus on classroom disruptions and their causes, as well as on prevention and intervention strategies in digital settings. Selecting out of over 700 published articles from the last 20 years, the results show that, although the research on classroom management in general is numerous, the connection between digitization and classroom disruptions has received little attention so far. Studies of different methodological orientations have been conducted, but strongly teacher-focused. Also, there are conceptual inaccuracies leading to a variety of different findings and interpretations. Thus, this article provides a definition of the term digital teaching and critically discusses the classification of new findings, their emplacement in existing research, as well as their potential to expand existing models. Furthermore, the results summarize causes of disruptions in digital teaching, their possible prevention and intervention strategies.
The Overfishing Problem: Natural and Social Categories in Early Twentieth-Century Fisheries Science
Authors: Ferguson-Cradler Gregory
Published: November 2021

This article looks at how fisheries biologists of the early twentieth century conceptualized and measured overfishing and attempted to make it a scientific object. Considering both theorizing and physical practices, the essay shows that categories and understandings of both the fishing industry and fisheries science were deeply and, at times, inextricably interwoven. Fish were both scientific and economic objects. The various models fisheries science used to understand the world reflected amalgamations of biological, physical, economic, and political factors. As a result, scientists had great difficulty stabilizing the concept of overfishing and many influential scholars into the 1930s even doubted the coherence of the concept. In light of recent literature in history of fisheries and environmental social sciences that critiques the infiltration of political and economic imperatives into fisheries and environmental sciences more generally, this essay highlights both how early fisheries scientists understood their field of study as the entire combination of interactions between political, economic, biological and physical factors and the work that was necessary to separate them.
Analysis of IVF live birth outcomes with and without preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A): UK Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority data collection 2016–2018
Authors: Sanders Kathryn D. , Silvestri Giuseppe , Gordon Tony , Griffin Darren K.
Published: November 2021

Purpose

To examine the live birth and other outcomes reported with and without preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) in the United Kingdom (UK) Human Embryology and Fertilization Authority (HFEA) data collection.

Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis was conducted following freedom of information (FoI) requests to the HFEA for the PGT-A and non-PGT-A cycle outcomes for 2016–2018. Statistical analysis of differences between PGT-A and non-PGT-A cycles was performed. Other than grouping by maternal age, no further confounders were controlled for; fresh and frozen transfers were included.

Results

Outcomes collected between 2016 and 2018 included total number of cycles, cycles with no embryo transfer, total number of embryos transferred, live birth rate (LBR) per embryo transferred and live birth rate per treatment cycle. Data was available for 2464 PGT-A out of a total 190,010 cycles. LBR per embryo transferred and LBR per treatment cycle (including cycles with no transfer) were significantly higher for all PGT-A vs non-PGT-A age groups (including under 35), with nearly all single embryo transfers (SET) after PGT-A (significantly more in non-PGT-A) and a reduced number of transfers per live birth particularly for cycles with maternal age over 40 years.

Conclusion

The retrospective study provides strong evidence for the benefits of PGT-A in terms of live births per embryo transferred and per cycle started but is limited in terms of matching PGT-A and non-PGT-A cohorts (e.g. in future studies, other confounders could be controlled for). This data challenges the HFEA “red traffic light” guidance that states there is “no evidence that PGT-A is effective or safe” and hence suggests the statement be revisited in the light of this and other new data.
Reliability and Validity of Behavior Observation Coding Systems in Child Maltreatment Risk Evaluation: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zumbach Jelena , Oster Anna , Rademacher Annika , Koglin Ute
Published: November 2021

