bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of nodal staging between CT, MRI, and [18F]-FDG PET/MRI in patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer
Authors: Morawitz Janna , Bruckmann Nils-Martin , Dietzel Frederic , Ullrich Tim , Bittner Ann-Kathrin , Hoffmann Oliver , Ruckhäberle Eugen , Mohrmann Svjetlana , Häberle Lena , Ingenwerth Marc , Abrar Daniel Benjamin , Sawicki Lino Morris , Breuckmann Katharina , Fendler Wolfgang Peter , Herrmann Ken , Buchbender Christian , Antoch Gerald , Umutlu Lale , Kirchner Julian
Published: September 2021

Purpose

To compare CT, MRI, and [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography ([18F]-FDG PET/MRI) for nodal status, regarding quantity and location of metastatic locoregional lymph nodes in patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer.

Materials and methods

One hundred eighty-two patients (mean age 52.7 ± 11.9 years) were included in this prospective double-center study. Patients underwent dedicated contrast-enhanced chest/abdomen/pelvis computed tomography (CT) and whole-body ([18F]-FDG PET/) magnet resonance imaging (MRI). Thoracal datasets were evaluated separately regarding quantity, lymph node station (axillary levels I–III, supraclavicular, internal mammary chain), and lesion character (benign vs. malign). Histopathology served as reference standard for patient-based analysis. Patient-based and lesion-based analyses were compared by a McNemar test. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and accuracy were assessed for all three imaging modalities.

Results

On a patient-based analysis, PET/MRI correctly detected significantly more nodal positive patients than MRI (p < 0.0001) and CT (p < 0.0001). No statistically significant difference was seen between CT and MRI. PET/MRI detected 193 lesions in 75 patients (41.2%), while MRI detected 123 lesions in 56 patients (30.8%) and CT detected 104 lesions in 50 patients, respectively. Differences were statistically significant on a lesion-based analysis (PET/MRI vs. MRI, p < 0.0001; PET/MRI vs. CT, p < 0.0001; MRI vs. CT, p = 0.015). Subgroup analysis for different lymph node stations showed that PET/MRI detected significantly more lymph node metastases than MRI and CT in each location (axillary levels I–III, supraclavicular, mammary internal chain). MRI was superior to CT only in axillary level I (p = 0.0291).

Conclusion

[18F]-FDG PET/MRI outperforms CT or MRI in detecting nodal involvement on a patient-based analysis and on a lesion-based analysis. Furthermore, PET/MRI was superior to CT or MRI in detecting lymph node metastases in all lymph node stations. Of all the tested imaging modalities, PET/MRI showed the highest sensitivity, whereas CT showed the lowest sensitivity, but was most specific.
What is that smell? Hummingbirds avoid foraging on resources with defensive insect compounds
Authors: Kim Ashley Y. , Rankin David T. , Rankin Erin E. Wilson
Published: September 2021

Hummingbirds utilize visual cues to locate flowers, but little is known about the role olfaction plays in nectar foraging despite observations that hummingbirds avoid resources occupied by certain insects. We investigated the behavioral responses of both wild and captive hummingbirds to olfactory cues of hymenopteran floral visitors, including native wood ants (Formica francoeuri), invasive Argentine ants (Linepithema humile), and European honeybees (Apis mellifera). We demonstrate for the first time that hummingbirds use olfaction to make foraging decisions when presented with insect-derived chemical cues under field and aviary conditions. Both wild and captive hummingbirds avoided foraging on feeders with defensive chemicals of F. francoeuri and aggregation pheromones of L. humile, but showed no response to honeybee cuticular hydrocarbons. Our experiments demonstrate the importance of olfaction in shaping hummingbird foraging decisions.

Significance statement

Recent reviews reveal that avian olfaction is not just limited to vultures and a few taxa. We demonstrate that a very charismatic group, hummingbirds, avoid defensive and aggregatory chemical cues from insects present at nectar resources. Olfactory cues can provide critical information about the presence and potential threat of insect floral visitors. This study raises new questions about the underrated importance of olfaction in avian foraging and specifically, hummingbird foraging.
The anemia-independent impact of myelodysplastic syndromes on health-related quality of life
Authors: Wouters Hanneke J. C. M. , Conrads-Frank Annette , Koinig Karin A. , Smith Alex , Yu Ge , de Witte Theo , Wolffenbuttel Bruce H. R. , Huls Gerwin , Siebert Uwe , Stauder Reinhard , van der Klauw Melanie M. ,   on behalf of the MDS-RIGHT partners
Published: September 2021

