bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intention and behavior towards bringing your own shopping bags when shopping instead of using plastic bags in Vietnam: an investigation using the theory of interpersonal behavior
Authors: Nguyen Thi Phuong Linh , Tran Nhat Minh , Phan Thi Thanh Hoa , Vu Trong Nghia , Tran Manh Linh , Nguyen Thi Dao
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the factors affecting Vietnamese consumers' intention and behavior towards “bringing your own shopping bags” (BYOB) instead of using plastic bags based on the theory of interpersonal behavior (TIB).

Design/methodology/approach

We used a combination of in-depth interview and large-scale survey methods with the official research sample of 536 Vietnamese consumers to explore the relationship among factors in the research model including: attitude, affect, social factor, facilitating conditions, intention and behavior towards BYOB instead of using plastic bags. The collected data went through quantitative analysis steps including Cronbach's Alpha reliability test, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM) for scales and hypotheses testing.

Findings

The results show that intention towards BYOB has a positive effect on consumers' behavior towards BYOB. Facilitating conditions have a stronger and more positive influence than attitude and affect intention towards BYOB. Meanwhile, the hypothesis about the relationship between social factors and intention towards BYOB was rejected by this study.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation of this paper is that the findings of the present study are limited to elements of the TIB.

Practical implications

Based on the results of the study, we made some suggestions for state management agencies and retailers to promote intention and behavior towards BYOB instead of using plastic bags.

Originality/value

This study applies the TIB to understand the relationship between factors such as attitude, affect, social factors and facilitating conditions on intention and behavior towards BYOB instead of using plastic bags.
Investigation of ultrasound-assisted soldering of SiC ceramics by using Zn-Al-In solder for high-temperature applications
Authors: Kostolný Igor , Kolenak Roman , Babincova Paulina , Kusý Martin
Published: April 2022

Purpose

This study aims to investigate soldering of SiC ceramics by using Zn-Al-In-based solders and ultrasonic soldering. The focus was on the quality of soldered joints, examining the boundary of the solder/substrate joint and the strength of the fabricated joints. Moreover, the fractured surfaces of joints were assessed.

Design/methodology/approach

The Zn-5Al base, which is considered for eutectic solder, was used in experiments. When manufacturing this solder, In was also added to at 1 Wt.%. The soldering of SiC substrates on a hot plate with ultrasonic assistance was performed.

Findings

The solder at room temperature consists of a primary segregated solid solution (Zn) and the binary eutectics (Zn) + (Al) with a high Al content and binary lamellar eutectic with a high Zn and In content non-uniformly distributed on the grain boundaries. The average tensile strength of the Zn5Al1In solder was 52 MPa. The ceramic material was wetted during soldering via reaction between the solder and the SiC substrate, with the formation of Al-Si reaction products. The thickness of the reaction layer on the boundary was 0.5–1.1 µm. The average strength of the soldered joint was 59 MPa. The obtained results confirmed the high efficiency of ultrasonic soldering in air.

Originality/value

This work has characterised Zn5Al1In soldering alloy and examining soldering SiC ceramics by a flux-less ultrasonic process. The analyses were oriented to assess the strength and structure of the solder and the soldered joints. Based on the achieved results, it is possible to predict the suitability of the solder alloy for flux-free soldering of SiC ceramics.
Towards sustainability in hospitality operations: how is quality of life and work–life balance related?
Authors: Rivera Aguilar Jesus Ernesto , Zang Lisha , Fushimi Shio
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine how quality-of-life (QoL) provisions can be integrated with the corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives of hospitality firms and the influence of CSR initiatives on quality of working life (QWL) and the circular economy.

Design/methodology/approach

The article outlines the core characteristics of CSR and QoL and how they relate to hospitality industry settings. These theoretical underpinnings are then used to examine the practices of Hoshino Resort Tomamu, Japan and the findings of several similar case study applications: the Hoshino Resort group, Intercontinental Jordan; Sheraton Amman Al Nabil hotel and towers and Hotel Casa de Palmela.

Findings

Sustainability has become the primary agenda for many nations globally and the hospitality industry can significantly impact sustainability outcomes. Among the strategies that have been used by firms to promote sustainability is CSR. However, prior studies have primarily focused on CSR activities in manufacturing and production and often on external stakeholders. Recent research reveals the importance of internal stakeholders – employees – in promoting sustainability.

Originality/value

Comparatively little has been published about the deployment of CSR initiatives in hospitality settings – especially in relation to the impact that these initiatives have on thinking about quality of work life, quality of life and the circular economy. This article explores the linkages with reference to hotel and resort company applications.
Can Blockchain technology help small islands achieve sustainable tourism? A perspective on North Cyprus
Authors: Özgit Hale , Adalıer Ahmet
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the presence and use of Blockchain technologies (BCTs) in the North Cyprus hotel and tourism sectors by eliciting stakeholder perspectives on BCT's role in sustainable tourism development and the current state of its application in North Cyprus.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative methodology was used and primary data gathered via telephone interviews with sixteen managers of casino hotels. The researchers also used an observation technique for data collection in order to better analyse the existing case situation.

