bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gradual variance change point detection with a smoothly changing mean trend
Authors: Liang Wanfeng , Xu Libai
Published: November 2020

In contrast to the analysis of abrupt changes, methods for detecting gradual change points are less developed. In this paper, we are interested in the scenario that the variance of data may vary gradually while the mean of data changes in a smooth fashion. We propose a penalized weighted least squares approach with an iterative estimation procedure to detect the gradual variance change point with a smoothly changing mean function. The null distribution of the test statistic is derived in association with the consistency of estimates. The performance of our method is illustrated by means of a simulation study and a real data example.
Genomic prediction and genomic heritability of grain yield and its related traits in a safflower genebank collection
Authors: Zhao Huanhuan , Li Yongjun , Petkowski Joanna , Kant Surya , Hayden Matthew J. , Daetwyler Hans D.
Published: November 2020

Safflower, a minor oilseed crop, is gaining increased attention for food and industrial uses. Safflower genebank collections are an important genetic resource for crop enhancement and future breeding programs. In this study, we investigated the population structure of a safflower collection sourced from the Australian Grain Genebank and assessed the potential of genomic prediction (GP) to evaluate grain yield and related traits using single and multi‐site models. Prediction accuracies (PA) of genomic best linear unbiased prediction (GBLUP) from single site models ranged from 0.21 to 0.86 for all traits examined and were consistent with estimated genomic heritability (h2), which varied from low to moderate across traits. We generally observed a low level of genome × environment interactions (g × E). Multi‐site g × E GBLUP models only improved PA for accessions with at least some phenotypes in the training set. We observed that relaxing quality filtering parameters for genotype‐by‐sequencing (GBS), such as missing genotype call rate, did not affect PA but upwardly biased h2 estimation. Our results indicate that GP is feasible in safflower evaluation and is potentially a cost‐effective tool to facilitate fast introgression of desired safflower trait variation from genebank germplasm into breeding lines.
A modeling informed quantitative approach to salvage clinical trials interrupted due to COVID‐19
Authors: Geerts Hugo , van der Graaf Piet
Published: November 2020

Many ongoing Alzheimer's disease central nervous system clinical trials are being disrupted and halted due to the COVID‐19 pandemic. They are often of a long duration’ are very complex; and involve many stakeholders, not only the scientists and regulators but also the patients and their family members. It is mandatory for us as a community to explore all possibilities to avoid losing all the knowledge we have gained from these ongoing trials. Some of these trials will need to completely restart, but a substantial number can restart after a hiatus with the proper protocol amendments. To salvage the information gathered so far, we need out‐of‐the‐box thinking for addressing these missingness problems and to combine information from the completers with those subjects undergoing complex protocols deviations and amendments after restart in a rational, scientific way. Physiology‐based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling has been a cornerstone of model‐informed drug development with regard to drug exposure at the site of action, taking into account individual patient characteristics. Quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP), based on biology‐informed and mechanistic modeling of the interaction between a drug and neuronal circuits, is an emerging technology to simulate the pharmacodynamic effects of a drug in combination with patient‐specific comedications, genotypes, and disease states on functional clinical scales. We propose to combine these two approaches into the concept of computer modeling‐based virtual twin patients as a possible solution to harmonize the readouts from these complex clinical datasets in a biologically and therapeutically relevant way.
Changes in physical and mental health of Black, Hispanic, and White caregivers and non‐caregivers associated with onset of spousal dementia
Authors: Chen Cynthia , Thunell Johanna , Zissimopoulos Julie
Published: November 2020

Introduction

We aim to determine whether racial/ethnic health disparities are a consequence of caregiving for persons with dementia and/or health status before becoming a caregiver.

Methods

Longitudinal data from the Health and Retirement Study (1998–2012) on 7859 Black, Hispanic, and White couples were analyzed for changes in physical and mental health with incident dementia of a spouse.

Results

Blacks and Hispanics, but not Whites, had poorer health before becoming caregivers for a spouse with dementia, than those who did not become caregivers. Spouse's dementia onset was associated with caregiver's higher odds of depressive disorder, with no racial/ethnic variation. Racial disparities in caregiver's health were attributed to health differences before caregiving, not differential health changes due to caregiving.

Discussion

Older Blacks and Hispanics with poor health are at increased risk of caregiving for a spouse with dementia. Protecting the health of persons supporting spouses with dementia requires understanding socioeconomic and cultural factors driving care provision.
Modeling near‐surface water redistribution in a desert soil
Authors: Luo Yuan , Ghezzehei Teamrat A. , Yu Zhongbo , Berli Markus
Published: November 2020

Despite the vast extent of desert soils on the earth's surface, our understanding of the moisture dynamics of near‐surface desert soils (i.e., the top centimeters to few meters of the soil profile) remain limited. The goal of this study was to explore the use of the Peters–Durner–Iden (or PDI) instead of bimodal van Genuchten (or BVG) hydraulic functions to improve water redistribution simulations using HYDRUS‐1D for drier soils in desert environments. The PDI hydraulic functions take capillary and film flow into account, whereas BVG hydraulic functions are limited to capillary flow. By comparing measured with simulated water content data, we found that moisture redistribution simulations were improved by using PDI instead of BVG soil water retention and hydraulic conductivity functions. Compared with the BVG simulations, the PDI simulations particularly improved for drier soil conditions (i.e., volumetric water contents ranging from 6 to 10%; suction heads between pF 2 and pF 3.8, and saturation degrees between 19 and 32%, respectively) for the studied sandy soil of Scaling Environmental Processes in Heterogeneous Arid Soils (SEPHAS) Lysimeter 1. For pF >3, the PDI functions predicted higher hydraulic conductivity than the BVG functions, which confirmed the hypothesis that a hydraulic conductivity function, which can capture film flow, may improve moisture distribution simulations for dry soils. For pF between 2 and 3, however, simulation results improved due to the difference in the water retention rather than the hydraulic conductivity function.
Recent progress in layered double hydroxides as a cancer theranostic nanoplatform
Authors: Choi Goeun , Choy Jin‐Ho
Published: November 2020

