bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of wheat germ on metabolic markers: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Liaqat Humna , Jeong Eunseon , Kim Kyeong Jin , Kim Ji Yeon
Published: May 2020

This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to evaluate the association of wheat germ interventions and metabolic markers. An electronic search was performed by mid-May 2019 in the PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases. Quality was evaluated using the risk of bias assessment tools. Thirty-three randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified, among which ten were suitable and systematically reviewed based on biomarkers (cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, and oxidative stress). Three biomarkers in five eligible studies were investigated by meta-analysis. Total cholesterol showed non-significant results (p = 0.98), with standard mean difference (SMD) of − 0.01 (95% confidence interval; − 0.17, 0.16). The SMD was − 0.06 (95% CI − 0.41, 0.29, n = 4) for triglycerides and − 0.09 (95% CI − 0.62, 0.45, n = 2) for glucose. No biomarkers showed heterogeneity (0%). This review revealed non-significant association between wheat germ interventions and metabolic markers. Sensitive analysis with high-quality RCTs may be worth trying.
Study of a Flame Kernel Evolution in a Turbulent Mixing Layer Using LES with a Laminar Chemistry Model
Authors: Wawrzak Agnieszka , Tyliszczak Artur
Published: May 2020

Temporal evolution of an ignition kernel in a spark ignited turbulent hydrogen–air mixing layer is studied using the large eddy simulation approach with an implicit treatment of the reaction source terms. The applied numerical code is based on a high-order compact difference approximation combined with a weighted essentially non-oscillatory scheme, which provide an accurate resolution of the small scale phenomena. The spark is modelled by an energy deposition model coupled with the enthalpy equation. Since the fuel and oxidiser streams move in the opposite directions the flow is dominated by shear stresses and vortical structures. The ignition follows three different scenarios depending on the spark location. An interaction between the developing flame kernel and large turbulent structure is analysed starting from the energy transfer up to a fully reacting state. The size and shape of the flames are correlated with the initial ignition scenario. A 3D visualisation of the transient position of the flame kernel shows its different spatio-temporal behaviour. It is observed that the flame can stay close to the initial position and spread equally in all directions or it can move far from the initial location and follow the evolving flow field. In the latter scenario two separate sub-stages are convincingly identified. Concerning the ignition probability ($$P_{ign}$$

P

ign

), when the spark is located in the immediate vicinity of the mixing layer, the $$P_{ign}$$

P

ign

on the fuel-rich side is higher. On the other hand, when the ignition occurs far from the mixing layer, the $$P_{ign}$$

P

ign

is significantly larger on the lean side. Unlike the local composition the impact of the strain rate of the velocity field was found to have very limited impact on the $$P_{ign}$$

P

ign

.
Elevated MMP9 expression in breast cancer is a predictor of shorter patient survival
Authors: Joseph Chitra , Alsaleem Mansour , Orah Nnamdi , Narasimha Pavan L. , Miligy Islam M. , Kurozumi Sasagu , Ellis Ian O. , Mongan Nigel P. , Green Andrew R. , Rakha Emad A.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

MMP9 is a matricellular protein associated with extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling, that promotes tumour progression, and modulates the activity of cell adhesion molecules and cytokines. This study aims to assess the prognostic value of MMP9 and its association with cytoskeletal modulators in early-stage invasive breast cancer (BC).

Methods

MMP9 expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry using a well-characterised series of primary BC patients with long-term clinical follow-up. Association with clinicopathological factors, patient outcome and ECM remodelling BC-biomarkers were investigated. METABRIC dataset, BC-GenExMiner v4.0 and TCGA were used for the external validation of MMP9 expression. GSEA gene enrichment analyses were used to evaluate MMP9 associated pathways.

Results

MMP9 immunopositivity was observed in the stroma and cytoplasm of BC cells. Elevated MMP9 protein levels were associated with high tumour grade, high Nottingham Prognostic Index, and hormonal receptor negativity. Elevated MMP9 protein expression correlated significantly with cytokeratin 17 (Ck17), Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR), proliferation (Ki67) biomarkers, cell surface adhesion receptor (CD44) and cell division control protein 42 (CDC42). Cytoplasmic MMP9 expression was an independent prognostic factor associated with shorter BC-specific survival. In the external validation cohorts, MMP9 expression was also associated with poor patients’ outcome. Transcriptomic analysis confirmed a positive association between MMP9 and ECM remodelling biomarkers. GSEA analysis supports MMP9 association with ECM and cytoskeletal pathways.