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are in the majority of cases characterized by anemia. Both anemia and MDS per se may directly contribute to impairments in health-related quality of life (HRQoL). In this study, we aimed to investigate the anemia-independent impact of MDS on HRQoL. We evaluated participants (≥ 50 years) from the large population-based Lifelines cohort (N = 44,694, mean age 59.0 ± 7.4 years, 43.6% male) and the European MDS Registry (EUMDS) (N = 1538, mean age 73.4 ± 9.0 years, 63.0% male), which comprises a cohort of lower-risk MDS patients. To enable comparison concerning HRQoL, SF-36 scores measured in Lifelines were converted to EQ-5D-3L index (range 0–1) and dimension scores. Lower-risk MDS patients had significantly lower HRQoL than those from the Lifelines cohort, as illustrated in both the index score and in the five different dimensions. Multivariable linear regression analysis demonstrated that MDS had an adjusted total impact on the EQ-5D index score (B =  − 0.12, p < 0.001) and an anemia-independent “direct” impact (B =  − 0.10, p < 0.001). Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed an anemia-independent impact of MDS in the dimension mobility, self-care, usual activities, and anxiety/depression (all except pain/discomfort). This study demonstrates that the major part of the negative impact of lower-risk MDS on HRQoL is not mediated via anemia. Thus, the therapeutic focus should include treatment strategies directed at underlying pathogenic mechanisms to improve HRQoL, rather than aiming predominantly at increasing hemoglobin levels.
Understanding crop processing and its social meaning in the Xinzhai period (1850–1750 cal bce): a case study on the Xinzhai site, China
Authors: An Jingping , Kirleis Wiebke , Zhao Chunqing , Jin Guiyun
Published: September 2021

Although the Xinzhai period (1850–1750 cal bce) has been widely regarded as a critical time for the development of urbanization in China, little is known about the labour and social organization of the time. In this paper, archaeobotanical assemblages have been used to explore evidence of crop processing and they have provided further insights into the organization of labour and society at the Xinzhai site on the Central Plain of China. This is the first case study linking agricultural activities and social organization in the Xinzhai period. By discussing macro-botanical and phytolith results together, we conclude that the hulled cereals Setaria italica (foxtail millet), Panicum miliaceum (common or broomcorn millet) and Oryza sativa (rice), and the free-threshing pulse Glycine max (soybean) were all partly processed before storage to reduce labour demand in the harvest period. Since these summer-sown crops are all harvested in autumn, the practice of partial processing might imply that less labour was needed before storage. Thus, the labour for crop processing appears to have been organized on the basis of small production units such as households. This pattern is different from the communal bulk processing of crops before storage by the contemporary inhabitants of Dongzhao. Different patterns of social organization in various settlements in the Xinzhai period can thus be suggested. This conclusion contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the social development of communities living on the Central Plain and indicates that a steady increase in social complexity was very likely in the period before urbanization.
Inactive rhomboid proteins RHBDF1 and RHBDF2 (iRhoms): a decade of research in murine models
Authors: Burzenski Lisa M. , Low Benjamin E. , Kohar Vivek , Shultz Leonard D. , Wiles Michael V. , Hosur Vishnu
Published: September 2021

Rhomboid proteases, first discovered inDrosophila, are intramembrane serine proteases. Members of the rhomboid protein family that are catalytically deficient are known as inactive rhomboids (iRhoms). iRhoms have been implicated in wound healing, cancer, and neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, inflammation, and skin diseases. The past decade of mouse research has shed new light on two key protein domains of iRhoms—the cytosolic N-terminal domain and the transmembrane dormant peptidase domain—suggesting new ways to target multiple intracellular signaling pathways. This review focuses on recent advances in uncovering the unique functions of iRhom protein domains in normal growth and development, growth factor signaling, and inflammation, with a perspective on future therapeutic opportunities.
Spectral responses across a dorsal–ventral array of dermal sensilla in the medicinal leech
Authors: Groves Thomas K. H. , Jellies John A.
Published: September 2021

How do animals use visual systems to extract specific features of a visual scene and respond appropriately? The medicinal leech, Hirudo verbana, is a predatory, quasi-amphibious annelid with a rich sensorium that is an excellent system in which to study how sensory cues are encoded, and how key features of visual images are mapped into the CNS. The leech visual system is broadly distributed over its entire body, consisting of five pairs of cephalic eyecups and seven segmentally iterated pairs of dermal sensilla in each mid-body segment. Leeches have been shown to respond behaviorally to both green and near ultraviolet light (UV, 365–375 nm). Here, we used electrophysiological techniques to show that spectral responses by dermal sensilla are mapped across the dorsal–ventral axis, such that the ventral sensilla respond strongly to UV light, while dorsal sensilla respond strongly to visible light, broadly tuned around green. These results establish how key features of visual information are initially encoded by spatial mapping of photo-response profiles of primary photoreceptors and provide insight into how these streams of information are presented to the CNS to inform behavioral responses.
A two-fluid model for the formation of clusters close to a continuous or almost continuous transition
Authors: Pleiner Harald , Brand Helmut R.
Published: September 2021

