bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Counterpart theories for everyone
Authors: Varzi Achille C.
Published: July 2020

David Lewis’s counterpart theory (CT) is often seen as involving a radical departure from the standard, Kripke-style semantics for modal logic (ML), suggesting that we are dealing with deeply divergent accounts of our modal talk. However, CT captures but one version of the relevant semantic intuition, and does so on the basis of metaphysical assumptions (all worlds are equally real, individuals are world-bound) that are ostensibly discretionary. Just as ML can be translated into a language that quantifies explicitly over worlds, CT may be formulated as a semantic theory in which world quantification is purely metalinguistic. And just as Kripke-style semantics is formally compatible with the doctrine of world-boundedness, a counterpart-based semantics may in principle allow for cases of trans-world identity. In fact, one may welcome a framework that is general enough to include both Lewis’s counterpart-based account and Kripke’s identity-based account as distinguished special cases. There are several ways of doing so. The purpose of this paper is to outline a fully general option and to illustrate its philosophical significance, showing how the large variety of intermediate relations that lie between Lewisian counterparthood and Kripkean identity yield a corresponding variety of modal theories that would otherwise remain uncharted.
RoCGAN: Robust Conditional GAN
Authors: Chrysos Grigorios G. , Kossaifi Jean , Zafeiriou Stefanos
Published: July 2020

Conditional image generation lies at the heart of computer vision and conditional generative adversarial networks (cGAN) have recently become the method of choice for this task, owing to their superior performance. The focus so far has largely been on performance improvement, with little effort in making cGANs more robust to noise. However, the regression (of the generator) might lead to arbitrarily large errors in the output, which makes cGANs unreliable for real-world applications. In this work, we introduce a novel conditional GAN model, calledRoCGAN, which leverages structure in the target space of the model to address the issue. Specifically, we augment the generator with an unsupervised pathway, which promotes the outputs of the generator to span the target manifold, even in the presence of intense noise. We prove that RoCGAN share similar theoretical properties as GAN and establish with both synthetic and real data the merits of our model. We perform a thorough experimental validation on large scale datasets for natural scenes and faces and observe that our model outperforms existing cGAN architectures by a large margin. We also empirically demonstrate the performance of our approach in the face of two types of noise (adversarial and Bernoulli).
Energy costs vs. carbon dioxide emissions in short-term production planning
Authors: Dellnitz Andreas , Braschczok Damian , Ostmeyer Jonas , Hilbert Markus , Kleine Andreas
Published: July 2020

In energy-oriented lot-sizing and scheduling research, it is often assumed that minimizing energy costs automatically leads to an improvement of the ecological footprint of a company, i.e., lower carbon dioxide emissions. More precisely, a close to one (positive) correlation between energy costs and carbon dioxide emissions is often supposed. In this contribution, we show that this conjecture does not always hold true due to fluctuating carbon dioxide emissions over the whole day. Therefore, we present a real-world business case study, combining lot-sizing and machine scheduling under time-varying electric energy costsandcarbon dioxide emissions in a mixed integer optimization model; in this context, we also consider on-site power generation. The interplay between all these aspects is demonstrated via a numerical analysis.
Improving Empathy in Healthcare Consultations—a Secondary Analysis of Interventions
Authors: Smith Kirsten A. , Bishop Felicity L. , Dambha-Miller Hajira , Ratnapalan Mohana , Lyness Emily , Vennik Jane , Hughes Stephanie , Bostock Jennifer , Morrison Leanne , Mallen Christian , Yardley Lucy , Everitt Hazel , Little Paul , Howick Jeremy
Published: July 2020

A recent systematic review of randomised trials suggested that empathic communication improves patient health outcomes. However, the methods for training healthcare practitioners (medical professionals; HCPs) in empathy and the empathic behaviours demonstrated within the trials were heterogeneous, making the evidence difficult to implement in routine clinical practice. In this secondary analysis of seven trials in the review, we aimed to identify (1) the methods used to train HCPs, (2) the empathy behaviours they were trained to perform and (3) behaviour change techniques (BCTs) used to encourage the adoption of those behaviours. This detailed understanding of interventions is necessary to inform implementation in clinical practice. We conducted a content analysis of intervention descriptions, using an inductive approach to identify training methods and empathy behaviours and a deductive approach to describe the BCTs used. The most commonly used methods to train HCPs to enhance empathy were face-to-face training (n = 5), role-playing (n = 3) and videos (self or model; n = 3). Duration of training was varied, with both long and short training having high effect sizes. The most frequently targeted empathy behaviours were providing explanations of treatment (n = 5), providing non-specific empathic responses (e.g. expressing understanding) and displaying a friendly manner and using non-verbal behaviours (e.g. nodding, leaning forward, n = 4). The BCT most used to encourage HCPs to adopt empathy behaviours was “Instruction on how to perform behaviour” (e.g. a video demonstration, n = 5), followed by “Credible source” (e.g. delivered by a psychologist, n = 4) and “Behavioural practice” (n = 3 e.g. role-playing). We compared the effect sizes of studies but could not extrapolate meaningful conclusions due to high levels of variation in training methods, empathy skills and BCTs. Moreover, the methods used to train HCPs were often poorly described which limits study replication and clinical implementation. This analysis of empathy training can inform future research, intervention reporting standards and clinical practice.
Evidence-based recommendations for the treatment of mechanical outlet impingement
Authors: Hünnebeck Sophia M. , Balke Maurice , Müller-Rath Ralf , Scheibel Markus
Published: July 2020

