bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictive value of postoperative day 1 parathyroid hormone levels for early and late hypocalcaemia after thyroidectomy
Authors: Riordan Fiona , Brophy Catherine , Murphy Matthew S. , Sheahan Patrick
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Early parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels after total thyroidectomy can predict patients at low risk of hypocalcaemia who can be discharged early without calcium supplementation. For centres without facility to perform early PTH levels, PTH levels sent on the first postoperative day (POD1) may be an alternative. However, there is less data regarding optimal cut-off PTH levels for POD1 discharge.

Methods

Retrospective review of prospective database of thyroid operations between September 2009 and February 2020 at tertiary referral centre. Main outcome measure was symptomatic hypocalcaemia.

Results

Five hundred seventy patients undergoing total (521) or completion thyroidectomy with POD1 PTH levels available were included. Among patients with POD1 PTH levels ≥ 20 pg/ml and POD1 calcium ≥ 2.0 mmol/l, the incidence of symptomatic hypocalcaemia was 1% (3/300), and need for intravenous calcium 0.3% (1/300). For POD1 PTH levels 15–19 pg/ml and POD1 calcium ≥ 2.0 mmol/l, the incidence of symptomatic hypocalcaemia and need for intravenous calcium was 5.4% (3/55). For PTH levels 10–14 pg/ml and calcium ≥ 2.0 mmol/l, the incidence of symptomatic hypocalcaemia and need for intravenous calcium was 11.7% (7/60). The risk of permanent hypoparathyroidism was < 1% for POD1 PTH levels ≥ 15 pg/ml; 5.4% for levels 10–14 pg/ml; and 19.8% for levels < 10 pg/ml.

Conclusions

POD1 PTH levels ≥ 15 pg/ml along with calcium ≥ 2.0 mmol/l are associated with low risk of symptomatic hypocalcaemia, and represent a safe criterion for discharge of most patients without calcium supplementation. For certain patient groups, a higher threshold of 20 pg/ml could be considered.
Large deflection of composite beams by finite elements with node-dependent kinematics
Authors: Carrera E. , Pagani A. , Augello R.
Published: March 2022

In this paper, the use of the node-dependent kinematics concept for the geometrical nonlinear analysis of composite one-dimensional structures is proposed With the present approach, the kinematics can be independent in each element node. Therefore the theory of structures changes continuously over the structural domain, describing remarkable cross-section deformation with higher-order kinematics and giving a lower-order kinematic to those portion of the structure which does not require a refinement. In this way, the reliability of the simulation is ensured, keeping a reasonable computational cost. This is possible by Carrera unified formulation, which allows writing finite element nonlinear equilibrium and incremental equations in compact and recursive form. Compact and thin-walled composite structures are analyzed, with symmetric and unsymmetric loading conditions, to test the present approach when dealing with warping and torsion phenomena. Results show how finite element models with node-dependent behave as well as ones with uniform highly refined kinematic. In particular, zones which undergo remarkable deformations demand high-order theories of structures, whereas a lower-order theory can be employed if no local phenomena occur: this is easily accomplished by node-dependent kinematics analysis.
Acupuncture in the real world: evaluating a 15-year NADA auricular acupuncture service for breast cancer survivors experiencing hot flushes and night sweats as a consequence of adjuvant hormonal therapies
Authors: de Valois Beverley , Young Teresa , Thorpe Pam , Degun Tarsem , Corbishley Karen
Published: March 2022

Purpose

While clinical trials provide valuable data about efficacy of interventions, findings often do not translate into clinical settings. We report real world clinical outcomes of a 15-year service offering breast cancer survivors auricular acupuncture to manage hot flushes and night sweats (HFNS) associated with adjuvant hormonal treatments. This service evaluation aims to (1) assess whether usual practice alleviates symptoms in a clinically meaningful way and (2) compare these results with scientific evidence.

Methods

Data were analysed from 415 referrals to a service offering women eight standardised treatments using the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) protocol. Outcome measures administered at baseline, end of treatment (EOT), and 4 and 18 weeks after EOT included hot flush diaries, hot flush rating scale (HFRS) and women’s health questionnaire (WHQ).

Results

Over 2285 treatments were given to 300 women; 275 (92.3%) completed all eight treatments. Median daily frequency of HFNS reduced from 9.6 (IQR 7.3) to 5.7 (IQR 5.8) at EOT and 6.3 (IQR 6.5) 18 weeks after EOT. HFRS problem rating showed a clinically meaningful reduction of ≥ 2 points at all measurement points. WHQ showed improvements in several symptoms associated with the menopause. Two adverse events were reported, neither were serious. Results are comparable to published research.

Conclusion

This first analysis of a long-term auricular acupuncture service compares favourably with outcomes of other studies for reducing HFNS frequency and associated menopausal symptoms. In day-to-day clinical practice, NADA appears to be a safe effective intervention for breast cancer survivors.
Accuracy of low-cost alternative facial scanners: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Bartella Alexander K. , Laser Josefine , Kamal Mohammad , Krause Matthias , Neuhaus Michael , Pausch Niels C. , Sander Anna K. , Lethaus Bernd , Zimmerer Rüdiger
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Three-dimensional facial scans have recently begun to play an increasingly important role in the peri-therapeutic management of oral and maxillofacial and head and neck surgery cases. Face scan images can be generated by optical facial scanners utilizing line-laser, stereophotography, or structured light modalities, as well as from volumetric data: for example, from cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). This study aimed to evaluate whether two low-cost procedures for the creation of three-dimensional face scan images were capable of producing sufficiently accurate data sets for clinical analysis.