Performing child maltreatment risk assessments is a challenging task that calls for valid and reliable measures. In child protection proceedings, mental health professionals conduct maltreatment assessments that often form an important basis for judicial decision making. Because parent–child interaction is a key construct in maltreatment risk evaluations, observational assessment measures are crucial. This systematic review aims to identify observational coding systems of parent–child interaction that are applicable for psychological evaluations of the risk of child maltreatment. The goal is to examine the potential of observational coding systems to discriminate behavior of parents who have versus have not engaged in child maltreatment. A systematic literature search led to the inclusion of 13 studies published in the United States and Europe that were then analyzed in detail. Across the 13 studies, this review identified 11 unique observational coding systems. Results are summarized systematically for study characteristics and outcomes. Additionally, the main characteristics of the observational coding systems are identified and analyzed, including the age range of the child, observation tasks, measured constructs, and reliability. The discussion focuses on the strengths and weaknesses of the individual observational coding systems in the context of child maltreatment risk assessments.
Interferon-α2 Auto-antibodies in Convalescent Plasma Therapy for COVID-19
Authors: Raadsen Matthijs P. , Gharbharan Arvind , Jordans Carlijn C. E. , Mykytyn Anna Z. , Lamers Mart M. , van den Doel Petra B. , Endeman Henrik , van den Akker Johannes P. C. , GeurtsvanKessel Corine H. , Koopmans Marion P. G. , Rokx Casper , Goeijenbier Marco , van Gorp Eric C. M. , Rijnders Bart J. A. , Haagmans Bart L.
Published: November 2021

Purpose

To study the effect of interferon-α2 auto-antibodies (IFN-α2 Abs) on clinical and virological outcomes in critically ill COVID-19 patients and the risk of IFN-α2 Abs transfer during convalescent plasma treatment.

Methods

Sera from healthy controls, cases of COVID-19, and other respiratory illness were tested for IFN-α2 Abs by ELISA and a pseudo virus–based neutralization assay. The effects of disease severity, sex, and age on the risk of having neutralizing IFN-α2 Abs were determined. Longitudinal analyses were performed to determine association between IFN-α2 Abs and survival and viral load and whether serum IFN-α2 Abs appeared after convalescent plasma transfusion.

Results

IFN-α2 neutralizing sera were found only in COVID-19 patients, with proportions increasing with disease severity and age. In the acute stage of COVID-19, all sera from patients with ELISA-detected IFN-α2 Abs (13/164, 7.9%) neutralized levels of IFN-α2 exceeding physiological concentrations found in human plasma and this was associated with delayed viral clearance. Convalescent plasma donors that were anti-IFN-α2 ELISA positive (3/118, 2.5%) did not neutralize the same levels of IFN-α2. Neutralizing serum IFN-α2 Abs were associated with delayed viral clearance from the respiratory tract.

Conclusions

IFN-α2 Abs were detected by ELISA and neutralization assay in COVID-19 patients, but not in ICU patients with other respiratory illnesses. The presence of neutralizing IFN-α2 Abs in critically ill COVID-19 is associated with delayed viral clearance. IFN-α2 Abs in COVID-19 convalescent plasma donors were not neutralizing in the conditions tested.
Factors Affecting User’s Behavioral Intention and Use of a Mobile-Phone-Delivered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia: A Small-Scale UTAUT Analysis
Authors: Fitrianie Siska , Horsch Corine , Beun Robbert Jan , Griffioen-Both Fiemke , Brinkman Willem-Paul
Published: November 2021

A mobile app could be a powerful medium for providing individual support for cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), as well as facilitating therapy adherence. Little is known about factors that may explain the acceptance and uptake of such applications. This study, therefore, examines factors from an extended version of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2) model to explain variation between people’s behavioral intention to use a CBT for insomnia (CBT-I) app and their use-behavior. The model includes eight aspects of behavioral intention: performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, self-efficacy, trust, hedonic motivation, anxiety, and facilitating conditions, and investigates further the influence of the behavioral intention and facilitating conditions on app-usage behavior. Data were gathered from a field trial involving people (n = 89) with relatively mild insomnia using a CBT-I app. The analysis applied the Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modeling method. The results found that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, self-efficacy, trust, and facilitating conditions all explained part of the variation in behavioral intention, but not beyond the explanation provided by hedonic motivation, which accounted for R2 = 0.61. Both behavioral intention and facilitating conditions could explain the use-behavior (R2 = 0.32). We anticipate that the findings will help researchers and developers to focus on: (1) users’ positive feelings about the app as this was an indicator of their acceptance of the mobile app and usage; and (2) the availability of resources and support as this also correlated with the technology use.