Background

The benefits of the various therapeutic options for the treatment of subacromial impingement syndrome are a topic of ongoing debate. Several studies on the subject are insufficiently evidence-based, with many other studies being considered controversial by members of the field. Nevertheless, a general opinion against surgical interventions is developing in the media in reference to these systematic reviews and meta-analyses based on insufficiently differentiated literature.

Aim of the study

This article provides an overview of the literature and examines the outcome after arthroscopic subacromial decompression compared with conservative therapy or diagnostic arthroscopy and bursectomy.

Conclusion

The outcome for patients treated with conservative therapy or subacromial decompression who explicitly suffered from mechanical outlet impingement (MOI) or mechanical non-outlet impingement (MNOI) has not yet been studied. The main problem concerning almost all published studies is that they are based on a mixture of pathologies. It seems likely that especially patients with a mechanical, and therefore structural, narrowing of the subacromial space can profit more from surgical management than patients with unspecific subacromial pain. Differentiation between the pathologies is crucial for the correct treatment decision, not only for the reduction of symptoms, but most importantly for the preservation of the supraspinatus tendon.
Healthcare and economic burden of ANCA-associated vasculitis in Italy: an integrated analysis from clinical and administrative databases
Authors: Quartuccio Luca , Treppo Elena , Valent Francesca , De Vita Salvatore
Published: July 2020

ANCA-associated vasculitides (AAV) comprise a group of systemic vasculitides characterized by inflammation of small-sized blood vessels leading to multi-organ involvement. The worldwide annual incidence of AAV ranges from 1.2 to 3.3 cases per 100 000 individuals with a prevalence of 4.6–42.1 cases per 100 000 individuals. The prevalence of AAV is geographically heterogeneous; therefore, regional epidemiological studies can be more informative to improve health care systems. Even though clinicians are aware that the healthcare burden and the risk of hospitalization of AAV appear high, data on hospitalization and cost of illness due to AAV are still scarce or even lacking. This study aims to characterize the economic burden of AAV in Friuli Venezia Giulia (FVG), Italy. Thus, a retrospective study was conducted through the integration of many administrative health databases of the FVG as the source of information. From data integration, we estimated that more than two-thirds of AAV patients showed at least one hospitalization in their medical history, most frequently caused by the disease itself or superimposed infections. Around 10% of patients developed end-stage renal disease. In an 8-year follow-up, the overall healthcare cost was € 1,215,078, corresponding to € 6,168 patient-year. ANCA-positive patients showed much higher costs than ANCA-negative patients did. Overall, AAV are rare diseases, but imply very high healthcare costs. Early diagnosis and optimal treatment probably still remain unmet needs for AAV.
Visualising Immigrant Fertility -- Profiles of Childbearing and their Implications for Migration Research
Authors: Tønnessen Marianne , Wilson Ben
Published: July 2020

Different measures of fertility have strengths and limitations when used to describe the fertility of immigrants, and no single measure captures every aspect of this complex phenomenon. This paper introduces a novel visual framework that shows life course profiles of immigrant childbearing in a multifaceted way. It develops the well-known cohort fertility curve—showing the average number of children ever born over the life course—and adds lines for immigrant women arriving at different ages, using their average number of children born on arrival as a starting point. These immigrant fertility profiles can illustrate a number of important aspects of childbearing simultaneously, including children born before arrival, fertility after arrival and completed fertility at the end of childbearing. In addition to showing numbers of children born (i.e. fertility quantum), the slopes of each profile indicate the tempo of fertility and how this changes by age and duration of residence. The fertility profiles of different immigrant groups can be plotted in the same graph, and can be compared and contrasted with non-immigrant groups—at origin as well as destination—through the augmentation of each visualisation. Using Nordic register data, we illustrate how these fertility profiles can be used to expand our knowledge of immigrant childbearing and to investigate various hypotheses of migrant fertility, giving a novel overview of the relationships between fertility measures such as period and quantum, before and after arrival.
Distribution of fungi and their toxic metabolites in melon and sesame seeds marketed in two major producing states in Nigeria
Authors: Esan Adetoun O. , Fapohunda Stephen O. , Ezekiel Chibundu N. , Sulyok Michael , Krska Rudolf
Published: July 2020

