bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capturing touch in parent–infant interaction: A comparison of methods
Authors: Brzozowska Alicja , Longo Matthew R. , Mareschal Denis , Wiesemann Frank , Gliga Teodora
Published: March 2021

Naturally occurring high levels of caregiver touch promote offspring development in many animal species. Yet, caregiver touch remains a relatively understudied topic in human development, possibly due to challenges of measuring this means of interaction. While parental reports (e.g., questionnaires, diaries) are easy to collect, they may be subject to biases and memory limitations. In contrast, observing touch in a short session of parent–child interaction in the lab may not be representative of touch interaction in daily life. In the present study, we compared parent reports (one‐off questionnaires and diary) and observation‐based methods in a sample of German 6‐ to 13‐month‐olds and their primary caregivers (n = 71). In an attempt to characterize touching behaviors across a broad range of contexts, we measured touch both during play and while the parent was engaged in another activity. We found that context affected both the quantity and types of touch used in interaction. Parent‐reported touch was moderately associated with touch observed in parent–child interactions and more strongly with touch used during play. We conclude that brief one‐off questionnaires are a good indicator of touch in parent–child interaction, yet they may be biased toward representing particular daily activities and particular types of touch.
Conceptualising climate‐riskification for analysing climate security
Authors: Odeyemi Christo
Published: March 2021

This paper seeks to develop climate‐riskification as a new analytical tool that can better address the nuances of climate security and climate risk discourses. The paper complements the riskification framework but moves beyond it in two crucial respects: the new tool substantiates the analytical relevance of this framework; and the paper respond to two common criticisms of the framework. First, climate change may not be articulated based on a security risk perspective at the expense of a security threat given that the logics of risk and threat do intersect. Second, the riskification of climate change may be counterproductive. The paper argues that the climate‐riskification tool can help researchers working on climate security to better understand the topic and the role of interstate institutions in the climate security debate. It briefly examines formal debates on climate and security in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The data generated from this context revealed that climate‐riskification has occurred in the UNSC, indicating the reality of climate‐related security risks – a motivation for proponents of climate security to continue riskifying moves whenever this topic is debated again. Future researchers might want to empirically examine the climate‐riskification tool using relevant interstate institutions as case studies.
The tensile damage behavior of SiCf/SiC–B4C after oxidation in wet atmosphere based on acoustic emission pattern recognition
Authors: Shan Qingliang , Xu Qiankun , Xue Yudong , Lian Jiawei , Wang Yewei , Chen Changrong , Zhou Yuqian , Ma Qian , Shui Anze
Published: March 2021

In this research, SiCf/SiC–B4C composites were prepared through slurry impregnation and reaction melting infiltration (RMI). To explore the damage evolution of this composites after oxidation in wet atmosphere, the changes of damage behavior of composites before and after oxidation were studied using acoustic emission (AE) pattern recognition (PR) technology. Results show that since the damage behavior of the composites changes after oxidation, the optimal number of clusters transforms from 3 to 5. In addition, as the oxidation time increases, the area of concentration of damage events is gradually broadened towards lower stress direction due to the decrease of damage threshold of composites. Meanwhile, because the BN interface is gradually oxidized, the density of C3‐cracks (axial yarns cracks) near the fracture and the proportion of Cluster‐4 (the signals of transverse yarns cracks) will increase, for which the rising of interfacial shear stress should be responsible. Through this research, not only can the damage evolution of SiCf/SiC–B4C composites after oxidation be understood, but also the method employed in this research can be as guide for studying other similar materials.
Geographical variation in ant foraging activity and resource use is driven by climate and net primary productivity
Authors: Lasmar Chaim J. , Bishop Tom R. , Parr Catherine L. , Queiroz Antônio C. M. , Schmidt Fernando A. , Ribas Carla R.
Published: March 2021

Aim

Foraging activity is critical for animal survival. Comprehending how ecological drivers influence foraging behaviour would benefit our understanding of the link between animals and ecological processes. Here, we evaluated the influence of ecological drivers on ant foraging activity and relative resource use.

