bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The right thing to do or the smart thing to do? How communicating moral or business motives for diversity affects the employment image of Dutch public and private sector organizations
Authors: Jansen Wiebren S. , Kröger Charlotte , Van der Toorn Jojanneke , Ellemers Naomi
Published: June 2021

Many organizations have diversity statements in place in which they publicly declare their appreciation of and commitment to workforce diversity. These statements can either contain moral motives (e.g., “diversity reduces social inequalities”), business motives (e.g., “diversity enhances innovation”), or a combination of moral and business motives. In a desk study involving 182 Dutch organizations, we found that (a) private sector organizations more often than public sector organizations communicate business motives, (b) that public and private sector organizations are equally likely to communicate moral motives, and (c) that public sector organizations more frequently than private sector organizations communicate a combination of moral and business motives. Next, we used an experimental design to examine the causal influence of communicating different diversity motives on organizations' employment image (i.e., perceptions of organizational morality, competence, and attractiveness) among prospective employees (n = 393). Here, we used a scenario in which a healthcare organization was portrayed as either a public or a private sector organization and communicated either only moral motives, only business motives or a combination of moral and business motives for diversity. We found that for a public sector organization communicating moral instead of business motives for valuing diversity induced a more favorable employment image. For a private sector organization, there were no differences in employment image depending on the motive communicated. Together, these two studies shed new light on the role of diversity motives in establishing a positive employment image.
Mandatory vaccination support and intentions to get vaccinated for COVID‐19: Results from a nationally representative general population survey in October 2020 in Greece
Authors: Giannouchos Theodoros V. , Steletou Evaggelia , Saridi Maria , Souliotis Kyriakos
Published: June 2021

Objectives

To explore rates and factors associated with mandatory vaccination support overall and intentions to get vaccinated specifically for COVID‐19 among individuals in Greece.

Methods

Using data from a nationally representative cross‐sectional survey conducted in October 2020 among 855 adults (≥18 years) in Greece, we estimated support rates for mandatory vaccination and respondents' intention to get vaccinated for COVID‐19 as well as associations thereof with individual sociodemographic, clinical and contextual characteristics.

Results

About 74% of respondents supported mandatory vaccination and 62% intended to get vaccinated for COVID‐19. The most prevalent reasons against COVID‐19 vaccination were safety concerns related to the duration of clinical trials and potential side effects. Individuals who reported increased trust in healthcare authorities' recommendations, who revealed that their trust in the State increased due to the way the COVID‐19 pandemic was handled, who used preventive services more often, and those with higher income were more likely to both support mandatory vaccination and to indicate intention to get vaccinated for COVID‐19. Participants with worse or better self‐reported health status (compared to average), younger adults, and females were less likely to intend to get vaccinated for COVID‐19.

Conclusion

The survey revealed that the majority of the Greek citizens favour mandatory vaccination overall and intend to get vaccinated for COVID‐19, driven mostly by utilization of preventive services and trust in healthcare authorities. However, intention to get vaccinated for COVID‐19 was lower relative to mandatory vaccination support. This suggests a need to intensify evidence‐based yet simplified messaging by esteemed healthcare providers to inform the public on the risks and benefits of vaccines.
Retrospective review of Kawasaki disease at the Women's and Children's Hospital, South Australia
Authors: Davidson Hannah , Kelly Andrew , Agrawal Rishi
Published: June 2021

Aim

Kawasaki disease (KD) is one of the most common causes of acquired cardiac disease in children in high‐income countries. The incidence of coronary artery disease (CAD), despite treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin, ranges from 5 to 20%. Determining risk factors for CAD may assist with management and reduce long‐term complications.

Methods

Retrospective data were collected for all patients presenting to the Women's and Children's Hospital with a discharge diagnosis of KD over a 10.5‐year period, from 2007 to 2018.

Results

A total of 141 patients were included in the review; 101 patients fulfilled complete criteria for KD; 25 incomplete criteria and 15 did not meet criteria but were treated for KD. CAD was present in 27.7% of all patients, ranging from ectasia to giant aneurysms based on Z‐scores and echocardiogram descriptions. Medium to large aneurysms accounted for 8.5% of all patients with suspected KD. Patients with CAD were more likely to: fulfil incomplete criteria (odds ratio (OR) 4.3, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.7–10.8, P = 0.0027), be less than 12 months of age (OR 11.38, 95% CI 2.94–44.11, P = 0.0001), have CRP > 100 (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.31–6.02, P = 0.0068) and have a delay in treatment (average day of illness prior to treatment 8.89 vs. 6.78 (OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.05–1.35, P = 0.0055)). Patients with a Kobayashi score ≥4 had a higher rate of re‐treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (OR 3.16, 95% CI 1.27–7.83, P = 0.013).

