bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
M&M: A maximum duration design with the Maxcombo test for a group sequential trial of an immunotherapy with a random delayed treatment effect
Authors: Li Bosheng , Su Liwen , Ye Yuqing , Yan Fangrong
Published: November 2021

A random delayed treatment effect is expected in a confirmatory clinical trial for an immunotherapy due to the individual heterogeneity of physiological conditions. For this reason, the delay time will be assumed to follow a continuous distribution that is difficult to estimate accurately based on the early‐phase data, which hinders the specification of the most powerful weighted log‐rank test. Therefore, we propose a simulation‐based maximum duration design with a robustly powerful Maxcombo test for a group sequential trial for the immunotherapy with the random delayed treatment effect. The design obtains the group sequential boundaries by a simulation procedure and determines the required maximum sample size using a one‐dimensional search in which another simulation procedure is used to calculate empirical power. The simulation researches proved the accuracy of the group sequential boundaries and their robustness against the misspecified maximum sample sizes for large samples and revealed their moderate sensitivity against the misspecified survival distributions under the null hypothesis of no difference. The studies investigated whether the type I error rate would inflate under the “inferior” null hypothesis and evaluated the robustness against different distributions of the delay time in terms of the empirical power among the Maxcombo tests and component weighted log‐rank tests.
Development of Molecularly Imprinted Polymer‐Based Optical Sensor for the Sensitive Penicillin G Detection in Milk
Authors: Safran Volkan , Göktürk Ilgım , Bakhshpour Monireh , Yılmaz Fatma , Denizli Adil
Published: November 2021

In this study, selective and sensitive Penicillin G (PEN−G) antibiotic detection from both aqueous solution and milk samples using molecular imprinting technique was performed by surface plasmon resonance sensor. For this purpose, PEN−G imprinted poly(2‐Hydroxyethyl methacrylate‐N‐methacroyl‐(L)‐cysteine methyl ester‐gold nanoparticles‐N‐methacryloyl‐L‐phenylalanine methyl ester (MIP‐AuNPs) nanosensor was prepared. Control experiments were carried out via the nanosensor without the addition of AuNPs (MIP) to examine the effect of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) incorporated to increase the surface plasmon resonance signal response. Moreover, to evaluate the imprinting efficiency, non‐imprinted (NIP‐AuNPs) nanosensor was designed using the same polymerization recipe except the addition of the PEN−G molecule. Characterization studies of MIP, MIP‐AuNPs and NIP‐AuNPs nanosensors were performed with FTIR‐ATR spectrophotometer. Also, MIP‐AuNPs and NIP‐AuNPs nanosensors were characterized by atomic force microscopy, ellipsometer and contact angle measurements. Imprinting efficiency (I.F: 7.83) for the MIP‐AuNPs nanosensor was determined by comparing it with the NIP‐AuNPs nanosensor. The MIP‐AuNPs nanosensor was 9.87 times more selective for the target PEN−G molecule than amoxicillin, and 16.78‐times than ampicillin. In addition, the amount of PEN−G in milk selected as a real sample was measured by spiking 5 ppb PEN−G into the milk.
The Functions and Applications of Fluorinated Interface Engineering in Li‐Based Secondary Batteries
Authors: Qi Mu-Yao , Xu Yan-Song , Guo Si-Jie , Zhang Si-Dong , Li Jin-Yang , Sun Yong-Gang , Jiang Ke-Cheng , Cao An-Min , Wan Li-Jun
Published: November 2021

Li‐based secondary batteries are now attracting soaring research attention as a promising energy storage system with high energy density for commercial applications. However, the high‐energy systems meanwhile are causing serious concerns on safety issues due to unstable interfaces on both cathodes and anodes. To improve interphase stability upon extended cycles, surface fluorinated treatment becomes highly desirable due to its unique capability in modulating the chemistry of electrode/electrolyte interface to ensure a stable electrochemical performance. Accordingly, it is essential that a deeper understanding on the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), especially the role of fluorine‐containing components, is demanded to guide the interface design. This review begins with an introduction to the fundamental knowledge on the structure of SEI with focus on the unique physiochemical properties of fluorides. Detailed discussions are then taken on the control strategies for a reliable construction of fluoride‐based interfaces, which typically includes the surface coating of metal fluorides on cathodes and ex situ/in situ fluorination on lithium, based on which the structure–performance relationship is elaborated to inspire a rational interface engineering. Finally, perspectives are provided to give insights into the possible research directions of fluorinated SEI for further development of rechargeable Li batteries.
Highly Planar Benzodipyrrole‐Based Hole Transporting Materials with Passivation Effect for Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Igci Cansu , Kanda Hiroyuki , Yoo So-Min , Sutanto Albertus Adrian , Syzgantseva Olga A. , Syzgantseva Maria A. , Jankauskas Vygintas , Rakstys Kasparas , Mensi Mounir , Kim Hobeom , Asiri Abdullah M. , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja
Published: November 2021