Layered double hydroxide (LDH) has been a big challenge in exploring new hybrid materials by intercalating inorganic, organic, or bio molecules into their lamellar lattice, those which often showed dual functions from each other or new mutative properties. Recently, nano‐bio convergence technology becomes one of the most extensively studied research fields in the view point of developing advanced drugs and diagnostic agents to fight against disease and eventually to improve the lives of human beings. Therefore, LDH as one of the nanomaterials have been intensively investigated not only as biocompatible drug delivery vehicle for cancer chemotherapy but also as diagnostic and imaging agents. In the present review, we have attempted to summarize theranostic functions of drug‐LDH hybrid nanoparticles including their synthetic methods, physico‐chemical and biological properties, and their unique mechanism overcoming drug resistance, and targeting properties based on in vitro and finally in vivo results.

This article is categorized under:

Diagnostic Tools > Diagnostic Nanodevices

Diagnostic Tools > in vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging
Modulation of antioxidant defence system in response to berberine in Candida albicans
Authors: Poopedi Evida , Marimani Musa , AlOmar Suliman Yousef , Aldahmash Badr , Ahmad Aijaz
Published: November 2020

Emergence of multidrug resistant species of Candida is evolving, which advocates an urgent need for the development of new therapeutic strategies and antifungal drugs. Activation of antioxidant defence system in Candida albicans is known as forefront mechanism to escape drug toxicity. This study evaluated the role of antioxidant defence genes in the susceptibility to fluconazole in C. albicans and also determined the effect of berberine on growth, antioxidant enzymes and the expression of their genes in C. albicans isolates. Expression of major antioxidant genes was significantly increased in fluconazole‐resistant isolates in comparison with the susceptible group. Antifungal susceptibility against berberine showed MIC values ranging from 125 to 500 μg/ml. Berberine treatment caused upregulation of mRNA expression and enzymatic activities of the targeted major antioxidants. Interestingly, C. albicans exhibited efficient antioxidant response at lower concentrations but could not sufficiently alleviate berberine‐induced oxidative stress occurring at concentrations greater than 250 μg/ml. Therefore, berberine could serve as a potent Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)‐inducing agent, disrupting the antioxidant system especially in fluconazole‐resistant C. albicans to overcome antifungal drug resistance.

Take Aways

Evaluated the role of antioxidant enzymes in FLC resistance in C. albicans

Studied the effect of berberine on growth of different C. albicans isolates

Investigated the modulation of antioxidant enzymes by berberine in C. albicans

Studied the effect of berberine on antioxidant gene expression in C. albicans
Giant GAL gene clusters for the melibiose‐galactose pathway in Torulaspora
Authors: Venkatesh Anjan , Murray Anthony L. , Coughlan Aisling Y. , Wolfe Kenneth H.
Published: November 2020

In many yeast species, the three genes at the centre of the galactose catabolism pathway, GAL1, GAL10 and GAL7, are neighbours in the genome and form a metabolic gene cluster. We report here that some yeast strains in the genus Torulaspora have much larger GAL clusters that include genes for melibiase (MEL1), galactose permease (GAL2), glucose transporter (HGT1), phosphoglucomutase (PGM1) and the transcription factor GAL4, in addition to GAL1, GAL10, and GAL7. Together, these eight genes encode almost all the steps in the pathway for catabolism of extracellular melibiose (a disaccharide of galactose and glucose). We show that a progenitor 5‐gene cluster containing GAL 7‐1‐10‐4‐2 was likely present in the common ancestor of Torulaspora and Zygotorulaspora. It added PGM1 and MEL1 in the ancestor of most Torulaspora species. It underwent further expansion in the T. pretoriensis clade, involving the fusion of three progenitor clusters in tandem and the gain of HGT1. These giant GAL clusters are highly polymorphic in structure, and subject to horizontal transfers, pseudogenization and gene losses. We identify recent horizontal transfers of complete GAL clusters from T. franciscae into one strain of T. delbrueckii, and from a relative of T. maleeae into one strain of T. globosa. The variability and dynamic evolution of GAL clusters in Torulaspora indicates that there is strong natural selection on the GAL pathway in this genus.
An Extension of Raşa’s Conjecture to q-Monotone Functions
Authors: Abel Ulrich , Leviatan Dany
Published: November 2020

We extend an inequality involving the Bernstein basis polynomials and convex functions on [0, 1]. The inequality was originally conjectured by Raşa about thirty years ago, but was proved only recently. Our extension provides an inequality involving q-monotone functions, $$q\in \mathbb N$$

q
∈
N

. In particular, 1-monotone functions are nondecreasing functions, and 2-monotone functions are convex functions. In general, q-monotone functions on [0, 1], for $$q\ge 2$$

q
≥
2

, possess a $$(q-2)$$

(
q
-
2
)

nd derivative in (0, 1), which is convex there. We also discuss some other linear positive approximation processes.
Exploring extra dimensions to capture saliva metabolite fingerprints from metabolically healthy and unhealthy obese patients by comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography featuring Tandem Ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Cialiè Rosso Marta , Stilo Federico , Squara Simone , Liberto Erica , Mai Stefania , Mele Chiara , Marzullo Paolo , Aimaretti Gianluca , Reichenbach Stephen E. , Collino Massimo , Bicchi Carlo , Cordero Chiara
Published: November 2020