Conclusion

Our data are consistent with previously reported risk factors, and high rates of CAD despite standard treatment.
Infant feeding practices among macrosomic infants: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Davie Philippa , Bick Debra , Pasupathy Dharmintra , Norton Sam , Chilcot Joseph
Published: June 2021

The health benefits of breastfeeding are well recognised, but breastfeeding rates worldwide remain suboptimal. Breastfeeding outcomes have yet to be explored among women who give birth to macrosomic (birthweight ≥4000 g) infants, a cohort for whom the benefits of breastfeeding may be particularly valuable, offering protection against later‐life morbidity associated with macrosomia. This longitudinal prospective cohort study aimed to identify whether women who give birth to macrosomic infants are at greater risk of breastfeeding non‐initiation or exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) cessation. A total of 328 women in their third trimester were recruited from hospital and community settings and followed to 4 months post‐partum. Women gave birth to 104 macrosomic and 224 non‐macrosomic (<4000 g) infants between 2018 and 2020. Longitudinal logistic regression models calculated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to assess likelihood of EBF at four timepoints post‐partum (birth, 2 weeks, 8 weeks, and 4 months) between women who gave birth to macrosomic and non‐macrosomic infants, adjusted for maternal risk (obesity and/or diabetes), ethnicity and mode of birth. Macrosomic infants were more likely to be exclusively breastfed at birth and 2 weeks post‐partum than non‐macrosomic infants with adjusted OR = 1.94 (95% CI: 0.90, 4.18; p = 0.089) and 2.13 (95% CI: 1.11, 4.06; p = 0.022), respectively. There were no statistically significant associations between macrosomia and EBF at 8 weeks or 4 months post‐partum. Macrosomia may act as a protective factor against early formula‐milk supplementation, increasing the likelihood of EBF in the early post‐partum period, but rates of exclusive breastfeeding continued to decline over the first 4 months post‐partum.
South Africa's Health Promotion Levy: Excise tax findings and equity potential
Authors: Hofman Karen J. , Stacey Nicholas , Swart Elizabeth C. , Popkin Barry M. , Ng Shu Wen
Published: June 2021

In 2016, the South African government proposed a 20% sugar‐sweetened beverage (SSB) tax. Protracted consultations with beverage manufacturers and the sugar industry followed. This resulted in a lower sugar‐based beverage tax, the Health Promotion Levy (HPL), of approximately 10% coming into effect in April 2018. We provide a synthesis of findings until April 2021. Studies show that despite the lower rate, purchases of unhealthy SSBs and sugar intake consumption from SSBs fell. There were greater reductions in SSB purchases among both lower socioeconomic groups and in subpopulations with higher SSB consumption. These subpopulations bear larger burdens from obesity and related diseases, suggesting that this policy improves health equity. The current COVID‐19 pandemic has impacted food and nutritional security. Increased pandemic mortality among people with obesity, diabetes, and hypertension highlight the importance of intersectoral public health disease‐prevention policies like the HPL, which should be strengthened.
Toxic epidermal necrolysis and Stevens‐Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis overlap in pediatric patients with a focus on newer antiepileptic drugs: A 25‐year retrospective study at a single tertiary care center
Authors: Gleghorn Kristyna L. , Voigt Charles , Kelly Brent
Published: June 2021

Background

Stevens‐Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis Syndrome (TEN) are rare immune‐mediated diseases. Extensive research on adult triggers of SJS and TEN is available; however, research in children is more limited.

Objective

We sought to investigate and report the experience with pediatric SJS and TEN in our center, identifying associated medications.

Methods

A retrospective review from 1990 to 2015 at the Shriner's Burn Hospital in Galveston, Texas was performed to identify patients diagnosed with SJS, SJS/TEN overlap, and TEN. Data pertaining to demographic characteristics, medical history, physical exam, treatment, and outcomes were collected.

Results

We identified SJS/TEN overlap or TEN in 51 patients. Antiepileptic drugs were the most common group of causative agents, closely followed by antibiotics. The most common causative agents were trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole, phenytoin, and lamotrigine used concomitantly with valproic acid. Newer generation agents, with the definition of agents approved after 1990, were the cause in 13/51 (25.5%) cases. Newer generation agents included lamotrigine, clobazam, and zonisamide. Seven patients died, resulting in a 13.7% mortality rate. Renal failure, liver failure, sepsis, and gastrointestinal involvement each had a statistically significant association with mortality. SCORTEN was statistically significantly greater in patients who died compared to children who lived (3 vs 2).

Limitations

This is a retrospective study.

Conclusion

Three drugs introduced into the market since 1990 have emerged as causes of SJS/TEN overlap and TEN: lamotrigine, clobazam, and zonisamide. These medications are being used more widely to treat seizures, as well as mood disorders. It is also important for clinicians to be aware of the extremely commonly used medications such as amoxicillin, tetracyclines, NSAIDs, and acetaminophen that can rarely cause SJS and TEN.
Anogenital warts and relationship to child sexual abuse: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Awasthi Smita , Ornelas Jennifer , Armstrong April , Johnson Jennifer A. , Eisen Daniel B.
Published: June 2021

Background/Objectives

In children, distinguishing anogenital warts (AGW) acquired innocently from those acquired by child sexual abuse (CSA) is challenging. High‐quality studies examining this relationship are sparse. Here, we sought to evaluate the association between AGW and sexual abuse in children 12 years of age and younger with respect to wart location, age, and gender.

Methods

A systematic review of Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science was performed for studies published on or before 2/16/2018. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they contained at least 10 patients 12 years old and younger and reported the number of patients who were sexually abused. The principal summary measures were the odds ratios (OR) of reported CSA with respect to subject age, wart location, and gender.