Conclusion

This study provides evidence for the prognostic value of MMP9 in BC. Further functional studies to decipher the role of MMP9 and its association with cytoskeletal modulators in BC progression are warranted.
To Formalize or Not to Formalize: Women Entrepreneurs’ Sensemaking of Business Registration in the Context of Nepal
Authors: Thapa Karki Shova , Xheneti Mirela , Madden Adrian
Published: May 2020

Despite the depiction of decisions to formalize informal firms as rational and ethical, many entrepreneurs in developing countries continue to operate informally regardless of its perceived illicit status. While existing research on why entrepreneurs choose informality emphasizes the economic costs and benefits of such decisions, this often overlooks the realities of the informal economy and the constraints which marginal populations—particularly women—face. In this paper, we use institutional theory and sensemaking to understand the experiences of women in the informal economy and what formalization means to them. We use a qualitative approach to collect data from 90 women entrepreneurs in three different cities in Nepal. In our findings we identify three groups of women with distinctive understandings of formalization—business sustainability, livelihood sufficiency and strategic alignment. Their interpretation of formalization reveals the complex, dynamic, and cyclical nature of formalization decisions. Decisions are also guided by the optimization of social and emotional logics, whereby formalization is conceived differently depending on different life stages, experiences within the informal economy and wider socio-cultural contexts. Our findings highlight the ethical implications of formalization where being a ‘good citizen’, rather than complying with formal rules and regulations, is about attuning to and fitting in with socially prescribed roles. Our research provides a nuanced view of formalization decisions, challenging idealized and ethical notions of formalization as a desired end state.
“BAX602” in Preventing Surgical Adhesion after Extracorporeal Ventricular Assist Device Implantation for Refractory Congestive Heart Failure: Study Protocol for a Multicenter Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Fukushima Satsuki , Asakura Koko , Hamasaki Toshimitsu , Onda Kaori , Watanabe Takuya , Shiose Akira , Ono Minoru , Fukushima Norihide , Yamamoto Haruko , Fujita Tomoyuki
Published: May 2020

Background

The high surgical risk in redo cardiac surgery is largely attributed to adhesions around the epicardium and the great vessels. BAX602 is an adhesion prevention reagent composed of two synthetic polyethylene glycols. Spraying BAX602 over the epicardium and the great vessels reportedly contributes to adhesion prevention after pediatric cardiac surgery. The present study aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of BAX602 spray in patients undergoing extracorporeal ventricular assist device implantation surgery to treat refractory congestive heart failure.

Methods and Design

This investigator-initiated, multicenter, pivotal, two-arm, open-label, randomized trial will include a total of 30 patients. The primary outcome measure is the severity of adhesions, which will be evaluated during re-sternotomy surgery performed 2–12 weeks after the primary extracorporeal ventricular assist device implantation surgery. The adhesion severity will be evaluated at five predefined sites using a four-grade adhesion evaluation score (0 = no adhesion; 1 = filmy and avascular adhesion; 2 = dense/vascular adhesion; 3 = cohesive adhesion). This measure will be summarized in two ways to evaluate the effect of BAX602: (1) the total score of the severity of adhesions at all five sites (ranging from 0 to 15), and (2) the total number of sites with dense/vascular or cohesive adhesions (ranging from 0 to 5).

Ethics and Dissemination

The study findings will be disseminated at regional, national, and international conferences and through peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Trial Registration

The trial was registered in the UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN-CTR: UMIN000038998) on 6 January 2020.
Perspectives on the tensions in teaching with technology in Norwegian teacher education analysed using Argyris and Schön’s theory of action
Authors: Thorvaldsen Steinar , Madsen Siri Sollied
Published: May 2020

Teachers’ professional digital competence (PDC) is of increasing importance in classrooms in the majority of EU countries. Norway is one of the countries that has been exposed to a strong top-down implementation of information and communication technology in education. However, despite national efforts, practitioners in the education system do not seem to work in line with the given policy. There is therefore a gap between the micro and macro levels, necessitating the need for a closer exploration of the issue. We have conducted a quantitative study of teacher educators and their students in Northern Norway (N = 112). Amongst the staff, professional attitudes have a stronger impact than PDC regarding the extent of the educational use of digital tools, whereas amongst students, PDC has a stronger influence. These results are interpreted using Argyris and Schön’s theory of action in learning organisations.
Prediction meets causal inference: the role of treatment in clinical prediction models
Authors: van Geloven Nan , Swanson Sonja A. , Ramspek Chava L. , Luijken Kim , van Diepen Merel , Morris Tim P. , Groenwold Rolf H. H. , van Houwelingen Hans C. , Putter Hein , le Cessie Saskia
Published: May 2020

In this paper we study approaches for dealing with treatment when developing a clinical prediction model. Analogous to the estimand framework recently proposed by the European Medicines Agency for clinical trials, we propose a ‘predictimand’ framework of different questions that may be of interest when predicting risk in relation to treatment started after baseline. We provide a formal definition of the estimands matching these questions, give examples of settings in which each is useful and discuss appropriate estimators including their assumptions. We illustrate the impact of the predictimand choice in a dataset of patients with end-stage kidney disease. We argue that clearly defining the estimand is equally important in prediction research as in causal inference.
Mitigating eutrophication nuisance: in-lake measures are becoming inevitable in eutrophic waters in the Netherlands
Authors: Lürling Miquel , Mucci Maíra
Published: May 2020

