bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Migrant domestic workers' character strengths and the role of work‐related factors: A strengths‐based perspective
Authors: Nalipay Ma. Jenina N. , King Ronnel B. , Garabiles Melissa R. , Capio Catherine M. , Yeung Susanna S. S.
Published: November 2021

Most studies on migrant domestic workers (MDW) focus on their problems and vulnerabilities, whereas not much is known about their positive attributes and character strengths. Hence, this study intends to deviate from the usual deficit‐based view of MDW, which portrays them as victims, to a strengths‐based perspective, which highlights their character strengths. In this study, we examined MDW's character strengths (i.e. positive human attributes that contribute to the thriving of oneself and others) and work‐related factors associated with it. The participants of the study were 631 Filipino female MDW in Hong Kong. We examined how work‐related factors (employer support and working conditions) predicted different character strength domains (courage, humanity, justice, moderation, transcendence and wisdom) through strengths use. Results of structural equation modelling revealed that employer support consistently predicted all six domains of character strengths through increased strengths use. These findings highlight the important role of employer support on MDW's character strengths. More importantly, it can raise critical awareness on MDW's strengths and well‐being, and provide a platform for future strengths‐based programmes and policies.
Are they arboreal? Climbing abilities and mechanics in the red‐backed salamander (Plethodon cinereus)
Authors: Hanna Christopher S. , Alihosseini Christopher , Fischer Hannah M. , Davoli Elizabeth C. , Granatosky Michael C.
Published: November 2021

While red‐backed salamanders (Plethodon cinereus) are most often observed in terrestrial forested areas, several studies report arboreal substrate use and climbing behavior. However, salamanders do not have any of the anatomical features commonly observed in specialized climbing species (e.g., claws, setae, suction cups). Instead, salamanders cling to surfaces using the shear and adhesive properties of their mucous layer. In this study, we explore the capabilities and spatiotemporal gait patterns of arboreal locomotion in the red‐backed salamander as they move across twelve substrate conditions ranging in diameter, orientation, and roughness. On arboreal substrates, red‐backed salamanders decreased locomotor speed, stride frequency, phase and stride length, and increased duty factor and stride duration. Such responses have been observed in other non‐salamander species and are posited to increase arboreal stability. Furthermore, these findings indicate that amphibian locomotion, or at least the locomotor behavior of the red‐backed salamander, is not stereotyped and that some locomotor plasticity is possible in response to the demands of the external environment. However, red‐backed salamanders were unable to locomote on any small‐diameter or vertically‐oriented coarse substrates. This finding provides strong evidence that the climbing abilities of red‐backed salamanders are attributable solely to mucous adhesion and that this species is unable to produce the necessary external “gripping” forces to achieve fine‐branch arboreal locomotion or scale substrates where adhesion is not possible. The red‐backed salamander provides an ideal model for arboreal locomotor performance of anatomically‐unspecialized amphibians and offers insight into transitionary stages in the evolution of arborealism in this lineage.
Neuroprotective activity of new Δ3‐N‐acylethanolamines in a focal ischemia stroke model
Authors: Shirazi Rahau S. , Vyssotski Mikhail , Lagutin Kirill , Thompson Dion , MacDonald Christa , Luscombe Vincent , Glass Michelle , Parker Kim , Gowing Emma K. , Williams D. Bradley G. , Clarkson Andrew N.
Published: November 2021

N‐acylethanolamines (NAE, also called ethanolamides) are significant lipid signaling molecules with anti‐inflammatory, pain‐relieving, cell‐protective, and anticancer properties. Here, we present the use of a hitherto unreported group of Δ3‐NAE and also some Δ4‐ and Δ5‐NAE, in in vitro and in vivo assays to gain a better understanding of their structure–bioactivity relationships. We have developed an efficient synthetic method to rapidly produce novel unlabeled and 13C‐labeled Δ3‐NAE (NAE‐18:5n‐3, NAE‐18:4n‐6) and Δ4‐NAE (NAE‐22:5n‐6). The new NAE with shorter carbon backbone structures confers greater neuroprotection than their longer carbon backbone counterparts, including anandamide (Δ5‐NAE‐20:4n‐6) in a focal ischemia mouse model of stroke. This study highlights structure‐dependent protective effects of new NAE following focal ischemia, in which some of the new NAE, administered intranasally, lead to significantly reduced infarct volume and improved recovery of limb use. The relative affinity of the new NAE toward cannabinoid receptors was assessed against anandamide, NAE‐22:6n‐3 and NAE‐20:5n‐3, which are known cannabinoid receptor ligands with high‐binding constants. Among the newly synthesized NAE, Δ4‐NAE‐22:5n‐6 shows the greatest relative affinity to cannabinoid receptors hCB1 and hCB2, and inhibition of cyclic adenosine monophosphate activity through hCB2 compared to anandamide.
Ethyl Cellulose/Rare Earth Complexes Light‐Conversion Films and Exploration in Acid Rain Detection
Authors: Zhang Zhiyuan , Li Yuanghang , Fu Zhengquan , Wang Di , Wang Chengyu , Li Jian
Published: November 2021