This study examines the information potential of comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography combined with time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC×GC-TOF MS) and variable ionization energy (i.e., Tandem Ionization™) to study changes in saliva metabolic signatures from a small group of obese individuals. The study presents a proof of concept for an effective exploitation of the complementary nature of tandem ionization data. Samples are taken from two sub-populations of severely obese (BMI > 40 kg/m2) patients, named metabolically healthy obese (MHO) and metabolically unhealthy obese (MUO). Untargeted fingerprinting, based on pattern recognition by template matching, is applied on single data streams and on fused data, obtained by combining raw signals from the two ionization energies (12 and 70 eV). Results indicate that at lower energy (i.e., 12 eV), the total signal intensity is one order of magnitude lower compared to the reference signal at 70 eV, but the ranges of variations for 2D peak responses is larger, extending the dynamic range. Fused data combine benefits from 70 eV and 12 eV resulting in more comprehensive coverage by sample fingerprints. Multivariate statistics, principal component analysis (PCA), and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) show quite good patient clustering, with total explained variance by the first two principal components (PCs) that increases from 54% at 70 eV to 59% at 12 eV and up to 71% for fused data. With PLS-DA, discriminant components are highlighted and putatively identified by comparing retention data and 70 eV spectral signatures. Within the most informative analytes, lactose is present in higher relative amount in saliva from MHO patients, whereas N-acetyl-D-glucosamine, urea, glucuronic acid γ-lactone, 2-deoxyribose, N-acetylneuraminic acid methyl ester, and 5-aminovaleric acid are more abundant in MUO patients. Visual feature fingerprinting is combined with pattern recognition algorithms to highlight metabolite variations between composite per-class images obtained by combining raw data from individuals belonging to different classes, i.e., MUO vs. MHO.

Graphical abstract
Negotiating weights for burden sharing rules in international climate negotiations: an empirical analysis
Authors: Kesternich Martin , Löschel Andreas , Ziegler Andreas
Published: November 2020

We have collected data from a world-wide survey among COP delegates to empirically investigate preferences for certain burden sharing rules among key groups in a setting that reflects the possibility of observing concessions from negotiating partners. In our survey, the participants had the opportunity to select and combine up to eight (pre-defined) burden sharing rules and to assign relative weights to the selected rules in their preferred bundle. We examine whether such a mechanism helps to overcome the currently strictly (self-interested) strategic claims on equity in the negotiation process. We observe that delegates from different groups of countries show a general willingness for concessions. However, the degree to which different burden sharing rules are taken into consideration partly differs between countries. As a key insight we report that the individual assessment of the polluter-pays rule based on current emissions does not only stress the persistence of the traditional Annex-B/Non-Annex-B division but also suggests tendencies for a more fragmented grouping with different positions between, for example, delegates from developing countries (i.e. G77 members) and emerging countries (i.e. BASIC). At the same time, we observe tendencies for a more harmonized view among key groups towards the ability-to-pay rule in a setting of weighted burden sharing rules.
Robotic surgery for thoracic surgery
Authors: Sandhaus Tim , Durand Marion , Möller Thorben , Egberts Jan‑Hendrik , Steinert Matthias
Published: November 2020

Indications for the use of RATS vary between the facilities but correspond as far as possible to other minimally invasive surgical findings. In general, RATS is currently a therapeutic option for the management of early-stage NSCLC without mediastinal lymph node involvement in oncological surgery, although depending on the planned intervention and the surgical facility, hilar lymph node involvement may be accepted
Sensitivity of lung ultrasound for the detection of pneumothorax one day after pulmonary resection—a prospective observational study
Authors: Galetin Thomas , Schieren Mark , Marks Benjamin , Defosse Jerome , Stoelben Erich
Published: November 2020

Background

Chest X‑ray (CXR) after thoracic surgery contributes to patient discomfort and costs and is of limited therapeutic value. Lung ultrasound (LU) for pneumothorax may be an alternative to CXR, but diagnostic accuracy data are heterogeneous and biased by insufficient sonographic technique and patient selection. Reported sensitivities range from 0.21 to 1.0. We evaluated the sensitivity of LU on the first day after thoracic surgery under routine conditions.

Methods

We performed a prospective observational study (trial-ID DRKS00014557). Consecutive patients undergoing lung resection received standardized LU in addition to routine CXR on the first postoperative day. Ultrasound examiner and radiologist were blinded to corresponding X‑ray and ultrasound findings. CXR was used as reference to determine diagnostic test performance of ultrasound. The conformity of sonography- and routine-based therapeutic decisions was evaluated.

Results

A total of 68 patients were examined. The mean duration of ultrasound was 145 ± 64 s. CXR identified 23 patients with pneumothorax with a mean apex-to-cupola size of 1.5 ± 1.0 cm. Ultrasound detected 18 patients with pneumothorax. The computed sensitivity of LU was 0.48 (95% confidence interval [0.36; 0.60]). Specificity was between 0.81 and 1.0, the negative predictive value 0.76 [0.66; 0.86]. The sensitivity of CXR was 0.56 [0.44; 0.68]. Air leakage via chest tube correlated weakly with CXR (spearman’s rho = 0.26) and moderately with LU (rho = 0.43). The conformity between sonographically based recommendations and the actual therapy based on routine diagnostics was 96%.

