bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bolt stripping failure and ductility of end plate beam-column connections at ambient and elevated temperatures
Authors: Shaheen Mohamed A. , Cunningham Lee S. , Foster Andrew S.J.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The effect of bolt stripping failure on the ductility of steel end plate beam-column connections has received relatively little investigation to date. The objective with the present work is to establish a validated numerical model of end plate connections at elevated temperatures, which predicts the mechanical behaviour and failure modes observed in the experimental tests including the bolt stripping failure. Furthermore, the validated FE model was used to investigate the effect of stripping failure on both the rotational and load-bearing capacity of end plate connection.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis was conducted on a validated numerical model of end plate connections at elevated temperatures, which predicts the mechanical behaviour and failure modes observed in the experimental tests including the bolt stripping failure. The material was modelled considering ductile damage initiation and evolution featured in ABAQUS/Standard.

Findings

This study demonstrates that thick end plates can prevent stripping failure which significantly improves the rotational capacity of the connection. This failure mode can develop readily with thin end plates; however the effect is often unrealistically mitigated through idealised experimental tests. The rotational capacity of a connection can be 5.0 times higher if stripping failure is avoided, particularly at elevated temperatures. Eurocode 3 part 1.8 does not consider the possibility of stripping failure when discussing the requirements for plastic analysis. It is concluded in the present study that by allowing for the possibility of bolt stripping, the mode of failure can often shift from end plate failure to bolt stripping, this in turn significantly reduces the connection rotational capacity.

Originality/value

The effect of bolt stripping failure on the ductility of steel end plate beam-column connections has received relatively little investigation to date.
CEO turnover and audit pricing: the role of media tone
Authors: Chao Chia-Ling
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Prior research documents that chief executive officer (CEO) characteristics and succession planning affect audit fees. However, whether new CEOs’ media coverage influences audit fees remains unexplored. This study aims to fill this gap by examining whether auditors price media coverage of the new CEO.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample comprises 89 US listed firms with CEO turnover over the period 2012–2016, resulting in a total of 445 firm-year observations. Panel data models are used in the analyses.

Findings

The results show that audit fees are higher for firms that hire a new CEO covered with more negative media tone. This study further documents that CEO media tone is determined independently of audit pricing, but that the extent of audit fees is positively related to a new CEO covered with more negative media tone, consistent with a sequential media-tone-then-audit-pricing process.

Research limitations/implications

The results of this study should motivate future auditing research to consider the media as an important source of external information. The findings are also relevant to stakeholders who are interested in understanding the relationship between auditors and their clients’ CEOs.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the audit fee literature by providing new evidence that auditors view their clients’ CEO with a negative media tone as requiring greater audit effort and leading to higher risks, due to greater public and regulators’ attention conveyed in news coverage. Moreover, the finding of this study that audit fees are higher for firms that hire a new CEO covered with more negative media tone is novel, and extends Joe’s (2003) empirical finding that negative press coverage increases auditors’ perception of risk.
Analysing workplace spirituality as a mediator in the
link between job satisfaction and organisational citizenship
behaviour
Authors: Dubey Pushkar , Pathak Abhishek Kumar , Sahu Kailash Kumar
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Without competent and talented employees, no organisation can grow and
sustain for a long time. It becomes essential for every organisation to
retain and satisfy the employees to achieve their predetermined
organisational goals. The present study examines the mediating effect of
workplace spirituality dimensions (i.e. meaningful work, compassion,
transcendence, mindfulness and sense of community) in the link between job
satisfaction and organisational citizenship behaviour (OCB) among managerial
employees of selected manufacturing firms of Chhattisgarh state.

Design/methodology/approach

Correlational research design was incorporated. Employees working at
managerial positions at different private manufacturing firms of
Chhattisgarh state were chosen as a sample for the present study. Regression
analysis and confirmatory factor analysis tools were used to analyse the
primary data collected from 400 respondents.

Findings

The results revealed that all the dimensions of workplace spirituality, i.e.
meaningful work, compassion, transcendence, mindfulness and sense of
community, were found statistically significant and partially mediated
between job satisfaction and OCB among managerial employees of Chhattisgarh.
The authors discussed the results thoroughly and provided avenues for the
future research.

Research
limitations/implications

The findings of the present research study will assist all private
organisations in rethinking their employee retention and satisfaction
strategies, since the presence of workplace spirituality in the organisation
has a significant and beneficial impact on its environment. The current
research will assist organisations in creating circumstances for OCB for
employee via the introduction of workplace spirituality.