Materials and methods

Fifty healthy volunteers were included in the study. Two test objects with defined dimensions (Lego bricks) were attached to the forehead and the left cheek of each volunteer. Facial anthropometric values (i.e., the distances between the medial canthi, the lateral canthi, the nasal alae, and the angles of the mouth) were first measured manually. Subsequently, face scans were performed with a smart device and manual photogrammetry and the values obtained were compared with the manually measured data sets.

Results

The anthropometric distances deviated, on average, 2.17 mm from the manual measurements (smart device scanning deviation 3.01 mm, photogrammetry deviation 1.34 mm), with seven out of eight deviations being statistically significant. For the Lego brick, from a total of 32 angles, 19 values demonstrated a significant difference from the original 90° angles. The average deviation was 6.5° (smart device scanning deviation 10.1°, photogrammetry deviation 2.8°).

Conclusion

Manual photogrammetry demonstrated greater accuracy when creating three-dimensional face scan images; however, smart devices are more user-friendly. Dental professionals should monitor camera and smart device technical improvements carefully when choosing and adequate technique for 3D scanning.
Terracini convexity
Authors: Saunderson James , Chandrasekaran Venkat
Published: March 2022

We present a generalization of the notion of neighborliness to non-polyhedral convex cones. Although a definition of neighborliness is available in the non-polyhedral case in the literature, it is fairly restrictive as it requires all the low-dimensional faces to be polyhedral. Our approach is more flexible and includes, for example, the cone of positive-semidefinite matrices as a special case (this cone is not neighborly in general). We term our generalization Terracini convexity due to its conceptual similarity with the conclusion of Terracini’s lemma from algebraic geometry. Polyhedral cones are Terracini convex if and only if they are neighborly. More broadly, we derive many families of non-polyhedral Terracini convex cones based on neighborly cones, linear images of cones of positive-semidefinite matrices, and derivative relaxations of Terracini convex hyperbolicity cones. As a demonstration of the utility of our framework in the non-polyhedral case, we give a characterization based on Terracini convexity of the tightness of semidefinite relaxations for certain inverse problems.
Students’ motivation in biology lessons—can student autonomy reduce the gender gap?
Authors: Großmann Nadine , Hofferber Natalia , Wilde Matthias , Basten Melanie
Published: March 2022

When it comes to biology lessons in Germany, girls generally exhibit higher levels of self-determined motivation than boys. Previous research suggests that fostering student autonomy could be a way to effectively address this gender gap. To investigate gender-related effects in biology education, a sample of 303 sixth-grade students (Mage = 11.31 years,SDage = 0.58 years) participated in a 3-h teaching unit on harvest mice that was taught in either an autonomy-supportive or controlling manner. The results revealed a significant effect of the treatment on self-determined motivation, with the effect being stronger for the boys. In the treatment with controlling teaching behavior, gender-related differences in self-determined motivation became apparent. In contrast, the gender gap was mainly smaller in the treatment with autonomy-supportive teaching behavior. Thus, the results suggest that satisfying the need for autonomy appears to be an effective means to help bridge the gender gap in biology lessons.
A Review of Mammarenaviruses and Rodent Reservoirs in the Americas
Authors: Tapia-Ramírez Gloria , Lorenzo Consuelo , Navarrete Darío , Carrillo-Reyes Arturo , Retana Óscar , Carrasco-Hernández Rocío
Published: March 2022

In the Americas, infectious viral diseases caused by viruses of the genus Mammarenavirus have been reported since the 1960s. Such diseases have commonly been associated with land use changes, which favor abundance of generalist rodent species. In the Americas—where the rates of land use change are among the highest worldwide—at least 1326 of all 2277 known rodent species have been reported. We conducted a literature review of studies between 1960 and 2020, to establish the current and historical knowledge about genotypes of mammarenaviruses and their rodent reservoirs in the Americas. Our overall goal was to show the importance of focusing research efforts on the American continent, since the conditions exist for future viral hemorrhagic fever (VHF) outbreaks caused by rodent-borne viruses, in turn, carried by widely distributed rodents. We found 47 species identified down to the species level, and one species identified only down to the genus level (Oryzomys sp.), reported in the Americas as reservoirs of mammarenaviruses, most these are ecological generalists. These species associate with 29 genotypes of Mammarenavirus, seven of which have been linked to VHFs in humans. We also highlight the need to monitor these species, in order to prevent viral disease outbreaks in the region.
HiRISE - High-Resolution Imaging and Spectroscopy Explorer - Ultrahigh resolution, interferometric and external occulting coronagraphic science
Authors: Erdélyi Robertus , Damé Luc , Fludra Andrzej , Mathioudakis Mihalis , Amari T. , Belucz B. , Berrilli F. , Bogachev S. , Bolsée D. , Bothmer V. , Brun S. , Dewitte S. , de Wit T. Dudok , Faurobert M. , Gizon L. , Gyenge N. , Korsós M. B. , Labrosse N. , Matthews S. , Meftah M. , Morgan H. , Pallé P. , Rochus P. , Rozanov E. , Schmieder B. , Tsinganos K. , Verwichte E. , Zharkov S. , Zuccarello F. , Wimmer-Schweingruber R.
Published: March 2022