Conclusions

Sensitivity of ultrasound for pneumothorax detection nearly reached CXR and resulted in equally safe patient management. Our data can serve as a pilot study for upcoming larger-scaled controlled trials.
Analysis of Latin American Fertility in Terms of Probable Social Classes
Authors: Castro Torres Andrés Felipe
Published: November 2020

Theories of demographic change have not paid enough attention to how factors associated with fertility decline play different roles across social classes that are defined multidimensionally. I use a multidimensional definition of social class along with information on the reproductive histories of women born between 1920 and 1965 in six Latin American countries to show the following: the enduring connection between social stratification and fertility differentials, the concomitance of diverse fertility decline trajectories by class, and the role of within- and between-class social distances in promoting/preventing ideational change towards the acceptance of lower fertility. These results enable me to revisit the scope of theories of fertility change and to provide an explanatory narrative centred on empirically constructed social classes (probable social classes) and the macro- and micro-level conditions that influenced their life courses. I use 21 census samples collected between 1970 and 2005 in Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Paraguay.
Institutional logic meets global imagining: Kazakhstan’s engagement with China’s Belt and Road Initiative
Authors: Lee Jack T. , Lo William Yat Wai , Abdrasheva Dana
Published: November 2020

Theoretical ideas about globalization and internationalization of higher education emphasize the tension among different ideologies of higher education. According to literature, a competition among states, economy, knowledge, and status generates this tension to drive higher education development. This theoretical understanding not only shapes our global imaginations but also permeates the organizational behavior of universities. In this paper, we focus on the institutional logics that motivate universities in Kazakhstan to engage with China’s ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). We investigate the ways that Kazakhstani higher education interprets and responds to China’s vision of a global order. Based on interviews conducted at 10 higher education institutions (HEIs) in Kazakhstan, we argue that Kazakhstan’s engagement with the BRI circumvents the cultural connectivity and global cooperation that are embraced by Chinese policy discourse and perpetuated by academic literature. Rather, institutional leaders in Kazakhstan operate with a utilitarian logic that seeks revenue generation, links with industry, and opportunities for students in employment and further education. The pursuit of these strategic outcomes demonstrates a bilateral engagement with China rather than the multilateral cooperation envisioned by policymakers. In a higher education system dominated by the state, the institutions in our study exhibit partial agency to accrue pragmatic benefits rather than concede to isomorphic pressures or mimic internationalization from neoliberal contexts. The discrepancy between policy discourse from China and policy reception in Kazakhstan raises questions about the rhetoric of a multipolar global order and the realities of international cooperation in higher education.
Sample Path Properties of Generalized Random Sheets with Operator Scaling
Authors: Sönmez Ercan
Published: November 2020

We consider operator scaling $$\alpha $$
α
-stable random sheets, which were introduced in Hoffmann (Operator scaling stable random sheets with application to binary mixtures. Dissertation Universität Siegen, 2011). The idea behind such fields is to combine the properties of operator scaling $$\alpha $$
α
-stable random fields introduced in Biermé et al. (Stoch Proc Appl 117(3):312–332, 2007) and fractional Brownian sheets introduced in Kamont (Probab Math Stat 16:85–98, 1996). We establish a general uniform modulus of continuity of such fields in terms of the polar coordinates introduced in Biermé et al. (2007). Based on this, we determine the box-counting dimension and the Hausdorff dimension of the graph of a trajectory over a non-degenerate cube $$I \subset {\mathbb {R}}^d$$

I
⊂

R

d

.
Random Perturbations of Matrix Polynomials
Authors: Pagacz Patryk , Wojtylak Michał
Published: November 2020

A sum of a large-dimensional random matrix polynomial and a fixed low-rank matrix polynomial is considered. The main assumption is that the resolvent of the random polynomial converges to some deterministic limit. A formula for the limit of the resolvent of the sum is derived, and the eigenvalues are localised. Four instances are considered: a low-rank matrix perturbed by the Wigner matrix, a product HX of a fixed diagonal matrix H and the Wigner matrix X and two special matrix polynomials of higher degree. The results are illustrated with various examples and numerical simulations.
Sets, lies, and analogy: a new methodological take
Authors: Terzian Giulia
Published: November 2020

The starting point of this paper is a claim defended most famously by Graham Priest: that given certain observed similarities between the set-theoretic and the semantic paradoxes, we should be looking for a ‘uniform solution’ to the members of both families. Despite its indisputable surface attractiveness, I argue that this claim hinges on a problematic reasoning move. This is seen most clearly, I suggest, when the claim and its underlying assumptions are examined by the lights of a novel, quite general and, I contend, promising take on inter-theoretic analogy. The ensuing discussion is intended to serve as both a possible case study and a first step towards the broader aim of the paper: namely, to initiate a wider conversation on the methodology of paradox-solving on the one hand, and the use of inter-theoretic analogies on the other.
Modeling Local BES Indicators by Copula-Based Bayesian Networks
Authors: D’Urso Pierpaolo , Vitale Vincenzina
Published: November 2020