Results

Three hundred twenty‐seven studies were identified through record search. Twenty five were included in a summary synthesis (791 subjects); 10 were included in the final statistical analysis (199 subjects). In our overall review, 102 of 468 (21%) females and 36 of 204 (18%) males with AGW were abused or probably abused. Overlapping HPV types were found in abused and non‐abused subjects. Perianal location and gender were not significant predictors of abuse. Both age and genital wart location (penis, vulva) did significantly predict CSA (α = .05). The odds ratio for sexual abuse of children aged 3‐4 years was 7.45; 6.52 for ages 5‐8 years; and 6.93 for ages 9‐12 years compared to those 0‐2 years of age. Genital location was associated with an OR of CSA of 5.93.

Conclusions

Our systematic review supports a significant association between AGW in a child greater than 2 years of age and odds of CSA. Genital wart location significantly predicts CSA as well. HPV typing is not a reliable method to ascertain CSA. Male family members and acquaintances were the most likely perpetrators of abuse.
Genetic diversity and population structure of Acidovorax avenae subsp. avenae isolated from sugarcane in Argentina
Authors: Bertani Romina P. , Perera Maria F. , Joya Constanza M. , Henriquez Diego D. , Funes Claudia , Chaves Solana , González Victoria , Welin Bjorn , Cuenya María I. , Castagnaro Atilio P.
Published: June 2021

A significant increase in the occurrence of red stripe (caused by Acidovorax avenae subsp. avenae) has been observed in the last decade in Argentina. Considering that no extensive sampling of the main sugarcane‐producing area in the country has been conducted to characterize the diversity and population structure of A. avenae subsp. avenae, molecular markers were employed to analyse 112 isolates from Tucumán. By using repetitive element polymorphism‐based polymerase chain reaction (rep‐PCR) almost all isolates were differentiated and grouped into 10 clusters, revealing a high genetic diversity. Using the amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) technique, five pairs of isolates were discriminated that could not be distinguished with rep‐PCR. Cluster analysis showed no clear association between isolate clustering, sugarcane host genotype, crop age, type of tissue sampled, fertilization, or year of sampling. Linkage equilibrium analysis by using rep‐PCR data indicated that the population has some degree of clonality. Three housekeeping genes were also sequenced: ugpB and pilT sequences were highly similar to A. avenae subsp. avenae sequences from other Argentinian isolates, whereas the lepA sequence did not reveal significant similarity. An additional four housekeeping genes could not be amplified, suggesting the existence of differences in those regions. Subsequently, virulence of 14 A. avenae subsp. avenae isolates was evaluated under controlled conditions. Results showed a differential level of aggressiveness among the isolates on a resistant sugarcane variety. This study confirmed that rep‐PCR is an adequate tool for genetic analysis and population structure characterization in bacteria, and revealed both high genetic diversity and clonal population structure of A. avenae subsp. avenae in Tucumán, Argentina.
Dancing with wolves: how R&D human capital can benefit from coopetition
Authors: Vlaisavljevic Vesna , Gopalakrishnan Shanthi , Zhang Haisu , Cabello‐Medina Carmen , Guilbault Melodi
Published: June 2021

This research examines the impact of coopetition (i.e., competitor alliances) on the development of internal R&D human capital. The study was conducted using survey data from 111 biotech firms in Spain and United States. Results show a mediation relationship: coopetition increases a firm’s internal R&D human capital via its proactiveness to pursue R&D partnerships. To further examine the link between competitor alliances and R&D partnerships, we also investigate the role of two moderators, alliance satisfaction and alliance coordination. We argue that the two factors exert opposite moderation effects on the relationship between coopetition and proactiveness to pursue R&D partnerships. Results demonstrate that when a firm and its alliance partners are satisfied with each other, the effect of coopetition on proactiveness decreases, but the moderation effect of alliance coordination, though predicted to be in the opposite direction, is not significant.
Externalities of economic sanctions on performance of intra‐industry non‐sanctioned firms: Evidence from Zimbabwe
Authors: Sun Jie , Makosa Lewis , Yang Jinkun , Yin Fangyuan , Jachi Moses , Bonga Wellington Garikai
Published: June 2021

This paper investigates the effect of targeted economic sanctions by the United States and the European Union on the performance of intra‐industry non‐sanctioned firms. Using data of non‐sanctioned firms listed on the Zimbabwe stock exchange during the period 2009–2018, our regression results show that non‐sanctioned firms in the same industry as sanctioned firms perform better than ordinary non‐sanctioned firms, signalling the positive competitive effect. A mediating test suggests that sanctions increase the market share of non‐sanctioned firms in the same industry as sanctioned firms and subsequently increase their performance.
Parental suicide attempt and subsequent risk of pre‐enlistment suicide attempt among male and female new soldiers in the U.S. Army
Authors: Wang Jing , Naifeh James A. , Mash Holly B. Herberman , Morganstein Joshua C. , Fullerton Carol S. , Cozza Stephen J. , Stein Murray B. , Ursano Robert J.
Published: June 2021

Objective

Suicide and suicide attempts among U.S. Army soldiers are a significant concern for public health. This study examined the association of parental suicide attempt prior to age 13 of the soldier with subsequent risk of pre‐enlistment suicide attempt.

Method

We conducted secondary analyses of survey data from new soldiers who participated in the Army Study to Assess Risk and Resilience in Servicemembers (Army STARRS) (N = 38,396). A series of logistic regression analyses were conducted.