Three benzodipyrrole (BDP)‐based organic small molecules with substituted 4‐methoxyphenyl (CB‐1), 3‐fluorophenyl (CB‐2), and 3‐trifluoromethylphenyl (CB‐3) are designed, synthesized, and used as a hole‐transporting material (HTM) for perovskite solar cells (PSCs). The electrochemical, optical, thermal, electronic, and optoelectronic properties of the HTMs are characterized to verify their suitability for PSCs. The terminal functional groups of the HTMs having different heteroatoms mainly target effective defect passivation of perovskites. Photoluminescence studies and molecular dynamic simulations reveal that fluorine atoms within CB‐2 and CB‐3 can contribute to the defect passivation via interaction with Pb of the perovskite. In particular, a highly planar conformation of CB‐2 on the perovskite surface can facilitate more efficient hole transfer at the interface. Thus, the PSCs employing CB‐2 achieve the highest power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 18.23% while the devices using CB‐1 and CB‐3 exhibit a lower PCE of 16.78% and 16.74%, respectively. PSCs with the BDP‐based HTMs demonstrate excellent long‐term storage stability without degradation in their PCEs over 6 months. The highly planar geometry, defect passivation effect, and hydrophobicity of CB‐2 show its great potential as an HTM for efficient and stable PSCs.
Low Temperature Producing Copper‐Doped Gallium Oxide as Hole Transport Layers of Perovskite Solar Cells Enhanced by Impurity Levels
Authors: Zhang Jiejing , Zhu Sha , Gao Can , Gao Chunxiao , Liu Xizhe
Published: November 2021

In inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs), metal oxides become kind of promising hole transport layers for their facile synthesis and low cost. For conventional hole transport materials, the valence band match between metal oxides and perovskite layers is usually necessary for the hole extraction process. Ga2O3 is an emerging semiconductor material with ultrawide bandgap, but a significant energy level mismatch exists at Ga2O3/perovskite interfaces. In this work, Cu‐doped Ga2O3 (Ga2O3:Cu) nanocrystals are synthesized by the hydrothermal method and used as the hole transport material of inverted PSCs for the first time. It is found that Cu dopants can substantially improve the performance of Ga2O3 layers, and the efficiency of PSCs is increased from 7.6% to 19.5%. This improvement can be attributed to the additional hole transport channels from impurity levels of Cu dopants, which exactly match with the valence band of perovskite layers. As a consequence, Ga2O3:Cu layers can effectively extract holes and inhibit the recombination in perovskite layers. This work also provides an alternative route for the design of hole transport materials.
Electrochemical Oxidation of Starch Investigated by Single‐Current‐Transition Method
Authors: Zhang Jiaxing , Cao Shengkui , Liu Peng , Shan Zhihua
Published: November 2021

Numerous research has been conducted on starch oxidation, but few reports have described it quantitatively. The oxidation of soluble starch (SS) can be quantitatively determined using a single‐current‐step method, where the aldehyde group content of oxidized starch approaches the maximum value at the voltage jump point. To verify the feasibility of the method, SS electrooxidation and electrochemical synthesis with gelatin (G) are observed and analyzed with reference to voltage changes. As an experimental application, the electrochemical synthesis of SS‐G at varying pH is compared to that of a physical mixture SS+G. According to the changes in the electrosynthesis and differences in the structure and properties of the synthesized products, the single‐current‐step method can be used to distinguish online.
A mutation framework for evaluating security analysis tools in IoT applications
Authors: Alalfi Manar H. , Parveen Sajeda , Nazzal Bara'
Published: November 2021

With the growing and widespread use of Internet of Things (IoT) in our daily life, its security is becoming more crucial. To ensure information security, we require better security analysis tools for IoT applications. Hence, this paper presents an automated framework to evaluate taint‐flow analysis tools in the domain of IoT applications. First, we propose a set of mutational operators tailored to evaluate three types of sensitivity analysis, flow, path and context sensitivity. Then we developed mutators to automatically generate mutants for those types. We demonstrated the framework on a subset of mutational operators to evaluate three taint‐flow analysers, SaINT, Taint‐Things and FlowsMiner. Our framework and experiments ranked the taint analysis tools according to precision and recall as follows: Taint‐Things (99% recall, 100% precision), FlowsMiner (100% recall, 87.6% precision) and SaINT (100% recall, 56.8% precision). To the best of our knowledge, our framework is the first framework to address the need for evaluating taint‐flow analysis tools and specifically those developed for IoT SmartThings applications.
A study of variables that affect the process of sulfate attack of cement‐based materials subjected to stray current
Authors: Wang Baomin , Li Gaonian , Panesar Daman K.
Published: November 2021

Durability is one of the most important considerations for subway structures. However, the cement‐based materials used in subway engineering can be jeopardized by sulfate and the stray current and therefore can be subjected to severe damage during service. This study aims to investigate the degradation process of cement‐based materials exposed to stray current and external sulfate. In particular, the effects of three key variables were evaluated: concentration of external sulfate solution, level of stray current and cement type. After exposure, the visual appearance, compressive strength, SO42−profiles and microstructure of cement‐based materials were analyzed. Moreover, the amounts of degradation products were measured to evaluate the influencing degree of different variables and further explain the degradation mechanisms. Experimental results of this study reveal that (a) sulfate attack was related to the external sulfate concentration, but the relation was changed due to the presence of stray current. One explanation is that sulfate ions can be quickly accumulated in the pores of cement‐based materials under the effect of stray current, which makes the chemical reaction of sulfate attack exchange from diffusion control to reaction control. (b) Stray current could accelerate external sulfate attack of cement‐based materials, and the greater the stray current, the more severe sulfate attack was induced. (c) Compared with P·I type cement, high sulfate resistant (HSR) cement showed a better resistance to external sulfate attack. (iv) And, the main degradation products, ettringite and gypsum, were observed in specimens after exposure. Additionally, stray current might induce the decomposition of ettringite. It should be paid more attention on the durability of cement‐based materials exposed to the coupled conditions of stray current and sulfate.
Inequity in water distribution and quality: A study of mid‐hill town of Nepal
Authors: Maskey Gyanu , Pandey Chandra , Bajracharya Roshan Man , Moncada Stefano
Published: November 2021