In the Netherlands, legacies and diffuse nutrient pollution continue to fuel recurrent cyanobacterial blooms in mostly shallow and relatively small surface waters. A survey in peer-reviewed literature and Dutch grey-literature was performed to gain insight into the physical-, chemical- and biological in-lake interventions used to bring these waters towards their desired state. A critical overview is presented on efficacy of different measures to counteract cyanobacterial blooms directly via targeting the cyanobacteria or indirectly via reduction of nutrient availability. Many actions have no or limited effects on minimising cyanobacterial blooms (air-bubble- or oil screens, surface mixers, low-energy ultrasound, effective micro-organisms, fish introduction), while others are more effective, but may vary in longevity and costs (dams, excavation or dredging, hydrogen peroxide, phosphorus inactivation agents), meet legislation restrictions (copper-based algaecides, herbicides, dreissenids), or are not currently implemented (hypolimnetic withdrawal). The selection of promising interventions requires a proper diagnosis of each problem lake, based on water- and nutrient fluxes, the biology of the lake (plants, fish), the function of the lake and the characteristics of the method, such as efficacy, costs, safety and ease of implementation. In the Netherlands, ongoing diffuse loads and legacies necessitate repetitive in-lake interventions.
Optical properties and electronic structure of V2O5, V2O3 and VO2
Authors: Schneider Krystyna
Published: May 2020

The electronic structure of the three main vanadium oxides—V2O3, VO2 and V2O5—is reviewed. The optical properties of vanadium pentoxide thin films were determined. It was found that a direct allowed transition is the most probable one in the studied vanadium pentoxide thin films.
Marked Gibbs Point Processes with Unbounded Interaction: An Existence Result
Authors: Rœlly Sylvie , Zass Alexander
Published: May 2020

We construct marked Gibbs point processes in $${\mathbb{R}}^d$$

R

d

under quite general assumptions. Firstly, we allow for interaction functionals that may be unbounded and whose range is not assumed to be uniformly bounded. Indeed, our typical interaction admits an a.s. finite but random range. Secondly, the random marks—attached to the locations in $${\mathbb{R}}^d$$

R

d

—belong to a general normed space $${{\mathscr{S}}}$$
S
. They are not bounded, but their law should admit a super-exponential moment. The approach used here relies on the so-called entropy method and large-deviation tools in order to prove tightness of a family of finite-volume Gibbs point processes. An application to infinite-dimensional interacting diffusions is also presented.
Characterization of three soybean landraces resistant to Asian soybean rust disease
Authors: Aoyagi Luciano Nobuhiro , Muraki Yukie , Yamanaka Naoki
Published: May 2020

Phakopsora pachyrhizi is an obligatory biotrophic fungus that causes Asian soybean rust (ASR) disease. ASR control primarily involves chemical control and the use of resistant soybean cultivars carrying an Rpp (resistance to P. pachyrhizi) gene. This study aimed to characterize the ASR resistance of three soybean Asian landraces. By screening the world core collection (WC) of soybean, which consists of 80 varieties, three landraces were identified in Southeast Asia as resistant to ASR. Genetic mapping using the F2 population derived from a cross with an ASR-susceptible variety, BRS 184, indicated that KS 1034 (WC2) has ASR resistance conferred by a single dominant resistance gene, mapped on chromosome 18, in the same region where Rpp1 was mapped previously. The BRS 184 × WC61 (COL/THAI/1986/THAI-80) F2 population, on the other hand, showed an ASR resistance locus mapped by quantitative trait locus analysis on chromosome 6, in the region where the resistance conferred by PI 416764 Rpp3 resides, with a logarithm of the odds score peak at the same position as the marker, Satt079, while the BRS 184 × WC51 (HM 39) population showed the resistance to ASR allocated between Satt079 and Sat_263 markers, also in the region where Rpp3 was mapped previously. Both WC51 and WC61 have the same infection profile as FT-2 and PI 462312 when tested against the same ASR isolate panel. These three WCs can be used in MAS programs for introgression of Rpp1 and Rpp3 and the development of ASR-resistant cultivars in the breeding program.
Tempest in a teapot? Toward new collaborations between mainstream policy process studies and interpretive policy studies
Authors: Durnová Anna P. , Weible Christopher M.
Published: May 2020

“Tempest in a teapot” is an idiom that refers to a problem that has been blown out of proportion, which is how we see the supposedly divisive relationship between two research traditions: mainstream policy process studies and interpretive policy studies. In this commentary, we explore both research traditions, comparing and contrasting their views of public policy and policy processes, uses of theories, and approaches to research. Our aim is not to unite them or reject points of debate. Instead, we offer strategies for more productive collaborations, including side-by-side research, integrative research, engagement in constructive discussions of research techniques, and applied research.
Permanent pacemaker implantation rates following cardiac surgery in the modern era
Authors: Kho Jason , Ioannou Adam , O’Sullivan Katie E. , Jones Mark
Published: May 2020

Aims

The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation after cardiac surgery in our institution and investigate risk factors for PPM dependency to provide patients with accurate incidence figures at the time of consent for surgery.

Methods

Data was collected retrospectively from a single tertiary institution from October 2018 to April 2019 inclusive of 403 patients. Incidence of PPM implantation after various cardiac operations was evaluated. A univariate analysis was carried out to identify the independent risk factors related to PPM implantation.