Generally, precipitation with pH less than 5.6 is considered acid rain, which will have adverse effects on water, soil, animals, and plants, etc, therefore, rapid detection of acid rain is of great significance. In this work, the rare earth europium is combined with 4,4,4‐trifluoro‐1‐phenyl‐1,3‐butanedione to obtain the Eu3+ complex, Eu(BTA)3(H2O)2. As an auxiliary ligand and matrix, ethyl cellulose avoided the fluorescence quenching caused by uneven dispersion of the complex in the matrix and while sensitizing the fluorescence of Eu3+. The rare earth complex light‐conversion film is successfully prepared. The results showed that the film has good responsiveness to pH value. In the process of neutral to acidic aqueous solution, the fluorescence is gradually quenched and exhibits a good linear relationship, when the aqueous solution changed from acid to neutral, the fluorescence will be restored, and the fluorescence intensity can still maintain above 90% after 5 repetitions. In addition, the light‐conversion film has excellent light conversion ability and high color purity. It can transform harmful ultraviolet light into red light which is conducive to photosynthesis, as well as prevent damage of acid rain to plants and has a certain positive effect on agricultural production.
Learning a preconditioner to accelerate compressed sensing reconstructions in MRI
Authors: Koolstra Kirsten , Remis Rob
Published: November 2021

Purpose

To learn a preconditioner that accelerates parallel imaging (PI) and compressed sensing (CS) reconstructions.

Methods

A convolutional neural network (CNN) with residual connections was used to train a preconditioning operator. Training and validation data were simulated using 50% brain images and 50% white Gaussian noise images. Each multichannel training example contains a simulated sampling mask, complex coil sensitivity maps, and two regularization parameter maps. The trained model was integrated in the preconditioned conjugate gradient (PCG) method as part of the split Bregman CS method. The acceleration performance was compared with that of a circulant PI‐CS preconditioner for varying undersampling factors, number of coil elements and anatomies.

Results

The learned preconditioner reduces the number of PCG iterations by a factor of 4, yielding a similar acceleration as an efficient circulant preconditioner. The method generalizes well to different sampling schemes, coil configurations and anatomies.

Conclusion

It is possible to learn adaptable preconditioners for PI and CS reconstructions that meet the performance of state‐of‐the‐art preconditioners. Further acceleration could be achieved by optimizing the network architecture and the training set. Such a preconditioner could also be integrated in fully learned reconstruction methods to accelerate the training process of unrolled networks.
The lamellar MOFs@polymer networks hybrids fabricated in reversed microemulsion for efficient CO2 capture
Authors: He Naipu , Li Chao , Zhao Xiaozhu , Li Yuhong , Zhang Xuehui , Qiao Yaoyu
Published: November 2021

ZIF‐8@polymer networks hybrids (ZIF‐8@PNs), consisting of the flexible CO2 responsive polymer and rigid ZIF‐8 crystals, were fabricated using DMAPMA as the monomer and BIS as the cross‐linker by the reversed microemulsion polymerization, and characterized by the powder XRD, SEM, TEM, DLS, FT‐IR, and TGA. Monomers and cross‐linkers were initiated by AIBN to form polymer networks which coated ZIF‐8 crystals. The shape of ZIF‐8@PNs was modulated by the micelles of surfactant in the reversed microemulsion. In particular, the lamellar ZIF‐8@PNs hybrids with the regular thickness of 50–70 nm in which ZIF‐8 crystals were wrapped by the flexible polymer networks and still retained the crystal skeleton, were fabricated at the high concentration of surfactant in the reversed microemulsion. Additionally, the adsorption capacity of ZIF‐8@PNs hybrids for CO2 has been evaluated. Under the higher initial pressure at the lower temperature, the adsorption of ZIF‐8@PNs for CO2 was higher than that of the pure ZIF‐8, and was an increasing of 180%. The adsorption kinetic models of ZIF‐8@PNs for CO2 indicated that CO2 was efficiently captured in the pores of ZIF‐8 in the internal and the flexible polymer networks on the surface of ZIF‐8@PNs. Moreover, ZIF‐8@PNs had good regeneration of CO2 adsorption, and remained more than 90% after 6 cycles.
Effect of moisture susceptibility and aging on interlaminar fracture behavior of fumed silica reinforced Jute‐Kevlar hybrid nanocomposite
Authors: Maharana Sunil Manohar , Pradhan Arun Kumar , Pandit Mihir Kumar
Published: November 2021

This work aims to examine the influence of moisture uptake of fumed silica reinforced Jute (J)‐Kevlar (K) hybrid composite on Mode I interlaminar fracture toughness. Mode I interlaminar fracture behavior is characterized by using the double cantilever beam (DCB) test specimen. Thirteen different composites are prepared based on four stacking sequences (i.e., Jute‐Jute‐Jute‐Jute [JJJJ], Jute‐Kevlar‐Kevlar‐Jute [JKKJ], Kevlar‐Jute‐Jute‐Kevlar [KJJK], and Kevlar‐Kevlar‐Kevlar‐Kevlar [KKKK]) and four nanofiller percentages (i.e., 0%, 1.5%, 3%, and 4.5%). Mode I fracture is experimented by using DCB test specimens. Mode I fracture energy (GIC) and Resistance curve (R‐curve) is evaluated by using the modified beam theory (MBT) data reduction method at dry and wet conditions of the specimens. The interlaminar fracture surface of the composites is analyzed using an optical microscope. It is noticed that moisture ingression severely affects the fiber bridging, which is a key factor influencing the Mode I fracture resistance. The presence of fumed silica also plays a vital role by preventing the microcracks generation surrounding the fibers due to fiber swelling. The fiber swelling is caused by moisture ingression. The composite with stacking sequence JKKJ and 3% of nanofiller (JKKJ‐3) is proved to be the reasonable Mode I fracture‐resistant material in moist environment.
Boosting the dissociation of by employing shock‐free supersonic expansion
Authors: Khaji Maryam , Britun Nikolay , Degrez Gérard , Parente Alessandro , van der Mullen Joost
Published: November 2021