Recent solar physics missions have shown the definite role of waves and magnetic fields deep in the inner corona, at the chromosphere-corona interface, where dramatic and physically dominant changes occur. HiRISE (High Resolution Imaging and Spectroscopy Explorer), the ambitious new generation ultra-high resolution, interferometric, and coronagraphic, solar physics mission, proposed in response to the ESA Voyage 2050 Call, would address these issues and provide the best-ever and most complete solar observatory, capable of ultra-high spatial, spectral, and temporal resolution observations of the solar atmosphere, from the photosphere to the corona, and of new insights of the solar interior from the core to the photosphere. HiRISE, at the L1 Lagrangian point, would provide meter class FUV imaging and spectro-imaging, EUV and XUV imaging and spectroscopy, magnetic fields measurements, and ambitious and comprehensive coronagraphy by a remote external occulter (two satellites formation flying 375 m apart, with a coronagraph on a chaser satellite). This major and state-of-the-art payload would allow us to characterize temperatures, densities, and velocities in the solar upper chromosphere, transition zone, and inner corona with, in particular, 2D very high resolution multi-spectral imaging-spectroscopy, and, direct coronal magnetic field measurement, thus providing a unique set of tools to understand the structure and onset of coronal heating. HiRISE’s objectives are natural complements to the Parker Solar Probe and Solar Orbiter-type missions. We present the science case for HiRISE which will address: i) the fine structure of the chromosphere-corona interface by 2D spectroscopy in FUV at very high resolution; ii) coronal heating roots in the inner corona by ambitious externally-occulted coronagraphy; iii) resolved and global helioseismology thanks to continuity and stability of observing at the L1 Lagrange point; and iv) solar variability and space climate with, in addition, a global comprehensive view of UV variability.
Protective effects of a SIRT1 inhibitor on primordial follicle activation and growth induced by cyclophosphamide: insights from a bovine in vitro folliculogenesis system
Authors: Di Emidio Giovanna , Tatone Carla , Barbato Vincenza , Genovese Vincenzo , Placidi Martina , Talevi Riccardo , Gualtieri Roberto ,   on behalf of Italian Society of Embryology, Reproduction, Research (SIERR)
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Although oncological advances have improved survival rates of female cancer patients, they often suffer a reduced fertility due to treatment side effects. In the present study, we evaluated the potential fertoprotective effects of the specific inhibitor of SIRT1, EX-527, on the gonadotoxic action exerted by cyclophosphamide (CPM) on loss of primordial follicles (PFs).

Methods

The effects of the CPM metabolite phosphoramide mustard (PM) on follicle activation, growth and viability and the protective action of EX-527 against PM effects were evaluated on bovine ovarian cortical strips in vitro cultured for 1 or 6 days. To understand whether PFs exposed to PM plus EX-527 were able to activate and grow to the secondary stage after suspension of the treatment, strips cultured for 3 days in PM plus EX-527 for 3 days were transferred to plain medium until day 6. Follicle growth and health were evaluated through histology and viability assay at a confocal microscope. In order to investigate the molecular pathways underlying the ovarian response to PM in the presence of EX-527, we analysed the protein level of SIRT1, HuR, PARP1 and SOD2 after 1 day of in vitro culture.

Results

We found that (1) PM, the main CPM active metabolite, promotes PF activation; (2) the ovarian stress response induced by PM includes a SIRT1-dependent pathway; and (3) EX-527 reduces PF activation and growth induced by PM.

Conclusion

SIRT1 can represent a candidate molecule to be targeted to protect ovarian follicles from alkylating agents and EX-527 could represent a potential fertoprotective agent for cancer patients.
Unexpected Successor in Family Firms: Opportunity or Trap for Women?
Authors: Meroño-Cerdán Angel L.
Published: March 2022

Female managers are more common in family firms largely due to women’s incorporation into management positions via succession. Nonetheless, extrinsic and intrinsic factors constrain to some extent the access and the outcomes of female managers as potential successors. This study aims to uncover the particular conditions under which women frequently have access to CEO positions in family firms. Using a database of 177 SME Spanish family firms and using cluster analysis based on TwoStep technique, women are found to be unexpected successors to a greater extent than male successors. Oftentimes, they are chosen as a last resort to cope with poor business performance and low family orientation. More than an opportunity, this unplanned access becomes a trap since it fails to comply with all the requirements of successful transmissions.
A Novel AICDA Splice-Site Mutation in Two Siblings with HIGM2 Permits Somatic Hypermutation but Abrogates Mutational Targeting
Authors: Dirks Johannes , Haase Gabriele , Cantaert Tineke , Frey Lea , Klaas Moritz , Rickert Christian H. , Girschick Hermann , Meffre Eric , Morbach Henner
Published: March 2022