Results

Of all new soldiers, 1.4% reported that they attempted suicide between age 13 and entering the Army, and 2.3% reported a parental suicide attempt prior to age 13. Parental suicide attempt was associated with increased odds of subsequent suicide attempt; however, this association was moderated by gender and was significant only among male soldiers. The association between parental suicide attempt and pre‐enlistment suicide attempt among male soldiers was still significant after controlling for socio‐demographic characteristics, soldier/parental psychopathology, and childhood adversities.

Conclusions

These results highlight parental suicide attempt as a unique pre‐enlistment risk factor for suicide attempt, especially among male new soldiers. Further studies are needed to separate the genetic and environmental contributions to intra‐familial risk for suicidal behavior.
Digital Archiving for Archaeology: the state of the art in Argentina
Authors: Izeta Andrés D. , Cattáneo Roxana
Published: June 2021

This article discusses the state-of-the art of digital archives for archaeological research in Argentina. It also presents and characterises the national and international legal framework and the role played by funding agencies and professional bodies in archaeological practice. In addition, it reports how legal corpora regulate the impact on the management of archaeological digital data. Research infrastructures available at the national level are described, such as the Suquía, an institutional digital archive devoted to archaeology since 2016. Finally, we make a general evaluation of the status quo of research infrastructures mostly concerned with preserving and disseminating data from archaeological research at the national level.
Digital Archiving of Archaeological Resources in Flanders (Belgium): a brief review
Authors: Hacıgüzeller Piraye , Van Daele Koen , Carpentier Frank , Ribbens Raf
Published: June 2021

This article provides an overview of the current state of archaeological digital archiving in Flanders (Belgium). It briefly outlines the legally defined stakeholders and actors through which archaeological fieldwork is regulated and carried out. It subsequently describes related digital documentation and archiving practices, and guidelines. This is followed by a discussion on compliance with the FAIR Guiding Principles, and the article concludes with notes on the past and future of archaeological digital archiving in Flanders.
Mites of the family Winterschmidtiidae (Acari: Sarcoptiformes: Astigmatina) from agricultural habitats in Brazil, with description of a new species and a key to species reported
Authors: Barbosa Marina Ferraz de Camargo , Moraes Gilberto José de
Published: June 2021

The family Winterschmidtiidae is subdivided into four subfamilies; representatives of two are associated with insects and those of other two commonly inhabit decaying materials, fungi, plant leaves, vertebrate nests and stored food. Species of this family are frequently collected during surveys of arboreal acarofauna in Brazil, but in most cases, they are identified up to the generic level. The present work reports winterschmidtiid species collected in agricultural environments in Brazil: a new species, Oulenziella longiseta sp.nov., and four previously known species, Acalvolia squamata (Oudemans), Oulenzia arboricola (Oudemans), Oulenziella bakeri (Hughes) and Czenspinskia transversostriata (Oudemans). Among these, A. squamata, O. arboricola and O. bakeri are new records for Brazil.
The bedside-bench-bedside cycle: Robert Lefkowitz and GPCRs
Authors: Ciechanover Aaron
Published: June 2021

The memoirs of Robert Lefkowitz are reviewed.
Time to ditch topical antibiotics?
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: June 2021

Commensals promote skin regeneration and wound healing by stimulating IL-1β signaling in keratinocytes.
Use of filamentous cyanobacteria for biodegradation of organic pollutants
Authors: Kuritz T , Wolk C P
Published: June 2021

Volume 61, no. 1, p. 234: the corresponding author footnote should read as follows: * Corresponding author. Present address: Center for Risk Management, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN 37830. Phone: (615) 241-6013. Fax: (615) 574-9887. [This corrects the article on p. 234 in vol. 61.].
Cloning and Nucleotide Sequencing of the Membrane-Bound l-Sorbosone Dehydrogenase Gene of Acetobacter liquefaciens IFO 12258 and Its Expression in Gluconobacter oxydans
Authors: Shinjoh M , Tomiyama N , Asakura A , Hoshino T
Published: June 2021

Volume 61, no. 2, p. 419, column 1, lines 15-19: this sentence should read as follows. "The alcohol dehydrogenase and glucose dehydrogenase have a common region reported to be related to pyrroloquinoline quinone binding (2, 10), but SNDH does not contain such a region, indicating that SNDH is not a quinoprotein." Page 419, column 2, line 12: "(Table 4)" should read "(Table 3)." [This corrects the article on p. 413 in vol. 61.].
Isolation and Characterization of Bacterial Cellulase Producers for Biomass Deconstruction: A Microbiology Laboratory Course
Authors: Barajas Jesus F. , Wehrs Maren , To Milton , Cruickshanks Lauchlin , Urban Rochelle , McKee Adrienne , Gladden John , Goh Ee-Been , Brown Margaret E. , Pierotti Diane , Carothers James M. , Mukhopadhyay Aindrila , Keasling Jay D. , Fortman Jeffrey L. , Singer Steven W. , Bailey Constance B.
Published: June 2021