The effect of shock‐free supersonic expansion on the dissociation of with elevated vibrational temperatures is investigated. It is found that expansion‐cooling not only favors dissociation but also obstructs recombination. The dissociation generated by VV ladder climbing is investigated using the two different model‐types: 1D Full Numerical (Fu‐N) and Semi‐Analytical (S‐An). The Fu‐N gives a more complete self‐consistent description but needs about times longer convergence time. Comparison between the models' results shows a good agreement. This justifies the application of the S‐An approach for a fast parameter space exploration of experimental settings. It is found that the dissociation degree mainly depends on the VDF‐temperature of at the inlet of the supersonic expansion.
Improving the performance of the attribute charts: X¯tn$\bar{X}_{tn}$ and Stn2$S^2_{tn}$
Authors: Yamauchi Tsubasa , Lee Ho Linda , da Costa Quinino Roberto
Published: November 2021

SummaryThis paper proposes a procedure to improve the performance for the attribute control charts: and . In these control charts, a simple size is collected periodically and each item is allocated into one of the five categories defined by a go‐no‐go gauge. After that, a random value is generated for each item according to a truncated normal distribution with its upper and lower limits defined by the cut points of the go‐no‐go gauge. With the generated values, the sample mean and the sample variance are calculated and compared with the their respective control limits. In this paper, a procedure was implemented in order to improve the performance of these control charts, which consists of the sequential switches between two sample sizes and (with ) and checking whether the sample mean (or sample variance depending) exceeds the control limits or not. The proposal is relatively easy for practitioners to implement it. Extensive computational experiments showed that the procedure improved both control charts to detect small shifts in term of . With this procedure, the “Improved ” (shortly ) control chart performs similarly to chart for small shifts in the process mean provided that the sample sizes are raised by approximately two additional sample units and the “Improved ” (shortly ) control chart also has a similar performance to chart with more or less double sample size in the range of small shifts of the variance. Two numerical examples are presented to illustrate the use of the procedure.
The role of colour flows in matrix element computations and Monte Carlo simulations
Authors: Frixione Stefano , Webber Bryan R.
Published: November 2021

Abstract

We discuss how colour flows can be used to simplify the computation of matrix elements, and in the context of parton shower Monte Carlos with accuracy beyond leading-colour. We show that, by systematically employing them, the results for tree-level matrix elements and their soft limits can be given in a closed form that does not require any colour algebra. The colour flows that we define are a natural generalization of those exploited by existing Monte Carlos; we construct their representations in terms of different but conceptually equivalent quantities, namely colour loops and dipole graphs, and examine how these objects may help to extend the accuracy of Monte Carlos through the inclusion of subleading-colour effects. We show how the results that we obtain can be used, with trivial modifications, in the context of QCD+QED simulations, since we are able to put the gluon and photon soft-radiation patterns on the same footing. We also comment on some peculiar properties of gluon-only colour flows, and their relationships with established results in the mathematics of permutations.
Time to abandon ampicillin plus gentamicin in favour of ampicillin plus ceftriaxone in Enterococcus faecalis infective endocarditis? A meta-analysis of comparative trials
Authors: Mirna Moritz , Topf Albert , Schmutzler Lukas , Hoppe Uta C. , Lichtenauer Michael
Published: November 2021

Background

Current guidelines recommend either ampicillin plus ceftriaxone (AC) or amoxicillin/ampicillin plus gentamicin (AG) with an equivalent class IB recommendation in Enterococcus faecalis endocarditis. However, previous observational studies suggest that AC might be favourable in terms of adverse events.

Objectives

To investigate whether AC is non-inferior to AG, and if it is associated with less adverse events.

Methods

In June 2021, a systematic literature search using the databases PubMed/MEDLINE, CDSR, CENTRAL, CCAs, EBM Reviews, Web of Science and LILACS was conducted by two independent reviewers. Studies were considered eligible if (P) patients included were ≥ 18 years of age and had IE with E. faecalis, (I) treatment with AC was compared to (C) treatment with AG and (O) outcomes on in-hospital mortality, nephrotoxicity and adverse events requiring drug withdrawal were reported. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using random-effects models with the Mantel–Haenszel method, the Sidik–Jonkman estimator for τ2 and the Hartung–Knapp adjustment.

Results

Treatment with AC was non-inferior to AG, as depicted by no significant differences in-hospital mortality, 3-month mortality, relapses or treatment failure. Furthermore, AC was associated with a lower prevalence of nephrotoxicity (OR 0.45 [0.26–0.77], p = 0.0182) and drug withdrawal due to adverse events (OR 0.11 [0.03–0.46], p = 0.0160) than AG.

Conclusions

Treatment with AC was non-inferior to treatment with AG, and it was associated with a reduced prevalence of nephrotoxicity and drug withdrawal due to adverse events. Thus, combination therapy with AC appears favourable over AG in patients with E. faecalis IE.