In Italy, the measure of the Equitable and Sustainable Well-being is provided by the Italian Institute of Statistics by means of a dashboard of basic and composite indicators. To investigate the dependence structure between the different domains of well-being, we propose the use of Non-Parametric Bayesian Networks based on the normal copula distribution, that allow to explore the conditional independence relationships between the composite indicators. The main advantage of the non-parametric models is that, as opposed to the parametric approach, they do not require any assumption on the marginal distributions of the variables. The proposed model is applied to the Equitable and Sustainable Well-being indicators measured at the provincial level and enriches the analysis of well-being by inspecting similarities and differences between Italian urban areas and territories.
Beyond kappa: an informational index for diagnostic agreement in dichotomous and multivalue ordered-categorical ratings
Authors: Casagrande Alberto , Fabris Francesco , Girometti Rossano
Published: November 2020

Agreement measures are useful tools to both compare different evaluations of the same diagnostic outcomes and validate new rating systems or devices. Cohen’s kappa (κ) certainly is the most popular agreement method between two raters, and proved its effectiveness in the last sixty years. In spite of that, this method suffers from some alleged issues, which have been highlighted since the 1970s; moreover, its value is strongly dependent on the prevalence of the disease in the considered sample. This work introduces a new agreement index, the informational agreement (IA), which seems to avoid some of Cohen’s kappa’s flaws, and separates the contribution of the prevalence from the nucleus of agreement. These goals are achieved by modelling the agreement—in both dichotomous and multivalue ordered-categorical cases—as the information shared between two raters through the virtual diagnostic channel connecting them: the more information exchanged between the raters, the higher their agreement. In order to test its fair behaviour and the effectiveness of the method, IA has been tested on some cases known to be problematic for κ, in the machine learning context and in a clinical scenario to compare ultrasound (US) and automated breast volume scanner (ABVS) in the setting of breast cancer imaging.
Construction of embedded fMRI resting-state functional connectivity networks using manifold learning
Authors: Gallos Ioannis K. , Galaris Evangelos , Siettos Constantinos I.
Published: November 2020

We construct embedded functional connectivity networks (FCN) from benchmark resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI) data acquired from patients with schizophrenia and healthy controls based on linear and nonlinear manifold learning algorithms, namely, Multidimensional Scaling, Isometric Feature Mapping, Diffusion Maps, Locally Linear Embedding and kernel PCA. Furthermore, based on key global graph-theoretic properties of the embedded FCN, we compare their classification potential using machine learning. We also assess the performance of two metrics that are widely used for the construction of FCN from fMRI, namely the Euclidean distance and the cross correlation metric. We show that diffusion maps with the cross correlation metric outperform the other combinations.
Agil, hierarchiefrei und selbstorganisiert im New Work oder überwältigt von Systemstrukturen und unterdrückten gruppendynamischen Prozessen im New Office
Authors: Schneider Tomas
Published: November 2020

Dieser Beitrag in der Zeitschrift Gruppe. Interaktion. Organisation. (GIO) stellt eine explorative qualitative Studie zum Erleben von Sinn und Bindung durch Mitarbeitende in agilen New Work Umwelten vor, indem sie Wirkungen von Selbstorganisation, flachen Hierarchien, und elaborierten agilen Systemarchitekturen im Gegenlicht von persönlichen Beziehungen, gruppendynamischen Prozessen und Aspekten des psychologischen Empowerments betrachtet.

Globalisierung, Digitalisierung und demographischer Wandel lassen Wettbewerb und Produktivität, sowie Qualifikationsanforderungen immer rasanter wachsen. Währenddessen werden qualifizierte Mitarbeitende jüngerer Generationen (X, Y, Z) rarer und fordern jenseits ökonomischer Auskömmlichkeit entsprechende Ausgestaltungen ihrer Arbeitsverhältnisse. Das Erleben von Selbstwirksamkeit und Sinn, sowie persönliche Entwicklung und hohe individuelle Freiheitsgrade werden bedeutsam und der Ruf nach neuen Arbeitsstrukturen laut.

Unter „New Work“ versammeln sich so Organisationsansätze, welche die Arbeitszufriedenheit, das Empowerment und die intrinsische Motivation, sowie die Verbundenheit mit Projekten oder Organisationen stärken sollen. Agile Arbeitsmethoden mit selbstorganisierenden Scrum-Teams treffen häufig auf Neudefinitionsversuche von Arbeit aus der Start-Up-Welt während sich Bestandsunternehmen um Adaption bemühen.

Der Artikel hinterfragt, inwieweit qualitative Änderungen von Arbeit gelingen oder eher neu gestaltete Arbeitsumgebungen entstehen.

In einer explorativen qualitativen Studie wurde hierfür in zwei New Work IT-Unternehmen mit halboffenen Interviews untersucht, welche Zielsetzungen die Leitungsebenen formulieren, an welchen Modellen sie sich orientieren, welche Rolle das Empowerment spielt, was konkret umgesetzt wird. Dem wurden die Erwartungen und die Rezeption durch die Mitarbeitenden sowie gruppendynamische Perspektiven gegenübergestellt.