Location

Six Brazilian biomes: Amazon, Atlantic rainforest, Caatinga, Cerrado, Pampa and Pantanal.

Taxon

Formicidae.

Methods

We assessed ant foraging activity and resource use by sampling across 60 sites. We placed baited tubes that contained one of five liquid resources (sugar, lipids, amino acid, sodium and distilled water). We used model selection to assess the influence of ecological drivers (temperature, precipitation, temperature seasonality and net primary productivity) on ant foraging activity and relative resource use.

Results

Foraging activity was higher in wetter, more productive and less thermally seasonal environments. The relative use of amino acids increased at higher temperatures while the relative use of lipids decreased. The relative use of sugar increased in drier and less productive environments with high‐temperature seasonality while the relative use of amino acid and sodium decreased in those environments. The relative use of lipids was complex: increasing with increasing temperature seasonality and decreasing with increasing precipitation. Furthermore, the relative use of sodium was greater where the foraging activity was high.

Main conclusions

We demonstrate how ecological drivers are correlated with ant foraging activity and resource use in the field across large spatial scales. The search for resources encompasses different interactions involving ants with abiotic and biotic components in the ecosystem. Thus, we suggest that changes in climate and NPP, which influence the intensity and the way that ants search for resources, will result in changes in ant‐mediated ecological processes.
Climate and geological change as drivers of Mauritiinae palm biogeography
Authors: Bogotá‐Ángel Giovanni , Huang Huasheng , Jardine Phillip E. , Chazot Nicolas , Salamanca Sonia , Banks Hannah , Pardo‐Trujillo Andres , Plata Angelo , Dueñas Hernando , Star Wim , Langelaan Rob , Eisawi Ali , Umeji Obianuju P. , Enuenwemba Lucky O. , Parmar Shalini , da Silveira Rosemery Rocha , Lim Jun Ying , Prasad Vandana , Morley Robert J. , Bacon Christine D. , Hoorn Carina
Published: March 2021

Aim

Forest composition and distribution are determined by a myriad of factors, including climate. As models of tropical rain forest, palms are often used as indicator taxa, particularly the Mauritiinae. We question, what characterizes the Mauritiinae pollen in the global fossil record? And when did the Mauritiinae become endemic to South America?

Location

Global tropics.

Taxon

Mauritiinae palms (Arecaceae: Lepidocaryeae).

Methods

Pollen trait data from extinct and extant Mauritiinae pollen were generated from light‐, scanning‐, and transmission electron microscopy. Statistical morphometric analysis was used to define species and their relationships to other Mauritiinae. We also compiled a comprehensive pollen database for extinct and extant Mauritiinae and mapped their global geographical distribution from Late Cretaceous to present, using GBIF and fossil data.

Results

Our morphometric analysis identified 18 species (11 extinct and seven extant), all exhibiting exine indentations, a synapomorphy of the subtribe. The fossil taxa and early divergent extant Lepidocaryum are all monosulcate, whereas the extant Mauritia and Mauritiella species are all monoulcerate. Paleobiogeographical maps of fossil Mauritiinae pollen occurrences suggest the taxon originated in equatorial Africa during the Cretaceous, and expanded their range to South America, and to India in the Paleocene. Range retraction started in the early Eocene with extirpation from India, and reduction in diversity in Africa culminating at the Eocene–Oligocene Transition (EOT). In contrast, in South America, the distribution is maintained, and since the Neogene Mauritiinae palms are mostly restricted to swampy, lowland habitats.