Experiments have shown that spatial heterogeneities can arise when the glass transition in polymers as well as in a number of low molecular weight compounds is approached by lowering the temperature. This formation of “clusters” has been detected predominantly by small angle light scattering and ultrasmall angle x-ray scattering from the central peak on length scales up to about 200 nm and by mechanical measurements including, in particular, piezorheometry for length scales up to several microns. Here we use a macroscopic two-fluid model to study the formation of clusters observed by the various experimental techniques. As additional macroscopic variables, when compared to simple fluids, we use a transient strain field to incorporate transient positional order, along with the velocity difference and a relaxing concentration field for the two subsystems. We show that an external homogeneous shear, as it is applied in piezorheometry, can lead to the onset of spatial pattern formation. To address the issue of additional spectral weight under the central peak we investigate the coupling to all macroscopic variables. We find that there are additional static as well as dissipative contributions from both, transient positional order, as well as from concentration variations due to cluster formation, and additional reversible couplings from the velocity difference. We also briefly discuss the influence of transient orientational order. Finally, we point out that our description is more general, and could be applied above continuous or almost continuous transitions
Detection of large vessel occlusion stroke with electroencephalography in the emergency room: first results of the ELECTRA-STROKE study
Authors: van Meenen Laura C. C. , van Stigt Maritta N. , Marquering Henk A. , Majoie Charles B. L. M. , Roos Yvo B. W. E. M. , Koelman Johannes H. T. M. , Potters Wouter V. , Coutinho Jonathan M.
Published: September 2021

Background

Prehospital detection of large vessel occlusion stroke of the anterior circulation (LVO-a) would enable direct transportation of these patients to an endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) capable hospital. The ongoing ELECTRA-STROKE study investigates the diagnostic accuracy of dry electrode electroencephalography (EEG) for LVO-a stroke in the prehospital setting. To determine which EEG features are most useful for this purpose and assess EEG data quality, EEG recordings are also performed in the emergency room (ER). Here, we report data of the first 100 patients included in the ER.

Methods

Patients presented to the ER with a suspected stroke or known LVO-a stroke underwent a single EEG prior to EVT. Diagnostic accuracy for LVO-a stroke of frequency band power, brain symmetry and phase synchronization measures were evaluated by calculating receiver operating characteristic curves. Optimal cut-offs were determined as the highest sensitivity at a specificity of ≥ 80%.

Results

EEG data were of sufficient quality for analysis in 65/100 included patients. Of these, 35/65 (54%) had an acute ischemic stroke, of whom 9/65 (14%) had an LVO-a stroke. Median onset-to-EEG-time was 266 min (IQR 121–655) and median EEG-recording-time was 3 min (IQR 3–5). The EEG feature with the highest diagnostic accuracy for LVO-a stroke was theta–alpha ratio (AUC 0.83; sensitivity 75%; specificity 81%). Combined, weighted phase lag index and relative theta power best identified LVO-a stroke (sensitivity 100%; specificity 84%).

Conclusion

Dry electrode EEG is a promising tool for LVO-a stroke detection, but data quality needs to be improved and validation in the prehospital setting is necessary. (TRN: NCT03699397, registered October 9 2018).
Different endurance exercises modulate NK cell cytotoxic and inhibiting receptors
Authors: Pal A. , Schneider J. , Schlüter K. , Steindorf K. , Wiskemann J. , Rosenberger F. , Zimmer P.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Induction of IDO depends on the activation of AhR forming the AhR/IDO axis. Activated AhR can transcribe various target genes including cytotoxic and inhibiting receptors of NK cells. We investigated whether AhR and IDO levels as well as activating (NKG2D) and inhibiting (KIR2DL1) NK cell receptors are influenced by acute exercise and different chronic endurance exercise programs.

Methods

21 adult breast and prostate cancer patients of the TOP study (NCT02883699) were randomized to intervention programs of 12 weeks of (1) endurance standard training or (2) endurance polarized training after a cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET). Serum was collected pre-CPET, immediately post-CPET, 1 h post-CPET and after 12 weeks post-intervention. Flow cytometry analysis was performed on autologous serum incubated NK-92 cells for: AhR, IDO, KIR2DL1 and NKG2D. Differences were investigated using analysis-of-variance for acute and analysis-of-covariance for chronic effects.

Results

Acute exercise: IDO levels changed over time with a significant increase from post-CPET to 1 h post-CPET (p = 0.03). KIR2DL1 levels significantly decreased over time (p < 0.01). NKG2D levels remained constant (p = 0.31). Chronic exercise: for both IDO and NKG2D a significant group × time interaction, a significant time effect and a significant difference after 12 weeks of intervention were observed (IDO: all p < 0.01, NKG2D: all p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Both acute and chronic endurance training may regulate NK cell function via the AhR/IDO axis. This is clinically relevant, as exercise emerges to be a key player in immune regulation.
$${\mathcal {U}}$$-Bubble Model for Mixed Unit Interval Graphs and Its Applications: The MaxCut Problem Revisited
Authors: Kratochvíl Jan , Masařík Tomáš , Novotná Jana
Published: September 2021