In this study, melon (n = 60) and sesame (n = 60) seeds purchased from markets within Benue and Nasarawa states, respectively, in Nigeria, during two seasons (dry and wet), were analysed for fungal and mycotoxin contamination in order to determine the safety of these foods for human consumption. Molecular analysis revealed the following seven fungal taxonomic groups in the foods: Aspergillus section Candidi, Aspergillus section Flavi, Aspergillus section Nigri, Cladosporium, Fusarium fujikuroi species group, Penicillium, and Pleosporales/Didymellaceae. A total of 78 microbial metabolites, including several mycotoxins, occurred in the foods. The most frequent mycotoxins in melon and sesame were aflatoxin B1 (occurrence: 76%) and alternariol monomethyl ether (occurrence: 59%), respectively. However, higher mean total aflatoxin levels occurred in sesame (17 μg kg−1) than in melon (11 μg kg−1). About 28 and 5% of melon and sesame, respectively, exceeded the 4 μg kg−1 total aflatoxin limit for oilseeds intended for direct human consumption in the European Union. Additionally, fumonisin B1 and moniliformin occurred only in sesame, whilst ochratoxins A and B occurred only in melon; ochratoxin B being reported for the first time in this food. Our data indicated seasonal variations in the fungal and mycotoxin contamination levels in both foods.
Food system disruption: initial livelihood and dietary effects of COVID-19 on vegetable producers in India
Authors: Harris Jody , Depenbusch Lutz , Pal Arshad Ahmad , Nair Ramakrishnan Madhavan , Ramasamy Srinivasan
Published: July 2020

Disruption to food systems and impacts on livelihoods and diets have been brought into sharp focus by the COVID-19 pandemic. We aimed to investigate effects of this multi-layered shock on production, sales, prices, incomes and diets for vegetable farmers in India as both producers and consumers of nutrient-dense foods. We undertook a rapid telephone survey with 448 farmers in 4 states, in one of the first studies to document the early impacts of the pandemic and policy responses on farming households.

We find that a majority of farmers report negative impacts on production, sales, prices and incomes. Over 80% of farms reported some decline in sales, and over 20% of farms reported devastating declines (sold almost nothing). Price reductions were reported by over 80% of farmers, and reductions by more than half for 50% of farmers. Similarly, farm income reportedly dropped for 90% of farms, and by more than half for 60%.

Of surveyed households, 62% reported disruptions to their diets. A majority of farm households reported reduced ability to access the most nutrient-dense foods. Around 80% of households reported ability to protect their staple food consumption, and the largest falls in consumption were in fruit and animal source foods other than dairy, in around half of households. Reported vegetable consumption fell in almost 30% of households, but vegetables were also the only food group where consumption increased for some, in around 15% of households.

Our data suggest higher vulnerability of female farmers in terms of both livelihoods and diet, and differential effects on smaller and larger farms, meaning different farms may require different types of support in order to continue to function. Farms reported diverse coping strategies to maintain sales, though often with negative implications for reported incomes. The ability to consume one’s own produce may be somewhat protective of diets when other routes to food access fail.

The impacts of COVID-19 and subsequent policy responses on both livelihoods and diets in horticultural households risk rolling back the impressive economic and nutrition gains India has seen over the past decade. Food systems, and particularly those making available the most nutrient-dense foods, must be considered in ongoing and future government responses.
Atmospheric Structure for Convective Development in the Events of Cloud Clusters over the Korean Peninsula
Authors: Lee Tae-Young , Shin Uju , Park Sang-Hun
Published: July 2020

This study examines atmospheric structures causing convective development in the events of cloud cluster (CC) over the Korean peninsula using the analysis and forecast data of National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) climate forecast system reanalysis (CFSR) and observation data. Two CC types—CCs associated with meso-α-scale lows (CCMLs) and mesoscale troughs (CCMTs)—were investigated. The common atmospheric structure for convective development in CC events is comprised of i) a strong southwesterly band (SWB; a region with southwesterly wind speeds >12.5 m s−1) in the lower troposphere upstream of CCs with a mesoscale convergence zone in its exit area, ii) a layer of high-θe air in the lower troposphere near the surface extending from the southwest to SWB exit, iii) elevated height of maximum θe in the lower troposphere near and over the convergence zone, above which a convectively unstable layer exists. Generality of the above-described structure has been demonstrated via examination of composite fields. SWB plays a major role in producing the structure for convective development in CC events over the Korean peninsula mainly through i) advection of high-θe air from the southwest, and ii) significant horizontal convergence in the exit area, which can facilitate convection initiation. The two types of CC show notable differences in atmospheric structure across the boundary between high-θe air from the southwest and low-θe air in the northeast and in the mode of high-θe air transport to the region of convective development. The boundary is generally tilted northeastward with height for CCML cases, whereas it is nearly vertical for the majority of CCMT cases. This study indicates that, despite the above-mentioned differences, convective developments in both CC types can be considered as elevated convection that occurs as air parcels in an elevated layer of convective instability are lifted by upward motion in the convergence zone. For both types of CC, differential θe advection plays the key role for the occurrence of elevated layer of convective instability. And θe front in CCML events indicates the presence of elevated convective instability above it and the possibility of elevated convection provided that a lifting mechanism is available.
Nano metal fluorides: small particles with great properties
Authors: Kemnitz Erhard , Mahn Stefan , Krahl Thoralf
Published: July 2020