The conversion of biomass to biofuels presents a solution to one of the largest global challenges of our era, climate change. A critical part of this pipeline is the process of breaking down cellulosic sugars from plant matter to be used by microbes containing biosynthetic pathways that produce biofuels or bioproducts. In this inquiry-based course, students complete a research project that isolates cellulase-producing bacteria from samples collected from the environment. After obtaining isolates, the students characterize the production of cellulases. Students then amplify and sequence the 16S rRNA genes of confirmed cellulase producers and use bioinformatic methods to identify the bacterial isolates. Throughout the course, students learn about the process of generating biofuels and bioproducts through the deconstruction of cellulosic biomass to form monosaccharides from the biopolymers in plant matter. The program relies heavily on active learning and enables students to connect microbiology with issues of sustainability. In addition, it provides exposure to basic microbiology, molecular biology, and biotechnology laboratory techniques and concepts. The described activity was initially developed for the Introductory College Level Experience in Microbiology (iCLEM) program, a research-based immersive laboratory course at the US Department of Energy Joint BioEnergy Institute. Originally designed as an accelerated program for high-potential, low-income, high school students (11th–12th grade), this curriculum could also be implemented for undergraduate coursework in a research-intensive laboratory course at a two- or four-year college or university.
Mutation of the c-fos gene dyad symmetry element inhibits serum inducibility of transcription in vivo and the nuclear regulatory factor binding in vitro
Authors: Greenberg M E , Siegfried Z , Ziff E B
Published: June 2021

In vitro mutagenesis of a 61-base-pair DNA sequence element that is necessary for induction of the c-fos proto-oncogene by growth factors revealed that a small region of dyad symmetry within the sequence element is critical for c-fos transcriptional activation. The same c-fos dyad symmetry element was found to bind a nuclear protein in vitro, causing a specific mobility shift of this c-fos regulatory sequence. An analysis of insertion and deletion mutants established a strict correlation between the ability of the dyad symmetry element to promote serum activation of c-fos transcription and in vitro nuclear protein binding. These experiments suggest that the DNA mobility shift assay detects a nuclear protein that mediates growth factor stimulation of c-fos expression. In vitro competition experiments indicate that the c-fos regulatory factor also binds to sequences within another growth factor-inducible gene, the beta-actin gene.
Creating an intramuscular injection pad for the SimMan 3G
Authors: Sinclair Russell , Inglis Alan
Published: June 2021

This short report outlines the rationale, design and method of production for a thigh-mounted intramuscular (IM) pad in the thigh of a SimMan 3G manikin. The aim of this project was to create an IM injection site in the manikin’s thigh to allow simulation participants to practise administering IM injections in a safe, supported environment. After creating a prototype from a plastic bottle, a module was designed to use with the SimMan 3G. A mould of SimMan’s leg was created using plaster of Paris, and then a relief was added to this mould to create the shape required to hold the sponge. Once the mould was completed, glass reinforced plastic (GRP) was applied to create the final module. Using an electric rotary tool, a hole was cut in the SimMan’s thigh to enable the module to be fitted. The final product was waterproof, lightweight and strong. It sits discretely beneath the SimMan 3G’s leg skin enabling students to practise high-fidelity IM injections on the manikin’s leg without faculty intervention. This module is a cost-effective solution for allowing participants to practise IM injections on a manikin during healthcare simulation.
Modelling of weak quantum measurements consistent with conservation laws
Authors: Sołtan Stanisław , Fra̧czak Mateusz , Belzig Wolfgang , Bednorz Adam
Published: June 2021

We discuss quantum mechanical detection models in the weak limit in the context of conservation laws of physical quantities. In particular, we analyze what kind of system–detector interaction can preserve the global conservation or the related symmetry, and how the final measurement on the detector affects the measured observable of the systems and its presumed conservation. It turns out that the order of noncommuting measurements results in observable differences on the level of third-order correlations functions.
The noncommutative Coulomb potential
Authors: Wang B. C. , Brenag E. C. , Amorim R. G. G. , Rispoli V. C. , Ulhoa S. C.
Published: June 2021

In this work, we analyze the noncommutative three-dimensional Coulomb potential problem. For this purpose, we used the Kustaanheimo–Stiefel mapping to write the Schrödinger equation for Coulomb potential in a solvable way. Then, the noncommutative hydrogen-like atoms were treated, and their energy levels were found. In addition, we estimate a bound for the noncommutativity parameter.
Remarks on the confinement in the G(2) gauge theory using the thick center vortex model
Authors: Lookzadeh Hadi
Published: June 2021

The confinement problem is studied using the thick center vortex model. It is shown that the [Formula: see text] Cartan subalgebra of the decomposed [Formula: see text] gauge theory can play an important role in the confinement. The Casimir eigenvalues and ratios of the [Formula: see text] representations are obtained using its decomposition to the [Formula: see text] subgroups. This leads to the conjecture that the [Formula: see text] subgroups also can explain the [Formula: see text] properties of the confinement. The thick center vortex model for the [Formula: see text] subgroups of the [Formula: see text] gauge theory is applied without the domain modification. Instead, the presence of two [Formula: see text] vortices with opposite fluxes due to the possibility of decomposition of the [Formula: see text] Cartan subalgebra to the [Formula: see text] groups can explain the properties of the confinement of the [Formula: see text] group both at intermediate and asymptotic distances which is studied here.
Einstein–Hilbert action, with quantum corrections, from the Planck scale coarse-graining of the spacetime microstructure
Authors: Padmanabhan T.
Published: June 2021