Himalayan cities are highly vulnerable to climate change and increasingly exposed to water insecurity. Given the complexities of water usage within society, developing, allocating, and managing water resources equitably is a serious emerging challenge. This paper adopts a convergent mixed method approach to explore water inequity issues in water distribution and water quality among the core and peripheral wards of Dhulikhel, a mid‐hill town of Nepal. In doing so, the paper analyzes the determinants of inequitable water distribution in core and periphery wards, perception of water quality, and underlying causes of inequity in water quality in core and peripheral wards. The paper found that various socioeconomic, environmental, technological, and governance‐related factors are causing inequity in water distribution. Our analysis showed that climate change is adding on top of these existing challenges, exacerbating inequity in access to water. This paper also found that while core wards benefit from donor schemes that ensure good water quality, the peripheral wards do not enjoy the reach of such schemes, and given climate change impacts on rainfall patterns, seasonal availability of water is likely to be unpredictable in the future.
Correction to: Outdoor Learning and Play
Authors: Grindheim Liv Torunn , Sørensen Hanne Værum , Rekers Angela
Published: November 2021

The book was inadvertently published with the “Acknowledgment” section excluded in the chapters.
Multi-scale Inequality and Segregation: Theory and Estimation
Authors: Owen Gwilym , Manley David , Johnston Ron , Birabi Tim , Song Hui , Wang Bifeng
Published: November 2021

Thischapterexploresmulti-scaleestimationmethods as an important future direction for segregation research in China. We explain how these recently developed methods help address many longstanding problems in traditional index-based segregation research and open up new avenues of research on Chinese cities. We explain the conceptual framework underpinning multilevel analysis in the form of a series of propositions that capture the theoretical basis and outline why a multilevel approach to segregation is advantageous. We then illustrate how this approach can be applied to China using census data on Shijiazhuang, the capital city of Hebei Province. We use the model to consider segregation of different ethnic groups and of migrants versus non-migrants. We conclude with a discussion of our findings and our thoughts on future directions for research and the implications for policy.
Renovation of Shantytowns and Construction of New Communities
Authors: Li Guoqing
Published: November 2021

Large-scale shantytown renovation initiated in 2005 has completely changed the living environment of lower-income residents in Chinese cities. It has also brought about great changes in the make-up of urban communities. Over 100 million people now live in newly renovated former shantytowns, creating a new type of communityacross China's cities and towns. This chapter summarises the evolutionary phases in this process, outlining the characteristics and the different models involved. It then uses research from field investigations into four models of shantytown reconstruction to consider changes in social mobility and levels of segregation within the reconstructed communities. It also establishes the more holistic features of these new communities as a model for future development and greater social integration. The process draws on the shared heritage—the ‘roots and souls’—of earlier communities and reshapes ‘shantytown removal’ in a more socially integrated way for the future development of Chinese urban society.
Decision Premises, Learning and Organizational Resilience Addressing Novel Adversities
Authors: Frigotto Maria Laura , Gaio Loris , Narduzzo Alessandro , Zamarian Marco
Published: November 2021

Organizational resilience is traditionally associated with the ability to understand and to respond to the ongoing situation, even under unusual conditions. The capability to detect novel and unexpected situations plays a fundamental role in this process. Following (Simon‚ 1991), we believe that decision premises affect the problem representation and, ultimately, the possibility to detect, interpret and respond to novel situations, thus enhancing resilience. From this perspective, the ability to expand the perceptual limits of observation and to conceive a novel representation of the problem requires revising the initial decision premises. This theory of how organizations learn how to solve novel problems provides the foundation to introduce a role designed to legitimately challenge the decision premises and, ultimately, the spectrum of alternatives that are taken into consideration as possible solutions. To illustrate our proposal to increase organizational resilience, we introduce an exemplary real case stemming from the practice of the emergency management organizations under scrutiny of our research team; this case is reconstructed as a conversational narrative of the two key participants.
Organizational Persistence in Highly Institutionalized Environments: Unpacking the Relation Between Identity and Resilience
Authors: Geschwind Lars , Pinheiro Rómulo , Stensaker Bjørn
Published: November 2021