Originality/value

Creating spirituality in the current situation, where Covid-19 has suddenly
affected all organisations around the world, would be extremely beneficial
in terms of employee retention and satisfaction, which would eventually aid
in the development of an environment conducive to citizenship behaviour at
the workplace. However, the role of workplace spirituality as a mediator in
the link between job satisfaction and OCB is innovative and has received
little attention in the research community.
Introducing integrated hybrid communication: the nexus linking marketing communication and corporate communication
Authors: Syed Alwi Sharifah Faridah , Balmer John M.T. , Stoian Maria-Cristina , Kitchen Philip J.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how marketing communication (MC) and nascent corporate communication (CC) strategies are juxtaposed in the small- and medium-sized enterprise (SME) setting.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative research method based on a multiple case study approach is elaborated in a South-East Asian emerging economy.

Findings

The key findings show that MC and nascent CC strategies coexist in SMEs, and are frequently closely interwoven, enabling the introduction of an integrated hybrid communication (IHC) theoretical perspective in this context. Four requisites inform IHC management: communicate the identity/roots; establish and communicate the relationship with multiple stakeholders; communicate the product/service to customers; and communicate other activities of the firm (e.g. corporate social responsibility and brand identity). SME managers were predisposed to use at least three communication channels among the following: advertising, sales promotion, public relations, direct marketing and/or personal selling. Furthermore, managers generally preferred internet-enabled communication.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides fresh insights into how SMEs could integrate their communication strategies to increase their survival chances and business growth. However, the need to develop SMEs is required in every economy. Thus, the present findings could be seen as relevant to various audiences (academic, practitioners and/or policy-makers) such as for managers from Western and/or European settings who are interested in operating in the Malaysian economy.

Practical implications

By using the four requisites that inform IHC, owners/managers of SMEs can adopt a more holistic approach, by strategically planning communication activities using both communication typologies (i.e. product and firm level). Thus, SMEs will be able to enhance clarity and consistency in their communication strategy and achieve brand equity across relevant stakeholders in the long run.

Originality/value

This study introduces the IHC theoretical perspective and reveals the communication tools used by SMEs to communicate product and brand-related messages to multiple stakeholders. These messages tend to stem from and are shaped by the identity/roots of the firm embedded in managerial personality/values.
The heterogeneity of institutional investor activists and their counterintuitive tactical interactions
Authors: Cavich Jason
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Following the traditions of stakeholder salience theory, this paper aims to contend that some institutional investor activists and tactics have more power, legitimacy and urgency than others.

Design/methodology/approach

The author undertakes an empirical test of a saliency table looking at the effects of institutional investor heterogeneity on portfolio firm responses using ordinal logistic regression.

Findings

This study found heterogeneity for institutional investor type to drive firm responses but not tactic type raising the importance of the attributes of each type of investor activist. The author found a rank ordering of public pension plans, hedge funds and then private multiemployer funds in saliency to portfolio firms. In addition, the use of proxy-based tactics did not help or hurt each investor type. Both findings challenge prior empirical work.

Originality/value

The rank ordering based upon the heterogeneity of institutional investor activists and their tactical interactions are tested providing empirical evidence of the most influential activist investors and tactics in one study, which is rare in the literature.
Managing food waste in the United States: a proposed public-private governance and sustainability model
Authors: Hemphill Thomas A.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Using the policy recommendations identified in the study as an analytical departure point, the study proposes a “public-private governance and sustainability model” that builds upon the policy options and develops implementation strategies for the key stakeholder institutions implementing the proposed solutions in the US food waste management ecosystem.

Design/methodology/approach

Within an exploratory research perspective, an affinity diagram is employed to help identify important policy recommendations identified with key policy reports. Moreover, the study employs a “meta regulation” approach that employs four essential characteristics of any regulatory instrument or approach: target, regulator, command and consequences.

Findings

The study has identified the recommended solutions identified as most effective, and developed recommended implementation strategies that could accomplish the goal of potentially reducing food waste in the US at the consumer level. The study recommends passage of federal legislation that specifies what form of administrative rule-making and enforcement process should be instituted, as well as who are the important stakeholders to be considered and authority provided in this rule-making and enforcement process.

Originality/value

This study offers a comprehensive “proposed public-private governance and sustainability model” addressing food waste management safety and quality date labeling implementation challenges by the enforcing federal, state and local governments, as well as collaborating with industry associations and consumer interest groups.
Sympatric finches increase trophic and spatiotemporal partitioning to enable coexistence through periods of low resource availability
Authors: Collett Sydney J. , Crewe Tara L. , Radford Ian J. , Garnett Stephen T. , Campbell Hamish A.
Published: June 2022

Ecological niche theory dictates that sympatric species cannot occupy the same ecological niche at the same time. Sympatric granivorous finch species in tropical savannas appear to contradict this theory by moving in mixed‐species flocks and feeding together upon the same resources.

Here, we explored this contradiction by tracking individuals from three finch species (Gouldian—Chloebia gouldiae, long‐tailed—Poephila acuticauda and masked finch—P. personata) often seen feeding together, while simultaneously determining the dietary composition during periods of high and low resource abundance.