Results

Ten patients required a PPM (2.48%). The most common indication for PPM implantation post-cardiac surgery was complete heart block (N = 7, 70%) followed by bradycardia/pauses (N = 2, 20%) and sick sinus syndrome (N = 1, 10%). PPM implantation after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery was the lowest (0.63%), while combined CABG and valve operations had the highest incidence (5.97%). Independent risk predictors for PPM implantation included female gender (p = 0.03), rheumatic heart disease (p = 0.008), pulmonary hypertension (p = 0.01), redo operations (p = 0.002), mitral valve procedures (p = 0.001), tricuspid valve procedures (p = 0.0003) and combined mitral and tricuspid valve procedures (p = 0.0001). Average length of intensive care unit (ICU)/high-dependency unit (HDU) stay was significantly prolonged for patients who required a PPM post-cardiac surgery.

Conclusion

As clinicians, it can be challenging to provide our patients with accurate information on the risk of PPM implantation relative to their operation. A unit-specific data may be a more accurate method of informing our patients on this risk.
Lower Grade Gliomas
Authors: Youssef Gilbert , Miller Julie J.
Published: May 2020

Purpose of Review

Low-grade gliomas (LGG) are a group of primary brain tumors that arise from supporting glial cells. They are characterized by a mutation in the isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) enzyme and include astrocytomas and oligodendrogliomas. They usually affect young adults, and their main treatment consists of surgical resection, followed by radiation and chemotherapy in selected patients. This article reviews recent research on the clinical and molecular aspects of the disease and innovative therapeutic modalities in the process.

Recent Findings

Newly identified clinical and molecular features are currently used in the classification of LGG and applied in treatment-planning decisions. Advanced studies on the cellular level have an advanced understanding of the metabolic effects induced by IDH mutations, offering opportunities for specific targeted therapies that may improve patient outcomes. Such findings may lead to a paradigm shift in the treatment of these tumors.

Although LGG are sensitive to radiation and chemotherapy, these therapies are not curative, and patient survival remains limited, raising the need for more creative and effective interventions.
Mindfulness in everyday life: between- and within-person relationships to motivational conflicts
Authors: Senker Kerstin , Fries Stefan , Grund Axel
Published: May 2020

Mindfulness has shown beneficial relationships with well-being and self-regulation. We aim to improve the understanding of the effects of between- and within-person differences in mindfulness when dealing with situations of motivational conflict. For this purpose, we conducted an experience sampling study with 56 university students who replied to a total of N = 1889 short questionnaires, which they received via their smartphones over a period of eight consecutive days. In addition to a state mindfulness questionnaire with the facets presence and non-judgment (focusing attention on the experience of the current action and a momentary non-judgmental stance towards these, respectively), the participants received questions about their current affective well-being and perceived intensity of want or should conflict experiences. Multi-level analyses revealed that want conflicts were predicted by both state mindfulness facets, even after momentary affect was controlled. In addition, to be non-judgmental (as a trait), and having momentary presence (as a state), related to lower intensity of should conflicts. The results suggest that being mindful might be a particularly beneficial way of dealing with daily motivational conflicts, which is an essential and frequent task of self-regulation.
Immunomodulation in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction: Current State and Future Perspectives
Authors: Kessler Elise L. , Oerlemans Martinus I.F.J. , van den Hoogen Patricia , Yap Carmen , Sluijter Joost P.G. , de Jager Saskia C.A.
Published: May 2020

The heart failure (HF) epidemic is growing and approximately half of the HF patients have heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). HFpEF is a heterogeneous syndrome, characterized by a preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF ≥ 50%) with diastolic dysfunction, and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Underlying comorbidities of HFpEF, i.e., hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, and renal failure, lead to a systemic pro-inflammatory state, thereby affecting normal cardiac function. Increased inflammatory biomarkers predict incident HFpEF and are higher in patients with HFpEF as compared with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Randomized trials in HFpEF patients using traditional HF medication failed to demonstrate a clear benefit on hard endpoints (mortality and/or HF hospitalization). Therefore, therapies targeting underlying comorbidities and systemic inflammation in early HFpEF may provide better opportunities. Here, we provide an overview of the current state and future perspectives of immunomodulatory therapies for HFpEF.
Mapping the epigenetic modifications of DNA and RNA
Authors: Zhao Lin-Yong , Song Jinghui , Liu Yibin , Song Chun-Xiao , Yi Chengqi
Published: May 2020

Over 17 and 160 types of chemical modifications have been identified in DNA and RNA, respectively. The interest in understanding the various biological functions of DNA and RNA modifications has lead to the cutting-edged fields of epigenomics and epitranscriptomics. Developing chemical and biological tools to detect specific modifications in the genome or transcriptome has greatly facilitated their study. Here, we review the recent technological advances in this rapidly evolving field. We focus on high-throughput detection methods and biological findings for these modifications, and discuss questions to be addressed as well. We also summarize third-generation sequencing methods, which enable long-read and single-molecule sequencing of DNA and RNA modification.
A guide to Monte Carlo simulation concepts for assessment of risk-return profiles for regulatory purposes
Authors: Graf Stefan , Korn Ralf
Published: May 2020