The recently developed fluorolytic sol–gel route to metal fluorides opens a very broad range of both scientific and technical applications of the accessible high surface area metal fluorides, many of which have already been applied or tested. Specific chemical properties such as high Lewis acidity and physical properties such as high surface area, mesoporosity and nanosize as well as the possibility to apply metal fluorides on surfaces via a non-aqueous sol make the fluorolytic synthesis route a very versatile one. The scope of its scientific and technical use and the state of the art are presented.
Conditional Schedules for Processes with Temporal Constraints
Authors: Eder Johann , Franceschetti Marco , Lubas Josef
Published: July 2020

Temporal aspects are among the most important quality criteria for executing business processes. It is mandatory to check process definitions at design time for temporal properties to avoid that structural properties of process models cause time failures at run-time. Here, we propose to check process models for conditional controllability and to compute conditional schedules for their execution without time failures. Schedules have to be conditional, since it is a characteristics of business processes, that control flow decisions are based on conditions, which can only be evaluated in the course of process execution at run-time and not before the process starts. We present a procedure for checking the conditional controllability of processes with temporal constraints, which is both sound and complete and effectively and efficiently computes conditional schedules for temporally constrained business processes.
Effects of Power and Implicit Theories on Donation
Authors: Khalil Mary , Khan Saira , Septianto Felix
Published: July 2020

Charities have difficulty raising money to execute their plans, which are mainly focused on addressing social challenges. As a big proportion of donations come from individual consumers, understanding their different characteristics and psychological states is important. Power has a psychological quality that varies during everyday interactions and influences consumers’ actions. Investigating the impact of power state on donation intentions across two studies, this research first illustrates that powerless consumers with a high level of incremental theory of emotion show an increased willingness to donate, and second, negative affect is the underlying mechanism in the interaction between sense of powerlessness and the incremental theory of emotion on donation intentions. These results have theoretical and empirical implications.
Comparison of Penile Prosthesis Cultures Within Individual Patients After Removal/Replacement and Subsequent Salvage
Authors: Chandrapal Jason , Harper Shelby , Davis Leah G. , Lentz Aaron C.
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Infection rates for virgin inflatable penile prostheses (IPPs) range from 1 to 3%; however, this can increase to 7–18% after IPP revision or removal/replacement (RR) for mechanical malfunction. Although studies have reported various RR and salvage cultures, limited data are available that directly compare microorganisms after each of these procedures within the same patient. Comparison of these cultures may determine if the infection is due to a persistent microorganism or new inoculation.

Aim

Our aim is to characterize prosthesis cultures within individual patients who develop infection after RR.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed patients undergoing various IPP procedures at our institution from September 2002 to August 2018. RR procedures were determined by current procedural terminology codes 54,410 or 54,416. Infection, defined as salvage or explantation without replacement for infectious reasons, was described by current procedural terminology codes 54406, 54411, 54415, or 54417. Inclusion criteria consisted of IPP infection after RR and the presence of both RR and salvage cultures within the same patient. Owing to the small cohort size, only descriptive statistics were used.

Main Outcome Measures

Characterization of removal/replacement and salvage cultures is the main outcome measure of this study.

Results

A total of 202 non-infected RR procedures were performed with 9 cases (4%) of IPP infection after RR identified. Four (44%) of the RR cultures were positive and contained gram-positive (44%) and gram-negative (11%) organisms. In comparison, salvage cultures grew gram-positive bacteria (66%), gram-negative bacteria (33%), and/or fungal elements (33%). A direct comparison of the RR and salvage cultures indicated that only 2 patients (22%) grew similar organisms.

Conclusions

The risk of IPP infection after RR and modified washout is low. In this small series, gram-positive bacteria were most common at the time of RR and salvage. The increased incidence of fungal infections may indicate a need to modify RR protocols. Larger multi-institutional studies are needed to further investigate this relationship.

Chandrapal J, Harper S, Davis LG, et al. Comparison of Penile Prosthesis Cultures Within Individual Patients After Removal/Replacement and Subsequent Salvage. Sex Med 2020;8:783–787.
Lumbar Intradural Neurenteric Cyst: A Rare Pathology in an Unusual Location
Authors: Basseri Sana , Rossiter John P. , Wallace M. Christopher , Islam Omar , Tampieri Donatella , Kwan Benjamin Y.M.
Published: July 2020