Despite growing academic interest in understanding the conditions under which resilient organizations adapt to challenging circumstances, little attention to date has been paid to the role played by ‘soft’ factors such as identity as an enabler or property of resilient behaviour. In this chapter, we propose that different forms of legitimacy contribute to the framing of acceptable identities affecting the endurance of central elements over time, thus shaping resilience. By splitting up forms of legitimacy and by analysing elements of organizational identity separately, we provide a novel framework that enables a deeper understanding of identity formation processes in complex environments on the one hand and their links with resilience on the other. Through a historically based analysis of a Nordic university over a 40-year period, we demonstrate the complex, dynamic relationship between external legitimacy, identity adaptation and resilience in the context of organizational transformation. By establishing a link between identity, legitimacy and resilience, the study provides critical insights into the conditions affecting organizational persistence within highly institutionalized organizational fields, such as higher education.
How Interdependence Explains the World of Teamwork
Authors: Johnson Matthew , Bradshaw Jeffrey M.
Published: November 2021

Current attempts to understand human-machine systems are complex and unwieldy. Multiple disciplines throw different concepts and constructs at the problem, but there is no agreed-to framework to assemble these interrelated moving parts into a coherent system. We proposeinterdependenceas the common factor that unifies and explains these moving parts and undergirds the different terms people use to talk about them. In this chapter, we will describe a sound and practical theoretical framework based on interdependence that enables researchers to predict and explain experimental results in terms of interlocking relationships among well-defined operational principles. Our exposition is not intended to be exhaustive, but instead aims to describe the basic principles in a way that allows the gist to be grasped by a broad cross-disciplinary audience through simple illustrations.
The Problem with Universities Today
Authors: Heller Richard Frederick
Published: November 2021

Managerialism creates burdens for academics with no evidence for its benefit. Business imperatives override educational. There is needless competition between universities. Research imperatives override education. Global inequalities in educational need are ignored, universities have not kept up with the way young people gain information and initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of higher education are ‘tinkering’ rather than the required total re-thinking of higher education.
Solutions
Authors: Heller Richard Frederick
Published: November 2021

Universities should develop a system of trust in academic staff to replace managerialism, replace competition with collaboration, and adopt a global perspective to educational inequalities. Three new programmes are proposed. Universities should place education in a framework of environmental sustainability—the Distributed University, moving to online learning which will become the main mode of university education in the future.
Online public discourse on artificial intelligence and ethics in China: context, content, and implications
Authors: Mao Yishu , Shi-Kupfer Kristin
Published: November 2021

The societal and ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI) have sparked discussions among academics, policymakers and the public around the world. What has gone unnoticed so far are the likewise vibrant discussions in China. We analyzed a large sample of discussions about AI ethics on two Chinese social media platforms. Findings suggest that participants were diverse, and included scholars, IT industry actors, journalists, and members of the general public. They addressed a broad range of concerns associated with the application of AI in various fields. Some even gave recommendations on how to tackle these issues. We argue that these discussions are a valuable source for understanding the future trajectory of AI development in China as well as implications for global dialogue on AI governance.
Case study: risk associated to wearing silver or graphene nanoparticle-coated facemasks for protection against COVID-19
Authors: Estevan Carmen , Vilanova Eugenio , Sogorb Miguel A.
Published: November 2021

The world is living a pandemic situation derived from the worldwide spreading of SARS-CoV-2 virus causing COVID-19. Facemasks have proven to be one of the most effective prophylactic measures to avoid the infection that has made that wearing of facemasks has become mandatory in most of the developed countries. Silver and graphene nanoparticles have proven to have antimicrobial properties and are used as coating of these facemasks to increase the effectivity of the textile fibres. In the case of silver nanoparticles, we have estimated that in a real scenario the systemic (internal) exposure derived from wearing these silver nanoparticle facemasks would be between 7.0 × 10–5 and 2.8 × 10–4 mg/kg bw/day. In addition, we estimated conservative systemic no effect levels between 0.075 and 0.01 mg/kg bw/day. Therefore, we estimate that the chronic exposure to silver nanoparticles derived form facemasks wearing is safe. In the case of graphene, we detected important gaps in the database, especially regarding toxicokinetics, which prevents the derivation of a systemic no effect level. Nevertheless, the qualitative approach suggests that the risk of dermal repeated exposure to graphene is very low, or even negligible. We estimated that for both nanomaterials, the risk of skin sensitisation and genotoxicity is also negligible.
Radiosynthesis and characterization of [18F]BS224: a next-generation TSPO PET ligand insensitive to the rs6971 polymorphism
Authors: Lee Sang Hee , Denora Nunzio , Laquintana Valentino , Mangiatordi Giuseppe Felice , Lopedota Angela , Lopalco Antonio , Cutrignelli Annalisa , Franco Massimo , Delre Pietro , Song In Ho , Kim Hye Won , Kim Su Bin , Park Hyun Soo , Kim Kyungmin , Lee Seok-Yong , Youn Hyewon , Lee Byung Chul , Kim Sang Eun
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Translocator protein 18-kDa (TSPO) positron emission tomography (PET) is a valuable tool to detect neuroinflammed areas in a broad spectrum of neurodegenerative diseases. However, the clinical application of second-generation TSPO ligands as biomarkers is limited because of the presence of human rs6971 polymorphism that affects their binding. Here, we describe the ability of a new TSPO ligand, [18F]BS224, to identify abnormal TSPO expression in neuroinflammation independent of the rs6971 polymorphism.