Various regulatory initiatives (such as the pan-European PRIIP-regulation or the German chance-risk classification for state subsidized pension products) have been introduced that require product providers to assess and disclose the risk-return profile of their issued products by means of a key information document. We will in this context outline a concept for a (forward-looking) simulation-based approach and highlight its application and advantages. For reasons of comparison, we further illustrate the performance of approximation methods based on a projection of observed returns into the future such as the Cornish–Fisher expansion or bootstrap methods.
Confidence intervals for Markov chain transition probabilities based on next generation sequencing reads data
Authors: Wan Lin , Kang Xin , Ren Jie , Sun Fengzhu
Published: May 2020

Background

Markov chains (MC) have been widely used to model molecular sequences. The estimations of MC transition matrix and confidence intervals of the transition probabilities from long sequence data have been intensively studied in the past decades. In next generation sequencing (NGS), a large amount of short reads are generated. These short reads can overlap and some regions of the genome may not be sequenced resulting in a new type of data. Based on NGS data, the transition probabilities of MC can be estimated by moment estimators. However, the classical asymptotic distribution theory for MC transition probability estimators based on long sequences is no longer valid.

Methods

In this study, we present the asymptotic distributions of several statistics related to MC based on NGS data. We show that, after scaling by the effective coverage d defined in a previous study by the authors, these statistics based on NGS data approximate to the same distributions as the corresponding statistics for long sequences.

Results

We apply the asymptotic properties of these statistics for finding the theoretical confidence regions for MC transition probabilities based on NGS short reads data. We validate our theoretical confidence intervals using both simulated data and real data sets, and compare the results with those by the parametric bootstrap method.

Conclusions

We find that the asymptotic distributions of these statistics and the theoretical confidence intervals of transition probabilities based on NGS data given in this study are highly accurate, providing a powerful tool for NGS data analysis.
Trait mindfulness differentiates the interest in healthy diet from orthorexia nervosa
Authors: Strahler J.
Published: May 2020

Background

Obsessive healthy eating and its extreme form orthorexia nervosa are epidemiologically significant problems. Mindfulness, the focused, non-judgmental attention to and awareness of present events, may be an important psychological contributor to (orthorexic) eating habits.

Methods

In this cross-sectional survey-based study, 314 women and 75 men (mean agetotal sample = 27.17 years, SD = 10.64) provided data on mindfulness (Freiburg Mindfulness Inventory, presence and acceptance subscale) and orthorexic eating (Teruel Orthorexia Scale, healthy orthorexia and orthorexia nervosa subscale).

Results

In this study, we found a positive relation between mindfulness and healthy orthorexia, the non-pathological interest in eating healthy. By contrast, orthorexia nervosa, the pathological obsession with healthy eating, was negatively associated with mindfulness. Gender differences appeared neglectable.

Conclusion

Taken together, these results confirm previous research showing that mindfulness encourages eating healthy and may protect against eating-related pathologies. Result also support the notion that orthorexia has two dimensions, healthy and nervosa, which are differently related to psychological factors, herein mindfulness.

Level of evidence

Level III, cohort study.
Teachers and Mindful Colouring to Tackle Burnout and Increase Mindfulness, Resiliency and Wellbeing
Authors: Czerwinski Natasha , Egan Helen , Cook Amy , Mantzios Michail
Published: May 2020

The number of teachers leaving the profession continues to increase at a worrying rate. Factors contributing to this include burnout, heightened levels of stress, anxiety and depression. The current study tested whether the use of mindful colouring would translate to improvements in wellbeing. Teachers from the UK (n = 35) were randomly assigned to a colouring mindfulness-based intervention or waitlist group. Participants completed four scales (burnout, wellbeing, resilience and mindfulness) and participated in a 5-day intervention of daily mindfulness colouring or continued their working week as usual. Results of repeated-measures ANOVA showed statistically significant lower levels of burnout, stress, depressive symptoms and anxiety in the mindfulness colouring condition, as well as increased levels of resilience and mindfulness. Findings from the current study support the use of mindfulness colouring to significantly enhance levels of wellbeing in teachers. The study also presents an inexpensive, highly accessible and effective self-help tool for this targeted non-clinical population.
Envisioning the Future of Behavioral Decision-Making: A Systematic Literature Review of Behavioral Reasoning Theory
Authors: Sahu Aditya Kumar , Padhy R.K. , Dhir Amandeep
Published: May 2020