Main conclusions

Morphometric analysis shows that since their origin Mauritiinae pollen are relatively species poor, and Mauritiidites resembles Lepidocaryum. We also conclude that the biogeographical history of the Mauriitinae and, by extension, tropical forests was strongly affected by global climatic cooling events. In particular, the climate change at the EOT was a fundamental determinant of current tropical forest distribution.
Effects of methylphenidate on executive functioning in children and adolescents with ADHD after long‐term use: a randomized, placebo‐controlled discontinuation study
Authors: Rosenau Paul T. , Openneer Thaïra J. C. , Matthijssen Anne‐Flore M. , van de Loo‐Neus Gigi H. H. , Buitelaar Jan K. , van den Hoofdakker Barbara J. , Hoekstra Pieter J. , Dietrich Andrea
Published: March 2021

Background

Methylphenidate may improve executive functioning in children with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, it is unclear if there are still acute effects of methylphenidate on executive functioning after long‐term use.

Methods

In a randomized double‐blind, placebo‐controlled discontinuation study, 94 children and adolescents (ages 8–18 years) who used methylphenidate beyond two years were either assigned to seven weeks of continued treatment with 36 or 54 mg of extended‐release methylphenidate or to gradual withdrawal over three weeks to placebo for four weeks. Performance on neuropsychological tasks, measuring working memory, response inhibition, attentional flexibility and psychomotor speed was compared between both groups using mixed models for repeated measures. Additionally, we investigated within the discontinuation group if a deterioration on the investigator‐rated Clinical Global Impressions Improvement scale after withdrawing to placebo was related to a worse performance on the neuropsychological tasks. This study was registered in the Netherlands Trial Register (www. Trialregister.nl) with identifier 5252.

Results

After withdrawal of methylphenidate, the discontinuation group made more errors on working memory (β = −1.62, SD = 0.56, t = −2.88, p = .01, Cohen’s f2 = .14), independent from reaction time compared to baseline, in contrast to the continuation group. We did not find differences in changes in response inhibition, attentional flexibility and psychomotor speed between the two groups. Also, there were no significant differences in task measures between the participants who deteriorated clinically and those who did not.

Conclusions

Our study shows that methylphenidate has a beneficial effect on working memory after two years of use. Future studies should explore whether cognitive outcomes may aid clinical decision‐making on the continued use of methylphenidate, given dissociation between cognitive and behavioural effects of stimulant medication.
Polygenic risk for depression, anxiety and neuroticism are associated with the severity and rate of change in depressive symptoms across adolescence
Authors: Kwong Alex S. F. , Morris Tim T. , Pearson Rebecca M. , Timpson Nicholas J. , Rice Frances , Stergiakouli Evie , Tilling Kate
Published: March 2021

Background

Adolescence marks a period where depression will commonly onset. Twin studies show that genetic influences play a role in how depression develops and changes across adolescence. Recent genome‐wide association studies highlight that common genetic variants – which can be combined into polygenic risk scores (PRS) – are also implicated in depression. However, the role of PRS in adolescent depression and changes in adolescent depression is not yet understood. We aimed to examine associations between PRS for five psychiatric traits and depressive symptoms measured across adolescence using cross‐sectional and growth‐curve models. The five PRS were as follows: depression (DEP), major depressive disorder (MDD), anxiety (ANX), neuroticism (NEU) and schizophrenia (SCZ).

Methods

We used data from over 6,000 participants of the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) to examine associations between the five PRS and self‐reported depressive symptoms (Short Mood and Feelings Questionnaire) over 9 occasions from 10 to 24 years. The PRS were created from well‐powered genome‐wide association studies conducted in adult populations. We examined cross‐sectional associations between the PRS at each age and then again with longitudinal trajectories of depressive symptoms in a repeated measures framework using multilevel growth‐curve analysis to examine the severity and the rate of change.