Graphical abstract
Development and validity evidence of an objective structured assessment of technical skills score for minimally invasive linear-stapled, hand-sewn intestinal anastomoses: the A-OSATS score
Authors: Schmidt Mona W. , Haney Caelan M. , Kowalewski Karl-Friedrich , Bintintan Vasile V. , Abu Hilal Mohammed , Arezzo Alberto , Bahra Marcus , Besselink Marc G. , Biebl Matthias , Boni Luigi , Diana Michele , Egberts Jan H. , Fischer Lars , Francis Nader , Hashimoto Daniel A. , Perez Daniel , Schijven Marlies , Schmelzle Moritz , Soltes Marek , Swanstrom Lee , Welsch Thilo , Müller-Stich Beat P. , Nickel Felix
Published: November 2021

Introduction

The aim of this study was to develop a reliable objective structured assessment of technical skills (OSATS) score for linear-stapled, hand-sewn closure of enterotomy intestinal anastomoses (A-OSATS).

Materials and methods

The Delphi methodology was used to create a traditional and weighted A-OSATS score highlighting the more important steps for patient outcomes according to an international expert consensus. Minimally invasive novices, intermediates, and experts were asked to perform a minimally invasive linear-stapled intestinal anastomosis with hand-sewn closure of the enterotomy in a live animal model either laparoscopically or robot-assisted. Video recordings were scored by two blinded raters assessing intrarater and interrater reliability and discriminative abilities between novices (n = 8), intermediates (n = 24), and experts (n = 8).

Results

The Delphi process included 18 international experts and was successfully completed after 4 rounds. A total of 4 relevant main steps as well as 15 substeps were identified and a definition of each substep was provided. A maximum of 75 points could be reached in the unweighted A-OSATS score and 170 points in the weighted A-OSATS score respectively. A total of 41 anastomoses were evaluated. Excellent intrarater (r = 0.807–0.988, p < 0.001) and interrater (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.923–0.924, p < 0.001) reliability was demonstrated. Both versions of the A-OSATS correlated well with the general OSATS and discriminated between novices, intermediates, and experts defined by their OSATS global rating scale.

Conclusion

With the weighted and unweighted A-OSATS score, we propose a new reliable standard to assess the creation of minimally invasive linear-stapled, hand-sewn anastomoses based on an international expert consensus. Validity evidence in live animal models is provided in this study. Future research should focus on assessing whether the weighted A-OSATS exceeds the predictive capabilities of patient outcomes of the unweighted A-OSATS and provide further validity evidence on using the score on different anastomotic techniques in humans.
The diagnostic accuracy of truncated cardiovascular MR protocols for detecting non-ischemic cardiomyopathies
Authors: Hirschberg K. , Braun Sz. M. , Paul O. , Ochs M. , Riffel J. , Andre F. , Salatzki J. , Lebel J. , Luu J. , Hillier E. , Finster M. , Vago H. , Merkely B. , Katus H. A. , Friedrich M. G.
Published: November 2021

Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging is one of the most important diagnostic modalities in the evaluation of cardiomyopathies. However, significant limitations are the complex and time-consuming workflows and the need of contrast agents. The aim of this multi-center retrospective study was to assess workflows and diagnostic value of a short, contrast agent-free cardiac magnetic resonance protocol. 160 patients from Heidelberg, Germany and 119 patients from Montreal, Canada with suspected cardiomyopathy and 20 healthy volunteers have been enrolled. Scans were performed at a 1.5Tesla or 3Tesla scanner in Heidelberg and at a 3Tesla scanner in Montreal. We used single-slice T1 map only. A stepwise analysis of images has been performed. The possible differential diagnosis after each step has been defined. T1-values and color-encoded T1 maps significantly contributed to the differential diagnosis in 54% of the cases (161/299); the final diagnosis has been done without late gadolinium enhancement images in 83% of healthy individuals, in 99% of patients with dilated cardiomyopathy, in 93% of amyloidosis patients, in 94% of patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and in 85% of patients with hypertensive heart disease, respectively. Comparing the scan time with (48 ± 7 min) vs. without contrast agent (23 ± 5 min), significant time saving could be reached by the short protocol. Subgroup analysis showed the most additional diagnostic value of T1 maps in amyloidosis and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or in confirmation of normal findings. In patients with unclear left ventricular hypertrophy, a short, non-contrast protocol can be used for diagnostic decision-making, if the quality of the T1 map is diagnostic, even if only one slice is available.
Who benefits most from studying abroad? A conceptual and empirical overview
Authors: Netz Nicolai
Published: November 2021

This editorial to the special issue on heterogeneous effects of studying abroad starts with a review of studies on the determinants and individual-level effects of studying abroad. On that basis, it illustrates the necessity to place more emphasis on effect heterogeneity in research on international student mobility. It then develops a typology of heterogeneous effects of studying abroad, which shall function as an agenda for future research in the field. Thereafter, the editorial introduces the contributions to the special issue. It concludes by summarising major findings and directions for future research.
Sex-Specific Differences in Mortality of Patients with a History of Bariatric Surgery: a Nation-Wide Population-Based Study
Authors: Beiglböck Hannes , Mörth Eric , Reichardt Berthold , Stamm Tanja , Itariu Bianca , Harreiter Jürgen , Hufgard-Leitner Miriam , Fellinger Paul , Eichelter Jakob , Prager Gerhard , Kautzky Alexander , Kautzky-Willer Alexandra , Wolf Peter , Krebs Michael
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Bariatric surgery reduces mortality in patients with severe obesity and is predominantly performed in women. Therefore, an analysis of sex-specific differences after bariatric surgery in a population-based dataset from Austria was performed. The focus was on deceased patients after bariatric surgery.