A previously healthy 48-year-old female presented to the emergency department with a 2-week history of low back pain, progressive lower extremities weakness, and right leg numbness. There were no bowel or bladder dysfunction symptoms. Spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed an intradural cystic lesion dorsal to the spinal cord at the level of L1 measuring 1.6 × 2.1 × 4.1 cm, which was T1 hypointense and T2 hyperintense, with a small soft tissue component and no gadolinium enhancement (Figure 1). A small lipomatous component was also noted. There were no associated vertebral anomalies. The patient underwent a T12-L2 laminectomy and cyst resection, which was subtotal due to the cyst adherence to the conus medullaris. Histopathology showed characteristic features of a neurenteric cyst, with respiratory-type epithelium in the cyst wall (Figure 2). Eight months later, follow-up MRI showed no evidence of recurrence. The patient reported improved sensation in the lower extremities; however, there was some residual weakness predominantly in the proximal hip flexors bilaterally.
The digital biomarker discovery pipeline: An open-source software platform for the development of digital biomarkers using mHealth and wearables data
Authors: Bent Brinnae , Wang Ke , Grzesiak Emilia , Jiang Chentian , Qi Yuankai , Jiang Yihang , Cho Peter , Zingler Kyle , Ogbeide Felix Ikponmwosa , Zhao Arthur , Runge Ryan , Sim Ida , Dunn Jessilyn
Published: July 2020

Introduction:

Digital health is rapidly expanding due to surging healthcare costs, deteriorating health outcomes, and the growing prevalence and accessibility of mobile health (mHealth) and wearable technology. Data from Biometric Monitoring Technologies (BioMeTs), including mHealth and wearables, can be transformed into digital biomarkers that act as indicators of health outcomes and can be used to diagnose and monitor a number of chronic diseases and conditions. There are many challenges faced by digital biomarker development, including a lack of regulatory oversight, limited funding opportunities, general mistrust of sharing personal data, and a shortage of open-source data and code. Further, the process of transforming data into digital biomarkers is computationally expensive, and standards and validation methods in digital biomarker research are lacking.

Methods:

In order to provide a collaborative, standardized space for digital biomarker research and validation, we present the first comprehensive, open-source software platform for end-to-end digital biomarker development: The Digital Biomarker Discovery Pipeline (DBDP).

Results:

Here, we detail the general DBDP framework as well as three robust modules within the DBDP that have been developed for specific digital biomarker discovery use cases.

Conclusions:

The clear need for such a platform will accelerate the DBDP’s adoption as the industry standard for digital biomarker development and will support its role as the epicenter of digital biomarker collaboration and exploration.
Adaptation of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Protocols to a Parisian Maternity Unit During the 2020 Pandemic: A Managerial Perspective
Authors: Ghanchi Ali
Published: July 2020

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic overwhelmed health services in France during March 2020 and, to cope, service delivery was reduced in most disciplines. However, as this was impossible for Obstetrics, the COVID-19 infection had to be added to existing clinical care pathways at the children’s hospital, Hôpital Necker–Enfants Malades. This was further complicated by an increasing number of pregnancies affected by infection, in addition to scientific uncertainty about the virus. Procedures based on scientific recommendations from French and international authorities were adapted to maternity care and regularly updated as the situation progressed. Weekly medical manager team meetings covered the evolving clinical situation, and an initial evaluation revealed that our procedures worked well. However, it was necessary to adapt the policy as the epidemic progressed rapidly. Shortly after March 16, traffic control bundling was implemented in anticipation of a dramatic increase in pregnant women affected by infection and to better protect the staff. By April 18, with the peak of the COVID-19 epidemic receding, protocols were again readjusted to meet new service delivery requirements. Although a full debrief is yet to occur, from an operational level perspective, staff response was more than satisfactory. While preventing another epidemic may be impossible, this experience will improve our resilience in the future.
Higher Education Institutions Respond to Epidemics
Authors: Thomas James W. , Foster Holly Ann
Published: July 2020

As colleges and universities respond to the COVID-19 outbreak, many in the media call itunprecedented. This is not the first time that institutions of higher education have had to respond to an epidemic, however. A historical review of college and university reactions to illnesses such as yellow fever and the 1918 influenza pandemic provides prior examples of institutional responses to epidemic diseases.
The current state of antifungal stewardship among pediatric antimicrobial stewardship programs
Authors: Eguiguren Lourdes , Newland Jason G. , Kronman Matthew P. , Hersh Adam L. , Gerber Jeffrey S. , Lee Grace M. , Schwenk Hayden T.
Published: July 2020

Objective:

To characterize the current state of antifungal stewardship practices and perceptions of antifungal use among pediatric antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs).

Design:

We developed and distributed an electronic survey, which included 17 closed-ended questions about institutional antifungal stewardship practices and perceptions, among pediatric ASPs.

Participants:

ASP physicians and pharmacists of 74 hospitals participating in the multicenter Sharing Antimicrobial Reports for Pediatric Stewardship (SHARPS) Collaborative.

Results:

We sent surveys to 74 hospitals and received 68 unique responses, for a response rate of 92%. Overall, 63 of 68 the respondent ASPs (93%) reported that they conduct 1 or more antifungal stewardship activities. Of these 68 hospital ASPs, 43 (63%) perform prospective audit and feedback (PAF) of antifungals. The most common reasons reported for not performing PAF of antifungals were not enough time or resources (19 of 25, 76%) and minimal institutional antifungal use (6 of 25, 24%). Also, 52 hospitals (76%) require preauthorization for 1 or more antifungal agents. The most commonly restricted antifungals were isavuconazole (42 of 52 hospitals, 80%) and posaconazole (39 of 52 hospitals, 75%). Furthermore, 33 ASPs (48%) agreed or strongly agreed that antifungals are inappropriately used at their institution, and only 25 of 68 (37%) of ASPs felt very confident making recommendations about antifungals.