Hyper-IgM syndrome type 2 (HIGM2) is a B cell intrinsic primary immunodeficiency caused by mutations in AICDA encoding activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) which impair immunoglobulin class switch recombination (CSR) and somatic hypermutation (SHM). Whereas autosomal-recessive AID-deficiency (AR-AID) affects both CSR and SHM, the autosomal-dominant form (AD-AID) due to C-terminal heterozygous variants completely abolishes CSR but only partially affects SHM. AR-AID patients display enhanced germinal center (GC) reactions and autoimmune manifestations, which are not present in AD-AID, suggesting that SHM but not CSR regulates GC reactions and peripheral B cell tolerance. Herein, we describe two siblings with HIGM2 due to a novel homozygous AICDA mutation (c.428-1G > T) which disrupts the splice acceptor site of exon 4 and results in the sole expression of a truncated AID variant that lacks 10 highly conserved amino acids encoded by exon 4 (AID-ΔE4a). AID-ΔE4a patients suffered from defective CSR and enhanced GC reactions and were therefore indistinguishable from other AR-AID patients. However, the AID-ΔE4a variant only partially affected SHM as observed in AD-AID patients. In addition, AID-ΔE4a but not AD-AID patients revealed impaired targeting of mutational hotspot motives and distorted mutational patterns. Hence, qualitative defects in AID function and altered SHM rather than global decreased SHM activity may account for the disease phenotype in these patients.
Knowledge and Practices on the Prevention and Management of Diarrhea in Children Under-2 Years Among Women Dwelling in Urban Slums of Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Khaliq Asif , Amreen  , Jameel Nazia , Krauth Stefanie J.
Published: March 2022

Background

Diarrhea is the second leading cause of death especially among children. The age-proportionate mortality of diarrheal disease in infants under 2 years is 72%, among children under 5 years of age. Children living in urban slums are more prone to develop diarrhea. Although the disease can be prevented by many simple cost-effective interventions, i.e. proper sanitation and hygiene, appropriate feeding, and timely vaccination, poverty and lack of basic life amenities often potentiate diarrhea mortality. Gadap town is the largest town of Karachi with a deprived health system. This study aims to assess pediatric diarrhea prevalence and related knowledge-practice gaps in the slums of Gadap Town, Karachi, Pakistan.

Method

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2016 to May 2017 among mothers of children under 2 years, who were residents of Gadap Town, Karachi, Pakistan. The participants were approached by a multistage sampling method. A validated dichotomous questionnaire, piloted on 40 participants, translated into local language Urdu was used for data collection and the data was analyzed by SPSS® version 20.0.

Results

51.8% (n = 199) of participants were aged between 25 and 34 years. Among all participants, 68% (n = 261) had primary level education or less, compared to 4.7% (n = 18) of women who had graduate-level education. The mean number of children per woman was 2.52 ± 1.62. Self-reported pediatric diarrhea incidence was 72.1% (n = 277). More than half (55.2% n = 149) of participants reported frequent diarrhea episodes during the 2nd year of their child’s life. In this survey, we found the knowledge of women regarding diarrhea management and how to reduce diarrhea morbidity to be inadequate (p > 0.05). However, many women reported appropriate practices which can significantly reduce diarrhea morbidity (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

While the knowledge among women on preventive measures for pediatric diarrhea was insufficient, the translation of the right knowledge into appropriate practices showed promising outcomes for reducing diarrhea morbidity. An integrated approach for improving feeding, sanitation, and hygiene practices along with continuous health education could curtail the burden of diarrhea among infants living in urban slums.
At least you tried: The value of De Dicto concern to do the right thing
Authors: Field Claire
Published: March 2022

I argue that there are some situations in which it is praiseworthy to be motivated only by moral rightnessde dicto, even if this results in wrongdoing. I consider a set of cases that are challenging for views that dispute this, prioritising concern for what is morally important (de re, and notde dicto) in moral evaluation (for example, Arpaly, 2003; Arpaly & Schroeder, 2013; Harman 2015; Weatherson, 2019). In these cases, the agent is not concerned about what is morally important (de re), does the wrong thing, but nevertheless seems praiseworthy rather than blameworthy. I argue that the views under discussion cannot accommodate this, and should be amended to recognise that it is often praiseworthy to be motivated to do what is right (de dicto).
Effect of Different Technological Factors on the Gelation of a Low-Lectin Bean Protein Isolate
Authors: Moreno Helena M. , Díaz M. Teresa , Borderías A. Javier , Domínguez-Timón Fátima , Varela Alejandro , Tovar Clara A. , Pedrosa Mercedes M.
Published: March 2022