The gravitational dynamics of the coarse-grained spacetime geometry should emerge from extremizing the number of microscopic configurations, [Formula: see text], of the pre-geometric variables corresponding to a given geometry. This [Formula: see text] will be the product over all events [Formula: see text] of the density, [Formula: see text], of microscopic configurations associated with each event [Formula: see text]. I show how [Formula: see text] can be computed, in terms of the van Vleck determinant, and thus obtain directly the gravitational effective action [Formula: see text] at mesoscopic scales. The leading term of this, nonperturbative, effective action gives the Einstein–Hilbert action, thereby providing its microscopic derivation. The higher-order corrections are finite without any need for regularization and I demonstrate how they can be computed in a systematic manner.
Risk Assessment in ERP Project by COPRAS Method Under Fuzzy Environment
Authors: Nigam Mukesh Kumar , Avikal Shwetank , Ram Mangey
Published: June 2021

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) projects are prone to risk from the strategic, operational, technical and organizational perspective. The assessment of project risks is a challenging task for project managers and is considered in a class of a multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) problem. In this work, an MCDM approach has been presented for risk assessment in ERP project by COPRAS under fuzzy environment where the vagueness and subjectivity are handled with linguistic terms parameterized by triangular fuzzy number. Fuzzy COPRAS (COPRAS-F) has been used to determine the weight of risk criteria and then prioritize the risk factor based on the calculated weight of criteria. The prioritized risk factors have been classified in scale from almost certain to rare risks. The proposed approach is illustrated with a real case studying fertilizer plant and the associated results have been compared with fuzzy TOPSIS technique. The result of this study demonstrates that excessive customization, ineffective consulting services experiences, complex architecture and high number of modules, poor project team skills, inadequate change management, inadequate ERP selection, ineffective strategic thinking and planning, poor leadership, lack of business process re-engineering and low-key user involvement are top ten risks that need to be mitigated to avoid failure of ERP project.
Invariance of the Fredholm index and spectrum of non-smooth pseudodifferential operators
Authors: Abels Helmut , Pfeuffer Christine
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we show the invariance of the Fredholm index of non-smooth pseudodifferential operators with coefficients in Hölder spaces. By means of this invariance, we improve previous spectral invariance results for non-smooth pseudodifferential operators P with coefficients in Hölder spaces. For this purpose, we approximate P with smooth pseudodifferential operators and use a spectral invariance result of smooth pseudodifferential operators. Then, we get the spectral invariance result in analogy to a proof of the spectral invariance result for non-smooth differential operators by Rabier.
HOW AND WHEN DOES JOB CHALLENGE PROMOTE THE INNOVATIVE BEHAVIOUR OF PUBLIC SECTOR EMPLOYEES?
Authors: BANI-MELHEM SHAKER , ABUKHAIT RAWAN , SHAMSUDIN FARIDAHWATI MOHD. , AL-HAWARI MOHD AHMAD
Published: June 2021

Previous research is inconclusive about when and how job challenge affects innovative behaviour. To address this inconsistency, we primarily draw on the job characteristics theory (JCT) and job demands–resources model (JD–R model) to examine the effect of job challenge on intrinsic motivation and employee innovative behaviour as well as the moderating role of supervisor coaching behaviour. We employ a time-lagged research design to collect data from 318 public sector employees in the UAE. Our finding offers support for a moderated mediation model in which job challenge has a positive and significant effect on innovative behaviour. The study also shows that the association between job challenge and innovative behaviour via intrinsic motivation is stronger under high supervisor coaching behaviour. The findings provide prescriptive insights into the critical role that supervisor coaching behaviours play in clarifying when and how job challenge affects innovative behaviour and indicate relevant managerial implications aimed at encouraging innovative behaviour in the public sector.
Local and Regional PV Power Variability in the Northeastern U.S.: Implications for Simplified Utility Flicker Screening Analyses
Authors: Smith Brice , Armstead Douglas
Published: June 2021

This paper presents new evidence supporting the development of a screening threshold to evaluate the impact aggregations of solar PV facilities in the northeastern United States can have on voltage deviations in the distribution grid (often called flicker). Using measurements from solar irradiance meters and customer-sited monitoring equipment for residential and light commercial solar systems in Central New York along with data from the Measurement and Instrumentation Data Centers at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Elizabeth City State University, and Bluefield College, we present multiple lines of support for the adoption of a flicker screening threshold equivalent to a 5% change in voltage resulting from a full-on to full-off transition of a solar facility. This approach is based on both the newer flicker perception limits in IEEE 1453-2015 and the previous limits derived from the flicker curves in IEEE 519-1992 and is consistent with recent draft recommendations from the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) for use in New York. Measurements of correlations between fluctuations at different sites along with a model for high densities of solar facilities are applied to allow the impact of multiple systems on a single feeder to be taken into account while maintaining the simplicity of a single screening threshold.
i4mC‐EL: Identifying DNA N4‐Methylcytosine Sites in the Mouse Genome Using Ensemble Learning
Authors: Li Yanjuan , Zhao Zhengnan , Teng Zhixia
Published: June 2021