Methods

An in vitro competitive inhibition assay of BS224 was conducted with [3H]PK 11195 using membrane proteins isolated from 293FT cells expressing TSPO-wild type (WT) or TSPO-mutant A147T (Mut), corresponding to a high-affinity binder (HAB) and low-affinity binder (LAB), respectively. Molecular docking was performed to investigate the interaction of BS224 with the binding sites of rat TSPO-WT and TSPO-Mut. We synthesized a new 18F-labeled imidazopyridine acetamide ([18F]BS224) using boronic acid pinacol ester 6 or iodotoluene tosylate precursor 7, respectively, via aromatic 18F-fluorination. Dynamic PET scanning was performed up to 90 min after the injection of [18F]BS224 to healthy mice, and PET imaging data were obtained to estimate its absorbed doses in organs. To evaluate in vivo TSPO-specific uptake of [18F]BS224, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory and ischemic stroke rat models were used.

Results

BS224 exhibited a high affinity (Ki = 0.51 nM) and selectivity for TSPO. The ratio of IC50 values of BS224 for LAB to that for HAB indicated that the TSPO binding affinity of BS224 has low binding sensitivity to the rs6971 polymorphism and it was comparable to that of PK 11195, which is not sensitive to the polymorphism. Docking simulations showed that the binding mode of BS224 is not affected by the A147T mutation and consequently supported the observed in vitro selectivity of [18F]BS224 regardless of polymorphisms. With optimal radiochemical yield (39 ± 6.8%, decay-corrected) and purity (> 99%), [18F]BS224 provided a clear visible image of the inflammatory lesion with a high signal-to-background ratio in both animal models (BPND = 1.43 ± 0.17 and 1.57 ± 0.37 in the LPS-induced inflammatory and ischemic stroke rat models, respectively) without skull uptake.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that [18F]BS224 may be a promising TSPO ligand to gauge neuroinflammatory disease-related areas in a broad range of patients irrespective of the common rs6971 polymorphism.
Candida periprosthetic joint infections — risk factors and outcome between albicans and non-albicans strains
Authors: Karczewski Daniel , Ren Yi , Andronic Octavian , Akgün Doruk , Perka Carsten , Müller Michael , Kienzle Arne
Published: November 2021

Background

Despite its scarcity, fungal periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is of great clinical relevance as diagnosis and treatment are highly challenging. Previous analyses focused on the treatment rather than the role of the causative fungal agent on clinical outcome. This is the largest study of its kind to evaluate Candida strain–dependent differences in patients with fungal PJI.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 29 patients who underwent surgical intervention due to Candida hip or knee PJI in our department from 2010 to 2018. PJI was defined according to IDSA, recurrent PJI according to modified Delphi consensus criteria. Statistical analysis was performed using t-test, chi-square test with Yates correction, and log rank test.

Results

Besides age and affected joint, no significant differences were found between Candida albicans and non-albicans PJI patients (75.83 versus 64.11 years, p = 0.012; 12 hip versus two knee cases, p = 0.013). Most patients received two- (27.59%) or three-stage exchange surgery (41.38%). There was a statistical trend towards an increase in surgery needed in non-albicans Candida PJI (2.92 versus 2.12; p = 0.103). After initial Candida PJI treatment, functional prosthesis implantation was achieved in 72.41% of all patients. At last follow-up, infection-free survival was at 26.79% in Candida albicans versus 72.00% in non-albicans PJI (p = 0.046).

Conclusions

In this study, we found infection-free survival rates to be significantly decreased in patients with albicans compared to non-albicans Candida PJI. While age and affected joint might play a confounding role, we speculate the causative pathogen to play a decisive role in disease progression.
Redefining resection margins and dissection planes in perihilar cholangiocarcinoma—radical resection is a rare event
Authors: D’Souza Melroy A , Al-Saffar Hasan Ahmad , Fernández Moro Carlos , Shtembari Sonia , Danielsson Olof , Sparrelid Ernesto , Sturesson Christian
Published: November 2021

Radical tumor resection (pR0) is prognostic for disease-free and overall survival after resection of perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (pCCA). However, no universal agreement exists on the definition of radical resection and histopathological reporting. The aim of this study was to provide a standardized protocol for histopathological assessment and reporting of the surgical specimen obtained after resection for pCCA. All consecutive patients operated for pCCA with curative intent at the Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden between 2012 and 2021 were included. A standardized protocol for histopathological assessment and reporting of the surgical specimen after liver resection for pCCA is presented. A detailed mapping of the transection margins and dissection planes was performed. The results of applying different existing pR0 definitions were compared. Sixty-eight patients with pCCA were included. Five transection margins and two dissection planes were defined. By defining pR0 as cancer-free margins and planes tolerating distances <1mm, the pR0 rate was 66%. However, when pR0 was set as >1mm from invasive cancer to all resection margins and dissection planes, the pR0 rate fell to 16%. This study supports the use of thorough and standardized pathological handling, assessment and reporting of resection margins and dissection planes of surgical specimens of pCCA.
Racial and Ethnic Differences in Falls Among Older Adults: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Wehner-Hewson Natasha , Watts Paul , Buscombe Richard , Bourne Nicholas , Hewson David
Published: November 2021