Materials and Methods

The Austrian health insurance funds cover about 98% of the Austrian population. Medical health claims data of all Austrians who underwent bariatric surgery from 01/2010 to 12/2018 were analyzed. In total, 19,901 patients with 107,806 observed years postoperative were eligible for this analysis. Comorbidities based on International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-codes and drug intake documented by Anatomical Therapeutical Chemical (ATC)-codes were analyzed in patients deceased and grouped according to clinically relevant obesity-associated comorbidities: diabetes mellitus (DM), cardiovascular disease (CV), psychiatric disorder (PSY), and malignancy (M).

Results

In total, 367 deaths were observed (1.8%) within the observation period from 01/2010 to 04/2020. The overall mortality rate was 0.34% per year of observation and significantly higher in men compared to women (0.64 vs. 0.24%; p < 0.001(Chi-squared)). Moreover, the 30-day mortality was 0.19% and sixfold higher in men compared to women (0.48 vs. 0.08%; p < 0.001). CV (82%) and PSY (55%) were the most common comorbidities in deceased patients with no sex-specific differences. Diabetes (38%) was more common in men (43 vs. 33%; p = 0.034), whereas malignant diseases (36%) were more frequent in women (30 vs. 41%; p = 0.025).

Conclusion

After bariatric surgery, short-term mortality as well as long-term mortality was higher in men compared to women. In deceased patients, diabetes was more common in men, whereas malignant diseases were more common in women.

Graphical abstract
The Importance of Digital Elevation Model Selection in Flood Simulation and a Proposed Method to Reduce DEM Errors: A Case Study in Shanghai
Authors: Xu Kepeng , Fang Jiayi , Fang Yongqiang , Sun Qinke , Wu Chengbo , Liu Min
Published: November 2021

Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) play a critical role in hydrologic and hydraulic modeling. Flood inundation mapping is highly dependent on the accuracy of DEMs. Various vertical differences exist among open access DEMs as they use various observation satellites and algorithms. The problem is particularly acute in small, flat coastal cities. Thus, it is necessary to assess the differences of the input of DEMs in flood simulation and to reduce anomalous errors of DEMs. In this study, we first conducted urban flood simulation in the Huangpu River Basin in Shanghai by using the LISFLOOD-FP hydrodynamic model and six open-access DEMs (SRTM, MERIT, CoastalDEM, GDEM, NASADEM, and AW3D30), and analyzed the differences in the results of the flood inundation simulations. Then, we processed the DEMs by using two statistically based methods and compared the results with those using the original DEMs. The results show that: (1) the flood inundation mappings using the six original DEMs are significantly different under the same simulation conditions—this indicates that only using a single DEM dataset may lead to bias of flood mapping and is not adequate for high confidence analysis of exposure and flood management; and (2) the accuracy of a DEM corrected by the Dixon criterion for predicting inundation extent is improved, in addition to reducing errors in extreme water depths—this indicates that the corrected datasets have some performance improvement in the accuracy of flood simulation. A freely available, accurate, high-resolution DEM is needed to support robust flood mapping. Flood-related researchers, practitioners, and other stakeholders should pay attention to the uncertainty caused by DEM quality.
The EU Whistleblowing Directive: An Opportunity for (Operationalizing) Corporate Human Rights Grievance Mechanisms?
Authors: Saloranta Juho
Published: November 2021

Despite being an internationally accepted corporate social responsibility framework, the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights have not managed to provide victims of corporate human rights violations with access to remedy. The European Commission has announced plans to introduce an EU-level human rights due diligence directive which may include corporate grievance mechanisms. This article considers potential synergies between the planned directive and the mechanism laid down in the Whistleblowing Directive. Three issues are highlighted. First, stakeholders usually face retaliation after making a complaint about human rights abuses in a company’s operations. By setting formal levels of protection against retaliation, the Whistleblowing Directive offers a regulatory framework to change this reality. Second, conducting effective human rights due diligence must be based on meaningful consultation with all relevant stakeholders. If companies approach this issue in atop-downmanner using auditing firms, they risk non-compliance with human rights due diligence requirements. Therefore, the legislation should include corporate grievance mechanisms to match remedies with victims’ expectations. Third, in terms of corporate grievance mechanisms, victims often lack resources to participate in them in a fair and respectful manner. This requires EU Member States to use their legislative power to lay down regulations that effectively enhance cooperation and coordination with independent monitoring bodies. To enhance the development as to access to remedy, the Whistleblowing Directive offers synergies through which to achieve greater accessibility, transparency, and victim empowerment. Corporate grievance mechanisms, facilitated by the Whistleblowing Directive, could take this a step further.
Effectiveness of Thermal Stimulation of Superplasticizers on Fresh Properties of Cement Mortar
Authors: Takigawa Mizuki , Nemoto Hiroshi , Hashimoto Shin-ichiro , Date Shigeyuki
Published: November 2021