Dietary composition was characterised using stable isotope ratios of δ13C and δ15N within the blood, and foraging areas were determined from continuous detection using passive VHF radio telemetry. Individuals were sampled early in the dry season when grass seeds were abundant, in the middle of the dry season and at the end when seeds were very scarce.

The results showed plasticity in ecological niche overlap among the three finch species depending on grass seed availability within the landscape. In the early dry season, the species foraged together on the abundant grass seed. As the dry season progressed and grass seed availability declined, masked and long‐tailed finches exhibited greater spatial partitioning, masked and Gouldian finches increased dietary partitioning, and long‐tailed and Gouldian finches increased both dietary and spatial partitioning.

Our study showed that sympatric granivorous finches utilise trophic and spatiotemporal partitioning to enable coexistence through periods of low resource availability in tropical savannas. Gouldian finches increased activity and ranging behaviour, while long‐tailed and masked finches diversified their diet.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Lithic landscape models and hydraulic imaginaries in the Colca Valley, Peru
Authors: Berquist Stephen , Wernke Steven
Published: June 2022

Dating to the pre‐Hispanic era, carved stone sculptures of terraced landforms –maquetas –found in the south‐central Andes evoke topographic models. The purpose of thesemaquetashas eluded archaeologists as the lithic landscapes do not correspond precisely to the terrain and could not have served as maps. By centring irrigation as a fundamental concern among communities of the semi‐arid western cordillera of the south‐central Andes, we draw from science and technology studies (STS) to analyse themaquetasas sociotechnical representations that enacted flowing water as a capricious but ultimately ‘teachable’ entity. We argue that themaquetashelped to ground hydraulic knowledge through proprioception, aiding construction of intricate canal systems.
Encapsulation of dipeptidyl peptidase‐IV inhibitory peptides from alpha‐lactalbumin extracted from milk of Gir cows – A Bos indicus species
Authors: Patange Swapnil Ramrao , Sabikhi Latha , Shelke Prashant Ashok , Rathod Nilesh , Shaik Abdul Hussain , Khetra Yogesh , Kumar M H Sathish
Published: June 2022

An attempt has been made to encapsulate dipeptidyl peptidase‐IV (DPP‐IV) inhibitory peptides which were decrypted from hydrolysis of α‐lactalbumin of milk of Gir cows. The effect of salt, pectin, homogenising speed on emulsion stability and encapsulation efficiency was examined. The optimised double emulsion containing 5% DPP‐IV inhibitory peptides had 17.33 ± 0.97 μm mean diameter, −35.43 ± 1.85 mV zeta potential and 93.00 ± 0.90% encapsulation efficiency. The emulsion stored at 5 ± 1°C and 37 ± 1°C exhibited stability of 90 and 20 days respectively. Encapsulated peptides showed ~4 times better DPP‐IV inhibition activity than nonencapsulated after simulated digestion.
Predicting the efficacy of first‐line immunotherapy by combining cancer cachexia and tumor burden in advanced non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Miyawaki Taichi , Naito Tateaki , Doshita Kosei , Kodama Hiroaki , Mori Mikiko , Nishioka Naoya , Iida Yuko , Miyawaki Eriko , Mamesaya Nobuaki , Kobayashi Haruki , Omori Shota , Ko Ryo , Wakuda Kazushige , Ono Akira , Kenmotsu Hirotsugu , Murakami Haruyasu , Mori Keita , Harada Hideyuki , Endo Masahiro , Takahashi Kazuhisa , Takahashi Toshiaki
Published: June 2022

Background

Cancer cachexia and tumor burden predict efficacies of programmed cell death‐1 (PD‐1)/programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) inhibitors and chemotherapy or pembrolizumab in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). There are no predictive models that simultaneously assess cancer cachexia and tumor burden.

Methods

In the present retrospective study, we reviewed the medical records of patients with advanced NSCLC who received cancer immunotherapy as first‐line systemic therapy. Clinical immune predictive scores were defined according to multivariate analysis of progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

Results

A total of 157 patients were included in the present study (75 treated with PD‐1/PD‐L1 inhibitors + chemotherapy; 82, pembrolizumab monotherapy). Multivariate analysis for PFS revealed that PD‐L1 tumor proportion scores <50%, a total target lesion diameter ≥76 mm, and cancer cachexia were independently associated with poor PFS. Multivariate analysis for OS revealed that ≥4 metastases and cancer cachexia were significantly associated with poor OS. In the immune predictive model, the median PFS was 21.7 months in the low‐risk group (N = 41); 7.6 in the medium‐risk group (N = 64); and 3.0 in the high‐risk group (N = 47). The median OS were not reached, 22.4 and 9.1 months respectively. Our immune predictive model was significantly associated with PFS (p < 0.001) and OS (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

We proposed the immune predictive model, including tumor burden and cancer cachexia, which may predict the efficacy and survival outcome of first‐line immunotherapy in advanced NSCLC.
Organic pest management of hill crops through locally available plant extracts in themid‐Himalayas
Authors: Stanley Johnson , Subbanna ARNS , Mahanta Dibakar , Paschapur Amit Umesh , Mishra Krishna Kant , Varghese Eldho
Published: June 2022