Interval graphs, intersection graphs of segments on a real line (intervals), play a key role in the study of algorithms and special structural properties. Unit interval graphs, their proper subclass, where each interval has a unit length, has also been extensively studied. We study mixed unit interval graphs—a generalization of unit interval graphs where each interval has still a unit length, but intervals of more than one type (open, closed, semi-closed) are allowed. This small modification captures a richer class of graphs. In particular, mixed unit interval graphs may contain a claw as an induced subgraph, as opposed to unit interval graphs. Heggernes, Meister, and Papadopoulos defined a representation of unit interval graphs called the bubble model which turned out to be useful in algorithm design. We extend this model to the class of mixed unit interval graphs and demonstrate the advantages of this generalized model by providing a subexponential-time algorithm for solving the MaxCut problem on mixed unit interval graphs. In addition, we derive a polynomial-time algorithm for certain subclasses of mixed unit interval graphs. We point out a substantial mistake in the proof of the polynomiality of the MaxCut problem on unit interval graphs by Boyacı et al. (Inf Process Lett 121:29–33, 2017. 10.1016/j.ipl.2017.01.007). Hence, the time complexity of this problem on unit interval graphs remains open. We further provide a better algorithmic upper-bound on the clique-width of mixed unit interval graphs.
Long-term follow-up including extensive complement analysis of a pediatric C3 glomerulopathy cohort
Authors: Michels Marloes A. H. M. , Wijnsma Kioa L. , Kurvers Roel A. J. , Westra Dineke , Schreuder Michiel F. , van Wijk Joanna A. E. , Bouts Antonia H. M. , Gracchi Valentina , Engels Flore A. P. T. , Keijzer-Veen Mandy G. , Dorresteijn Eiske M. , Volokhina Elena B. , van den Heuvel Lambertus P. W. J. , van de Kar Nicole C. A. J.
Published: September 2021

Background

C3 glomerulopathy (C3G) is a rare kidney disorder characterized by predominant glomerular depositions of complement C3. C3G can be subdivided into dense deposit disease (DDD) and C3 glomerulonephritis (C3GN). This study describes the long-term follow-up with extensive complement analysis of 29 Dutch children with C3G.

Methods

Twenty-nine C3G patients (19 DDD, 10 C3GN) diagnosed between 1992 and 2014 were included. Clinical and laboratory findings were collected at presentation and during follow-up. Specialized assays were used to detect rare variants in complement genes and measure complement-directed autoantibodies and biomarkers in blood.

Results

DDD patients presented with lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). C3 nephritic factors (C3NeFs) were detected in 20 patients and remained detectable over time despite immunosuppressive treatment. At presentation, low serum C3 levels were detected in 84% of all patients. During follow-up, in about 50% of patients, all of them C3NeF-positive, C3 levels remained low. Linear mixed model analysis showed that C3GN patients had higher soluble C5b-9 (sC5b-9) and lower properdin levels compared to DDD patients. With a median follow-up of 52 months, an overall benign outcome was observed with only six patients with eGFR below 90 ml/min/1.73 m2 at last follow-up.

Conclusions

We extensively described clinical and laboratory findings including complement features of an exclusively pediatric C3G cohort. Outcome was relatively benign, persistent low C3 correlated with C3NeF presence, and C3GN was associated with higher sC5b-9 and lower properdin levels. Prospective studies are needed to further elucidate the pathogenic mechanisms underlying C3G and guide personalized medicine with complement therapeutics.

Graphical abstract
Scala vestibuli cochlear implant supported by 3D modeling of the inner ear
Authors: Holzmeister Clemens , Andrianakis Alexandros , Kiss Peter , Moser Ulrich , Graupp Matthias
Published: September 2021

Patients with scala tympani (ST) ossification present a distinct surgical challenge. Three-dimensional (3D) segmentation of the inner ear offers accurate identification of ossification and surgical planning of the cochleostomy to access the scala vestibuli. The scala vestibuli placement of cochlear implantation electrode is an alternate solution in these patients and is well supported by the literature.

The present report describes a case of cochlear implantation in the scala vestibuli assisted by 3D segmentation of the cochlea for a patient with ossification in the ST and reviews the relevant literature. Clinical presentation of a 45-year-old Austrian female who was referred with a history of sudden sensorineural hearing loss 2 years ago in the right ear, confirmed by pure tone audiometry (PTA) and acoustically evoked auditory brainstem response (ABR). 3D segmentation of the inner ear identified the extent of ossification in the ST and assisted in the surgical planning of cochleostomy drilling anterior-superior to the round window to access the scala vestibuli for the electrode placement. Postoperative computed tomography (CT) to confirm the electrode placement in the scala vestibuli and PTA was performed to assess the hearing threshold following the cochlear implantation. Postoperative CT confirmed the full insertion of a flexible electrode. The hearing threshold measured by PTA was ≤ 40 dB across all frequencies tested. Review of the literature identified a total of 13 published reports on cochlear implantation electrode placement in scala vestibuli in cases with ossification in the ST.
Free threonine in human breast milk is related to infant intestinal microbiota composition
Authors: Riederer Monika , Schweighofer Natascha , Trajanoski Slave , Stelzer Claudia , Zehentner Miriam , Fuchs-Neuhold Bianca , Kashofer Karl , Mayr Johannes A. , Hörmann-Wallner Marlies , Holasek Sandra , van der Kleyn Moenie
Published: September 2021

Background

Accumulating evidence indicates that free amino acids (FAA) might be bioactive compounds with potential immunomodulatory capabilities. However, the FAA composition in human milk is still poorly characterized with respect to its correlation to maternal serum levels and its physiological significance for the infant. Studies addressing the relation of human milk FAA to the infants' intestinal microbiota are still missing.