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine whether differences in reported fall rates exist between different ethnic groups. Searches were carried out on four databases: Medline, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Scopus, and Web of Science. Only English language studies with community-dwelling participants aged 60 + years were included. Studies also needed to compare fall prevalence for at least two or more ethnic groups. Two reviewers independently screened all articles and evaluated study quality. Twenty-three articles were included for systematic review, and meta-analyses were carried out on the 16 retrospective studies that reported falls in the previous 12 months. The Asian group demonstrated significantly lower fall prevalence than all other ethnic groups at 13.89% (10.87, 16.91). The Hispanic group had a fall prevalence of 18.54% (12.95, 24.13), closely followed by the Black group at 18.60% (13.27, 23.93). The White group had the highest prevalence at 23.77% (18.66, 28.88). Some studies provided adjusted estimates of effect statistics for the odds/risk of falls, which showed that differences still existed between some ethnic groups even after adjusting for other risk factors. Overall, differences in fall prevalence do appear to exist between different ethnic groups, although the reasons for these differences currently remain undetermined and require further investigation. These findings highlight the need to provide more ethnically tailored responses to public health challenges, which could potentially increase the adherence to prevention interventions, and allow for a more targeted use of resources.
Testing pigeon control efficiency by different methods in urban industrial areas, Hungary
Authors: Teffo Thabang Rainett , Fuszonecker Gergő , Katona Krisztián
Published: November 2021

The development of cities and urban sprawl has made room for wildlife inhabiting human environments. Among birds, feral pigeons (Columba livia domestica) are often present in large numbers in the cities. Problems related to pigeon occurrence result in economic loss and health issues for humans. There are different methods of controlling pigeon populations in urban areas. In this study, we compared three techniques that can be used for pigeon pest control. In two urban industrial sites in Hungary, we used trapping, falconry (in both Study Area 1 and 2) and mist-netting (only in Study Area 2) to remove pigeons. We compared the effectiveness and limitations of each method. Our results show that over 105 days in Study Area 1, we managed to remove 173 individual pigeons. We did not find a significant difference between the effectiveness of trapping or falconry. In Study Area 2, the overall number of pigeons removed was 1412 over a period of 150 days. There, we managed to catch significantly more birds by netting than by trapping or falconry, but the latter two did not differ statistically. We recommend a combination of techniques for pigeon control. Mist-netting can be the most effective way for direct pigeon removal, whereas trapping is an easier but less efficient method to catch pigeons. Falconry is the least efficient in pigeon catching and requires the most investments, but the bird of prey may chase the pigeons away for a short time.
The Benefits and Costs of Automotive Regulations for Low-Income Americans
Authors: Conrad Kylie , Graham John D.
Published: November 2021

Benefit-cost analyses of regulations address Kaldor-Hicks efficiency but rarely investigate the distribution of benefits and costs as experienced by low-income households. In order to fill this gap, this article assembles the available evidence to determine how regulations of the automobile industry may impact the well-being of low-income Americans. The scope of the investigation includes air pollution, safety and fuel-economy regulations. We find that performing benefit-cost analyses for low-income households is more challenging than commonly understood. Given the difficulties in completing distributional analysis with available information, the authors offer practical suggestions on how to change the federal data systems and the rulemaking process to ensure that information is collected about how future automobile regulations impact the well-being of the poor.
La Gruta de Intihuasi como sitio patrimonial: Devenir histórico y lineamientos para un plan de gestión integral
Authors: Endere María Luz , Heider Guillermo , Chaparro María Gabriela , Giacomasso María Vanesa
Published: November 2021

Se presentan y discuten los lineamientos de un plan de gestión para la Gruta de Intihuasi, provincia de San Luis, Argentina, en el marco de tres contextos. En el primero se analiza el devenir histórico del sitio a partir de su descubrimiento científico y su construcción como entidad patrimonial hasta la actualidad, cuando es reposicionado en la agenda política y nuevas investigaciones reactivan su potencial arqueológico. En el segundo contexto se enmarca el caso dentro de los debates teóricos actuales en Sudamérica vinculados a la gestión del patrimonio arqueológico. En el tercero se presentan los mecanismos de gestión aplicados a los sitios arqueológicos más conocidos de Argentina. En este marco se exponen los nuevos lineamientos diseñados por este equipo, que parten de un diagnóstico y una declaración de significación cultural de Intihuasi basada en las valoraciones de los diferentes grupos de interés implicados. Los lineamientos estructurados en ocho grandes objetivos y sus correspondientes propuestas de acción, están orientados a atender las cuestiones e inquietudes recogidas durante el trabajo de campo y dar una respuesta integral para la recuperación de Intihuasi como paisaje de valor natural, cultural y social, al mismo tiempo que puede servir de ejemplo o inspiración a otros sitios de Argentina o América.
Glacial deposits and landforms at the terminus of a Laurentide ice stream, Oneida Lake, New York, from multichannel seismic reflection data
Authors: Zaremba Nicholas , Scholz Christopher A.
Published: November 2021