Behavioral theories have been extensively referred to in consumer behavior literature to understand the factors influencing user intentions and behavior. Behavioral reasoning theory (BRT) is a relatively new theory that determines the linkage between beliefs, reasons, motives, intentions, and behavior. This study conducts a systematic literature review (SLR) to synthesize the existing body of knowledge around BRT. The present SLR critically examines the origin of this theory and its linkages with other behavioral theories, thus providing insightful knowledge on its foundations. Further, it presents the state-of-the-art research knowledge, research themes, implications, and future directions related to BRT literature. Our analysis shows that the reasons for and reasons against construct plays an important role in predicting consumer behavior. This study also finds that research related to BRT is growing rapidly and needs methodological advancements. These findings will enable scholars and practitioners to better understand how BRT works, what its strengths and potential are, the contexts in which it has been utilized, its existing limitations, and the sort of methodological advancements needed in future studies on marketing.
Food Safety Consciousness and Consumers’ Milk Purchasing Behavior: Evidence from a Developing Country
Authors: Thapa Ganesh , Kumar Anjani , Roy Devesh , Joshi P. K.
Published: May 2020

We study the effects of food safety awareness on consumers’ milk purchasing behavior in Nepal. We conducted consumer survey and employed an instrumental variable regression. We find education, income, and social network to influence food safety consciousness (FSC). Our results indicate the positive impact of FSC on weekly milk expenditure and probability of purchasing milk from milk cooperatives. Any policy that helps to improve the FSC levels will likely increase the purchase of safe milk from the modern market outlet, and lack of such awareness raising policies has prevented the market for safe food from evolving and expanding.
Hunter-Gatherer Occupation of the Central Colorado Plateau during the Pleistocene-Holocene Transition
Authors: Tune Jesse W.
Published: May 2020

The central Colorado Plateau contains an exceptional density of cultural resources. Historically, however, archaeological investigations have overlooked the late Pleistocene and early Holocene record of this region. As such, there is currently a biased understanding of the earliest human occupations and adaptations. The regional Paleoindian record is reviewed here to assess the nature of initial human occupation of the area. Projectile point typologies, toolstone selection, and site distributions are used to characterize the land use patterns used by the region's earliest inhabitants. Results suggest that as early as circa 13,000 cal BP Clovis groups were familiar with the lithic landscape and habitually made use of local materials. Subsequent Paleoindian populations maintained relatively consistent levels of occupation throughout the Pleistocene-Holocene transition. Finally, the presence of classic Southwest, High Plains, and Great Basin–related lithic technologies suggests that the central Colorado Plateau was part of early interregional land use strategies.
Just the facts: What drugs are safe and effective for COVID-19?
Authors: Long Brit , Liang Stephen Y. , Rosenberg Hans , Hicks Christopher , Gottlieb Michael
Published: May 2020

A 53-year-old male presents with cough, fever, and myalgias for 7 days. Vitals include temperature, 38.0°C; heart rate, 110; blood pressure, 118/70 mm Hg; respiration rate, 28; and oxygen saturation 83% on room air. His only past medical history is hypertension. Your community is in the midst of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The patient is hypoxic but responds to oxygen supplementation with nasal cannula and a face mask. His chest x-ray demonstrates multifocal infiltrates. Are there any therapeutic agents currently available for COVID-19?
Development and Implementation of a COVID-19 Disease Response Protocol at a Large Academic Medical Center
Authors: Maxam Meshell , DeRonde Kailynn J. , Vega Ana D. , Skiada Dimitra , Vu Christine A. , Salazar Veronica , Boatwright Renata , Cano-Casillas Ennie , Goodnow Venessa , Sposato Kathleen A. , Paige Peter G. , Zambrana David , Steigman Don S. , Memon Abdul M. , Abbo Lilian M.
Published: May 2020

In response to the rapid spread of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), health-care systems should establish procedures for early recognition and management of suspected or confirmed cases. We describe the various steps taken for the development, implementation, and dissemination of the interdisciplinary COVID-19 protocol at Jackson Health System (JHS), a complex tertiary academic health system in Miami, Florida. Recognizing the dynamic nature of COVID-19, the protocol addresses the potential investigational treatment options and considerations for special populations. The protocol also includes infection prevention and control measures and routine care for suspected or proven COVID-19 patients.
Increasing the salience of marine live–dead data in the Anthropocene
Authors: Smith Jansen A. , Dietl Gregory P. , Durham Stephen R.
Published: May 2020

As the climate changes and ecosystems shift toward novel combinations of species, the methods and metrics of conservation science are becoming less species-centric. To meet this growing need, marine conservation paleobiologists stand to benefit from the addition of new, taxon-free benthic indices to the live–dead analysis tool kit. These indices, which were developed to provide actionable, policy-specific data, can be applied to the readily preservable component of benthic communities (e.g., mollusks) to assess the ecological quality status of the entire community. Because these indices are taxon-free, they remain applicable even as the climate changes and novel communities develop—making them a potentially valuable complement to traditionally applied approaches for live–dead analysis, which tend to focus on maintaining specific combinations of species under relatively stable environmental conditions. Integrating geohistorical data with these established indices has potential to increase the salience of the live–dead approach in the eyes of resource managers and other stakeholders.
Local minimizers in absence of ground states for the critical NLS energy on metric graphs
Authors: Pierotti Dario , Soave Nicola , Verzini Gianmaria
Published: May 2020