Results

There was strong evidence that higher PRS for DEP, MDD and NEU were associated with worse depressive symptoms throughout adolescence and into young adulthood in our cross‐sectional analysis, with consistent associations observed across all nine occasions. Growth‐curve analyses provided stronger associations (as measured by effect sizes) and additional insights, demonstrating that individuals with higher PRS for DEP, MDD and NEU had steeper trajectories of depressive symptoms across development, all with a greater increasing rate of change during adolescence. Evidence was less consistent for the ANX and SCZ PRS in the cross‐sectional analysis, yet there was some evidence for an increasing rate of change in adolescence in the growth‐curve analyses with the ANX PRS.

Conclusions

These results show that common genetic variants as indexed by varying psychiatric PRS show patterns of specificity that influence both the severity and rate of change in depressive symptoms throughout adolescence and then into young adulthood. Longitudinal data that make use of repeated measures designs have the potential to provide greater insights how genetic factors influence the onset and persistence of adolescent depression.
Investigation on appropriate two‐stage drying techniques for quality paddy seeds
Authors: Islam Motaharul , Nasrin Taslema , Islam Mofizul , Sarker Sazzat Hossain
Published: March 2021

An attempt was made to investigate appropriate two‐stage drying techniques for quality of paddy seeds. In this research, two options of two‐stage drying were conducted for three varieties of paddy (BR‐11, BRRI Dhan‐51, and Guti Swarna). In both options, first stage drying was carried out by a fluidized bed dryer using three temperatures (50, 55, and 60°C) at constant bed thickness of 15 cm. After tempered, in the first option, samples were further dried in second stage by sun drying (28–32°C). In the second option, samples were further dried in second stage in same fluidized bed dryer using three temperatures (35, 40, and 45°C). Comparison of germination percentage in the first option, it revealed that higher germination percentage was obtained than sun‐drying method while dried at 50°C in the first stage followed by sun‐drying method at 30 ± 2°C in the second stage except in case of Guti Swarna. In the second option, it revealed that higher germination percentage was obtained than sun‐drying method while dried in fluidized bed dryer at 50°C in the first stage followed by 35°C in second stage except in case of variety Guti Swarna. Therefore, drying at optimum air temperature for both options can be applied for paddy seed drying in Bangladesh.

Practical Application

Rice (Oryza sativa) is one of the most important food crops in all over the world. According to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (Yearbook of Agriculture Statistics, 2018) about 3.6 million tons of paddy produced in Bangladesh. The most important input for any agricultural production is seed than other inputs. In Bangladesh used only 15% of the total paddy seed is quality seed. Drying is an energy‐intensive and most important postharvest operation for the production of quality seed. The outcomes of the proposed research can play an important role in the improvement of the socioeconomic status of paddy seed growers and product processors of Bangladesh. It will be helpful for seed company who produces a huge amount of seed and also helpful in the rainy season when sun drying is not available.
Liquid loss in thawed cod—Deconvoluting the effects of freezing‐rate, freezing cycles, frozen storage time, and thawing‐rate through a full factorial design
Authors: Stormo Svein Kristian , Skåra Torstein
Published: March 2021

Fish is a highly perishable product and freezing is the obvious way to increase shelf life. The freezing process involves the initial freezing, a frozen storage period and thawing—all of which influence the quality of the end product. In this study, the quantity of liquid loss is used as an indication of the structural damage induced by these processes. A full factorial experiment design addresses the effects of freezing and thawing rates (fast vs. slow), number of freezing cycles (1 vs. 2) and frozen storage (1 year vs. 1 week). The results show strong evidence that fast processes of freezing and thawing reduce the subsequent liquid loss. However, 1 year frozen storage at −20°C induces high liquid loss independently of the freezing and thawing rates. Adding a second freezing cycle also adds to the liquid loss upon final thawing. By increasing the number of processing steps (additional freezing cycles) the strain put upon the samples progressively increases. This leaves samples at the end of long sequences of processing especially sensitive to damage caused by ice crystals. In this way, the thawing protocol might be of high importance, especially during the last freezing cycle of twice frozen samples.