Polycarboxylic acid-based superplasticizers are used in various types of concrete work. Wide variations in environmental temperatures are known to affect how well chemical admixtures perform as superplasticizers, influencing the properties of the concrete. However, little has been reported on changes in performance caused by thermal variations. Previous studies have reported that heating superplasticizers change the polymer structure, improving and sustaining cement particles' dispersibility. Moreover, the improved fluidity from thermal stimulation is not temporary. The effect has been observed to remain for about seven days, with the residual characteristics differing depending on the superplasticizers used. Therefore this study evaluates mortar stiffness when using thermally stimulated superplasticizers and evaluates how the stimulation affects construction performance using measures such as the flow and rheological properties (plastic viscosity) of fresh mortar, vane shear tests, blade viscometer tests, and mortar vibration box tests. Mortar's fluidity was found to improve by about 25% when using thermally stimulated additives, with plastic viscosity dropping by up to 45% and the stress likely to be needed for pumping also being reduced by about 16%. Filling speed was also found to increase by about 26%. Thus, thermal stimulation improves mortar and concrete construction performance, and it may be possible in the future to carry out the construction with fewer workers utilizing this technology’s benefits. The study indicates a need for further investigation of how thermal stimulation affects polymer molecules’ adsorption efficiency with cement to elucidate the mechanism at full scale and propose ways to adopt thermal stimulation at actual construction sites.
Systemischer Lupus erythematodes in den Wechseljahren
Authors: Stute Petra , Keck Christoph
Published: November 2021

Der systemische Lupus erythematodes (SLE) ist eine immunologische Systemerkrankung der Haut und des Gefässbindegewebes. Frauen sind häufiger als Männer betroffen. Der Krankheitsverlauf wird mehr von der Krankheitsdauer als der Menopause beeinflusst. Eine systemische HRT kann zur Reduktion von schweren vasomotorischen Beschwerden bei Frauen mit inaktivem/stabilem SLE und negativem Antiphospholipidantikörpertiter eingesetzt werden. Im Falle einer HRT sollte eine transdermale Östrogentherapie kombiniert mit einem stoffwechselneutralen Gestagen gewählt werden. Es sollten engmaschige gynäkologische und rheumatologische Verlaufskontrollen unter HRT durchgeführt werden.
Exploiting the antiviral potential of intermetallic nanoparticles
Authors: Matharu Rupy Kaur , Cheong Yuen-Ki , Ren Guogang , Edirisinghe Mohan , Ciric Lena
Published: November 2021

Viral pandemic outbreaks cause a significant burden on global health as well as healthcare expenditure. The use of antiviral agents not only reduces the spread of viral pathogens but also diminishes the likelihood of them causing infection. The antiviral properties of novel copper-silver and copper-zinc intermetallic nanoparticles against Escherichia coli bacteriophage MS2 (RNA virus) and Escherichia coli bacteriophage T4 (DNA virus) are presented. The intermetallic nanoparticles were spherical in shape and were between 90 and 120 nm. Antiviral activity was assessed at concentrations ranging from 0.05 to 2.0 wt/v% for 3 and 24 h using DNA and RNA virus model organisms. Both types of nanoparticles demonstrated strong potency towards RNA viruses (> 89% viral reduction), whilst copper-silver nanoparticles were slightly more toxic towards DNA viruses when compared to copper-zinc nanoparticles. Both nanoparticles were then incorporated into polymeric fibres (carrier) to investigate their antiviral effectiveness when composited into polymeric matrices. Fibres containing copper-silver nanoparticles exhibited favourable antiviral properties, with a viral reduction of 75% after 3 h of exposure. The excellent antiviral properties of the intermetallic nanoparticles reported in this study against both types of viruses together with their unique material properties can make them significant alternatives to conventional antiviral therapies and decontamination agents.
Addressing the statistical analysis dilemma that exists when analyzing clinical trial results with full efficacy using the Kaplan Meier survival analysis method
Authors: Peerawaranun Pimnara , van der Pluijm Rob W. , Mukaka Mavuto
Published: November 2021

The use of a Kaplan–Meier (K–M) survival time approach is generally considered appropriate to report antimalarial efficacy trials. However, when a treatment arm has 100% efficacy, confidence intervals may not be computed. Furthermore, methods that use probability rules to handle missing data for instance by multiple imputation, encounter perfect prediction problem when a treatment arm has full efficacy, in which case all imputed values are either treatment success or all imputed values are failures. The use of a survival K–M method addresses this imputation problem in estimating the efficacy estimates also referred to as cure rates. We discuss the statistical challenges and propose a potential way forward.

The proposed approach includes the use of K–M estimates as the main measure of efficacy. Confidence intervals could be computed using the binomial exact method. p-Values for comparison of difference in efficacy between treatments can be estimated using Fisher’s exact test. We emphasize that when efficacy rates are not 100% in both groups, the K–M approach remains the main strategy of analysis considering its statistical robustness in handling missing data and confidence intervals can be computed under such scenarios.
Developing a sentinel syndromic surveillance system using school-absenteeism data, example monitoring absences over the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Lai Jennifer , Hughes Helen E. , Morbey Roger , Loveridge Paul , Lopez Bernal Jamie , Saliba Vanessa , Kissling Esther , Lovelock-Wren Alex , Mabbitt Jeremy , Elliot Alex J.
Published: November 2021

This study describes the development of a pilot sentinel school absence syndromic surveillance system. Using data from a sample of schools in England the capability of this system to monitor the impact of disease on school absences in school-aged children is shown, using the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic period as an example. Data were obtained from an online app service used by schools and parents to report their children absent, including reasons/symptoms relating to absence. For 2019 and 2020, data were aggregated into daily counts of ‘total’ and ‘cough’ absence reports. There was a large increase in the number of absence reports in March 2020 compared to March 2019, corresponding to the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in England. Absence numbers then fell rapidly and remained low from late March 2020 until August 2020, while lockdown was in place in England. Compared to 2019, there was a large increase in the number of absence reports in September 2020 when schools re-opened in England, although the peak number of absences was smaller than in March 2020. This information can help provide context around the absence levels in schools associated with COVID-19. Also, the system has the potential for further development to monitor the impact of other conditions on school absence, e.g. gastrointestinal infections.
Legitimising a ‘zombie idea’: childhood vaccines and autism – the complex tale of two judgments on vaccine injury in Italy
Authors: Rizzi Marco , Attwell Katie , Casigliani Virginia , Taylor Jeannette , Quattrone Filippo , Lopalco Pierluigi
Published: November 2021