Im Sample wird u.a. deutlich, dass eine Delegation von Hierarchie an Systemarchitekturen oder in Selbstorganisationzirkel wenig geeignet ist, Hierarchie zu beseitigen. Genauso zeigt sich, dass Selbstorganisation an sich nicht unbedingt Probleme löst oder Komplexität reduziert. Gleichzeitig findet eine Bindung der Mitarbeitenden vor allem an den Rändern der eingesetzten New Work Methoden und weitgehend unabhängig von diesen statt. Schließlich bildet sich ab, dass die vorgefundene Vernachlässigung der Beziehungsebene und damit team- und gruppenspezifischer Dynamiken nicht durch Systemstrukturen aufgefangen werden können, sondern vielmehr deutlicher Beachtung bedürfen.
Toward a Strong-Sense Validation Benchmark Database for Numerical Ladle Flow Models
Authors: Haas Tim , Suarez Ana Lia , Eickhoff Moritz , Pfeifer Herbert
Published: November 2020

In numerical computation of ladle metallurgy, multiphase models are essential. Still, these models are afflicted with great uncertainty, making a validation with experimental data mandatory. Validation experiments fundamentally differ from physical modeling experiments because emphasis is on a complete documentation of all boundary conditions and a detailed uncertainty assessment. For this work, the experimental design for a comprehensive accuracy assessment of numerical models and reported quantities were jointly determined with international numerical experts. The framework comprises a plume analysis and flow measurements in the single- and multiphase regions of a water model with defined conditions. All influencing factors are documented extensively and their contribution to the overall data uncertainty is quantified. Detailed data are made publicly available within a validation benchmark database for isothermal multiphase flow in metallurgical ladles. A first draft of a standardized validation procedure, including a single number validation score, is proposed. Using the available data, the accuracy of numerical models can be quantified more accurately and comparably, which helps in advancing the model’s further development. It also lays the foundation for a standardization of the validation process, which can lead to greater acceptance of the numerical results.
Predictive Features and Clinical Presentation of Interstitial Lung Disease in Inflammatory Myositis
Authors: Vojinovic Tamara , Cavazzana Ilaria , Ceruti Paolo , Fredi Micaela , Modina Denise , Berlendis Marialma , Franceschini Franco
Published: November 2020

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) represents one of the most severe extra-muscular features of idiopathic inflammatory myositis (IIM). We aimed to identify any clinical and serological predictors of ILD in a monocentric cohort of 165 IIM patients.

ILD+ patients were defined as having restrictive impairment in lung function tests and signs of ILD at chest high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT). Available HRCT images were centralized and classified in different ILD patterns: non-specific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP), organizing pneumonia (OP), usual interstitial pneumonia-like (UIP), indeterminate for UIP, and interstitial lung abnormalities (ILA). Lung function test data were recorded at onset, at 1 and 5 years after ILD diagnosis.

ILD was found in 52 IIM patients (31.5%): 46.2% was affected by anti-synthetase syndrome (ARS), 21% by polymyositis (PM), 19% by dermatomyositis (DM), and 13.5% by overlap myositis. Most of ILD+ showed NSIP (31.9%), OP (19%), indeterminate for UIP (19%), and UIP (12.8%) patterns. At multivariate analysis, ILD was predicted by anti-Ro52 (p: 0.0026) and dyspnea (p: 0.015) at IIM onset. Most of ILD onset within is 12 months after IIM. In five cases, ILD occurs after 12 months since IIM diagnosis: these patients more frequently show dry cough and anti-Ku antibodies. Anti-Ro52 + ILD patients showed a significant increase of DLCO at 1 and 5 years of follow-up, compared with anti-Ro52 negative cases.

ILD occurs in about one third of IIM and was predicted by dyspnea at onset and anti-Ro52 antibodies. Anti-Ro52 defines a subgroup of ILD showing a significant improvement of DLCO during follow-up.

This retrospective study has been approved by local ethic committee (ASST-Spedali Civili of Brescia, Italy); protocol number: NP3511
IMPROV-ED trial: eHealth programme for faster recovery and reduced healthcare utilisation after CABG
Authors: van Steenbergen G. J. , van Veghel D. , ter Woorst J. , van Lieshout D. , Dekker L.
Published: November 2020

Background

After coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), healthcare utilisation is high and is partly unplanned. eHealth applications have been proposed to reduce healthcare consumption and to enable patients to get actively involved in their recovery. This way, healthcare expenses can be reduced and the quality of care can be improved.

Objectives

We aim to evaluate whether the use of an eHealth programme can reduce unplanned healthcare utilisation and improve mental and physical health in the first 6 weeks after discharge in patients who underwent CABG. In addition, patient satisfaction and use of the eHealth programme will be evaluated.

Methods

For this single-centre randomised controlled trial, at least 280 patients referred for CABG will be included at the preoperative outpatient clinic and randomised to an intervention or control group. The intervention group will have access to an eHealth programme, which consists of online educational videos developed by the Dutch Heart Foundation and postoperative video consultations with a physician. The control group will receive standard care and will not have access to the eHealth programme. The primary endpoint is healthcare utilisation; other endpoints include anxiety, duration of recovery, quality of life and patient satisfaction. Participants will complete several questionnaires at 6 time points during the study.

Results

Patient enrolment started in February 2020 and completion of the follow-up period is expected in August 2021.