The present investigation was aimed to assess the best organic pest management practices in soybean and Indian rape cultivation systems in the mid‐Himalayas. Based on the preliminary laboratory assays, promising treatments were selected for field assays for 3 years. It was observed thatPartheniumleaf extract 5% provided significantly higher pest reduction in field condition with 76.8% at 7 DAT (days after treatment) against sucking bug,Chauliops chopraiinfesting soybean. In case of mustard aphids (Lipaphis erysimi) infesting Indian rape, Nimbicidine 5 ml L−1was found superior with 61.5% pest reduction, followed by 5% seed extract ofMelia azedarachat 7 DAT in field condition. Contrary to pest reduction, the pooled yield data analysis showed that among organic treatments, spraying of Nimbicidine @ 5 ml L−1recorded significantly superior yield over control with yield advantage of 29%, followed byM. azedarachseed extract 5% and 10%, both recording 21% yield advantage in case of soybean. Nimbicidine was also superior for Indian rape crop with yield advantage of 51%, followed byBeauveria bassiana@ 3 g L−1with 44% and 5% seed extract ofM. azedarachwith 33% yield advantage compared to control. Hence,Partheniumleaf extract 5% and Nimbicidine are recommended for effective control ofC. chopraiandL.erysimiinfesting soybean and Indian rape, respectively. But to achieve higher yield, Nimbicidine is the best among organic management of those pests for both crops. These results suggest good organic pest management options in organic farming system.
“Do not resuscitate” order and end‐of‐life treatment in a cohort of deceased in a Norwegian University Hospital
Authors: van der Werff Hans F. L. , Michelet Torstein H. , Fredheim Olav M. , Steine Siri
Published: June 2022

Background

A “Do not resuscitate” (DNR) order implies that cardiopulmonary resuscitation will not be started. Absent or delayed DNR orders in advanced chronic disease may indicate suboptimal communication about disease stage, prognosis, and treatment goals. The study objective was to determine clinical practice and patient involvement regarding DNR and the prevalence of life‐prolonging treatment in the last week of life.

Methods

A cross‐sectional observational study was made of a cohort of 315 deceased from a large general hospital in Norway. Data on DNR and other treatment limitations, life‐prolonging treatment in the last week of life, and cause of death were obtained from medical records.

Results

A DNR order was documented for 287 (91%) patients. Almost half the DNR orders, 142 (49%), were made during the last 7 days of life. The main causes of death were cancer (31%), infectious diseases (31%), and cardiovascular diseases (19%). The most frequent life‐prolonging treatments during the last week of life were intravenous fluids in 221 patients (70%) and antibiotics in 198 (63%). During the last week of life, 103 (36%) patients received ICU treatment. Death by cancer (odds ratio 2.5, 95% confidence interval 1.24–5.65) and DNR decision made by a palliative care physician (odds ratio 3.4, 95% CI 1.21–3.88) were predictors of not receiving life‐prolonging treatment.

Conclusion

The findings of a high prevalence of life‐prolonging treatment in the last week of life and DNR orders being made close to the time of death indicate that decisions about limiting life‐prolonging treatment are often postponed until the patient's death is imminent.
Being private, Big 4 auditors, and debt raising
Authors: Sharpe Wen Hua , Carey Peter , Zhang Hong Feng
Published: June 2022

This study investigates the role of auditor choice (Big 4/Non‐Big 4) in debt financing for private and public firms. We find private firms have less access to debt than public firms, and Big 4 auditors support debt raising in both private and public firms. Consistent with private firms facing greater information asymmetry, Big 4 auditors are more important for debt raising in private firms than in public firms. The benefit of appointing Big 4 auditors for private firms' debt raising is greater in the opaque information environment of the global financial crisis. It is also greater when firms are smaller, younger, or have poorer financial reporting quality. We also find evidence consistent with Big 4 auditors mitigating agency conflicts and enhancing debt raising when ownership concentration is higher in private firms.
Phenological asynchrony between sexes of Restionaceae can explain culm δ13C differences
Authors: van Blerk Justin J. , West Adam G. , Skelton Robert P. , Midgley Jeremy J.
Published: June 2022