The impact of ‘bad’ science on judicial decision-making is a thorny aspect of the relationship between science and law. This study employs doctrinal and empirical analysis to explore two Italian judgments that asserted a causal link between childhood vaccines and autism. Using a combination of actor–network theory and legal pragmatism, we uncovered a network of actors and institutions internal and external to the legal system enabling these impactful decisions that went on to contribute to a crisis in vaccination coverage in Italy. These include trial strategies, resources, communication practices between arms of government, awareness and responsiveness of institutional actors, and institutional mechanisms governing the integration of scientific expertise into the legal process. By forensically analysing how a ‘zombie idea’ received a patent of legitimacy in the Italian context, this study provides useful lessons for legal systems grappling with complex and contested public health matters.
Suizide unter Adoleszenten in einer deutschen Großstadt
Authors: Papsdorf Rainer , von Klitzing Kai , Radeloff Daniel
Published: November 2021

Zusammenfassung. Fragestellung: Suizide tragen stark zur Gesamtmortalität von Adoleszenten bei. Diese Studie untersucht Geschlechts- und Altersdifferenzen in der Methodenwahl. Methodik: Die Untersuchung basiert auf den Todesbescheinigungen der Jahre 1996 bis 2019 der Stadt Leipzig und schließt alle Suizide der unter 25-Jährigen ein. Wir überprüften, ob Methodenwahl und Suizidort mit Geschlecht oder Altersgruppe zusammenhängen. Weiterhin prüften wir einen Zusammenhang zwischen adoleszenten Drogentoten und Suizidtoten. Ergebnisse: Unter den 140 erfassten Suiziden unterschied sich die Suizidmethode zwischen den Altersgruppen ( χ ² = 17,878; p = 0,022). Kinder, Jugendliche und Heranwachsende suizidierten sich fast ausnahmslos durch Erhängen, Sturz, Schienensuizid oder Intoxikation. Im frühen Erwachsenenalter erweiterte sich das Methodenspektrum. Die Suizidmethode war geschlechtsabhängig ( χ ² = 35,166; p < 0,001). Männliche Adoleszente suizidierten sich überwiegend mit harten Methoden, vor allem durch Erhängen. Bei weiblichen Adoleszenten war Intoxikation die häufigste Methode, dabei dominierten Antidepressiva. Es bestand eine Korrelation zwischen den Mortalitätsraten für Suizid und Drogentod (r = 0,571, p = 0,004). Als Trend ( χ ² = 3,125, p = 0,077) konnte eine Vermeidung des eigenen Wohnumfeldes für die Suizidhandlung bei Minderjährigen festgestellt werden. Schlussfolgerungen: Bei der Einschätzung des individuellen Suizidrisikos und der Abwägung sichernder Maßnahmen in der klinischen Tätigkeit sollten die gezeigten Unterschiede in der Methodenwahl Berücksichtigung finden.
Synthesis of Partially Coherent Geometric Models of Radar Objects Based on Their Incoherent Models
Authors: Podkopaev A. O. , Stepanov M. A. , Kiselev A. V.
Published: November 2021

The paper considers the transition algorithm from incoherent models to partially coherent ones by the example of the problem of synthesizing a two‐dimensional partially coherent model of a distributed radar object by its five‐point and nine‐point incoherent models. The transition algorithm includes the analytical expressions which allow determining powers and correlation functions of emitting signals for both types of models. The result is confirmed by numerical modeling. The comparison of the precision reflection altimeter formation and correlation function of angular glint provided by equivalent incoherent and partially coherent models is carried out.
Revisiting a Two‐Parameter Budyko Equation With the Complementary Evaporation Principle for Proper Consideration of Surface Energy Balance
Authors: Kim Daeha , Chun Jong Ahn
Published: November 2021

The Budyko framework, widely regarded as a simple and convenient tool to synthesize catchment water balance, is often employed with the atmospheric evaporative potential (Ep) that responds to water availability over a land surface. In this study, we demonstrated how the responsiveness of Ep to soil moisture deficiency affects outcomes from a conventional Budyko equation. We combined a two‐parameter Budyko equation with the state‐of‐the‐art complementary relationship (CR) of evaporation (E), and analytically showed that the two‐parameter Budyko equation corrects Ep to the wet environment E (Ew) of the CR. Using the Budyko equation combined with the CR, we assessed runoff sensitivity to climatic and land surface changes. Results showed that the CR could become a constraint for calibrating the implicit parameter of the Budyko equation. When compared to the Turc‐Mezentsev equation with Ep, the shape parameters of the two‐parameter Budyko equation increased to regenerate an ensemble of global E data sets. Correcting Ep to Ew via the Budyko equation with CR reduced runoff elasticities to land property changes, suggesting that climatic changes are more important to changes in runoff than a prior sensitivity assessment would suggest. This study also suggests that the two‐parameter Budyko equation isolates the effect of the Ep adjustment from the shape parameter, allowing it to more properly account for surface energy availability.
Egg and saturated fat containing breakfasts have no acute effect on acute glycemic control in healthy adults: a randomized partial crossover trial
Authors: Dhanasekara Chathurika S. , Dawson John A. , Binks Martin , Childress Allison , Dhurandhar Nikhil V.
Published: November 2021

Background/Objectives

High egg consumption is associated with poor glycemic control. Considering the widespread consumption of eggs, it is crucial to determine causality in this association. We tested if egg consumption acutely alters glucose disposal in the absence or presence of saturated fat, which is frequently consumed with eggs.