Methods

As part of a pilot study, maternal serum and breast milk FAA concentrations as well as infant intestinal microbiota (16S rRNA) were determined 2 months after birth. The study cohort consisted of 41 healthy mothers and their term delivered, healthy infants with normal birthweight. The relationship between maternal serum and milk FAA was determined by correlation analyses. Associations between (highly correlated) milk FAA and infant intestinal beta diversity were tested using PERMANOVA, LefSe and multivariate regression models adjusted for common confounders.

Results

Seven breast milk FAA correlated significantly with serum concentrations. One of these, threonine showed a negative association with abundance of members of the class Gammaproteobacteria (R2adj = 17.1%, p = 0.006; β= − 0.441). In addition, on the level of families and genera, threonine explained 23.2% of variation of the relative abundance of Enterobacteriaceae (R2adj; p = 0.001; β = − 0.504) and 11.1% of variability in the abundance of Escherichia/Shigella (R2adj, p = 0.025; β  = − 0.368), when adjusted for confounders.

Conclusion

Our study is the first to suggest potential interactions between breast milk FAA and infant gut microbiota composition during early lactation. The results might be indicative of a potential protective role of threonine against members of the Enterobacteriaceae family in breast-fed infants. Still, results are based on correlation analyses and larger cohorts are needed to support the findings and elucidate possible underlying mechanisms to assess the complex interplay between breast milk FAA and infant intestinal microbiota in detail.
Hereditary pancreatic cancer
Authors: Abe Kodai , Kitago Minoru , Kitagawa Yuko , Hirasawa Akira
Published: September 2021

Pancreatic cancer is associated with both family and hereditary cancer syndromes. Multigene panel testing for pancreatic cancer detected the germline variants BRCA1/2, PALB2, ATM, TP53, MLH1, STK11/LKB1, APC, CDKN2A, and SPINK1/PRSS1 as high-risk genes. A latest genome-wide association study revealed the common, but low-risk germline variants in pancreatic cancer patients. Active pancreatic surveillance using magnetic resonance imaging and endoscopic ultrasound is recommended for high-risk individuals who have a family history of pancreatic cancer or harbor these germline pathogenic variants to improve the detection rate and prognosis of pancreatic cancer. Since poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitor has been shown to be effective in improving the prognosis of BRCA-positive pancreatic cancer as well as hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome, PARP inhibitor therapy is currently being applied as precision medicine to pancreatic cancer patients harboring the BRCA1/2 germline variant. This review highlights the importance of surveillance for germline pathogenic variants in pancreatic cancer and is expected to lead to improvements in the diagnosis and prevention of pancreatic cancer as well as facilitate the development of effective therapeutic strategies and precision medicine.
A multiscale sliding filament model of lymphatic muscle pumping
Authors: Morris Christopher J. , Zawieja David C. , Moore James E.
Published: September 2021

The lymphatics maintain fluid balance by returning interstitial fluid to veins via contraction/compression of vessel segments with check valves. Disruption of lymphatic pumping can result in a condition called lymphedema with interstitial fluid accumulation. Lymphedema treatments are often ineffective, which is partially attributable to insufficient understanding of specialized lymphatic muscle lining the vessels. This muscle exhibits cardiac-like phasic contractions and smooth muscle-like tonic contractions to generate and regulate flow. To understand the relationship between this sub-cellular contractile machinery and organ-level pumping, we have developed a multiscale computational model of phasic and tonic contractions in lymphatic muscle and coupled it to a lymphangion pumping model. Our model uses the sliding filament model (Huxley in Prog Biophys Biophys Chem 7:255–318, 1957) and its adaptation for smooth muscle (Mijailovich in Biophys J 79(5):2667–2681, 2000). Multiple structural arrangements of contractile components and viscoelastic elements were trialed but only one provided physiologic results. We then coupled this model with our previous lumped parameter model of the lymphangion to relate results to experiments. We show that the model produces similar pressure, diameter, and flow tracings to experiments on rat mesenteric lymphatics. This model provides the first estimates of lymphatic muscle contraction energetics and the ability to assess the potential effects of sub-cellular level phenomena such as calcium oscillations on lymphangion outflow. The maximum efficiency value predicted (40%) is at the upper end of estimates for other muscle types. Spontaneous calcium oscillations during diastole were found to increase outflow up to approximately 50% in the range of frequencies and amplitudes tested.
Modeling the Impact of Social Determinants of Health on HIV
Authors: Hogan Joseph W. , Galai Noya , Davis Wendy W.
Published: September 2021