Conclusions:

Most pediatric ASPs steward antifungals, but the strategies employed are highly variable across surveyed institutions. Although nearly half of respondents identified inappropriate antifungal use as a problem at their institution, most ASPs do not feel confident making recommendations about antifungals. Future studies are needed to determine the rate of inappropriate antifungal use and the best antifungal stewardship strategies.
Is There a Faction in This List?
Authors: De Weerdt Hilde , Ho Brent , Wagner Allon , Qiao Jiyan , Chu Mingkin
Published: July 2020

This article has two main objectives. First, we aim to revisit debates about the structure of Song Dynasty faction lists and the relationship between eleventh- and twelfth century factional politics on the basis of a large-scale network analysis of co-occurrence ties reported in the prose collections of those contemporary to the events. Second, we aim to innovate methodologically by developing a series of approaches to compare historical networks of different sizes with regard to overall network metrics as well as the significance of particular attributes such as native and workplace in their makeup. The probabilistic and sampling methods developed here should be applicable for various kinds of historical network analysis. The corresponding data can be found here:https://doi.org/10.17026/dans-xtf-z3au.
Informal Social Networks as Intermediaries in Foreign Markets
Authors: Apaydin Marina , Thornberry Jon , Sidani Yusuf M.
Published: July 2020

We investigate how informal social networks can assist multinational firms in their internationalization strategy. We propose a refinement of the Uppsala internalization model (Johanson & Vahne, 2009) grounded in network theory, by developing an intermediate position between an ‘insider’ and an ‘outsider’ for conditions when the transformation of an outsider into an insider is limited by institutional constraints. An intermediary position represents one of the sides of ‘patron-client’ informal networks (Denoeux, 1993) whereby the other side is represented by the ‘insider’. We argue that this setup would help mitigate the Liability of Outsidership (Johanson & Vahne, 2009), a replacement of the Liability of Foreignness (Hymer, 1976; Zaheer, 1995), in the modern networked business world. We contextualize our proposition for the case of Iran, a large rising West-Asian economy with known institutional limitations, and suggest that the informal network of local merchants (bazaaries) could play an important intermediary role in Multinational Enterprises (MNEs) internationalization process. We review the history ofbazaariesand make a series of propositions exemplifying possible ways informal networks could influence the internationalization process. In addition to re-affirming the importance of the MNE country of origin (emerging markets, and low psychic distance with Iran), we propose that an intermediary of the Iranianbazaarieswill have a positive impact on performance and survival of the MNE's subsidiary in Iran, especially in the case of incongruence of MNE's leadership with Shi'a Islam. Additionally, we suggest that employing the Iranian diaspora may also improve subsidiary performance and survival.
Testing and Improving the IntCal20 Calibration Curve with Independent Records
Authors: Muscheler Raimund , Adolphi Florian , Heaton Timothy J , Bronk Ramsey Christopher , Svensson Anders , van der Plicht Johannes , Reimer Paula J
Published: July 2020

Connecting calendar ages to radiocarbon (14C) ages, i.e. constructing a calibration curve, requires14C samples that represent, or are closely connected to, atmospheric14C values and that can also be independently dated. In addition to these data, there is information that can serve as independent tests of the calibration curve. For example, information from ice core radionuclide data cannot be directly incorporated into the calibration curve construction as it delivers less direct information on the14C age–calendar age relationship but it can provide tests of the quality of the calibration curve. Furthermore, ice core ages on14C-dated volcanic eruptions provide key information on the agreement of ice core and radiocarbon time scales. Due to their scarcity such data would have little impact if directly incorporated into the calibration curve. However, these serve as important “anchor points” in time for independently testing the calibration curve and/or ice-core time scales. Here we will show that such information largely supports the new IntCal20 calibration record. Furthermore, we discuss how floating tree-ring sequences on ice-core time scales agree with the new calibration curve. For the period around 40,000 years ago we discuss unresolved differences between ice core10Be and14C records that are possibly related to our limited understanding of carbon cycle influences on the atmospheric14C concentration during the last glacial period. Finally, we review the results on the time scale comparison between the Greenland ice-core time scale (GICC05) and IntCal20 that effectively allow a direct comparison of14C-dated records with the Greenland ice core data.
Radiocarbon Dating of Mortars and Charcoals from Novae Bath Complex: Sequential Dissolution of Historical and Experimental Mortar Samples with Pozzolanic Admixture
Authors: Michalska Danuta , Mrozek-Wysocka Małgorzata
Published: July 2020