Findings

Although the findings show similarities in the stakeholders' awareness of cryptocurrencies, they lack overall knowledge of BCTs. The responses of participants indicate a lack of knowledge regarding the use of BCTs, particularly the areas in which they can be used. North Cyprus' tourism and hotel sectors are significantly behind the curve in terms of adopting innovative technologies, due to traditional operational concerns and to the limited scope of policy development.

Research limitations/implications

Policymakers should consider the practical implications for both the sector's and the country's resources in order to maximize environmental and financial gains.

Practical implications

The promotion of sustainable tourism can be facilitated by the wider adoption of BCTs as it could enable operators to manage their network relationships and business operations in a more socially and environmentally responsible manner.

Originality/value

No prior studies were found that evaluate the presence of BCTs in support of tourism development in North Cyprus. This study will assist practitioners in comprehending the practical implications and will enable policymakers to develop sector-specific policies.
Resistant starch—An accessible fiber ingredient acceptable to the Western palate
Authors: Walsh Sarah Kate , Lucey Alice , Walter Jens , Zannini Emanuele , Arendt Elke K.
Published: April 2022

Dietary fiber intakes in Western societies are concerningly low and do not reflect global recommended dietary fiber intakes for chronic disease prevention. Resistant starch (RS) is a fermentable dietary fiber that has attracted research interest. As an isolated ingredient, its fine particle size, relatively bland flavor, and white appearance may offer an appealing fiber source to the Western palate, accustomed to highly refined, processed grains. This review aims to provide a comprehensive insight into the current knowledge (classification, production methods, and characterization methods), health benefits, applications, and acceptability of RS. It further discusses the present market for commercially available RS ingredients and products containing ingredients high in RS.

The literature currently highlights beneficial effects for dietary RS supplementation with respect to glucose metabolism, satiety, blood lipid profiles, and colonic health. An exploration of the market for commercial RS ingredients indicates a diverse range of products (from isolated RS2, RS3, and RS4) with numerous potential applications as partial or whole substitutes for traditional flour sources. They may increase the nutritional profile of a food product (e.g., by increasing the fiber content and lowering energy values) without significantly compromising its sensory and functional properties. Incorporating RS ingredients into staple food products (such as bread, pasta, and sweet baked goods) may thus offer an array of nutritional benefits to the consumer and a highly accessible functional ingredient to be greater exploited by the food industry.
Diagnosis of lethal cyanide poisoning. Analysis by Anion‐Exchange Chromatography with Pulsed Amperometric Detection
Authors: Zuccarello Pietro , Carnazza Giulia , Raffino Cataldo , Barbera Nunziata
Published: April 2022

Cyanide is a poison widely used in cases of suicide or homicide. Although various methods to identify and quantify this substance are reported in the literature, they are mainly validated on biological fluids (e.g., blood and urine). In the present study, the Anion‐Exchange Liquid Chromatography with Pulsed Amperometric Detection (IC‐PAD) method was validated on blood and, for the first time, on gastric content, and organs (brain, lung, and liver). For each matrix, linearity, accuracy, precision, limit of detection (LOD), lower limit of quantification (LLOQ), matrix interferences, and carryover were assessed. The samples were extracted by steam distillation in acid environment for the following analysis by IC‐PAD. Furthermore, cyanide values found in two real poisoning cases are reported. For each investigated matrix, the analytical method satisfied all acceptance criteria for validation: it showed a good precision and accuracy, selectivity, and sensitivity with no carryover and matrix interference. The extraction by steam distillation in acid environment REDUCED the interference of the matrices and ALLOWED to perform the analysis with good precision and accuracy. In case #1, analysis showed a blood cyanide concentration of 0.99 μg/ml. In case #2, cyanide concentrations were 1.3 μg/g in brain, 0.8 μg/g in lung, 1.6 μg/g in liver, and 1.2 μg/g in gastric content. The cyanide concentrations found in the two reported cases have been suitable to cause death by poisoning.
Changes of some bioactive and physicochemical properties during the black tea processing
Authors: Balaban Osman Tolga , Kamiloğlu Aybike , Kara Hasan Hüseyin
Published: April 2022

In this research, some physical and bioactive properties of tea samples collected from every processing stage of black tea production were investigated. The processing stages were significantly effective on the investigated properties (moisture content, color parameters [L*, a*, and b*], and pH values the total phenolic substance, antioxidant activity) (p < 0.01). The antioxidant activities were found to be at a high level in fresh tea but decreased during the processing stages. Furthermore, the lowest activity was observed in the drying stage for extracts prepared with water and in the drying and sorting stages for extracts prepared with ethanol. In addition, it was determined that palmitic acid, myristic acid, and capric acid as saturated fatty acids, oleic acid, heptadecenoic acid, and eicosenoic acid as unsaturated fatty acids formed the fatty acid profile. Palmitic acid was determined to be the dominant fatty acid in tea samples.