There is growing evidence for the key role of social determinants of health (SDOH) in understanding morbidity and mortality outcomes globally. Factors such as stigma, racism, poverty or access to health and social services represent complex constructs that affect population health via intricate relationships to individual characteristics, behaviors and disease prevention and treatment outcomes. Modeling the role of SDOH is both critically important and inherently complex. Here we describe different modeling approaches and their use in assessing the impact of SDOH on HIV/AIDS. The discussion is thematically divided into mechanistic models and statistical models, while recognizing the overlap between them. To illustrate mechanistic approaches, we use examples of compartmental models and agent-based models; to illustrate statistical approaches, we use regression and statistical causal models. We describe model structure, data sources required, and the scope of possible inferences, highlighting similarities and differences in formulation, implementation, and interpretation of different modeling approaches. We also indicate further needed research on representing and quantifying the effect of SDOH in the context of models for HIV and other health outcomes in recognition of the critical role of SDOH in achieving the goal of ending the HIV epidemic and improving overall population health.
The Behavior of Organization in Economic Crisis: Integration, Interpretation, and Research Development
Authors: Potocan Vojko , Nedelko Zlatko
Published: September 2021

We investigated the significance of an economic crisis for organizations’ ethical behavior, employees’ unethical behavior, and association. To capture the effect of the “2008’ World economic crisis,” we compared the behaviors of organizations and employees’ unethical behavior during a crisis with their behavior in more favorable circumstances before and after the crisis. We used structural equation modeling to analyze answers collected from 2024 employees in Slovenian organizations between 2006 and 2016. The results showed significant growth of organizational engagement in ethical behavior, despite the crisis in the middle of the observed period. The employees’ unethical behavior was significantly less acceptable in crisis compared to before the crisis, while after the crisis, its acceptability increased again, despite not significant. The aggregate sample revealed a significantly negative influence of employee’s unethical behavior on organizations’ ethical behavior that was not significantly different across the considered periods. The research suggests the need to manage the organization’s ethical behavior in times of economic downturn, like in the present COVID 19. Additionally, managers need to devote more attention to prevent employees’ unethical behavior and its influence on organizations’ ethical behavior.
A proximal gradient method for control problems with non-smooth and non-convex control cost
Authors: Natemeyer Carolin , Wachsmuth Daniel
Published: September 2021

We investigate the convergence of the proximal gradient method applied to control problems with non-smooth and non-convex control cost. Here, we focus on control cost functionals that promote sparsity, which includes functionals of $$L^p$$

L
p

-type for $$p\in [0,1)$$

p
∈
[
0
,
1
)

. We prove stationarity properties of weak limit points of the method. These properties are weaker than those provided by Pontryagin’s maximum principle and weaker than L-stationarity.
A social network analysis of internally displaced communities in northeast Nigeria: potential conflicts with host communities in the Lake Chad region
Authors: Kamta Frederic Noel , Scheffran Jürgen
Published: September 2021

In this study, we aim to analyze social networks in which internally displaced persons (IDPs) are involved in northeast Nigeria, after they have been displaced by the insurgency of the Boko Haram group. While IDPs usually resettle in camps operated by the government, contacts with host communities are common. We further analyze the potential that such contacts may lead to conflicts between IDPs and their host communities in the Lake Chad region. Data for this study were collected by interviewing IDPs in the Bakassi IDP camp in Maiduguri and by interviewing members of the host community in Maiduguri in close proximity to the Bakassi IDP camp. A Social Network Analysis approach was used to analyze the data, by constructing social network graphs and computing network attributes, mainly the betweenness centrality of actors. The results of the study show on the one hand a mixture of friendly and conflicting relationships between IDPs and the host community from the IDPs’ perspective, and on the other hand, only few contacts between members of the host community and IDPs in the Bakassi IDP camp, from the host community's perspective. The analysis suggests that in the context of conflict present in the Lake Chad region, IDPs and members of the host community mainly use closed networks, to keep available resources and economic opportunities within their communities. We recommend a better service delivery to IDPs but also to members of the host communities who feel neglected as more attention is given to IDPs with the distribution of humanitarian aid.
Web-Based Training and the Roles of Self-Explaining, Mental Effort, and Smartphone Usage
Authors: Hefter Markus H.
Published: September 2021

The rising prevalence of online courses and ubiquitous smartphone use pose challenges to researchers and instructors. Open questions concern the effectiveness of digital interventions under unsupervised non-lab conditions, as well as potential associations between interruptions, smartphone usage, and learning. We experimentally tested a web-based training intervention based on video examples and self-explanation prompts with 53 undergraduate teacher students (training condition, n = 27 versus control condition, n = 26). Despite the unsupervised non-lab conditions with potential distractions and interruptions, we found the expected effect on learning outcomes. More interestingly, this effect was completely mediated by self-explanation quality. Furthermore, the effect of self-explanation quality on declarative knowledge was moderated by the number of interruptions during the web-based learning. Moreover, we implemented a simple yet valid method to assess the learners’ mean daily smartphone usage time. To do that, we relied on logging-functions most smartphones already have preinstalled. We detected moderate, negative correlations between the learners’ mean daily smartphone usage and their task engagement (i.e., mental effort and lack of interruptions) during our intervention. Our findings emphasize how effective it is to self-explain video examples, and how important it is to not get interrupted during web-based learning.
Revenue vs expenditure based fiscal consolidation: the pass-through from federal cuts to local taxes
Authors: Marattin Luigi , Nannicini Tommaso , Porcelli Francesco
Published: September 2021