Carbonaceous mortars from Novae (Bulgaria) contain local loess, crushed bricks and ceramic dust (pozzolanic materials). The reaction between lime and pozzolanic additives occurs easily and affects the rate and course of leaching reaction of carbonates in orthophosphoric acid during the sample pretreatment for dating. The composition of the Bulgarian mortars does not allow for unambiguous conclusions about chronology, but together with the observations of experimental mortars, gives new guidelines in terms of pozzolanic mortar application for dating. The presented research illustrates the possible reasons of difficulties with obtaining the appropriate portion of gas for radiocarbon (14C) measurement. To verify the relative chronology of legionary baths complex in Novae, the charcoals samples were also dated in addition to the mortar.
Learning about Growth and Democracy
Authors: ABRAMSON SCOTT F. , MONTERO SERGIO
Published: July 2020

We develop and estimate a model of learning that accounts for the observed correlation between economic development and democracy and for the clustering of democratization events. In our model, countries’ own and neighbors’ past experiences shape elites’ beliefs about the effects of democracy on economic growth and their likelihood of retaining power. These beliefs influence the choice to transition into or out of democracy. We show that learning is crucial to explaining observed transitions since the mid-twentieth century. Moreover, our model predicts reversals to authoritarianism if the world experienced a growth shock the size of the Great Depression.
Speeding Up On-Line Route Scheduling for an Autonomous Robot Through Pre-Built Paths
Authors: Alves Raul , de Morais Josué Silva , Yamanaka Keiji
Published: July 2020

Today, robots can be found helping humans with their daily tasks. Some tasks require the robot to visit a set of locations in the environment efficiently, like in the Traveling Salesman Problem. As indoor environments are maze-like areas, feasible paths connecting locations must be computed beforehand, so they can be combined during the scheduling, which can be impracticable for real-time applications. This work presents an on-line Route Scheduling supported by a Fast Path Planning Method able to adjust pre-built paths. Experiments were carried out with virtual and real robots to evaluate time and quality of tours.
An Improved Fingerprint Algorithm with Access Point Selection and Reference Point Selection Strategies for Indoor Positioning
Authors: Li Changgeng , Huang Hui , Liao Bowen
Published: July 2020

The fingerprint positioning (FP) algorithm has been investigated extensively owing to the fact that it can provide a relatively ideal indoor positioning result. However, the effectiveness of the fingerprint algorithm relies on the size of fingerprint database, which prevents the algorithm from being widely applied in practical applications. In this paper, an improved fingerprint algorithm with access point (AP) selection strategy and reference point (RP) selection strategy is proposed to reduce the size of the fingerprint database and improve the positioning accuracy. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm can reduce the storage size of the fingerprint database by more than 42·64%. Moreover, compared with the FP algorithm, the fingerprint algorithm with segment characteristic distance (FP-SCD) and the fingerprint algorithm with RP selection strategy (FP-RPSS), the average positioning error of the proposed algorithm is reduced by 20·15%, 10·83% and 11·57%, respectively. Therefore, the proposed algorithm has a good application in real positioning scenarios.
Aerosol and environmental surface monitoring for SARS-CoV-2 RNA in a designated hospital for severe COVID-19 patients
Authors: Li Y. H. , Fan Y. Z. , Jiang L. , Wang H. B.
Published: July 2020

There is limited information concerning the viral load of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in aerosols deposited on environmental surfaces and the effectiveness of infection prevention and control procedures on eliminating SARS-CoV-2 contamination in hospital settings. We examined the concentration of SARS-CoV-2 in aerosol samples and on environmental surfaces in a hospital designated for treating severe COVID-19 patients. Aerosol samples were collected by a microbial air sampler, and environmental surfaces were sampled using sterile premoistened swabs at multiple sites. Ninety surface swabs and 135 aerosol samples were collected. Only two swabs, sampled from the inside of a patient's mask, were positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA. All other swabs and aerosol samples were negative for the virus. Our study indicated that strict implementation of infection prevention and control procedures was highly effective in eliminating aerosol and environmental borne SARS-CoV-2 RNA thereby reducing the risk of cross-infection in hospitals.
Can mandible morphology help predict feeding habits in Antarctic amphipods?
Authors: Michel Loïc N. , Nyssen Fabienne L. , Dauby Patrick , Verheye Marie
Published: July 2020

In Antarctica, amphipods form a highly diverse group, occupy many different ecological niches and hold an important place in food webs. Here, we aimed to test whether differences in Antarctic amphipod feeding habits were reflected in their mandible morphology, and if mouthpart specialization could be used to describe amphipod trophic ecology. To do so, we compared mandible morphology in nine species spanning seven families and five functional groups (grazers, suspension feeders, generalist predators, specialist predators and scavengers). Mandible morphology adequately depicted some aspects of amphipod trophic ecology, such as the trophic level at which animals feed or their degree of dietary specialization. On the other hand, links between mandible morphology and amphipod diet were seldom unambiguous or straightforward. Similar adaptations were found in distinct functional groups. Conversely, mandible morphology could vary within a single functional group, and phylogenetic effects sometimes complicated the interpretation of form-function relationships. Overall, mandible morphology on its own was generally not sufficient to precisely predict amphipod feeding strategies. However, when combined with other methods (e.g. gut contents, trophic markers), it constitutes a valuable source of information for integrative studies of amphipod ecological diversity in the Southern Ocean.
Hominin Stone Flaking and the Emergence of ‘Top-down’ Design in Human Evolution
Authors: Moore Mark W.
Published: July 2020