Gelling ability of a bean protein isolate (BPI) obtained from a naturally low-lectin variety (Phaseolus vulgaris var. Almonga) was analysed. For that purpose differences on gels processing: concentration (14% and 17%), salt addition (0 and 2%), and pH (6.5 –lot A- and 7 –lot B), were studied to obtain suitable colour, mechanical and viscoelastic properties for making appropriate meat and seafood analogues. Gelation at pH 7 at both 14 and 17% BPI concentrations, produced less rigid, more flexible, time-stable and cohesive gel networks. Colour of the resulting gels was white enough to be considered as an adequate base for making plant-based analogues. The content of total galactoside, inositol phosphates and trypsin inhibitors (bioactive compounds) present in one serving (100 g) of these BPI gels were up to 0.80 mg/g, 8.06 mg/g and 239 TIUs, respectively.
Artificial intelligence in the field of economics
Authors: Bickley Steve J. , Chan Ho Fai , Torgler Benno
Published: March 2022

The history of AI in economics is long and winding, much the same as the evolving field of AI itself. Economists have engaged with AI since its beginnings, albeit in varying degrees and with changing focus across time and places. In this study, we have explored the diffusion of AI and different AI methods (e.g., machine learning, deep learning, neural networks, expert systems, knowledge-based systems) through and within economic subfields, taking a scientometrics approach. In particular, we centre our accompanying discussion of AI in economics around the problems of economic calculation and social planning as proposed by Hayek. To map the history of AI within and between economic sub-fields, we construct two datasets containing bibliometrics information of economics papers based on search query results from the Scopus database and the EconPapers (and IDEAs/RePEc) repository. We present descriptive results that map the use and discussion of AI in economics over time, place, and subfield. In doing so, we also characterise the authors and affiliations of those engaging with AI in economics. Additionally, we find positive correlations between quality of institutional affiliation and engagement with or focus on AI in economics and negative correlations between the Human Development Index and share of learning-based AI papers.
Group intellectual transparency: a novel case for non-summativism
Authors: Byerly T. Ryan
Published: March 2022

Philosophical reflection on transparency, including group transparency, is beginning to gain steam. This paper contributes to this work by developing a conceptualization of transparency as an intellectual character trait that groups can possess, and by presenting a novel argument for thinking that such transparency should be understood along non-summativist lines. According to the account offered, a group’s being intellectually transparent consists in the group’s tending to attend well to its perspective and to share its perspective faithfully with others in order to promote their epistemic goods. It is argued that this kind of group intellectual transparency, pace summativism, does not always consist merely in group members possessing intellectual transparency. The argument given for this conclusion works differently from existing arguments for non-summativism about group character traits, and it retains persuasive power even if summativist views of most group phenomena, including other group character traits, are correct.
Height-Averaged Navier–Stokes Solver for Hydrodynamic Lubrication
Authors: Holey Hannes , Codrignani Andrea , Gumbsch Peter , Pastewka Lars
Published: March 2022

The cornerstone of thin-film flow modeling is the Reynolds equation—a lower-dimensional representation of the Navier–Stokes equation. The derivation of the Reynolds equation is based on explicit assumptions about the constitutive behavior of the fluid that prohibit applications in multiscale scenarios based on measured or atomistically simulated data. Here, we present a method that treats the macroscopic flow evolution and the calculation of local cross-film stresses as separate yet coupled problems—the so-called macro and micro problem. The macro problem considers mass and momentum balance for compressible fluids in a height-averaged sense and is solved using a time-explicit finite-volume scheme. Analytical solutions for the micro problem are derived for common constitutive laws and implemented into the Height-averaged Navier–Stokes (HANS) solver. We demonstrate the validity of our solver on examples, including mass-conserving cavitation, inertial effects, wall slip, and non-Newtonian fluids. The presented method is not limited to these fixed-form relations and may therefore be useful for testing constitutive relations obtained from experiment or simulation.
Digital technologies: tensions in privacy and data
Authors: Quach Sara , Thaichon Park , Martin Kelly D. , Weaven Scott , Palmatier Robert W.
Published: March 2022

Driven by data proliferation, digital technologies have transformed the marketing landscape. In parallel, significant privacy concerns have shaken consumer–firm relationships, prompting changes in both regulatory interventions and people’s own privacy-protective behaviors. With a comprehensive analysis of digital technologies and data strategy informed by structuration theory and privacy literature, the authors consider privacy tensions as the product of firm–consumer interactions, facilitated by digital technologies. This perspective in turn implies distinct consumer, regulatory, and firm responses related to data protection. By consolidating various perspectives, the authors propose three tenets and seven propositions, supported by interview insights from senior managers and consumer informants, that create a foundation for understanding the digital technology implications for firm performance in contexts marked by growing privacy worries and legal ramifications. On the basis of this conceptual framework, they also propose a data strategy typology across two main strategic functions of digital technologies: data monetization and data sharing. The result is four distinct types of firms, which engage in disparate behaviors in the broader ecosystem pertaining to privacy issues. This article also provides directions for research, according to a synthesis of findings from both academic and practical perspectives.
Customer-oriented salespeople’s value creation and claiming in price negotiations
Authors: Kassemeier Roland , Alavi Sascha , Habel Johannes , Schmitz Christian
Published: March 2022