A growing literature emphasizes that the output effect of fiscal consolidation hinges on its composition, as the choice of increasing revenues vs cutting expenditure is not neutral. Existing studies, however, underscore the role of local governments in a federal setting. Indeed, transfer cuts at the central level might translate into higher local taxes, changing the effective composition of the fiscal adjustment. We evaluate this transmission mechanism in Italy, where municipalities below the threshold of 5,000 inhabitants were exempted from (large) transfer cuts in 2012. This allows us to implement a difference-in-discontinuities design in order to estimate the causal impact of transfer cuts on the composition of fiscal adjustment, also because tight fiscal rules impose a balanced budget on Italian municipalities. We find a pass-through mechanism by which local governments react to the contraction of intergovernmental grants by mainly increasing taxes rather than reducing spending. From a political economy perspective, this revenue based fiscal consolidation is driven by local governments with low electoral competition and low party fragmentation.
Slow Cortical Potential Versus Live Z-score Neurofeedback in Children and Adolescents with ADHD: A Multi-arm Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial with Active and Passive Comparators
Authors: Hasslinger John , Bölte Sven , Jonsson Ulf
Published: September 2021

Neurofeedback (NF) as a treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has been evaluated in several trials, but the specificity and generalizability of effects remain unclear. This four-arm randomized controlled trial evaluated the efficacy of Slow Cortical Potential (SCP; standard NF protocol) and Live Z-score (LZS; non-standard NF protocol) delivered in high-frequency format (five sessions per week during five weeks), compared to Working-memory training (WMT; active comparator) and Treatment-as-usual (TAU; passive comparator). N = 202 children/adolescents aged 9 to 17 years with ADHD participated. The primary outcome measure was multi-report (self-, teacher-, and parent-report) ADHD core symptoms on the Conners-3, assessed at baseline, posttreatment, and 6-months follow-up. Data were analyzed using a linear mixed model. Between-group differences were scarce and did not show a distinct pattern. Superiority of LZS over TAU at endpoint were observed for teacher-rated measures only, while significant differences between SCP and TAU were restricted to posttreatment measurements. Contrary to our expectations, LZS outperformed SCP at endpoint for teacher-rated hyperactivity (-5.37; 95% CI: -10.14 to -0.60; p = .028; d = -.36) and overall ADHD symptoms (-2.20; -4.18 to -0.22; p = .030; d = -.41). There was no indication that either form of NF was superior to WMT. No severe adverse events were reported during the trial, whereas transient stress-related problems were quite frequent. Overall, the results from this pragmatic trial do not provide convincing support for broad implementation of NF in child and adolescent psychiatric services. Future research should try to clarify for whom and under what circumstances NF might be a viable treatment option.
Figure Disembedding: The Gottschaldt’s Hidden Figure Test in Children with Typical Development and Autism
Authors: Conson Massimiliano , Siciliano Mattia , Trojano Luigi , Zoccolotti Pierluigi , Zappullo Isa , Baiano Chiara , Caputo Giovanni , Russo Alessandro ,   the LabNPEE group, Cecere Roberta , Di Rosa Alessandro , Esposito Giovanna , Milo Rosa , Polito Francesco , Rauso Barbara , Vela Maria , Santangelo Gabriella
Published: September 2021

In two studies, we used the Gottschaldt’s Hidden Figure Test (GHFT) for assessing figure disembedding ability in children aged 7–11. Study 1 demonstrated in a large sample of typically developing children that GHFT accuracy and time scores differed across age groups, without sex and socioeconomic differences. Thus, we provided normative data only taking into account children’s age. In Study 2, GHFT normative values were used to assess children with autism, who were also compared with a closely age-matched group of typical controls. Children with autism achieved time scores at or above the 50th centile and significantly differed from the controls for time score. The GHFT seems a valuable tool for defining the cognitive profile of children with autism.
“Looking at” Negation: Faster Processing for Symbolic Rather Than Iconic Representations
Authors: Orenes Isabel
Published: September 2021

Many studies have shown the double processing of negation, suggesting that negation integration into sentence meaning is delayed. This contrasts with some researches that have found that such integration is rather immediate. The present study contributes to this debate. Affirmative and negative compound sentences (e.g., “because he was not hungry, he did not order a salad”) were presented orally in a visual world paradigm while four printed words were on the screen: salad, no salad, soup, and no soup. The eye-tracking data showed two different fixation patterns for negative causal assertions, which are linked to differences in the representation and inferential demands. One indicates that negation is integrated immediately, as people look at the explicit negation (e.g., no salad) very early. The other, in which people look at the alternate (e.g., soup) much later, indicates that what is delayed in time is the representation of the alternate. These results support theories that combine iconic and symbolic representations, such as the model theory.
Implicit algorithms for eigenvector nonlinearities
Authors: Jarlebring Elias , Upadhyaya Parikshit
Published: September 2021