Practical Application

Tea is a beverage known to have positive health effects. The chemical structure of tea is very effective in providing these positive effects on health. Black tea production takes place in five stages in general terms (withering, rolling, oxidation, drying, and sorting stages) after the harvesting. These processes are very effective in the quality properties of tea. This research provides information about effects of processing stages on black tea. Our results demonstrate that processing was significantly effective on the physicochemical and bioactive properties of tea. Functionality of bioactive compounds could be maintained by optimization of the applied processes.
Identification of VdASP F2‐interacting protein as a regulator of microsclerotial formation in Verticillium dahliae
Authors: Guo Cuimei , Yang Xing , Shi Hongli , Chen Chi , Hu Zhijuan , Zheng Xinyao , Yang Xingyong , Xie Chengjian
Published: April 2022

Verticillium dahliae, a notorious phytopathogenic fungus, causes vascular wilt diseases in many plant species. The melanized microsclerotia enable V. dahliae to survive for years in soil and are crucial for its disease cycle. In a previous study, we characterized the secretory protein VdASP F2 from V. dahliae and found that VdASP F2 deletion significantly affected the formation of microsclerotia under adverse environmental conditions. In this study, we clarified that VdASP F2 is localized to the cell wall. However, the underlying mechanism of VdASP F2 in microsclerotial formation remains unclear. Transmembrane ion channel protein VdTRP was identified as a candidate protein that interacts with VdASP F2 using pull‐down assays followed by liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) analysis, and interaction of VdASP F2 and VdTRP was confirmed by bimolecular fluorescence complementary and coimmunoprecipitation assays. The deletion mutant was analysed to reveal that VdTRP is required for microsclerotial production, but it is not essential for stress resistance, carbon utilization and pathogenicity of V. dahliae. RNA‐seq revealed some differentially expressed genes related to melanin synthesis and microsclerotial formation were significantly downregulated in the VdTRP deletion mutants. Taken together, these results indicate that VdASP F2 regulates the formation of melanized microsclerotia by interacting with VdTRP.
Numerical Simulation Study on the Effect of Horizontal Well Reservoir Stimulation for Gas Hydrate Production
Authors: LI Xiaoyang , TIAN Yingying , ZHANG Xin , SONG Gang , ZHAO Ming , LIANG Jinqiang , HUANG Wei , MENG Fanle
Published: April 2022

A new gas hydrate reservoir stimulation method of in‐situ fracturing with transient heating is proposed, in line with analysis of the technological bottlenecks faced by marine gas hydrate production. This method injects the developed chemical reagents into a hydrate reservoir through hydraulic fracturing, releasing heat during the chemical reaction to increase the hydrate decomposition rate. The chemical reaction product furthermore has a honeycomb structure to support fractures and increase reservoir permeability. Based on the geological model of natural gas hydrate in the South China Sea, three development methods are simulated to evaluate hydrate production capacity, consisting of horizontal well, fractured horizontal well and in‐situ fracturing with transient heating well. Compared with the horizontal well, the simulation results show that the cumulative gas production of the fractured horizontal well in one year is 7 times that of the horizontal well, while the cumulative gas production of in‐situ fracturing with transient heating well is 12 times that of the horizontal well, which significantly improves daily efficiency and cumulative gas production. In addition, the variation patterns of hydrate saturation and temperature‐pressure fields with production time for the three exploitation plans are presented, it being found that three sensitive parameters of fracture conductivity, fracture half‐length and fracture number are positively correlated with hydrate production enhancement. Through the simulations, basic data and theoretical support for the optimization of gas hydrate reservoir stimulation scheme has been provided.
Shadow coat colour in American mink associated with a missense mutation in the KIT gene
Authors: Manakhov Andrey D. , Mintseva Maria Yu. , Andreeva Tatiana V. , Trapezov Oleg V. , Rogaev Evgeny I.
Published: April 2022

The classical genetic analysis describes more 35 mutations that are involved in the formation of the American mink (Neovison vison) fur colour phenotype. To date, only eight of these mutations have been linked to specific genes. Shadow is a member of the commercially valuable Black cross colour family. Here, we performed whole‐genome sequencing of the American mink with a Shadow Silverblue (Sh/+ p/p) phenotype. We identified a missense mutation (c.2374 G>T) in the gene encoding the KIT proto‐oncogene, receptor tyrosine kinase gene (KIT), which plays a critical role in melanogenesis as well as in the survival, growth and development of other cell types. The reported mutation results in amino acid substitution p.Asp792Tyr in a highly conserved catalytic loop of the KIT protein.
Seasonal and interannual variation on social wasps’ assemblages in two habitats of a seasonally dry tropical forest region
Authors: Brito Emanuelle L. S. , Zanella Fernando C. V.
Published: April 2022

The patterns of the spatial distribution of insects in seasonally dry tropical forests (SDTFs) are strongly influenced by marked seasonal fluctuations. Tropical arthropod seasonality has been linked to multiple factors, ranging from microclimate changes to large‐scale environmental processes. The group of social wasps includes eusocial organisms that play essential roles in ecosystems, acting as pollinators and predators. This study examines the variation in abundance and species richness according to season, rainfall, and temperature in an area of the Caatinga biome in northeastern Brazil, which has distinct vegetation characteristics. Four years of continuous sampling with Malaise traps constituted the medium‐term data used in our study. During dry seasons, populations of xerophytic vegetation experienced significant decreases in abundance, which were associated with decreased rainfall; however, we did not observe the same effect in evergreen vegetation. Mesic habitats have less variation in food resources, which may have kept populations active during droughts. However, during wet periods, especially after heavy rainfall, more individuals were recorded in the xeric area compared with the mesic area. Using results from social wasp populations, we conclude that the spatio‐temporal dynamics of insects in forest areas with seasonal characteristics are greatly affected by factors such as the landscape composition and mainly by the distribution of rainfall.

Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
Hybrid lithotripsy with endoscopic ultrasound‐guided antegrade intervention and balloon enteroscopy‐assisted endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for stacked bile duct stones
Authors: Mukai Shuntaro , Itoi Takao , Matsunami Yukitoshi
Published: April 2022

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RETRACTED: Self‐regulation in preschool: Are executive function and effortful control overlapping constructs?
Authors: Schmidt Henning , Daseking Monika , Gawrilow Caterina , Karbach Julia , Kerner auch Koerner Julia
Published: April 2022

The concepts of executive function (EF) and effortful control (EC) are strikingly similar. EF originate from neurocognitive research and are described as an accumulation of cognitive processes that serve the goal‐oriented self‐regulation (SR) of an individual. EC originates from temperament research and is defined as the efficiency of executive attention, including the ability to inhibit a dominant response, to activate a subdominant response, to proceed in a planned manner and to recognize conflicts or errors. The aim of this article was to examine the association between the constructs of EF and EC at the preschool‐age. Eighty‐eight children (49 female; M‐age = 3.93 years, SD = .78) were tested with a computerized battery designed to assess EF at 3–6 years of age (EF Touch). Children's parents completed questionnaires assessing EF impairments (BRIEF‐P) and EC (CBQ). Associations between the constructs and their conceptual overlap were analyzed using correlations and confirmatory factor analyses. We found significant correlations between EF and EC measures. A one‐factor confirmatory model fitted the data very well and indicated that EF and EC are indeed overlapping and highly similar constructs. Therefore, our results show that measures of EC and EF have substantial overlap in preschoolers and suggest an integrated model of self‐regulation.
Effects of different modalities of afferent stimuli of the lumbo‐sacral area on control of lumbar paravertebral muscles
Authors: Massé‐Alarie Hugo , Shraim Muath A. , Taylor Janet L. , Hodges Paul W.
Published: April 2022

Somatosensory feedback to the central nervous system is essential to plan, perform and refine spine motor control. However, the influence of somatosensory afferent input from the trunk on the motor output to trunk muscles has received little attention. The objective was to compare the effects of distinct modalities of afferent stimulation on the net motoneuron and corticomotor excitability of paravertebral muscles. Fourteen individuals were recruited. Modulation of corticospinal excitability (motor‐evoked potential [MEP]) of paravertebral muscles was measured when afferent stimuli (cutaneous noxious and non‐noxious, muscle contraction) were delivered to the trunk at 10 intervals prior to transcranial magnetic stimulation. Each peripheral stimulation was applied alone, and subsequent electromyography (EMG) modulation was measured to control for net motoneuron excitability. MEP modulation and MEP/EMG ratio were used as measures of corticospinal excitability with and without control of net motoneuron excitability, respectively. MEP and EMG modulation were smaller after evoked muscle contraction than after cutaneous noxious and non‐noxious stimuli. MEP/EMG ratio was not different between stimulation types. Both MEP and EMG amplitudes were reduced after evoked muscle contraction, but not when expressed as MEP/EMG ratio. Noxious and non‐noxious stimulation had limited impact on all variables. Distinct modalities of peripheral afferent stimulation of the lumbo‐sacral area differently modulated responses of paravertebral muscles, but without an influence on corticospinal excitability with control of net motoneuron excitability. Muscle stimulation reduced paravertebral activity and was best explained by spinal mechanisms. The impact of afferent stimulation on back muscles differs from the effects reported for limb muscles.
Circadian activities of the brain MNK‐eIF4E signalling axis contribute to diurnal rhythms of some cognitive functions
Authors: Liu Dong , Li Jin , Lin Hao , Lorsung Ethan , Le Nam , Singla Rubal , Mishra Abhishek , Fukunaga Rikiro , Cao Ruifeng
Published: April 2022