Practical Application

In order to minimize liquid loss through production of frozen seafood, it is imperative that producers use the best practice at every stage. Liquid loss influences yield through production, but it also contributes to quality parameters relevant to both producers and consumers. Every stage of the production impacts liquid loss, and examining and classifying the different processing steps separately is the common approach to assess the effect. For the final product however, the impact of one isolated step is entangled in the combined effect off all the different processing steps. In this study, we have examined the processing continuum from the first freezing to the last thawing, including the effects of an extra freeze cycle and frozen storage period. In this way, we demonstrate the risk of pitfalls through such processing and also highlight the process combinations that are synonymous with low liquid loss.
Vulval lymphangiectasia in pregnancy—a rare case report
Authors: Gunasekaran Kala Poomalar , Manivasakan Jayasree
Published: March 2021

Difficulty in arriving at a diagnosis of vulval lesions of women presenting in labor leads to a dilemma in deciding the delivery route. Here we present a case of large vulval lesion extending from mons pubis to anterior half of perineum presenting in labor in a 27‐year‐old second gravida with term pregnancy. History revealed an onset of vulval swelling within 3 months of starting antituberculosis treatment for cervical tuberculous lymphadenopathy at the age of 25 years. There was no associated inguinal lymphadenopathy or edema of the legs. Cesarean section was performed, anticipating difficulty in suturing the perineal tear with vaginal delivery. Biopsy revealed a diagnosis of vulval lymphangiectasia. Though various treatment modalities are available, complete resolution of the lesion remains a challenge. Awareness among healthcare workers and early diagnosis and intervention could avoid the extension of the lesion and its sequel in labor.
Maternal experience of domestic violence before and during pregnancy and children's linear growth at 15 years: Findings from MINIMat trial in rural Bangladesh
Authors: Ziaei Shirin , Naved Ruchira Tabassum , Rahman Syed Moshfiqur , Rahman Anisur , Ekström Eva‐Charlotte
Published: March 2021

Literature concerning negative impacts of domestic violence (DV) against women on their children's health is growing; however, little is known about the long‐term effect of maternal exposure to DV before and/or during pregnancy on their children's growth. Using data from the MINIMat cohort, we have evaluated the association between maternal lifetime experience of DV, measured in late pregnancy, with their children's linear growth at 15 years (n = 2240) in rural Bangladesh. A modified version of conflict tactic scale was used to record the maternal experience of physical, sexual, emotional DV and controlling behaviour. Children's height was measured by trained nurses during their clinical visits at 15‐year follow‐up. Compared to the women with no experience of DV, children of women with experience of any physical, sexual or emotional DV before and/or during pregnancy had the significantly lower height for age Z‐scores (HAZs) at the age of 15. No significant association between maternal experience of controlling behaviour and their children's linear growth was observed in terms of HAZ. Results from this study suggest that maternal experience of DV before and/or during pregnancy might be associated with impaired long‐term linear growth within their children.
Addressing obesity in the first 1000 days in high risk infants: Systematic review
Authors: Rossiter Chris , Cheng Heilok , Appleton Jessica , Campbell Karen J. , Denney‐Wilson Elizabeth
Published: March 2021

Early intervention is critical for addressing the challenge of childhood obesity. Yet many preventive interventions do not target infants most at risk of future overweight or obesity. This systematic review examines interventions delivered before 2 years that aim to ameliorate excess weight gain among infants at high risk of overweight or obesity, due to sociodemographic characteristics, parental weight or health status, infant feeding or health behaviours. We searched six databases for interventions: (a) delivered before age two, (b) specifically aimed at infants at high risk of childhood obesity and (c) that reported outcomes by weight status beyond 28 days. The search identified over 27,000 titles, and 49 papers from 38 studies met inclusion criteria: 10 antenatal interventions, 16 postnatal and 12 conducted both before and after birth. Nearly all targeted infant and/or maternal nutrition. Studies varied widely in design, obesity risk factors, outcomes and quality. Overall, nine interventions of varying quality reported some evidence of significantly improved child weight trajectory, although effects tended to diminish over time. Interventions that improved weight outcomes tended to engage parents for a longer period, and most offered health professional input and support. Two studies of limited quality reported significantly worse weight outcomes in the intervention group.
Coronary microvascular dysfunction beyond microvascular obstruction in ST‐elevation myocardial infarction: Functional and clinical correlates
Authors: Locorotondo Gabriella , Galiuto Leonarda , Porto Italo , Fedele Elisa , Paraggio Lazzaro , Rebuzzi Antonio G. , Crea Filippo
Published: March 2021