We study and derive algorithms for nonlinear eigenvalue problems, where the system matrix depends on the eigenvector, or several eigenvectors (or their corresponding invariant subspace). The algorithms are derived from an implicit viewpoint. More precisely, we change the Newton update equation in a way that the next iterate does not only appear linearly in the update equation. Although the modifications of the update equation make the methods implicit, we show how corresponding iterates can be computed explicitly. Therefore, we can carry out steps of the implicit method using explicit procedures. In several cases, these procedures involve a solution of standard eigenvalue problems. We propose two modifications, one of the modifications leads directly to a well-established method (the self-consistent field iteration) whereas the other method is to our knowledge new and has several attractive properties. Convergence theory is provided along with several simulations which illustrate the properties of the algorithms.
How does qualitative data collection modality affect disclosure of sensitive information and participant experience? Findings from a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Namey Emily , Guest Greg , O’Regan Amy , Godwin Christine L. , Taylor Jamilah , Martinez Andres
Published: September 2021

Focus groups (FGs) and individual interviews (IDIs) can be conducted in-person or in several different online contexts. We conducted a quasi-experimental study and assessed sharing of sensitive or dissenting information and participant comfort in FGs and IDIs across four modalities: (1) in-person, (2) online video-based, (3) online chat-based (synchronous), and (4) online email/message board-based (asynchronous). Participants were systematically assigned to one of the four modalities and randomized to one of 24 FGs or 48 IDIs (N = 171). The study topic was medical risk during pregnancy. All participants also completed a survey on their perceptions of the data collection process. We found no significant difference in the frequency of disclosure of sensitive information by modality. Text-based FGs (chat and message board) were more likely to contain dissenting opinions than visually-based FGs (in-person and video). Participants also reported feeling less rapport and personal comfort in sharing information in the FG video modality than other modalities. These findings provide initial data that can guide researchers in choosing among data collection modalities to maximize participant engagement and comfort.
Exploring the effects of climate-related financial policies on carbon emissions in G20 countries: a panel quantile regression approach
Authors: D’Orazio Paola , Dirks Maximilian W.
Published: September 2021

This paper studies the effects of financial development, economic growth, and climate-related financial policies on carbon emissions for G20 countries. The focus is particularly on financial policies implemented to scale up green finance and address climate-related financial risks from 2000 to 2017 and represent this paper’s value added. The empirical results obtained by relying on the panel quantile regression approach indicate that the impacts of the different explanatory variables on carbon emission are heterogeneous. Specifically, the effect of the stock of short-term financial policies on carbon emissions is negative, and its effect becomes smaller at higher quantiles. The stock of long-term policies also shows significant negative coefficients, but its impact is stronger for higher quantiles. No significance is reported for the lowest quantile. Financial development contributes to improving environmental quality, and its impact is larger in higher emission countries. Energy consumption increases carbon emissions, with the strongest effects occurring at higher quantiles. Our results also support the validity of the EKC relationship and positive effects of GDP and population on high carbon emissions levels. Estimation results are robust to alternative model specifications and after controlling for the role played by adopting international climate change mitigation policies as proxied by the adoption of the Kyoto Protocol.
Status of short-chain chlorinated paraffins in matrices and research gap priorities in Africa: a review
Authors: Nevondo Vhodaho , Okonkwo Okechukwu Jonathan
Published: September 2021

Chlorinated paraffins (CPs) have been applied as additives in a wide range of consumer products, including polyvinyl chloride (PVC) products, mining conveyor belts, paints, sealants, adhesives and as flame retardants. Consequently, CPs have been found in many matrices. Of all the CP groups, short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) have raised an alarming concern globally due to their toxicity, persistence and long-range transportation in the environment. As a result, SCCPs were listed in the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) in May 2017. Additionally, a limit for the presence of SCCPs in other CP mixtures was set at 1% by weight. CPs can be released into the environment throughout their life cycle; therefore, it becomes crucial to assess their effects in different matrices. Although about 199 studies on SCCP concentration in different matrices have been published in other continents; however, there are scarce/or limited studies on SCCP concentration in Africa, particularly on consumer products, landfill leachates and sediment samples. So far, published studies on SCCP concentration in the continent include SCCPs in egg samples, e-waste recycling area and indoor dust in Ghana and South Africa, despite absence of any production of SCCPs in Africa. However, there still remains a huge research gap in the continent of Africa on SCCPs. Consequently, there is a need to develop robust SCCP inventories in Africa since the Stockholm Convention has already developed guidance document in this respect. This review, therefore, examines the state of knowledge pertaining to the levels and trends of these contaminants in Africa and further provides research gaps that need to be considered in order to better understand the global scale of the contaminant.