Although it is well recognized that the circadian timing system profoundly influences cognitive performance, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain poorly defined. Our previous work has found that the mitogen‐activated protein kinase‐interacting kinase (MNK)‐eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) axis, a conserved cellular signalling pathway regulating mRNA translation, modulates the function of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), the master circadian clock. Here, with the use of a combination of genetic, biochemical and behavioural approaches, we investigated the distribution and temporal regulation of eIF4E phosphorylation in the brain and its role in regulating the diurnal oscillations of some aspects of cognition in mice. We found that activities of the MNK‐eIF4E axis, as indicated by the level of eIF4E phosphorylation at Ser209, exhibited significant circadian oscillations in a variety of brain regions, including but not limited to the prefrontal cortex, the hippocampus, the amygdala and the cerebellum. Phosphorylated eIF4E was enriched in neurons but not in astrocytes or microglia. Mice lacking eIF4E phosphorylation (eIF4ES209A/S209A) or the MNKs (Mnk1−/−,2−/−), the kinases that phosphorylate eIF4E, exhibited impaired diurnal variations of novel object recognition, object location memory, Barnes maze learning and ambulatory activities. Together, these results suggest that circadian activities of the MNK‐eIF4E axis contribute to the diurnal rhythms of some cognitive functions, highlighting a role for rhythmic translational control in circadian regulation of cognitive performance.
Analysis of breast cancer classification robustness with radiomics feature extraction and deep learning techniques
Authors: Rashid Harun Ur , Ibrikci Turgay , Paydaş Semra , Binokay Figen , Çevik Ulus
Published: April 2022

Breast cancer and breast imaging diagnostic procedures are typically carried out using a variety of imaging modalities, including mammography, MRI, and ultrasound. However, ultrasound and mammography have limitations and MRI is recognized as better than other procedures. Recent computational approaches, such as radiomics, applied to image analysis have shown remarkable progress in lowering diagnostic difficulties. This research analysed the robustness of breast tumour classification with feature extraction (radiomics) and a featureless method (deep learning). The proposal consists of two stages: the first stage introduced and explored radiomics‐based steps. A total of 111 tumour lesions were used to derive 74 radiomic features consisting of shape, and three separate second‐order metrics. Associations of these features were used to classify tumour lesions with four different kernels from support vector machine algorithm. In the confusion matrix analysis, the SVM‐RBF kernel developed optimal diagnostic efficiency with a maximum test accuracy of 97.06% on the combination of feature analysis. The second stage developed with deep learning techniques (InceptionV3 and CNN‐SVM). A total of 2998 images were used to create the models. In this portion, the CNN‐SVM model achieved the highest accuracy, 95.28%, with an AUC of 0.974, where the pre‐trained InceptionV3 achieved an AUC of only 0.932. Finally, the obtained result in both stages was discussed together and other related studies.
Root architecture characteristics of five natural homogeneous grasslands in riparian buffers from lower reaches of Yellow River
Authors: Guo Erhui , Gu Haiping , Zhang Ruixiang , Yang Xiaoyan
Published: April 2022

Root system characteristics are of fundamental importance to soil improvement and underground resource acquisition in riparian buffer strips. Root architectural traits determine the in situ space‐filling properties of a root system. The aims of this study were to examine the grassland root morphological characteristics in the vegetation zone from the lower reaches of Yellow River. Five natural homogeneous grasslands including Imperata cylindrica, Phragmites australis, Cynodon dactylon, Artemisia argyi and Juncellus serotinus were selected. Seven root architecture parameters including fractal dimension, total root length, total root surface area, total root volume, average diameter, root crossing number and root tip number were analyzed, and comprehensive scores were evaluated using principal component analysis. The results showed that average root diameter of the five herbaceous plants was ranged from 0.42 to 0.78 mm. The total root length, total root surface area, total root volume, root crossing number and root tip number of I. cylindrica and P. australis were significantly higher than those of C. dactylon, A. argyi and J. serotinus. The main factors influencing root architecture were average diameter, total root surface area and total root volume through principal component analysis. I. cylindrica had the highest comprehensive score, followed by P. australis, A. argyi, C. dactylon and J. serotinus. I. cylindrica and P. australis would be good competitors for both soil resource acquisition and soil quality improvement due to their root traits. These results could provide a scientific basis for evaluating the ecological function of riparian vegetation.
“Viewed with suspicion, considered idle and mocked‐working caregiving fathers and fatherhood forfeits”
Authors: Kelland Jasmine , Lewis Duncan , Fisher Virginia
Published: April 2022

Existing academic literature consistently points to a changing role for modern fathers in which they take an egalitarian role in the caregiving responsibilities for their children. Despite this, fathers are observed to continue to dominate the realms of full‐time working, aligning to more traditional breadwinning mentalities than such trends might suggest, raising questions around inequality. Fathers at work have previously been found to encounter challenges within the workplace when they alter, or consider altering their work patterns due to caregiving responsibilities. Employing a sample of working parents and managers, this paper explores how caregiving fathers are perceived within organizations and in considering their experiences, provides a nuanced and detailed understanding of the ways in which mistreatment for caregiving fathers manifests within contemporary UK workplaces. Caregiving fathers are found to face specific challenges termed “fatherhood forfeits” such as perceived idleness, suffering mockery, and being viewed with suspicion by male and female co‐workers. Actions are proposed to address “fatherhood forfeits” that include specific organizational training interventions and the importance of workplace role modeling.
Emicizumab enhances thrombus formation in vitro under high shear flow conditions in whole blood from patients with type 1 and type 3 von Willebrand disease
Authors: Yaoi Hiroaki , Shida Yasuaki , Ogiwara Kenichi , Kitazawa Takehisa , Shima Midori , Nogami Keiji
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Type 1 and type 3 von Willebrand disease (VWD) are caused by partial and complete, quantitative deficiency of von Willebrand factor (VWF), respectively, and factor (F)VIII/VWF complex concentrates are used for haemostatic treatment. Emicizumab, mimics activated FVIII, reduces bleeding in haemophilia A patients. The effects of emicizumab on haemostasis in both types of VWD remain to be fully established, however.