Although customer orientation is widely endorsed as a crucial salesperson characteristic, little is known about its effect in price negotiations with customers. This study rectifies this omission and argues for its ambiguous effects. While customer-oriented salespeople create value for customers that enables them to reduce price concessions, they may overly focus on customers’ needs and, in doing so, hesitate to defend against such requests. Results of two quantitative studies and one preliminary qualitative study reveal that customer-oriented salespeople do not unconditionally benefit from their created value in price negotiations with customers. That is, salespeople effectively leverage their created value to negotiate prices with customers only if their sales managers instill confidence that high prices are justified. Furthermore, we find that profit-related incentives reduce undesired consequences of salespeople’s customer orientation in price negotiations.
Successful Multidisciplinary Management of Foot Pain With Orgasm: A Case Report
Authors: Meddings Kelly , Klein Carolin , Elliott Stacy
Published: March 2022

Introduction

There is very little literature on referred pain syndromes with orgasm. Referred foot pain with orgasm is rare and evidence based diagnosis and management is not defined. Dysorgasmia is a pain condition that can severely affect sexual health and quality of life.

Aim

To add to the understanding and scant literature on referred orgasmic pain with pelvic floor and myofascial etiology.

Methods

A 34-year-old cis-female presented to a Physiotherapist, Sexual Medicine Physician, and Sex Therapist with a rare case of new insidious onset right foot pain with orgasm.

Results

Femoral nerve entrapment was diagnosed at the level of the inguinal ligament, referring pain to the right terminal sensory branch of the saphenous nerve along the medial aspect of the foot. Physiotherapy management resolved the patient's pain, while medical assessment was important to rule out numerous potential pathologies and to facilitate multidisciplinary management. Psychological therapy via sex therapy was integral in the highly successful and improved sexual outcome for this patient and her husband.

Conclusion

This case report details the successful multi-disciplinary assessment and management of a rare dysorgasmia and the importance of addressing sexual sequelae to add to the small amount of literature on difficult referred pain syndromes during sexual arousal and orgasm.
Business and Human Rights
Authors: Wettstein Florian
Published: March 2022

The first of its kind, this comprehensive interdisciplinary textbook in Business and Human Rights (BHR) connects and integrates themes, discussions, and issues in BHR from both legal and non-legal perspectives, and provides a solid foundation for cross-disciplinary conversations. It equips students, teachers, and scholars with the necessary knowledge to navigate and advance evolving BHR debates, and fosters a thorough understanding of the academic foundations, evolving policy spaces, and practical approaches in BHR. Short cases throughout translate conceptual insights into practical solutions. Study, reflection, and discussion questions help readers to consolidate and synthesize their understanding of the material and provide stimulating frameworks for debate in the classroom and beyond. The book features a collection of online resources to support students and instructors in their preparation for courses and assignments.
Ionospheric Energy Input in Response to Changes in Solar Wind Driving: Statistics From the SuperDARN and AMPERE Campaigns
Authors: Billett D. D. , McWilliams K. A. , Perry G. W. , Clausen L. B. N. , Anderson B. J.
Published: March 2022

For over a decade, the Super Dual Auroral Radar Network and the Active Magnetosphere and Planetary Electrodynamics Response Experiment have been measuring ionospheric convection and field‐aligned currents in the high‐latitude regions, respectively. Using both, high‐latitude maps of the magnetosphere‐ionosphere energy transfer rate (the Poynting flux) have been generated with a time resolution of 2 min between 2010 and 2017. These data driven Poynting flux (PF) patterns are used in this study to perform a superposed epoch analysis of the northern hemisphere ionospheric response to transitions of the interplanetary magnetic field Bz component, upwards of 60° geomagnetic latitude. We discuss the difference in the distribution of PF between the magnetosphere‐ionosphere Dungey cycle “switching on” and “switching off” to solar wind driving, revealing that they are not symmetric temporally or spatially.
Zinc chloride promoted the inimitable dissolution and degradation of polyethylene in a deep eutectic solvent under white light
Authors: Kaur Harmandeep , Singh Manpreet , Singh Harjinder , Kaur Manvir , Singh Gurbir , Sekar Karthikeyan , Kang Tejwant S.
Published: March 2022

Cyclic manifestation of sustainable process developed for the dissolution and degradation of polyethylene using recyclable DES.
1,2,3-Triazole based ligands with phosphine and pyridine functionalities: synthesis, PdIIand PtIIchemistry and catalytic studies
Authors: Radhakrishna Latchupatula , Kote Basvaraj S. , Kunchur Harish S. , Pandey Madhusudan K. , Mondal Dipanjan , Balakrishna Maravanji S.
Published: March 2022

This paper describes the synthesis of pyridine- and phosphine appended triazole ligands and their PdII and PtII complexes. Palladium complexes showed excellent catalytic efficiency in the α-alkylation reaction of acetophenone derivatives with alcohols.
Photon‐to‐photon polarization modulation using Mxene thin film as modulator
Authors: Tiu Z. C. , Tan S. J. , Samion M. Z. , Yusoff N. , Ahmad H. , Harun S. W.
Published: March 2022