The deglaciation record of the Ontario Lowland and Mohawk Valley of North America is important for constraining the retreat history of the Laurentide Ice Sheet, end-Pleistocene paleoclimate, and ice-sheet processes. The Mohawk Valley was an important meltwater drainage route during the last deglaciation, with the area around modern Oneida Lake acting as a valve for meltwater discharge into the North Atlantic Ocean. The Mohawk Valley was occupied by the Oneida Lobe and Oneida Ice Stream during the last deglacial period. Multichannel seismic reflection data can be used to generate images of preglacial surfaces and internal structures of glacial bedforms and proglacial lake deposits, thus contributing to studies of deglaciation. This paper uses 217 km of offshore multichannel seismic reflection data to image the entire Quaternary section of the Oneida basin. A proglacial lake and paleo-calving margin is interpreted, which likely accelerated the Oneida Ice Stream, resulting in elongated bedforms observed west of the lake. The glacial bedforms identified in this study are buried by proglacial lake deposits, indicating the Oneida basin contains a record of glacial meltwater processes, including a 60-m-thick proglacial interval in eastern Oneida Lake.
Population dynamics and diversity of trematode infections inBithynia siamensis goniomphalosin an irrigated area in northeast Thailand
Authors: Kopolrat Kulthida Y. , Sithithaworn Paiboon , Kiatsopit Nadda , Namsanor Jutamas , Pitaksakulrat Opal , Yasaka Patiwat , Saichua Prasert , Saijuntha Weerachai , Tesana Smarn , Andrews Ross H. , Petney Trevor N.
Published: November 2021

Several trematodes includingOpisthorchis viverriniutilizeBithynia siamensis goniomphalosas a snail intermediate host in their life cycles. In order to capture a comprehensive range of host–parasite interactions and their transmission dynamic patterns,B. s. goniomphaloswere sampled monthly over 4 consecutive years in an irrigated paddy-field habitat in northeast Thailand. Using a standard cercarial shedding method, a high diversity of trematodes (17 types) was recovered. Virgulate xiphidiocercariae were the most prevalent (7.84%) followed byO. viverrini(0.71%). In addition to seasonal and environmental factors, the quantity of irrigation water for rice cultivation correlated with transmission dynamics of trematodes inB. s. goniomphalos. The peak prevalence of all trematode infections combined in the snails shifted from the cool-dry season in 2010–2012 to the hot-dry season in 2013 associated with an increasing quantity of water irrigation. A low frequency of mixed trematode infections was found, indicating that the emergence of virgulate cercariae, but not ofO. viverrini, was negatively impacted by the presence of other trematodes in the same snail. Taken together, the observed results suggest that interactions between host and parasite, and hence transmission dynamics, depend on specific characteristics of the parasite and environmental factors including irrigated water for rice cultivation.
Observational Knowledge of Motions in the Solar Atmosphere
Authors: Michard R.
Published: November 2021

The discovery of oscillatory motion in the solar photosphere and of the ‘super-granulation’ in the chromosphere has changed our ideas about the hydrodynamics of the solar atmosphere considerably. In this Joint Discussion we shall mainly consider the theoretical implications of this change. As the ultimate aim is an understanding of the hydrodynamics in all stellar atmospheres—not only in the Sun, some discussion of other stellar atmospheres will be included.
Importance, Fame, and Death
Authors: Kahane Guy
Published: November 2021

Some people want their lives to possess importance on a large scale. Some crave fame, or at least wide recognition. And some even desire glory that will only be realised after their death. Such desires are either ignored or disparaged by many philosophers. However, although few of us have a real shot at importance and fame on any grand scale, these can be genuine personal goods when they meet certain further conditions. Importance that relates to positive impact and reflects our agency answers a distinctive existential concern for one's life to matter. And since what is important merits wide appreciation, the step from wanting to be significant and wanting that significance widely appreciated is small. Still, desires for importance and fame can take a more vicious character when they are not properly structured, and when they are not dominated by more impartial aims. If we accept the personal value of importance and fame, it is hard to see why that value cannot extend beyond our death. The temporal distribution of glory is actually irrelevant to its value. But it is also a mistake to identify a concern with posthumous glory with the wish to leave a trace after our death.
Desirability without Desire: Life Extension, Boredom and Spiritual Experience
Authors: Chastain Drew
Published: November 2021

In response to Bernard Williams’ suspicion that we would inevitably become bored with immortal life, John Martin Fischer has argued that we could continue to enjoy repeatable pleasures such as fine wine, beautiful music, and spiritual experiences. In more recent work on near-death experiences, Fischer has also explored the non-religious meaning of spiritual experiences in more depth. I join this deeper exploration of spiritual experience, and I also join Williams’ critics who question his view that character and desire are needed to explain the desirability of life, while providing additional reason for concern that Williams’ way of valuing life may itself actually be a cause of boredom with life. With an eye to spiritual experience, I indicate how we can distance ourselves even further from Williams’ view, and I suggest how the attitude thatlife is good but death is not bademerges from spiritual experience, as expressed in numerous religious and secular spiritual traditions. This lends support to the conclusion that radically extended life is desirable even if not actively desired.
‘Creatures of a Day’: Contingency, Mortality, and Human Limits
Authors: Carel Havi
Published: November 2021