Decade‐old observations of sex‐specific differences in culm δ13C for the diverse and ecologically important Restionaceae of the Cape Florisitic Region (CFR) have yet to be explained mechanistically. In the dioecious, wind‐pollinated Cannomois congesta (Mast.), we found that sexual differences in culm δ13C were not explained by intrinsic differences in water use efficiency (WUE), but rather by differences in growth phenology. When growing together, instantaneous WUE (A/g) was equal between sexes. However, we noted strong phenological asynchrony between the sexes where males began to grow new culms nearly 2 months earlier than females. This initial period of growth in males corresponded to hotter, drier conditions and temporarily higher instantaneous WUE, thus driving less negative δ13C signals in male culms. We suspect that phenological differences might explain previously reported sexual differences in culm δ13C in the Restionaceae family. Despite earlier culm emergence in males, reduced growth in males prior to flowering, presumably due to costs associated with reproduction, resulted in both sexes flowering at the same height. We discuss the potential selective advantage of earlier growth in males as it relates to inflorescence heights and pollination efficiency.
Training on the Silverman and Andersen score improved how special care unit nurses assessed neonatal respiratory distress in a low‐resource setting
Authors: Cavallin Francesco , Balestri Eleonora , Calia Margherita , Biasci Filippo , Tolera Jiksa , Pietravalle Andrea , Manenti Fabio , Trevisanuto Daniele
Published: June 2022

Aim

Identifying the severity of neonatal respiratory distress (RD) is essential, so that resources can be appropriately allocated. We assessed the ability of nurses to grade neonatal RD in a low‐resource setting before and after they were trained to use a dedicated scoring tool.

Methods

The study was conducted in the Special Care Unit of St Luke Wolisso Hospital, Ethiopia. Ten nurses reviewed nine local video recordings and graded neonatal RD without a standardised method, which was current practice, and then after they were trained to use the Silverman and Andersen score. The data were analysed using the McNemar test and Cohen's kappa.

Results

Training increased the identification of mild RD from 63% to 93% (p = 0.008) and moderate RD from 40% to 73% (p = 0.03). Severe RD was 93% before and 90% after training (p = 0.99). Overall, the agreement improved from kappa 0.59 to 0.84, mainly by reducing the overestimation of milder degrees of RD.

Conclusion

Being trained on how to use the Silverman and Andersen score improved the ability of nurses to identify mild and moderate neonatal RD. This improvement has the potential to optimise the use of equipment, staff and time.
Exogenous gamma‐aminobutyric acid addition enhances porcine sperm acrosome reaction
Authors: Kurata Shouhei , Umezu Kohei , Takamori Hironori , Hiradate Yuuki , Hara Kenshiro , Tanemura Kentaro
Published: June 2022

The widely used porcine artificial insemination procedure involves the use of liquid‐stored semen because it is difficult to control the quality of frozen–thawed porcine sperm. Therefore, there is a high demand for porcine semen. The control and enhancement of sperm function are required for the efficient reproduction of pigs. We previously reported that gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) enhanced sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction in mice. In this study, we demonstrated the presence of GABAA receptors in porcine sperm acrosome. Furthermore, we investigated the GABA effects on porcine sperm function. We did not detect any marked effect of GABA on sperm motility and tyrosine phosphorylation of sperm proteins. However, GABA promoted acrosome reaction, which was suppressed by a selective GABAA receptor antagonist. GABA binds to GABAA receptors, resulting in chloride ion influx. We found that treatment with 1 μM GABA increased the intracellular concentration of chloride ion in the sperm. In addition, the GABA concentration effective in the acrosome reaction was correlated with the porcine sperm concentration. These results indicate that GABA and its receptors can act as modulators of acrosome reaction. This study is the first to report the effects of GABA on porcine sperm function.
A first step towards best practice recommendations for the design and statistical analyses of pragmatic clinical trials: A modified Delphi approach
Authors: Palin Victoria , Van Staa Tjeerd P. , Steels Stephanie , Troxel Andrea B. , Groenwold Rolf H. H. , MacDonald Tom M. , Torgerson David , Faries Douglas , Mancini Pierre , Ouwens Mario , Frith Lucy J. , Tsirtsonis Kate , MacLennan Graham , Nordon Clementine ,   GetReal Initiative
Published: June 2022

Aim

Pragmatic clinical trials (PCTs) are randomized trials implemented through routine clinical practice, where design parameters of traditional randomized controlled trials are modified to increase generalizability. However, this may introduce statistical challenges. We aimed to identify these challenges and discuss possible solutions leading to best practice recommendations for the design and analysis of PCTs.

Methods

A modified Delphi method was used to reach consensus among a panel of 11 experts in clinical trials and statistics. Statistical issues were identified in a focused literature review and aggregated with insights and possible solutions from experts collected through a series of survey iterations. Issues were ranked according to their importance.

Results

Twenty‐seven articles were included and combined with experts' insight to generate a list of issues categorized into participants, recruiting sites, randomization, blinding and intervention, outcome (selection and measurement) and data analysis. Consensus was reached about the most important issues: risk of participants' attrition, heterogeneity of “usual care” across sites, absence of blinding, use of a subjective endpoint and data analysis aligned with the trial estimand. Potential issues should be anticipated and preferably be addressed in the trial protocol. The experts provided solutions regarding data collection and data analysis, which were considered of equal importance.