In this work, photon‐to‐photon polarization modulation is experimentally demonstrated using a Mxene material, Ti2C thin film as a modulator. S‐band signal (1500 nm) polarization state is modulated by a control pump (1400 nm) in the Ti2C thin film based on the thermo‐optic effect. A total of 34.67˚ of polarization rotation is achieved with the variation of pump power from 0 to 223 mW. From the regression analysis, the system is operated in highly linear condition, with R2 value of 0.991 and an efficiency of 0.1589˚/mW. Throughout the polarization rotational range, the variation of ellipticity is less than 5˚ while the variation of output power is less than 3.5 dB.
Mathematical description of the method for ungrounded AC systems to determine the network insulation
Authors: Kurabayev Iskander , Suvorov Ivan , Utegulov Arman , Tatkeyeva Galina
Published: March 2022

For the safety of humans and animals in the vicinity of single‐phase earth faults in ungrounded AC systems, the development of methods for monitoring the condition of insulation and protection against electric shocks is an important issue. This paper presents a method for determining insulation parameters in ungrounded AC systems, which provides: (1) Satisfactory accuracy; (2) easy measurements of the voltage modules magnitude; (3) safety when working in electrical installations. The proposed method is based on measuring the zero‐sequence voltage module and phase‐to‐earth voltage module, as well as the angle of phase‐to‐earth voltage vector and zero‐sequence voltage vector before and after connection of additional conductivity between a phase and the earth. In addition, the obtained insulation parameters enable the zero‐sequence current to be decomposed into an active and reactive component, thus ensuring accurate compensation of capacitive currents. By monitoring the state of the active conductivity value, the value of the single‐phase earth‐fault current can be determined at an early stage and the relay protection can thus be correctly set. Consequently, by knowing the insulation condition parameters, the single‐phase earth‐fault currents can be monitored and reduced more effectively, and thus the step voltage, which determines the degree of safety.
Identification of nanocomposites agglomerates in scanning electron microscopy images based on semantic segmentation
Authors: Bai Yu , Wang Yan , Qiang Dayuan , Yuan Xin , Wu Jiehui , Chen Weilong , Zhang Sai , Zhang Yanru , Chen George
Published: March 2022

The agglomeration causes a significant challenge to nanodielectrics. Identification of agglomerates in scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images is an important step of solving this issue. Motivated by the fast development of image recognition in computer vision, we propose a new approach for agglomerates identification in SEM images of nanodielectrics by semantic segmentation, which is more efficient and accurate than traditional methods. Three models based on convolutional neural networks are investigated in this work, namely pixel blocks classification network, full convolutional segmentation network employed with data augmentation and unsupervised self‐encoding network. All three networks can preliminarily identify agglomerates of spherical silica‐based blend polyethylene nanocomposites. The mean intersection over union (mIoU) of pixel blocks classification network is 0.843 and it takes 25 s to process an image. Full convolutional segmentation network only needs 0.059 s to process a sample, with a mIoU of 0.777. Unsupervised self‐encoding network can reach a mIoU of 0.747 at a speed of 5.806 s. According to the amount of data sets, and requirements for different speed and accuracy, three kinds of networks can be flexibly selected.
The ALPINE-ALMA [C II] survey. Dust attenuation curves at z = 4.4–5.5
Authors: Boquien Médéric , Buat Véronique , Burgarella Denis , Bardelli Sandro , Béthermin Matthieu , Faisst Andreas , Ginolfi Michele , Hathi Nimish , Jones Gareth , Koekemoer Anton , Lemaux Brian , Narayanan Desika , Romano Michael , Schaerer Daniel , Vergani Daniela , Zamorani Giovanni , Zucca Elena
Published: March 2022

Context. There is ample evidence that dust is already present in abundance at high redshift. However, given the faintness of distant galaxies in the optical and the near-infrared, the data are limited and the understanding of how the dust affects the emerging radiation of galaxies at very high redshift is still limited.

Aims. Using the ALMA Large Program to INvestigate [C II] at Early times (ALPINE), our objective is to quantify the dust attenuation properties in galaxies at z = 4.4–5.5, particularly with regard to the shape of their attenuation curve.

Methods. Using the CIGALE spectral energy distribution (SED) code, we modeled the stellar populations and their interactions with the dust to measure some of the physical properties of the ALPINE sample. We selected a subsample of 23 main-sequence galaxies requiring a detection in at least six bands in the rest-frame UV and optical, as well as in the dust continuum around 158 μm or the [C II] fine-structure line. The inclusion of this line is important for improving the constraints on the physical properties, while achieving a reasonably low uncertainty on the slope of the attenuation curves.

Results. We find that the attenuation curves span a broad range of properties – from curves that are much steeper than the SMC extinction curve to those that are shallower than the starburst attenuation curve. The shape of the attenuation curves strongly depends on the V-band attenuation. Galaxies with the lowest attenuation also present the steepest curves. The steepness of such curves probably results from the combination of the intrinsic physical properties of the dust, the relative distribution of stars and dust in the interstellar medium, and the differential reddening, with an important fraction of the dust concentrated in star-forming regions. The broad range of attenuation curves found at z ∼ 5 shows that no single attenuation curve is appropriate for main-sequence galaxies. When SED modeling is not feasible, assuming a fixed curve can lead to large errors, for instance, in the interpretation and application of the IRX-β diagram.