This paper offers a nexus of terms – mortality, limits, contingency and vulnerability – painting a picture of human life as marked by limitation and finitude. I suggest that limitations of possibility, capacity, and resource are deep features of human life, but not only restrict it. Limits are also the conditions of possibility for human life and as such have productive, normative, and creative powers that not only delimit life but also scaffold growth and transformation within it. The paper takes a less known interpretation of the term ‘ephēmeros', to mean ‘of the day', rather than ‘short-lived' and suggests that as ephemeral, human life is contingent and mutable, subject to events beyond our control. However, virtue can still be exercised – indeed, can be exuberantly displayed – when we respond to contingent events marked by adversity.
The Reason for Miracles and the Miracles in Reason: Kant’s Practical Conception of Miracles
Authors: Kravitz Amit
Published: November 2021

The term ‘miracle’ generally refers to events that are not explicable by natural causes alone. Kant’s notion of miracles is usually understood along these lines. However, Kant’s occupation with miracles should be understood in a practical context. Belief in miracles plays a constitutive role in Kant’s philosophy of religion concerning the need to strengthen the will both before and after departing from original evil. I demonstrate how my argument sheds new light on Kant’s claim that theoretical reason precludes the possibility of material miracles.
Vernetztes Teammitglied oder isolierte Führungsperson?
Authors: Bahn Mareike , Weihrather Christoph , Lohse-Bossenz Hendrik
Published: November 2021

Zusammenfassung. Der Beitrag präsentiert Ergebnisse einer netzwerkanalytischen Betrachtung relationaler Beziehungsstrukturen in Kindertageseinrichtungen (Kitas) bezüglich der Position von Leitungskräften, um Kooperationsstrukturen innerhalb von Teams zu verdeutlichen. Zwei zentrale Aufgabengebiete von Leitungskräften in Kitas wurden dabei betrachtet: die fachliche und organisatorische Gestaltung pädagogischer Arbeit. Die Darstellung der Beziehungsstrukturen in den Kitas erfolgte mittels der Methode der sozialen Netzwerkanalyse (SNA). Die Vernetzung der jeweiligen Teammitglieder sowie die Position der Leitungskräfte konnten mit netzwerkanalytischen Maßzahlen quantifiziert und visualisiert werden. Datengrundlage bildet eine schriftliche Netzwerkbefragung von zehn Kitas. Die Ergebnisse zeigen erstens, dass die Kitaleitungen Hauptansprechpersonen für organisatorische und fachliche Angelegenheiten für ihre Mitarbeitenden sind. Zweitens deuten die Ergebnisse darauf hin, dass Leitungen mit Freistellung häufiger in organisatorischen als fachlichen Fragen konsultiert werden als Leitungskräfte, die nicht vom Gruppendienst freigestellt sind. Die Erkenntnisse geben Anlass dazu, Leitungskonzepte von Kita-Trägern zu diskutieren. Deutlich wurde auch das große Potenzial der SNA für Forschungsvorhaben im frühpädagogischen Bereich.
Kita-Leitung in der Pandemie – Belastungen und Chancen
Authors: Oeltjendiers Laura , Dederer Verena , Rauscher-Laheij Ilja , Broda-Kaschube Beatrix
Published: November 2021

Zusammenfassung. Die Ausbreitung der Corona-Pandemie stellte den Kita-Alltag unerwartet vor neue Herausforderungen. Im Rahmen einer breit angelegten Studie wurden 3996 Leitungskräfte aus Kindertageseinrichtungen in Bayern zur aktuellen Situation und ihrem individuellen Leitungshandeln befragt. Ein Großteil der befragten Leitungen stellte fest, dass die Pandemie mehr Führungsqualitäten erforderte, eine erhöhte Aufgabenvielfalt und veränderte Aufgabenschwerpunkte mit sich brachte und dass die Arbeitsbelastung anstieg. Als Bedingungsfaktoren für die Arbeitsbelastung konnten das Teamklima, die Zusammenarbeit mit dem Träger und eine gestiegene Verantwortungsübernahme ermittelt werden. Es zeigte sich aber auch, dass Leitungen Mut und Offenheit bewiesen, organisatorische und pädagogische Alltagsstrukturen und Abläufe zu hinterfragen, und die Pandemie als Chance nutzen wollten, um dauerhaft Veränderungsprozesse im Kita-Alltag zu initiieren.
On the Controlling Factors for Globally Extreme Humid Heat
Authors: Raymond Colin , Matthews Tom , Horton Radley M. , Fischer Erich M. , Fueglistaler Stephan , Ivanovich Catherine , Suarez‐Gutierrez Laura , Zhang Yi
Published: November 2021

Humid heat presents a major societal challenge through its impacts on human health, energy demand, and economic productivity, underlined by the projected emergence of conditions beyond human tolerance. However, systematic assessment of what drives the most extreme humid heat worldwide has been lacking. Here, we investigate factors determining the location and magnitude of humid‐heat extremes, framing our analysis around the four regions with the highest values: the southern Persian Gulf, north‐central Pakistan, eastern South Asia, and the western Amazon. We find that strong boundary‐layer moisture fluxes, together with stability that inhibits moist convection, explain well the timing and location of near‐surface humid‐heat extremes. These favorable conditions are achieved through regionally distinct factors, including shallow sea breezes in the Persian Gulf and large‐scale subsidence in eastern South Asia. Our results demonstrate some of the principal controls on the most intense humid heat, both globally and for particular regions and heat events.