Objectives

To retrospectively characterize clinical predictors and impact on left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) of microvascular dysfunction (MVD) beyond microvascular obstruction (MVO), in 49 consecutive patients (58 ± 11 years), with successfully treated ST‐elevation myocardial infarction.

Methods

By myocardial contrast echocardiography, MVD was considered as myocardial segments with delayed/patchy opacification, while MVO as areas without any opacification. Both MVD and MVO were planimetered and expressed as percentage of total LV wall area. Patients were divided into tertiles of MVO: I (MVO 0%), II (MVO 4–17%), and III (MVO 18–38%) groups. Cardiac troponin T (cTnT) values obtained at admission and at peak were considered for analysis.

Results

MVD correlated inversely with EF in groups I and II (p = 0.025, p = 0.019, respectively), but not in group III. MVD was independently predicted by cTnT on admission (β = 1.85; 95%CI = 0.46–3.24, p = 0.011) and female sex (β for male sex = −14.46; 95% CI = −27.96–0.95), while MVO by anterior MI (β = 0.57; 95% CI = 0.26–0.88, p = 0.008) and peak cTnT (β = 0.97; 95%CI = 0.57–1.38, p < 0.001). Altogether, MVD plus MVO predicted EF (β = −0.18; 95%CI = −0.28‐‐0.07, p = 0.002).

Conclusions

Even in patients with limited amount of MVO, EF may be impaired by MVD. MVO and MVD have different predictors, which probably reflect their different pathogenesis.
A novel Transposable element‐derived microRNA participates in plant immunity to rice blast disease
Authors: Campo Sonia , Sánchez‐Sanuy Ferran , Camargo‐Ramírez Rosany , Gómez‐Ariza Jorge , Baldrich Patricia , Campos‐Soriano Lidia , Soto‐Suárez Mauricio , San Segundo Blanca
Published: March 2021

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non‐coding RNAs that direct post‐transcriptional gene silencing in plant development and stress responses through cleavage or translational repression of target mRNAs. Here, we report the identification and functional characterization of a new member of the miR812 family in rice (named as miR812w) involved in disease resistance. miR812w is present in cultivated Oryza species, both japonica and indica subspecies, and wild rice species within the Oryza genus, but not in dicotyledonous species. miR812w is a 24nt‐long that requires DCL3 for its biogenesis and is loaded into AGO4 proteins. Whereas overexpression of miR812w increased resistance to infection by the rice blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae, CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated MIR812w editing enhances disease susceptibility, supporting that miR812w plays a role in blast resistance. We show that miR812w derives from the Stowaway type of rice MITEs (Miniature Inverted‐Repeat Transposable Elements). Moreover, miR812w directs DNA methylation in trans at target genes that have integrated a Stowaway MITE copy into their 3′ or 5′ untranslated region (ACO3, CIPK10, LRR genes), as well as in cis at the MIR812w locus. The target genes of miR812 were found to be hypo‐methylated around the miR812 recognition site, their expression being up‐regulated in transgene‐free CRISPR/Cas9‐edited miR812 plants. These findings further support that, in addition to post‐transcriptional regulation of gene expression, miRNAs can exert their regulatory function at the transcriptional level. This relationship between miR812w and Stowaway MITEs integrated into multiple coding genes might eventually create a network for miR812w‐mediated regulation of gene expression with implications in rice immunity.
Trends in voluntary vaccination coverage in a Japanese city
Authors: Hoshina Takayuki , Kawase Mayumi , Watanabe Shunsuke , Shibahara Junpei , Kojiro Masumi , Miyake Takumi , Sakaguchi Yusuke , Kajiwara Yasuhiro , Kusuhara Koichi
Published: March 2021