We consider the mass-critical non-linear Schrödinger equation on non-compact metric graphs. A quite complete description of the structure of the ground states, which correspond to global minimizers of the energy functional under a mass constraint, is provided by Adami, Serra and Tilli in [R. Adami, E. Serra and P. Tilli. Negative energy ground states for the L2-critical NLSE on metric graphs. Comm. Math. Phys. 352 (2017), 387–406.] , where it is proved that existence and properties of ground states depend in a crucial way on both the value of the mass, and the topological properties of the underlying graph. In this paper we address cases when ground states do not exist and show that, under suitable assumptions, constrained local minimizers of the energy do exist. This result paves the way to the existence of stable solutions in the time-dependent equation in cases where the ground state energy level is not achieved.
Elucidating negative symptoms in the daily life of individuals in the early stages of psychosis
Authors: Hermans Karlijn S. F. M. , Myin-Germeys Inez , Gayer-Anderson Charlotte , Kempton Matthew J. , Valmaggia Lucia , McGuire Philip , Murray Robin M. , Garety Philippa , Wykes Til , Morgan Craig , Kasanova Zuzana , Reininghaus Ulrich
Published: May 2020

Background

It remains poorly understood how negative symptoms are experienced in the daily lives of individuals in the early stages of psychosis. We aimed to investigate whether altered affective experience, anhedonia, social anhedonia, and asociality were more pronounced in individuals with an at-risk mental state for psychosis (ARMS) and individuals with first-episode psychosis (FEP) than in controls.

Methods

We used the experience sampling methodology (ESM) to assess negative symptoms, as they occurred in the daily life of 51 individuals with FEP and 46 ARMS, compared with 53 controls.

Results

Multilevel linear regression analyses showed no overall evidence for a blunting of affective experience. There was some evidence for anhedonia in FEP but not in ARMS, as shown by a smaller increase of positive affect (BΔat−risk v. FEP = 0.08, p = 0.006) as the pleasantness of activities increased. Against our expectations, no evidence was found for greater social anhedonia in any group. FEP were more often alone (57%) than ARMS (38%) and controls (35%) but appraisals of the social situation did not point to asociality.

Conclusions

Overall, altered affective experience, anhedonia, social anhedonia and asociality seem to play less of a role in the daily life of individuals in the early stages of psychosis than previously assumed. With the experience of affect and pleasure in daily life being largely intact, changing social situations and appraisals thereof should be further investigated to prevent development or deterioration of negative symptoms.
Teen childbearing and offspring internalizing symptoms: The mediating role of child maltreatment
Authors: Russotti Justin , Rogosch Fred A. , Handley Elizabeth D. , Douthit Kathryn Z. , Marquis Andre , Cicchetti Dante
Published: May 2020

Teenage childbearing (age 15–19 years) represents a significant public health issue that can generate considerable deleterious, multigenerational consequences for teen-childbearing mothers and their offspring. However, few studies have examined the potential mediating mechanisms that may explain if and how teen childbearing is associated with the development of offspring psychopathology. The current study used a developmental model to test the mediating role of chronic child maltreatment in the relationship between teen childbearing and offspring internalizing symptoms in childhood and emerging adulthood. The study participants were 384 individuals from socioeconomically disadvantaged, ethnically diverse backgrounds, assessed across two longitudinal waves of data (i.e., ages 10–12 and 18–20). The sample included maltreated and nonmaltreated children, all of whom were comparable in terms of family income. Structural equation modeling was conducted to test direct and indirect pathways from teen childbearing to offspring psychopathology. A multigenerational developmental cascade was found such that individuals born to mothers who began their childbearing in adolescence were more likely to experience chronic maltreatment during childhood, which in turn predicted greater internalizing symptoms throughout childhood and emerging adulthood. Using a developmental psychopathology framework, the results are discussed with regard to implications for prevention and early intervention.
Project Holocene: The Clayful Phenomenology of Jōmon Flame Pots
Authors: March Paul Louis
Published: May 2020

As a ceramic artist, I was surprised to find that archaeological research gives little attention to the extraordinary sensorial qualities of Jōmon flame pots. To understand why, I consider the challenges of including sensory experience in archaeological method and the problems of leaving it out. Turning to the typological approach to Jōmon pottery, I highlight the assumptions it makes about cognition before introducing Material Engagement Theory (MET) as an alternative. A MET-oriented reanalysis of the typological evidence places sensation at the centre of enquiry and removes the need to interpret symbolic, representational content. Through MET, I consider the sensorial qualities of flame pots, not as prehistory but as they appeared recently and unexpectantly during the process of modelling clay into sculptures for a contemporary art project. Flame pots joined conceptually with the explorative activity of clay. A prehistoric/contemporary artefact/modelling system was created and developed itself into a method of monitoring intra-systemic experience—clayful phenomenology. The findings cover five themes: enacted agency, iconicity from indexicality, bending rules/undermining habits, the choreography of material engagement and the phenomenology of space.
Rewriting with generalized nominal unification
Authors: Kutz Yunus , Schmidt-Schauß Manfred
Published: May 2020