Aim

To examine the effects of emicizumab on thrombogenesis in type 1 and type 3 VWD.

Patients/Methods

Perfusion chamber experiments under high shear conditions (2500 s–1) combined with immunostaining were performed using whole blood samples from patients with type 1 (VWF:Ag 25 U/dl) and type 3 VWD (<1.0 U/dl).

Results

The addition of FVIII (1 U/ml) to type 1 blood did not affect thrombus formation, whilst supplementation with VWF (1.6 U/ml) or FVIII/VWF (1 U/ml/1.6 U/ml) enhanced thrombogenesis to a similar extent. FVIII/VWF promoted thrombus formation significantly more than VWF alone, however, in type 3 blood. Emicizumab (100 μg/ml) augmented thrombus formation in type 3 blood compared to FVIII, and this potency seemed to be somewhat greater than that of VWF. Surface coverage of formed thrombus in type 3 VWD was less than that in type 1 VWD, but thrombus height was comparable in both. The addition of emicizumab to type 3 blood enhanced thrombin generation and fibrin formation compared to control IgG.

Conclusion

Emicizumab promoted mechanisms of thrombus formation in vitro in type 3 and type 1 VWD, suggesting the possibility of alternative therapeutic protocols in these patients.
ZEB1 expression is frequently detected in undifferentiated and de‐differentiated carcinomas, but is not specific among endometrial carcinomas
Authors: Kihara Atsushi , Amano Yusuke , Fukushima Noriyoshi , Fujiwara Hiroyuki , Niki Toshiro
Published: April 2022

Aims

The pathological diagnosis of undifferentiated and de‐differentiated endometrial carcinomas (UC/DCs) is prognostically important. However, undifferentiated components may be confused with other subtypes, particularly grade 3 endometrioid carcinomas (G3ECs). Zinc finger E‐box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) has recently been identified as a promising marker because it is frequently expressed in the undifferentiated components of UC/DCs, but not in other carcinomas. Therefore, we herein evaluated the diagnostic utility of ZEB1 with an emphasis on distinguishing between UC/DCs and G3ECs using an expanded cohort of endometrial carcinomas and carcinosarcomas.

Methods and results

Immunostaining for ZEB1 was performed on whole‐tissue sections of 19 UC/DCs, 194 non‐UC/DC endometrial carcinomas and 29 carcinosarcomas. Staining was defined as negative (< 5%), focal (5–50%) and diffuse expression (> 50%). ZEB1 was expressed in 84% of the undifferentiated components of UC/DCs (diffuse in 14, focal in two). Focal expression was observed in eight non‐UC/DC endometrial carcinomas and diffuse expression in seven, with the latter comprising G3ECs (four of 76), serous carcinoma (one of 37), clear cell carcinoma (one of 21) and neuroendocrine carcinoma (one of three). Epithelial differentiation was morphologically and immunohistochemically less evident in G3ECs and neuroendocrine carcinoma with diffuse ZEB1 expression. All carcinosarcomas showed diffuse ZEB1 expression in their sarcomatous components.

Conclusion

Immunostaining for ZEB1 was sufficiently sensitive to detect undifferentiated components. Diffuse ZEB1 expression showed high specificity for distinguishing between undifferentiated components and G3ECs; however, ZEB1 expression was not entirely specific to UC/DCs. The integration of ZEB1 into the diagnosis of UC/DCs requires careful examination to exclude other tumours, such as less differentiated G3ECs, neuroendocrine carcinomas and carcinosarcomas.
Association of dietary macronutrient intake with adiposity during childhood according to sex: Findings from the generationXXIbirth cohort
Authors: Marinho Ana Rita , Severo Milton , Vilela Sofia , Torres Duarte , Oliveira Andreia , Lopes Carla
Published: April 2022

Background/Objectives

Few studies have assessed the independent and longitudinal effects of each macronutrient intake on adiposity throughout childhood. We aimed to prospectively assess the independent associations between each macronutrient intake at 4, 7, and 10 years (protein, carbohydrates, fat, and fibre) and each measure of adiposity from 7 to 10 years of age by sex.

Methods

Data from the population‐based birth cohort Generation XXI was used (n = 3999). At 4, 7, and 10 years old, dietary, anthropometric and sociodemographic data were collected. The dietary intake of the children was evaluated by a validated food frequency questionnaire. Age‐ and sex‐specific body mass index z‐scores (zBMI), percentage of body fat (%FM) from bio‐impedance, and waist‐to‐hip ratio (Whr) were used as measures of adiposity. Path analysis tested the independent associations between each macronutrient intake (protein, carbohydrates, fat, and fibre) and each measure of adiposity from 7 to 10 years of age.