As one of important epigenetic modifications, DNA N4‐methylcytosine (4mC) plays a crucial role in controlling gene replication, expression, cell cycle, DNA replication, and differentiation. The accurate identification of 4mC sites is necessary to understand biological functions. In the paper, we use ensemble learning to develop a model named i4mC‐EL to identify 4mC sites in the mouse genome. Firstly, a multifeature encoding scheme consisting of Kmer and EIIP was adopted to describe the DNA sequences. Secondly, on the basis of the multifeature encoding scheme, we developed a stacked ensemble model, in which four machine learning algorithms, namely, BayesNet, NaiveBayes, LibSVM, and Voted Perceptron, were utilized to implement an ensemble of base classifiers that produce intermediate results as input of the metaclassifier, Logistic. The experimental results on the independent test dataset demonstrate that the overall rate of predictive accurate of i4mC‐EL is 82.19%, which is better than the existing methods. The user‐friendly website implementing i4mC‐EL can be accessed freely at the following.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers in Multiple System Atrophy Relative to Parkinson’s Disease: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Xie Dan , Feng Ling , Huang Hongyan , Zhao Quanzhen , Ning Pingping , Shen Qiuyan , Lu Haitao , Xu Fang , Xu Yanming
Published: June 2021

Objective. To investigate the differences of candidate cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers associated with multiple system atrophy (MSA) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). Method. Here, a systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted on studies related to CSF biomarkers associated with MSA and PD obtained from PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane databases. Data were pooled where appropriate and used to calculate standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Heterogeneity was assessed using the

I

2

statistic while Egger’s test was used to test for existing publication bias. Results. MSA patients had higher CSF t-tau (

SMD
=
0.41

, 95% CI: 0.10 to 0.72) and YKL-40 (

SMD
=
0.63

, 95% CI 0.12 to1.15) as well as DJ-1 (

SMD
=
1.05

, 95% CI 0.67 to 1.42) levels than PD patients, while CSF p-tau (

SMD
=
−
0.17

, 95% CI, -0.31 to -0.02) and Aβ-42 (

SMD
=
−
0.33

, 95% CI, -0.55 to -0.12) levels in MSA patients were lower than those in PD patients. There were no differences in CSF’s GFAP and Flt3 ligand levels in both MSA and PD patients. Conclusion. The study revealed the differences in CSF biomarker levels between MSA and PD cohorts that can be further explored to clinically distinguish MSA from PD.
Instantaneous Impact Point Guidance with Coast Arcs for Solid Rockets
Authors: Jia Shengwei , Li Fugui , Tong Mingbo
Published: June 2021

This paper proposed an analytical iterative guidance method with the desired instantaneous impact point constraint for solid rockets in “burn-coast-burn” trajectory mode. Solid rocket motors expect to remove the thrust termination mechanism to increase the structural strength and launch reliability, which induce new difficulties and challenges to the guidance problems. In terms of the “Hohmann transfer” principle, a pointing algorithm is deduced in depth to establish the theoretical relations among the ignition time, the required velocity vector, and the orbital element constraints and provides the analytical expression of the ignition time. Then, an analytic solution of the required velocity vector is derived based on orthogonal and nonorthogonal velocity vectors, and a complete guidance logic is used to solve the target orbit elements satisfying the desired instantaneous impact point. Finally, the application of the developed theoretical algorithm in this paper is conducted using a two-stage solid rocket. The proposed guidance method is verified by Monte Carlo simulations, and the testing results demonstrate the adaptability, strong robustness, and excellent performance for different desired impact point missions.
The Traffic Flow Prediction Method Using the Incremental Learning-Based CNN-LTSM Model: The Solution of Mobile Application
Authors: Shao Yanli , Zhao Yiming , Yu Feng , Zhu Huawei , Fang Jinglong
Published: June 2021

With the acceleration of urbanization and the increase in the number of motor vehicles, more and more social problems such as traffic congestion have emerged. Accordingly, efficient and accurate traffic flow prediction has become a research hot spot in the field of intelligent transportation. However, traditional machine learning algorithms cannot further optimize the model with the increase of the data scale, and the deep learning algorithms perform poorly in mobile application or real-time application; how to train and update deep learning models efficiently and accurately is still an urgent problem since they require huge computation resources and time costs. Therefore, an incremental learning-based CNN-LTSM model, IL-TFNet, is proposed for traffic flow prediction in this study. The lightweight convolution neural network-based model architecture is designed to process spatiotemporal and external environment features simultaneously to improve the prediction performance and prediction efficiency of the model. Especially, the K-means clustering algorithm is applied as an uncertainty feature to extract unknown traffic accident information. During the model training, instead of the traditional batch learning algorithm, the incremental learning algorithm is applied to reduce the cost of updating the model and satisfy the requirements of high real-time performance and low computational overhead in short-term traffic prediction. Furthermore, the idea of combining incremental learning with active learning is proposed to fine-tune the prediction model to improve prediction accuracy in special situations. Experiments have proved that compared with other traffic flow prediction models, the IL-TFNet model performs well in short-term traffic flow prediction.
Fundus Autofluorescence and Optical Coherence Tomography Characteristics in Different Stages of Central Serous Chorioretinopathy
Authors: Ho Mary , Kwok Stephanie H. W. , Mak Andrew C. Y. , Lai Frank H. P. , Ng Danny S. C. , Chen Li Jia , Iu Lawrence P. , Young Alvin L. , Brelen Marten
Published: June 2021