Discussion

A set of important statistical issues in PCTs was identified and approaches were suggested to anticipate and/or minimize these through data analysis. Any impact of choosing a pragmatic design feature should be gauged in the light of the trial estimand.
Elastic Analysis of Irregularly or Sparsely Sampled Curves
Authors: Steyer Lisa , Stöcker Almond , Greven Sonja
Published: June 2022

We provide statistical analysis methods for samples of curves in two or more dimensions, where the image, but not the parameterization of the curves, is of interest and suitable alignment/registration is thus necessary. Examples are handwritten letters, movement paths, or object outlines. We focus in particular on the computation of (smooth) means and distances, allowing, for example, classification or clustering. Existing parameterization invariant analysis methods based on the elastic distance of the curves modulo parameterization, using the square-root-velocity framework, have limitations in common realistic settings where curves are irregularly and potentially sparsely observed. We propose using spline curves to model smooth or polygonal (Fréchet) means of open or closed curves with respect to the elastic distance and show identifiability of the spline model modulo parameterization. We further provide methods and algorithms to approximate the elastic distance for irregularly or sparsely observed curves, via interpreting them as polygons. We illustrate the usefulness of our methods on two datasets. The first application classifies irregularly sampled spirals drawn by Parkinson's patients and healthy controls, based on the elastic distance to a mean spiral curve computed using our approach. The second application clusters sparsely sampled GPS tracks based on the elastic distance and computes smooth cluster means to find new paths on the Tempelhof field in Berlin. All methods are implemented in the R-package “elasdics” and evaluated in simulations.
The Keloid Area and Severity Index (KASI): an objective tool for the evaluation of keloids
Authors: Limmer Emily E. , Kerby Eva , Lies Shelby , Limmer Byron , Limmer Rachel , Teske Noelle , Savory Stephanie , Reisch Joan S. , Glass Donald A.
Published: June 2022

To aid in the standardization of evaluating patients with multiple keloids, a Keloid Area and Severity Index (KASI) was developed using patient feedback, previous literature, and clinical expertise. The system was validated using intrarater and interrater reliability assessments. Here, we present a verified, reliable method of assessing keloid area and severity in clinical and research settings.
Emotional quality of early education programs improves language learning: A within‐child across context design
Authors: Rankin Peter Sheldon , Staton Sally , Potia Azhar Hussain , Houen Sandy , Thorpe Karen
Published: June 2022

Observational studies comparing child outcomes in early care and education classrooms of differing quality are often confounded by between‐child differences. A within‐child design, tracking children across contexts, can identify the effects of quality with less confounding. An analysis of Australian children (N = 1128, mean age 5 years, 48% female, 2.9% Indigenous, ethnicity data unavailable) tracked across pre‐K, K, and year 1 (2010–2012) was conducted to assess how changes in observed quality (Classroom Assessment Scoring System) were associated with changes in cognitive development (Woodcock–Johnson III). Thresholds of quality were also investigated. Increases in Emotional Support were associated with improved language development (β = 0.54, 95% CI [0.1–0.99], approximating 2.6 weeks development). Results highlight that emotional quality is an integral and potent component of early learning.
A qualitative assessment of patient satisfaction with remote dermatology consultations utilized during the UK's first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in a single secondary care dermatology department
Authors: Livesey Amy , Plant Alice , Simmonds Roshni , Mitchell Charles
Published: June 2022

During the first wave of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, many dermatology departments in the UK delivered remote consultations in order to minimize viral transmission. To assess patient perception of remote consultations delivered in a single dermatology department during this time, we retrospectively contacted patients via an electronic questionnaire and the responses are summarized. We anticipate that increased use of remote consultations will be a legacy of the pandemic, although healthcare professionals will have a responsibility for ensuring appropriate patient suitability.
Where are we with developing diagnostic criteria for skin diseases? Mapping the evidence in 2021
Authors: Luke Jessie , Burden-Teh Esther
Published: June 2022

The breadth and scope of dermatological diagnostic criteria is currently unknown. We created a map of diagnostic criteria to provide a panoramic view of past and ongoing research to develop dermatological diagnostic criteria. We analysed studies for which the primary research aim was to develop, validate or critically appraise diagnostic criteria for dermatological conditions identified with a PubMed search conducted in July 2021. The researched skin diseases were grouped based on similarities in pathogenesis. In total, 166 studies covering 104 skin diseases were included in the data extraction. The two largest disease categories were autoimmune diseases (17%) and rare disorders and genetic syndromes (17%). Of the total studies analysed, 28% included a type of validation and 64% provided diagnostic accuracy data. This map of diagnostic criteria covers a vast range of dermatological conditions, but many common skin diseases were under-represented. We plan to update the map and make it available for all health professionals and researchers.
Outcome of implants placed to retain craniofacial prostheses – A retrospective cohort study with a follow‐up of up to 30 years
Authors: Alberga Jamie , Eggels Iris , Visser Anita , van Minnen Baucke , Korfage Anke , Vissink Arjan , Raghoebar Gerry
Published: June 2022

Objectives

To retrospectively assess the treatment outcomes of endosseous implants placed to retain craniofacial prostheses.