Results

In fully adjusted models, an increase in energy from fibre intake at the age of 7 was associated with lower zBMI at the same age (β = −0.073; 95%CI [−0.127,‐0.019]) and at 10 years (β = −0.083; 95%CI [−0.137,‐0.029]). Similar results were found for %FM and Whr, and in each sex separately. At the age of 10, an increase in energy from fibre intake was associated with lower %FM and Whr, while an increase in energy from protein was associated with an increase in Whr (β = 0.061; 95%CI [0.014, 0.107]).

Conclusions

Our study supports the protective effect of fibre intake on adiposity development during childhood in both sexes.
Exploring epigenetic reprogramming during central nervous system infection
Authors: Van Roy Zachary , Kielian Tammy
Published: April 2022

Epigenetics involves the study of various modes of adaptable transcriptional regulation, contributing to cell identity, characteristics, and function. During central nervous system (CNS) infection, epigenetic mechanisms can exert pronounced control over the maturation and antimicrobial properties of nearly every immune cell type. Epigenetics is a relatively new field, with the first mention of these marks proposed only a half‐century ago and a substantial body of immunological epigenetic research emerging only in the last few decades. Here, we review the best‐characterized epigenetic marks and their functions as well as illustrate how various immune cell populations responding to CNS infection utilize these marks to organize their activation state and inflammatory processes. We also discuss the metabolic and clinical implications of epigenetic marks and the rapidly expanding set of tools available to researchers that are enabling elucidation of increasingly detailed genetic regulatory pathways. These considerations paint an intricate picture of inflammatory regulation, where epigenetic marks influence genetic, signaling, and environmental elements to orchestrate a tailored immunological response to the threat at hand, cementing epigenetics as an important player in immunity.
Workers’ tenure and firm productivity: New evidence from matched employer‐employee panel data
Authors: Gagliardi Nicola , Grinza Elena , Rycx François
Published: April 2022

Using rich longitudinal matched employer‐employee data on Belgian firms, we explore the impact of workers’ tenure on firm productivity. To do so, we estimate production functions augmented with firm‐level measures of tenure. We deal with the endogeneity of standard inputs and tenure, which arises from unobserved firm heterogeneity and reverse causality, by applying a modified version of Ackerberg et al.’s (2015) control function method, which explicitly removes firm fixed effects. Consistently with recent theoretical predictions, our analyses point to positive, but decreasing, returns to tenure. We also find that the impact differs widely across several firm dimensions. Tenure is particularly beneficial for productivity in contexts characterized by a certain degree of routineness and low job complexity. Along the same lines, our findings indicate that tenure exerts stronger positive impacts in industrial and capital‐intensive firms, as well as in firms less reliant on ICT‐intensive and knowledge‐intensive processes.
Harder, better, faster, stronger? Work intensity and ‘good work’ in the United Kingdom
Authors: Hunt Tom , Pickard Harry
Published: April 2022

Work intensity in the United Kingdom has increased, yet gaps in our understanding of its causes and effects remain. It is often missing in current debates around job quality. This paper presents new evidence on the relationship between work intensity and job insecurity and on the negative effects of high work intensity for health and well‐being. Its findings help to inform debates about ‘good work’.
The anti‐oxidation mechanism of SiCf/SiC–B4C modified with Al2O3 in wet atmosphere based on machine learning
Authors: Shan Qingliang , Xue Yudong , Hu Jianbao
Published: April 2022

To study the anti‐oxidation mechanism of SiCf/SiC–B4C modified with Al2O3 in wet atmosphere, the damage evolution of composites after oxidation was explored by unsupervised machine learning technology (k‐means). Results display that the mean feature values of cluster‐1 (some small cracks in oxidation layer and matrix as well as fiber debonding) in composites modified with Al2O3 are larger than that in virgin after oxidation. Meanwhile, as the oxidation time increases, the concentrated area of cluster‐2 (fiber breakage, cracks in axial and transverse yarns) in both composites gradually shifts toward the direction of high mean feature values. Because Al2O3 can protect the BN from oxidation, the increase of peak frequency and risetime of composites modified with Al2O3 is less than that of virgin. Moreover, the proportion of cluster‐3 (big transverse matrix cracks) in composites modified with Al2O3 is always more than that of virgin. Based on the research results, the corresponding relationship between each damage behavior and each cluster is thoroughly built.
Towards the idea of ‘clinical capital’: A longitudinal study exploring nurses' dispositions and workplace manifestations in an Australian intensive care unit
Authors: Henderson Amanda , Takashima Mari , Burmeister Elizabeth , Strube Petra , Winch Sarah
Published: April 2022

Objective

To explore the concept of ‘capital’ through the study of successive interventions and outcomes (patient and staff) in a quaternity intensive care unit (ICU) across a 5‐year time frame.

Design

A longitudinal intrinsic single site, a survey study was designed. The concept of ‘capital’ was explored through an adopted interpretive approach that involved understanding meanings from different sources, for example, discussions at compassion cafés, follow‐up from staff‐initiated activities, informal responses to organizational imperatives external to the unit (i.e. staff reductions and resource constraints), alongside empirical data about workplace climate and patient incidents.