Conclusion

This randomised trial was initiated to test the hypothesis that patients who are partaking in our eHealth programme use less unplanned care and experience a better quality of life, less anxiety and a faster recovery than controls.
Coexistence of a rare type of ectopic kidney with atypical renal vasculature
Authors: Waśniewska Anna , Bukowski Piotr , Szymański Rafał , Januszewicz Andrzej , Olewnik Łukasz
Published: November 2020

Knowledge of anatomical anomalies is significant for all specialists in clinical practice and may prevent serious complications following medical procedures. This report presents the rare crossed fused renal ectopia (CFRE) with atypical renal vasculature in cadaver of a 68-year-old man. The ectopic kidney was located on right side with four renal veins, three renal arteries, two ureters, where one of them is double. The embryological background, as well as the potential clinical significance of this morphological variation, is discussed. An interventional radiological and surgical procedure should be appropriately implemented to treat anomalies of vessels and CFRE.
Der Lizenzierungsweg Fernstudium in der Sozialen Arbeit: Der Boom des großen Unbekannten
Authors: Meyer Nikolaus , Buschle Christina
Published: November 2020

Eine Möglichkeit in das Berufsfeld der Sozialen Arbeit einzumünden besteht im Besuch eines Fernstudiengangs. Der vorliegende Beitrag beleuchtet die Entwicklung der Studierendenzahlen bei Fernstudiengängen aus dem Bereich der Sozialen Arbeit. Dafür werden sowohl Ergebnisse des Statistischen Bundesamtes als auch aus einer Sekundäranalyse zu Einstellungen von Fernstudierenden der Sozialen Arbeit abgebildet. Denn trotz steigender Bedeutung für die Professionalisierung des Berufsfeldes, gemessen an den Studierendenzahlen, ist das Fernstudium Sozialer Arbeit bisher kaum Gegenstand empirischer Analysen. Deutlich wird, dass das Fernstudium für den Lizenzierungsprozess eine hohe Bedeutung hat und ebenso als Möglichkeit der individuellen Professionalisierung für die Beschäftigten.
Zur Reliabilität von Wearable Devices am Beispiel einer Premium Multisport-Smartwatch
Authors: Wagner Matthias , Engel Florian , Klier Kristina , Klughardt Saskia , Wallner Franziska , Wieczorek Alissa
Published: November 2020

Wearable Devices versprechen durch ihre motivierende Wirkung einen wichtigen Beitrag zur Bindung des Individuums an körperlich-sportliche Aktivitäten und somit zum Aufbau und Erhalt von Gesundheit und Leistungsfähigkeit in Zeiten des digitalen gesellschaftlichen Wandels. Übergeordnetes Ziel der vorliegenden Untersuchung war die Beurteilung der Testgüte von Wearable Devices anhand eines marktrelevanten Gerätes, der Garmin fēnix® 5. Als Forschungsdesiderat wurde der Reliabilitätsaspekt der Methodenkonkordanz identifiziert. Zur Überprüfung der Methodenkonkordanz wurden das Stresslevel bei kognitiver Stressinduktion, der Kalorienverbrauch bei moderater Ausdauerlaufbelastung sowie die maximale Sauerstoffaufnahme bei Laufausbelastung von 30 männlichen Probanden (Alter: 23,13 ± 2,5 Jahre; BMI: 24,95 ± 2,45 kg/m2) mit der Garmin fēnix® 5 bestimmt und die Ergebnisse mit denen im Feld gängigen Referenzmethoden Elektrokardiographie, Indirekte Kalorimetrie bzw. Spiroergometrie verglichen. Zur rechnerischen Überprüfung der Methodenkonkordanz diente Lin’s Konkordanzkorrelationskoeffizient (CCCLin). Die Ergebnisse zeigen eine hohe Präzision der Garmin fēnix® 5 im Vergleich mit der Referenzmethode Elektrokardiographie hinsichtlich der Messung des notwendigerweise z-standardisierten Stressparameters (p = 0,89) sowie eine gerade mittlere exakte intrainidividuelle Konkordanz mit der Referenzmethode Indirekte Kalorimetrie bzw. Spiroergometrie hinsichtlich der Messung des Parameters Kalorienverbrauch (CCCLin = 0,43 [p = 0,52, Cb = 0,82]) bzw. maximale Sauerstoffaufnahme (CCCLin = 0,50 [p = 0,77, Cb = 0,66]). Die Garmin fēnix® 5 kann somit zumindest bei erstmaliger Verwendung nicht als hinreichend konkordante Alternative zu den gängigen aktivitäts- und leistungsbezogenen Referenzmethoden empfohlen werden.
Nanometric polishing of lutetium oxide by plasma-assisted etching
Authors: Lyu Peng , Lai Min , Fang Feng-Zhou
Published: November 2020

Plasma-assisted etching, in which the irradiation of hydrogen plasma and inorganic acid etching are integrated, is proposed as a novel polishing method for sesquioxide crystals. By means of this approach, low damage and even damage-free surfaces with a high material removal rate can be achieved in lutetium oxide surface finishing. Analysis of transmission electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy reveal that plasma hydrogenation converts the sesquioxide into hydroxide, which leads a high efficient way to polish the surfaces. The influences of process conditions on the etching boundary and surface roughness are also qualitatively investigated using scanning electron microscope and white light interferometry. The newly developed process is verified by a systematic experiment.
Vom situationalen Interesse zum Lernerfolg: Lesegeschichten im Chemieunterricht der Sekundarstufe I
Authors: Reschke Tim , Koenen Jenna , Sumfleth Elke
Published: November 2020