Subjects/Methods

In a randomized partial crossover clinical trial, 48 subjects (consuming ≥ 1 egg/week) received two of four isocaloric, macronutrient-matched breakfasts. The groups were defined based on the main ingredient of the breakfasts offered: eggs (EB); saturated fat (SB); eggs and saturated fat (ES); and control, which included a cereal based breakfast (CB). The breakfasts were offered in two testing sessions spaced seven days apart. Six blood samples (pre breakfast (fasting); 30, 60, 90, 120, and 180 minutes post breakfast) were collected to measure glucose and insulin levels. Area under the curves (AUC) were analyzed controlling for the baseline concentrations using mixed-effects models accounting for within-subject dependencies to compare these across breakfast assignments.

Results

Forty-eight patients (46% males, age 25.8 ± 7.7 years, BMI 25.7 ± 4.6 kg/m2) were included. Neither EB, SB nor ES was associated with a significant difference in AUC of glucose or insulin compared to CB (p > 0.1).

Conclusions

Acutely, consumption of egg breakfast with or without accompanying saturated fat does not adversely affect glucose disposal in healthy adults. While this is reassuring for continued egg consumption, a long-term evaluation of egg intake with or without saturated fat would be the next step.
N-acetylcysteine supplementation did not reverse mitochondrial oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation in the salivary glands of hyperglycemic rats
Authors: Anna Zalewska , Joanna Kuć , Sara Zięba , Jan Matczuk , Paula Kostecka-Sochoń , Izabela Szarmach , Robert Ładny Jerzy , Małgorzata Żendzian-Piotrowska , Mateusz Maciejczyk
Published: November 2021

Background/objectives

Previous studies have shown that N-acetylcysteine (NAC) supplementation with the simultaneous inclusion of HFD prevents salivary glands from oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. In this experiment, we examined if NAC supplementation could reverse the harmful effect of HFD on mitochondrial function, reduce the severity of apoptosis, and the activity of pro-oxidative enzymes in the salivary glands of rats with confirmed hyperglycemia.

Subjects/methods

Wistar rats were fed the standard or high-fat (HFD) diet for 10 weeks. After 6 weeks of the experiment, HFD rats were diagnosed with hyperglycemia and for the next 4 weeks, the animals were given NAC intragastrically. In the mitochondrial fraction of the parotid (PG) and submandibular salivary glands (SMG), we assessed redox status, inflammation, and apoptosis.

Results

The inclusion of NAC increased the activity of mitochondrial complexes I and II + III as well as decreased the concentration of interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor α, and caspase-3, but only in the parotid glands of rats with hyperglycemia compared to the HFD group. However, N-acetylcysteine supplementation did not reduce the activity of caspase-9 or the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio in PG and SMG mitochondria. In both salivary glands we observed reduced activity of cytochrome c oxidase, NADPH oxidase, and xanthine oxidase, as well as hindered production of ROS and lower ADP/ATP radio, but the levels of these parameters were not comparable to the control group.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that NAC supplementation restores the glutathione ratio only in the mitochondria of the submandibular salivary glands. The supply of NAC did not significantly affect the other measured parameters. Our results indicate that NAC supplementation provides little protection against free radicals, apoptosis, and inflammation in the salivary gland mitochondria of HFD rats. Stimulated salivary secretion in hyperglycaemic rats supplemented with NAC seems to be closely related to mitochondrial respiratory capacity and appropriate ATP level.
CD73-positive extracellular vesicles promote glioblastoma immunosuppression by inhibiting T-cell clonal expansion
Authors: Wang Ming , Jia Jiaoying , Cui Yan , Peng Yong , Jiang Yugang
Published: November 2021

Extracellular vesicles are involved in the occurrence, progression and metastasis of glioblastoma (GBM). GBM can secrete a variety of tumour-derived extracellular vesicles (TDEVs) with high immunosuppressive activity that remotely suppress the systemic immune system, and therapy targeting TDEVs has potential efficacy. In this study, we detected a higher concentration of CD73+ TDEVs enriched in exosomes in central and peripheral body fluids of GBM patients than in those of patients with other brain tumours (low-grade glioma or brain metastases from melanoma or non-small-cell lung cancer). High CD73 expression was detected on the surface of T cells, and this CD73 was derived from TDEVs secreted by GBM cells. In vitro, we observed that CD73+ TDEVs released by GBM cell lines could be taken up by T cells. Moreover, excess adenosine was produced by AMP degradation around T cells and by adenosine receptor 2A (A2AR)-dependent inhibition of aerobic glycolysis and energy-related metabolic substrate production, thereby inhibiting the cell cycle entry and clonal proliferation of T cells. In vivo, defects in exosomal synthesis and CD73 expression significantly inhibited tumour growth in GBM tumour-bearing mice and restored the clonal proliferation of T cells in the central and peripheral regions. These data indicate that CD73+ TDEVs can be used as a potential target for GBM immunotherapy.