We consider matching, rewriting, critical pairs and the Knuth–Bendix confluence test on rewrite rules in a nominal setting extended by atom-variables. We utilize atom-variables instead of atoms to formulate and rewrite rules on constrained expressions, which is an improvement of expressiveness over previous approaches. Nominal unification and nominal matching are correspondingly extended. Rewriting is performed using nominal matching, and computing critical pairs is done using nominal unification. We determine the complexity of several problems in a quantified freshness logic. In particular we show that nominal matching is
$$\prod _2^p$$
-complete. We prove that the adapted Knuth–Bendix confluence test is applicable to a nominal rewrite system with atom-variables, and thus that there is a decidable test whether confluence of the ground instance of the abstract rewrite system holds. We apply the nominal Knuth–Bendix confluence criterion to the theory of monads and compute a convergent nominal rewrite system modulo alpha-equivalence.
50 States or 50 Countries: What Did We Miss and What Do We Do Now?
Authors: Burkle Frederick M. , Devereaux Asha V.
Published: May 2020

There have been multiple inconsistencies in the manner the COVID-19 pandemic has been investigated and managed by countries. Population-based management (PBM) has been inconsistent, yet serves as a necessary first step in managing public health crises. Unfortunately, these have dominated the landscape within the United States and continue as of this writing. Political and economic influences have greatly influenced major public health management and control decisions. Responsibility for global public health crises and modeling for management are the responsibility of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Health Regulations Treaty (IHR). This review calls upon both to reassess their roles and responsibilities that must be markedly improved and better replicated world-wide in order to optimize the global public health protections and its PBM.

“Ask a big enough question, and you need more than one discipline to answer it.”

Liz Lerman, MacArthur “Genius” Fellow, Choreographer, Modern Dance legend, and 2011 Artist-in Residence, Harvard Music Department
Optimization of FIB–SEM Tomography and Reconstruction for Soft, Porous, and Poorly Conducting Materials
Authors: Fager Cecilia , Röding Magnus , Olsson Anna , Lorén Niklas , von Corswant Christian , Särkkä Aila , Olsson Eva
Published: May 2020

Tomography using a focused ion beam (FIB) combined with a scanning electron microscope (SEM) is well-established for a wide range of conducting materials. However, performing FIB–SEM tomography on ion- and electron-beam-sensitive materials as well as poorly conducting soft materials remains challenging. Some common challenges include cross-sectioning artifacts, shadowing effects, and charging. Fully dense materials provide a planar cross section, whereas pores also expose subsurface areas of the planar cross-section surface. The image intensity of the subsurface areas gives rise to overlap between the grayscale intensity levels of the solid and pore areas, which complicates image processing and segmentation for three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction. To avoid the introduction of artifacts, the goal is to examine porous and poorly conducting soft materials as close as possible to their original state. This work presents a protocol for the optimization of FIB–SEM tomography parameters for porous and poorly conducting soft materials. The protocol reduces cross-sectioning artifacts, charging, and eliminates shadowing effects. In addition, it handles the subsurface and grayscale intensity overlap problems in image segmentation. The protocol was evaluated on porous polymer films which have both poor conductivity and pores. 3D reconstructions, with automated data segmentation, from three films with different porosities were successfully obtained.
Nationalism, Authoritarianism, and Democracy: Historical Lessons from South and Southeast Asia
Authors: Tudor Maya , Slater Dan
Published: May 2020

Divided societies have long been seen as terrible terrain for democracy. Yet some countries in South and Southeast Asia have managed to overcome ethnic and religious rifts and establish lasting democracy, as in India, while other countries in these regions have seen such deep divisions underpin durable authoritarianism, as in Malaysia. We trace these differences to divergent definitions of the nation that prevailed in struggles for independence and that continue to provide a political resource in ongoing political struggles. Where the national community was defined as inclusive in both ethnoreligious and popular terms, democracy has proven stronger. Alternatively, where the foundational national bargain was more exclusive with respect to salient identity cleavages and popular classes, authoritarianism has been reinforced. Founding types of nationalism not only help explain regime types in India and Malaysia but in countries across southern Asia, offering novel insight into how to understand ongoing battles to shape the nation and the people’s political position within it. In an era of rising nationalist fervor and eroding support for democracy, understanding the conditions under which nationalism either promotes democracy or bolsters authoritarianism is of critical importance to political scientists, activists, and policymakers alike.
Child marriage in armed conflict
Authors: Mazurana Dyan , Marshak Anastasia , Spears Kinsey
Published: May 2020

Eradicating and addressing child marriage in situations of armed conflict requires that stakeholders increase their attention, knowledge, evidence-based protection measures, and resources in a coordinated fashion. To this end, this article examines what constitutes child marriage within the international legal framework. It then presents a concise analysis of what is known about child marriage in development contexts, before moving on to discuss the (limited) state of knowledge on child marriage in humanitarian settings, and the global response. It presents information on different married child populations, including child brides and grooms, girls forcibly married to armed actors, child widows, and child marriage within natural disasters. It concludes with ideas on the information and knowledge that is still needed to inform effective response.