Schülerinnen und Schüler zeigen im Fach Chemie häufig Defizite im Fachwissen und gleichzeitig ein geringes Fachinteresse. Eine vermehrte Anregung des situationalen Interesses könnte einen ersten Schritt in Richtung einer positiven Entwicklung des Fachinteresses sein. Eine Möglichkeit hierzu bieten Lernmaterialien in Form von chemiebezogenen Lesegeschichten. Allerdings mangelt es an empirischen Studien zur Wirkung solcher Texte auf das situationale Interesse und den Lernerfolg. Darüber hinaus fehlt ein Vergleich mit anderen Textarten wie dem Sachtext, der meist vorkommenden Textart in Chemieschulbüchern. Im Rahmen der vorliegenden Studie wurden daher verschiedene Lesegeschichten entwickelt und untersucht, inwieweit sich diese bei fachlich gleichen Inhalten in ihrer Wirkung von Sachtexten unterscheiden, und zwar im Hinblick auf das situationale Interesse und den Lernerfolg von Schülerinnen und Schülern. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass der Lernerfolg mit Lesegeschichten höher ist als der mit Sachtexten. Beim situationalen Interesse zeigen sich Geschlechtereffekte zugunsten der Mädchen, die stärker an der Lesegeschichte interessiert sind und dadurch länger mit dieser lernen als die Jungen. Insgesamt lässt sich für die Mädchen ein Modell hinsichtlich des Zusammenhangs zwischen der jeweiligen Textart (mit Vorteilen für die Lesegeschichte), dem situationalen Interesse, der Lernzeit und dem Lernerfolg abbilden.
Torn between responsibility and loyalty: how the veterinarian profession designs antibiotic resistance policies that shake its foundations
Authors: Surdez Muriel , Piquerez Lorène , Hobeika Alexandre
Published: November 2020

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) policies, which aim to redefine how antibiotics are used, reshape the veterinary profession’s relationships in at least two ways. The policies can give state veterinarians greater power over practising veterinarians and thus change the relationship between the profession and the government supposed to regulate it. The policies also call for coordination with other relevant professionals, mainly in the areas of human medicine and food safety, which can limit the veterinary profession’s autonomous decision-making. Based on a survey of veterinarians working at different levels of the administration and their non-veterinary colleagues in Switzerland, it is shown that AMR policies, by strengthening the administration’s planning and supervisory functions, do contribute to increased state control of the veterinary profession. However, this shift is limited because implementing the policies requires negotiating with representatives of the profession.
Adaptation of the Winkie Drill for subglacial bedrock sampling
Authors: Boeckmann Grant V. , Gibson Chris J. , Kuhl Tanner W. , Moravec Elliot , Johnson Jay A. , Meulemans Zack , Slawny Kristina
Published: November 2020

The Winkie Drill is an agile, commercially available rock coring system. The U.S. Ice Drilling Program has modified a Winkie Drill for subglacial rock and ice/rock interface coring, as well as drilling and coring access holes through ice. The original gasoline engine was replaced with an electric motor though the two-speed gear reducer and Unipress hand feed system were maintained. Using standard aluminum AW34 drill rod (for 33.5 mm diameter core), the system has a depth capability of 120 m. The drill uses forward fluid circulation in a closed loop system. The drilling fluid is Isopar K, selected for favorable properties in polar environment. When firn or snow is present at the drill site, casing with an inflatable packer can be deployed to contain the drill fluid. The Winkie Drill will operate from sea level to high altitudes and operation results in minimal environmental impact. The drill can be easily and quickly assembled and disassembled in the field by two people. All components can be transported by Twin Otter or helicopter to the field site.
Characteristics of Resilience Among Disaster Rescue Workers: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mao Xiaorong , Fung Olivia WM , Hu Xiuying , Loke Alice Yuen
Published: November 2020

Disasters can cause long-lasting damage to survivors and rescue workers. Some rescue workers suffer negative physical and psychological consequences, while others do not. Thus, it is of value to fully understand the characteristics of rescuers who have not been affected by rescue activities. Resilience refers to the ability or capacity to cope with adversity. The aim of this review is to explore and identify the characteristics of resilience among rescue workers. A systematic literature search was conducted of seven electronic databases from inception to May 2019, using keywords and medical subject heading terms related to the resilience of rescuers. Hand searches and searches of leading authors were also performed. A total of 31 articles were eligible for review. Six domains were identified to characterize the resilience of rescuers namely, demographic and physical characteristics, personality traits, coping strategies, perceived resources, being equipped with special skills for disaster rescue, and having less adverse consequences from exposure to disaster. Researchers and disaster managers can take note of these characteristics to comprehensively understand the ‘positive concept’ of resilience. This enhanced understanding of ‘positive resilience’ can in turn be used to develop a framework to assess and establish interventions, and consequently to improve the psychological wellbeing of rescuers after disaster rescue efforts.
Speak No Evil: Understanding Hermeneutical (In)justice
Authors: Beverley John
Published: November 2020

Miranda Fricker's original presentation of Hermeneutical Injustice left open theoretical choice points leading to criticisms and subsequent clarifications with the resulting dialectic appearing largely verbal. The absence of perspicuous exposition of hallmarks of Hermeneutical Injustice might suggest scenarios exhibiting some – but not all – such hallmarks are within its purview when they are not. The lack of clear hallmarks of Hermeneutical Injustice, moreover, obscures both the extent to which Fricker's proposed remedy Hermeneutical Justice – roughly, virtuous communicative practices – adequately addresses the injustice, and the accuracy of criticisms suggesting that Hermeneutical Justice is insufficient to the task. In what follows, after briefly defending necessary and sufficient conditions for what I take to be the best candidate interpretation of Hermeneutical Injustice, I build on recent work on moral responsibility to construct and defend a rigorous explication of Hermeneutical Justice.