Material and Methods

Patients with craniofacial defects resulting from congenital disease, trauma, or oncologic treatment had implant retained prostheses placed in the mastoid, orbital, or nasal region and then assessed over a period of up to 30 years. Implant survival rates were calculated with the Kaplan–Meier method. Clinical assessments consisted of scoring skin reactions under the prosthesis and the peri‐implant skin reactions. Possible risk factors for implant loss were identified. Patient satisfaction was evaluated using a 10‐point VAS‐scale.

Results

A total of 525 implants placed in 201 patients were included. The median follow up was 71 months (IQR 28–174 months). Implants placed in the mastoid and nasal region showed the highest overall implant survival rates (10‐year implant survival rates of 93.7% and 92.5%, respectively), while the orbital implants had the lowest overall survival rate (84.2%). Radiotherapy was a significant risk factor for implant loss (HR 3.14, p < 0.001). No differences in implant loss were found between pre‐ and post‐operative radiotherapy (p = 0.89). Soft tissue problems were not frequently encountered, and the patients were highly satisfied with their implant‐retained prosthesis.

Conclusion

Implants used to retain craniofacial prostheses have high survival and patient satisfaction rates and can thus be considered as a predictable treatment option. Radiation is the most important risk factor for implant loss.
Illicit drug use and male barroom aggression among members of the Australian construction industry: Associations with personality and masculinity factors
Authors: Litherland Steven , Miller Peter G. , Hyder Shannon
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Illicit drug use has been found to increase the risks of male barroom aggression (MBA). Personality traits such as dispositional aggressiveness have been associated with illicit substance use and aggressive behaviour, along with social normative masculinity factors. The present study assessed the relationships between illicit drug use, key personality (trait aggression, impulsivity, narcissism) and masculinity (conformity to masculine norms, male honour) variables with physical MBA perpetration and victimisation among male Australian construction workers.

Methods

A purposive, high‐risk sample of male construction workers aged 18–69 years (n = 476, Mage = 25.90 years, SDage = 9.44) completed interviews at their place of work or training.

Results

Participants reported high rates of both physical MBA perpetration (21%; n = 100) and victimisation (31.1%; n = 148) as well as any illicit drug use (33.61%; n = 160). Logistic regressions revealed the use of amphetamine‐type stimulants (methamphetamine, ecstasy) was associated with violence perpetration, even after accounting for high‐intensity drinking (HID) which was the strongest predictor of MBA involvement. Trait variables (Trait Physical aggressiveness, narcissism) and the masculine norm CMNI Violence were also risk factors for MBA perpetration while CMNI Playboy was protective against MBA.

Discussion and Conclusions

The use of amphetamine‐type stimulants is a risk‐factor for MBA perpetration, as are key personality traits such as aggressiveness and narcissism. Most aspects of masculinity, including male honour, were either unrelated to or protective against involvement in physical violence in bars, clubs or pubs.
Predicting potential distributions of large carnivores in Kenya: An occupancy study to guide conservation
Authors: Broekhuis Femke , Ngene Shadrack , Gopalaswamy Arjun M. , Mwaura Anastacia , Dloniak Stephanie M. , Ngatia Dedan K. , Tyrrell Peter D. , Yamane Yumi , Elliot Nicholas B.
Published: June 2022

Aim

Species‐specific conservation strategies are frequently formulated based on species distribution maps, which are challenging to produce, especially at large spatial scales. Our aim was to use a novel empirical approach to predict the national distribution for all six large carnivore species found in Kenya to guide conservation and management decisions by identifying knowledge and conservation gaps.

Location

Kenya.

Methods

We collected data on carnivore presence and absence through questionnaire and sightings‐based surveys and analysed the combined data set using single‐season false‐positive occupancy models, which account for imperfect detections and false positives. To predict potential distributions and inform conservation strategies, we used the occupancy outputs to make predictions for unsampled areas and create occupancy‐based distribution maps where ψ > 0.50, to (1) quantify differences with IUCN Red List range maps, (2) quantify overlap with wildlife areas and (3) identify areas of high carnivore richness.

Results

Large carnivore occupancy was associated with land conversion, habitat and prey availability. Our results suggest that all six species are widely distributed across Kenya and reveal substantial differences to distribution maps compiled by the IUCN Red List. More specifically, our occupancy‐based distribution maps predict much larger distribution for African wild dog (5.09X), lion (4.77X) and leopard (1.46X), similar distribution for cheetah, and smaller distribution for spotted hyaena (0.84X) and striped hyaena (0.65X). For all large carnivores, the vast majority (~80%) of their predicted distribution falls outside wildlife areas and northern Kenya is predicted to have the highest large carnivore richness.