The philosopher Daniel Dennett argues that complex structures in the natural and cultural worlds emerge from two types of design. Bottom-up design involves the rote action of a simple algorithm in an environment constrained by physical laws. Top-down design involves deliberation and planning, and is unique to modern humans. Identifying the emergence of top-down design in the hominin lineage is an important research challenge, and the archaeological record of stone technology is our best evidence for it. A current view is that artefact types and flaking methods increased in complexity from 3.3 toc.0.3 million years ago, reflecting improving capacities at spatial cognition and working memory, culminating in top-down design perhaps as early as 1.75 million years ago. Recent experimental work, however, has shown that a simple ‘remove flake’ algorithm constrained by the laws of fracture mechanics—a form of bottom-up design—can produce stone tool attributes thought to be evidence of top-down design. Here, these models are reviewed and critiqued in light of the new experimental evidence. A revised working memory-based model, focusing on the recursive aspects of stone flaking, is proposed.
Clinical pathway for the Fontan patient to standardise care and improve outcomes
Authors: Lagergren Sarah M. , Jensen Megan , Beaven Bryan , Goudar Suma
Published: July 2020

Introduction:

The Fontan procedure is the final stage of surgical palliation for the children with functionally single ventricle anatomy. The post-operative medical management of this patient population can be variable and hospital length of stay prolonged. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to determine if the implementation of an evidence-based clinical pathway for post-operative management of the Fontan patient at a large Midwestern academic paediatric medical centre would standardise care and decrease length of stay.

Materials and methods:

The clinical pathway was developed using key components from three published pathways for the Fontan procedure from other paediatric institutions across the United States. Components of the clinical pathway included (1) supplemental oxygen until pleural drainage tubes are removed, (2) fluid restriction to 80% daily maintenance and a prescribed low-fat diet, (3) aggressive and standardised diuretic therapy while inpatient and (4) central venous access. The pathway was trialed using Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles in 2016, implemented in 2017 and sustained in 2018–2019. A retrospective electronic medical record review was performed to compare key outcomes from pre-pathway (2014–2015, 37 patients) with post-pathway implementation (2017–2018, 30 patients).

Results:

Adherence to the pathway was nearly 100% with a statistically significant decrease in length of stay from 12 to 9 days (p = 0.007) and no increase in readmissions.

Conclusion:

Standardising care can improve clinical and financial outcomes for the Fontan patient population without negatively impacting quality of care, thus providing a positive benefit to the healthcare institution, industry and patient.
Ukraine’s Struggle for Independence
Authors: Shinar Chaim
Published: July 2020

In this article, I summarize the justification for Ukrainian state sovereignty, in spite of Russia’s claim of the non-existence of such sovereignty. The Russians invaded Ukraine claiming their right to justify their interests. The occupation of Crimea by Russian forces and their declaration of its annexation to Russia was an act of aggression disapproved of by the United Nations (2014). I also outline the nature of the limited war between Ukraine and Russia that is managed by ethnic Russians living in the Donbas region and Russian emissaries.
To what extent could cardiovascular diseases be reduced if Germany applied fiscal policies to increase fruit and vegetable consumption? A quantitative health impact assessment
Authors: Schönbach Johanna-Katharina , Lhachimi Stefan K
Published: July 2020

Objective:

This study aimed to dynamically model and quantify expected health effects of four scenarios: (i) a reference scenario with an unchanged fruit and vegetable intake, (ii) the removal of value-added tax (VAT) on fruits and vegetables, (iii) the implementation of a 20 % subsidy on fruits and vegetables and (iv) a guideline scenario with a population-wide fruit and vegetable intake of five portions per day.

Design:

Baseline fruit and vegetable intake data was derived from the GEDA 2012 study. We used price elasticities for Germany to calculate the change in fruit and vegetable consumption under the zero VAT and the 20 % subsidy scenario. All scenarios were modelled over a 10-year projection period using DYNAMO-HIA.

Setting:

Germany.

Participants:

A projected real-life population.

Results:

Cumulated over the 10-year projection period, an estimated 4450 incident ischaemic heart disease (IHD) cases, 7010 stroke cases and 13 960 deaths would be prevented under the zero VAT scenario. Under the 20 % subsidy scenario, 17 990 incident IHD cases, 27 390 stroke cases and 54 880 deaths would be averted. Although this corresponds to only a fraction of the incidents that would occur under the reference scenario, the averted cases translate to 2 % (for the zero VAT scenario) and 9 % (for the 20 % subsidy scenario) of IHD, stroke and death cases that would be prevented if the whole population consumed the recommended five portions of fruits and vegetables per day.

Conclusions:

Fiscal policies on fruits and vegetables provide a non-negligible step towards the removal of the health burden induced by low fruit and vegetable intake.