Conclusions. Considerable caution should be exercised when correcting high redshift galaxies for the presence of dust using the UV slope β as it can affect the estimation of both star formation rates and stellar mass even at low V-band attenuation due to the steepness of the attenuation curve. However, when SED modeling can be used, the impact of the choice of the attenuation curve on the star formation rate and the stellar mass is limited.
Feasibility of detecting and characterizing embedded low-mass giant planets in gaps in the VIS/NIR wavelength range
Authors: Krieger A. , Wolf S.
Published: March 2022

High-contrast imaging in the visible and near-infrared (VIS/NIR) has revealed the presence of a plethora of substructures in circumstellar disks (CSDs). One of the most commonly observed substructures are concentric gaps that are often attributed to the presence of embedded forming planets. However, direct detections of these planets are extremely rare, and thus ambiguity regarding the origin of most gap features remains. The aim of this study is to investigate the capabilities of high-contrast VIS/NIR imaging of directly detecting and characterizing low-mass giant planets in gaps in a broad systematic parameter study. To this end, a grid of models of protoplanetary disks was generated. The models include a central T Tauri star surrounded by a face-on CSD harboring an accreting planet, which itself is surrounded by a circumplanetary disk (CPD) and carves a gap. These gaps are modeled using empirically determined profiles, and the whole system is simulated fully self-consistently using the Monte Carlo radiative transfer code Mol3D in order to generate temperature distributions and synthetic observations assuming a generic dust composition consisting of astronomical silicate and graphite. Based on these simulations, we measured the impact the planet and its CPD have on contrast curves and quantified the impact of the observing wavelength and of five key parameters (planetary mass, mass accretion rate, distance to the star, mass of the CPD, and mass of the CSD) on the determined signal strength. Subsequently, we applied a detection criterion on our results and assess the capabilities of the instrument SPHERE/VLT of detecting the embedded planets. We find that a part of the investigated parameter space includes detectable planets, and we elaborate on the implication a non-detection has on the underlying parameters of a potential planet and its CPD. Furthermore, we analyze the potential loss of valuable information that would enable the detection of embedded planets by the use of a coronagraphic mask. However, we find this outcome to be extremely unlikely in the case of SPHERE. Finally, within the VIS/NIR wavelength range we identify for each of the investigated basic properties of the planets and the disks the most promising observing wavelengths that enable us to distinguish between different underlying parameter values. In doing so, we find that the detectability and the characterization often benefit from different observing wavelengths, highlighting the complementarity and importance of multiwavelength observations.
N2+fluorescence spectrum of comet C/2016 R2 (PanSTARRS)
Authors: Rousselot P. , Anderson S. E. , Alijah A. , Noyelles B. , Opitom C. , Jehin E. , Hutsemékers D. , Manfroid J.
Published: March 2022

Context.N2is rarely found in comets, or when it is present, it is found only in small quantities despite its abundance on the surfaces of different outer Solar System objects. A few comets presented N2+emission lines in their optical spectra. One of them, C/2016 R2, showed an unusually high abundance of this species in 2018, with dozens of bright N2+emission lines. A robust model of the N2+fluorescence in comets would permit us to perform a detailed quantitative analysis of this species and enlarge our comprehension of the surprisingly wide range of N2abundances in comets.

Aims.The goal of this work is to provide the necessary tools to interpret N2+spectra. Computing production rates for a cometary species necessitates a good knowledge of the number of molecules located along the line of sight of the spectrometer. This in turn requires a good modeling of the emission spectrum with detailed fluorescence efficiencies for the different bands.

Methods.We developed a model based on available laboratory data and new theoretical results relative to the N2+to compute the emission spectrum of this species observed in 8.2m Very Large Telescope high-resolution spectra of comet C/2016 R2. Because of some significant differences between spectra obtained on the nucleus and at a cometocentric distance of about 6000 km, it became apparent that a classic fluorescence equilibrium spectrum could not be used. A synthetic spectrum based on a Monte Carlo method and producing spectra at different times from an initial relative population was developed and compared to our observational data.

Results.Our modeling of the cometary N2+emission spectrum satisfactorily fits our observed spectra of comet C/2016 R2, leading to the first modeling at high resolution. Different fluorescence efficiency factors are computed.
Archaeological evidence that a late 14th-century tsunami devastated the coast of northern Sumatra and redirected history
Authors: Daly Patrick , Sieh Kerry , Seng Tai Yew , Edwards McKinnon Edmund , Parnell Andrew C. , Feener R. Michael , Ismail Nazli , Majewski Jedrzej
Published: March 2022

Significance

We demonstrate that a tsunami in the late 14th century CE destroyed coastal sites along a critical part of the maritime Silk Road and set in motion profound changes in the political economy of Southeast Asia. Our results provide a precise chronology of settlement and trade along a historically strategic section of the Sumatran coast and are robust physical evidence for the rise of the Aceh Sultanate. Tragically, coastal areas impacted by the late 14th century tsunami were devastated by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. This makes our findings relevant to debates about hazard mitigation and risk reduction. This example shows that archaeological, historical, and geological data are relevant in discussions about the long-term sustainability of communities exposed to geological hazards.