Objective. To describe the morphological changes on fundus autofluorescence (FAF) and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) imaging at different chronicity of central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). Methods. This cross-sectional study included patients with CSC of different chronicity. Changes in FAF scans and morphological changes on SD-OCT were evaluated and compared at different stages of CSC. Results. Sixty-nine patients were enrolled in the study, with a mean age of 52.1 ± 11.8 years. A distinct hypoautofluorescence (AF) pattern was observed at the leakage point in acute CSC (100%). The leakage site was indistinguishable in 48% of the patients with late-chronic CSC. The majority of acute CSC patients showed hyper-AF in the area of serous retinal detachment (SRD), which persisted in the early-chronic stage of CSC. In late-chronic CSC, many cases of hypo-AF (22.2%) and mixed-pattern AF (14.8%) were observed. SD-OCT revealed evolving features of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) abnormalities in a time-dependent manner: from peaked PEDs in acute CSC to low-lying PEDs in early-chronic CSC and, eventually, flat, irregular PEDs in late-chronic CSC. The average thickness of the photoreceptor layer (inner and outer segment; IS/OS) was 79 μm in the acute group and 55.2 μm in the chronic group. The photoreceptor layer (IS/OS) height was positively associated with visual acuity (

p
=
0.002

). Conclusion. Different stages of CSC present different patterns on FAF and SD-OCT imaging. Chronicity of CSC can be estimated using specific features in these images. Photoreceptor layer (IS/OS) height acts as a good and objective predictor of visual outcomes in CSC patients.
Emodin Attenuated the Kidney Damage of High‐Fat‐Diet Mice via the Upregulation of Glucagon‐Like Peptide‐1 Receptor
Authors: Liu Jinlei , Sun Yao , Zheng Hongwei , Wang Jing , Liu Lili , Song Bing , Zhang Haoqiang
Published: June 2021

Objective. Secretion of glucagon‐like peptide 1 (GLP‐1) and its effect on target organs were impaired in individuals with obesity. However, its mechanism needs to be further studied. We aim to explore the roles of the receptor of GLP‐1 (GLP‐1R) involved in high‐fat‐diet‐ (HFD‐) induced kidney damage improved by emodin. Methods. Male C57bl/6 mice were fed with HFD diet and therapied by emodin. NRK‐52E cells were cultured and treated with palmitic acid or low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C). Emodin was used to remedy the NRK‐52E cell damage. GW9662 was administrated to block the function of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPAR‐γ). GLP‐1 in the plasma was measured by ELISA. PPAR‐γ and GLP‐1R in the kidney and NRK‐52E cells were detected by western blotting. The interaction between PPAR‐γ protein and GLP‐1R promoter regions was observed by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP). Results. Postprandial GLP‐1 levels in plasma, as well as PPAR‐γ and GLP‐1R, decreased in kidney tissue of HFD mice, while they were reserved by emodin treatment. Although PPAR‐γ and GLP‐1R were not downregulated by LDL‐C, they were suppressed by palmitic acid. Interestingly, GLP‐1R mRNA was detected by PCR in the mixture pulled down with PPAR‐γ antibody. Additionally, downregulation of PPAR‐γ and GLP‐1R by palmitic acid was remanded by emodin. Moreover, GW9662, an inhibitor of PPAR‐γ, abolished the protective effect of emodin. Conclusion. The kidney damage of HFD mice seems to be alleviated by emodin via the upregulation of GLP‐1R in kidney tissue.
Gastroprotective Effect of Ethanol Extracts from Bark of Magnolia officinalis on Ethanol‐Induced Gastric Mucosal Damage in Rats
Authors: Wang Xiao , Fu Shu , Zhang Chen , Nie Xin , Liao Wan , Zhao Ming , Liu Fang
Published: June 2021

Background. Magnolia officinalis Rehd. and Wils. is widely used in Asian countries because of its multiple pharmacological effects. This study investigated the gastroprotective effect and mechanisms of the ethanol extracts from the bark of Magnolia officinalis (MOE) against ethanol‐induced gastric mucosal damage in rats. Methods. MOE was prepared by reflux extraction with 70% ethanol, and its main compounds were analyzed by UPLC‐Q‐Exactive Orbitrap‐MS. DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP methods were used to evaluate the antioxidant capacity of MOE in vitro. The gastroprotective effects of MOE were evaluated by the area of gastric injury, H&E (hematoxylin‐eosin), and PAS (periodic acid‐Schiff). The mechanism was explored by measuring the levels of cytokines and protein in the NF‐κB signaling pathway. Results. 30 compounds were identified from MOE, mainly including lignans and alkaloids. MOE presented a high antioxidant activity in several oxidant in vitro systems. Gastric ulcer index and histological examination showed that MOE reduced ethanol‐induced gastric mucosal injury in a dose‐dependent manner. MOE pretreatment significantly restored the depleted activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) enzymes, reduced malondialdehyde (MDA), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels in the gastric tissue in rats. In addition, MOE also inhibited the activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) pathway and decreased the production of proinflammatory cytokines. Conclusions. The gastroprotective effect of MOE was attributed to the inhibition of oxidative stress and the NF‐κB inflammatory pathway. The results provided substantial evidence that MOE could be a promising phytomedicine for gastric ulcer prevention.