Setting

A single ICU employing approximately 220 registered nurses at a quaternary hospital in Queensland, Australia.

Participants

All nurses employed in the ICU at the time of compassion cafes participated in providing feedback to inform successive activities. All nurses in the unit had equal opportunity to complete surveys, participate in subsequent unit‐based sessions, take‐up options; and all nurses had a responsibility to complete incident data.

Results

Survey and incident data from 2015 to 2019 identify the complexity of workplace environments. Between 35% and 45% of nurses consistently completed the survey. Activities based on staff requests initially improved incident data but did not impact the work environment; negative perceptions of the work environment at the endpoint (2019) were associated with external factors.

Conclusion

Quality care environments are labile; sensitive to both unit activity and external organization directives (namely staff reductions). Quality care can be sustained in adverse situations with increased nurse engagement in patient care dynamics in the short term.

Impact

This study articulates a previously unidentified concept, ‘clinical capital’. Activities facilitating nurse engagement in broad care dynamics gave rise to a more robust climate than just focusing on social and psychological well‐being activities for nurses. Participation in issues of concern about patient care can promote resilience to short term fluctuations.
In Cash We Trust?
Authors: Parr Tom
Published: April 2022

Many individuals have miserable work lives, in which they must toil away at mind‐numbing yet exhausting tasks for hours on end, being ordered about by their superiors, perhaps with few guarantees that this source of income will persist for very long. However, this is only half of the story: what is centrally important is that many of those who endure these conditions are denied a fair wage in return for the burdens that they bear. In this article, I reflect on the significance of this fact in order to argue for the evaporation thesis. This thesis holds that individuals’ claims to particular employment‐related protections from their government disappear as their earnings increase. In the course of defending this position, I explore the moral difference an employee's wage offer makes to the work conditions that we can expect her to accept, including why there are limits to the role that cash can play here.
A numerical coupled atmospheric–hydrologic modeling system for probable maximum flood estimation with application to California's southern Sierra Nevada foothills watersheds
Authors: Trinh T. , Diaz A. , Iseri Y. , Snider E. , Anderson M. L. , Carr K. J. , Kavvas M. L.
Published: April 2022

Estimation of probable maximum flood (PMF) is a crucial process in water resources management and in the design of large hydraulic structures. However, there are uncertainties in the estimation of hydrologic conditions that contribute to extreme floods. In particular, this is the case in snow‐dominated regions, as surface air temperature and wind speed are understood to have a substantial effect on the magnitude of a flood during a storm event. Motivated by the development of a new approach to investigate and estimate reliable PMF values and in an attempt to resolve the uncertainty issues, this study introduces a physically based modeling approach. For the case study, seven watersheds located in the Sierra‐Nevada mountain range of California, including Cosumnes, Mokelumne, Stanislaus, Tuolumne, Merced, Upper San Joaquin, and Upper Kings were selected. The hydroclimate model was first implemented over the physical boundaries of the study region, and then utilized to simulate possible maximum flood conditions with input from 10 extreme precipitation scenarios. The study results provide evidence of a nonlinear atmospheric–hydrologic system; the extreme 72‐h basin‐averaged precipitation depth was found not to be linearly proportional to 72‐h flow volume equivalent depth. It can also be concluded that a large precipitation depth may not be the sole reason for a large flood event. Temperature and other atmospheric variables also contribute significantly to the production of snowfall and liquid water available for runoff, and to the resulting hydrologic response, such as the flood peak discharge and volume.
Reciprocal influences among marital relationship, Parent–adolescent relationship, and youth depressive symptoms
Authors: Chiang Shou‐Chun , Bai Sunhye
Published: April 2022

Objective

Drawing on the family systems framework, this study investigated the reciprocal prospective associations between marital relationship quality, parent–adolescent closeness and conflict, and adolescent depressive symptoms among families in Taiwan.

Background

The family systems theory posits reciprocity between family subsystems. However, the direction of influences between marital relationship quality, parent–adolescent relationship quality and adolescent well‐being may be more unidirectional in Chinese societies due to hierarchical family values.

Method

Data were from a longitudinal survey of 2292 parent‐youth dyads in the Taiwan Youth Project. Cross‐lagged path models were used to test the bidirectional associations between marital relationship quality, parent–adolescent closeness and conflict, and adolescent depressive symptoms from ages 12 to 18.

Results

Our primary hypothesis that marital relationship quality predicts parent–adolescent relationship quality, which then predicts adolescent depressive symptoms in a unidirectional manner was partially substantiated. Moreover, marital relationship quality directly predicted fewer depressive symptoms from middle to late adolescence and indirectly from early to late adolescence via parent–adolescent relationship quality in middle adolescence. We also found that child depressive symptoms predicted less parent–adolescent closeness, and more conflicts which predicted poorer marital relationship quality, particularly in early adolescence.

Conclusion

Extending the family systems theory, findings suggest that marital relationship quality plays a dominant role in the health and well‐being of Taiwanese families, especially as adolescents mature. Results highlight the importance of testing theories in families from diverse cultures.