Main conclusions

Our results are encouraging as large carnivores may be widely distributed across Kenya, in some cases potentially more so than previously acknowledged. However, much of this range lies outside wildlife areas and represent areas of concern both for conservation and human livelihoods illustrating the challenges of conserving large carnivores across their range.
The global exposure of species ranges and protected areas to forest management
Authors: Jung Martin , Lewis Matthew , Lesiv Myroslava , Arnell Andy , Fritz Steffen , Visconti Piero
Published: June 2022

Aim

Many vertebrate species globally are dependent on forests, most of which require active protection to safeguard global biodiversity. Forests, however, are increasingly either being disturbed, planted or managed in the form of timber or food plantations. Because of a lack of spatial data, forest management has commonly been ignored in previous conservation assessments.

Location

Global.

Methods

We combine a new global map of forest management types created solely from remote sensing imagery with spatially explicit information on the distribution of forest‐associated vertebrate species and protected areas globally. Using Bayesian logistic regressions, we explore whether the amount of forested habitat available to a species as well as information on species‐specific threats can explain differences in IUCN extinction risk categories.

Results

We show that disturbed and human‐managed forests dominate the distributional ranges of most forest‐associated species. Species considered as non‐threatened had on average larger amounts of non‐managed forests within their range. A greater amount of planted forests did not decrease the probability of species being threatened by extinction. Even more worrying, protected areas are increasingly being established in areas dominated by disturbed forests.

Conclusion

Our results imply that species extinction risk and habitat assessments might have been overly optimistic with forest management practices being largely ignored so far. With forest restoration being at the centre of climate and conservation policies in this decade, we caution that policy makers should explicitly consider forest management in global and regional assessments.
Cross‐scale drivers of woody plant species commonness and rarity in the Brazilian drylands
Authors: Pinho Bruno X. , Trindade Diego P. F. , Peres Carlos A. , Jamelli Davi , de Lima Renato A. F. , Ribeiro Elâine M. S. , Melo Felipe P. L. , Leal Inara R. , Tabarelli Marcelo
Published: June 2022

Aim

Locally abundant species are typically widespread, while locally scarce species are geographically restricted—the so‐called abundance‐occupancy relationships (AORs). AORs help explain the drivers of species rarity and community assembly, but little is known about how variation around such relationship is driven by species traits and niche‐based processes, particularly in tropical woody plants. We tested the hypothesis that AORs in tropical dryland woody plants are positive and mediated by niche and functional traits along environmental gradients.

Location

The Caatinga dry forest and Cerrado savannah, Brazil.

Methods

We aggregated abundance and occurrence data into grid‐cells representing local (10‐km) to landscape scales (50‐km). We calculated species mean relative abundance at occupied grid‐cells (local abundance) and the proportion of grid‐cells occupied (occupancy), and estimated their niche breadth and marginality along multivariate environmental gradients.

Results

AORs were positive but weak at different scales in both regions due to some locally abundant but geographically restricted species, with most species being both locally and geographically rare. Cross‐species variation in local abundance was largely unpredictable, but occupancy was strongly driven by niche and functional traits, with a prominent negative effect of niche marginality. Geographically restricted species were associated with rare habitats, such as wetter and less intensively used habitats. Large seeds and abiotic dispersal favoured occupancy in Caatinga at small and large spatial scales, respectively, whereas species with conservative leaves were more widespread across scales in Cerrado.

Main conclusions

Woody plants in dry tropical biotas exhibit weak AORs, a pattern likely related to low habitat availability and dispersal limitation. Caatinga and Cerrado biotas emerge as environmentally structured at multiple spatial scales, with several habitat‐specialist rare species bearing specific regenerative and resource‐use traits and relying on conditions threatened by climate change and land‐use intensification. Examining AORs through the lens of niche, functional traits and spatial scales enables mapping patterns and drivers of species commonness and rarity, enhancing understanding of species assembly and providing tools for biodiversity conservation.
The Rx transcription factor is required for determination of the retinal lineage and regulates the timing of neuronal differentiation
Authors: Yamamoto Maho , Ong Agnes Lee Chen , Shinozuka Takuma , Sasai Noriaki
Published: June 2022

Understanding the molecular mechanisms leading to retinal development is of great interest for both basic scientific and clinical applications. Several signaling molecules and transcription factors involved in retinal development have been isolated and analyzed; however, determining the direct impact of the loss of a specific molecule is problematic, due to difficulties in identifying the corresponding cellular lineages in different individuals. Here, we conducted genome‐wide expression analysis with embryonic stem (ES) cells devoid of theRxgene, which encodes one of several homeobox transcription factors essential for retinal development. We performed three‐dimensional differentiation of wild‐type and mutant cells and compared their gene‐expression profiles. The mutant tissue failed to differentiate into the retinal lineage and exhibited precocious expression of genes characteristic of neuronal cells. Together, these results suggest that Rx expression is an important biomarker of the retinal lineage and that it helps regulates appropriate differentiation stages.