Background

Large numbers of patients with diseases preventable by voluntary vaccines have been reported in Japan. However, it is difficult to analyze the impact of voluntary vaccination on disease prevention, as governments do not aggregate the number of recipients of vaccines that are not included in the national immunization program. This study investigated the association between the coverage rates of two voluntary vaccines (rotavirus and mumps vaccines) and the incidence of the diseases preventable by these vaccines.

Methods

We performed a prospective questionnaire‐based observational study to investigate the presumptive coverage rates of the rotavirus vaccine in infancy and the mumps vaccine at 1 year of age in Kitakyushu City from 2015 to 2018. The number of children admitted to a secondary medical institution for rotavirus‐associated gastroenteritis and the incidence of mumps infection in sentinel medical institutions were also analyzed during the investigation period.

Results

The rotavirus and mumps vaccine coverage rates since 2016 were 61‐63% and late 28‐30%, respectively (52.6% and 20.3% in 2015, respectively). The yearly number of children hospitalized for rotavirus‐associated gastroenteritis from 2015 to 2018 declined by 41.4% compared with that during the pre‐vaccination period (2009–2011). The incidence of mumps infection remained unchanged during the investigation period.

Conclusion

The coverage rates of two voluntary vaccines were not high enough to control the infections. The incorporation of voluntary vaccines into the routine immunization program should be considered as the one of the effective ways to increase vaccination coverage.
Survey of Home‐Use UV Disinfection Products†
Authors: Khazova Marina , Johnstone Liam , Naldzhiev Dzhordzhio , O'Hagan John B.
Published: March 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic provided a commercial opportunity for traders marketing a range of ultraviolet (UV) radiation products for home‐use disinfection. Due to concerns about the efficacy of such products and the potential for harmful levels of UV exposure to people, a range of products were purchased from on‐line trading platforms. Spectral irradiance measurements were carried out to determine whether the products could be effective against the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus and whether they were likely to exceed internationally agreed exposure limits. It was concluded that many of the devices were not effective and many of those that were potentially effective presented a risk to users.
Appealing to the Crowd: Motivation Message Framing and Crowdsourcing Performance in Retail Operations
Authors: Ta Ha , Esper Terry L. , Tokar Travis
Published: March 2021

For the execution of many supply chain operations tasks, firms are increasingly engaging in crowdsourcing—the act of dynamically delegating work via digital channels to for‐hire individuals intermittently available in the marketplace (also called “the crowd”). The success of this practice hinges on the ability to efficiently attract workers who produce quality work from among the crowd. We draw on the foundations of Self‐Determination Theory and the heuristic‐systematic model to examine the ways that variations in messages presented to crowdsourced agents can serve as a mechanism to enhance participation and associated performance outcomes. Data from a field experiment involving a retail inventory audit task reveal that messages appealing to the crowd's consumer identity, as opposed to crowdsourcing platform identification or firm identification, generally lead to superior performance outcomes, particularly shorter reservation time, higher task quality approval, and post‐task satisfaction. However, these effects are contingent on the valence of the message frame and the nature of the task. These findings shed light on elements critical to the successful utilization of this new type of crowdsourced “employment” in supply chain and operations tasks and suggest the careful crafting of crowdsourced task messages as a low‐cost way for managers to improve task performance outcomes.
The use of natural organic flocculants for harvesting microalgae grown in municipal wastewater at different culture densities
Authors: Niemi Calle , Gentili Francesco G.
Published: March 2021

Harvesting microalgae from liquid culture is a difficult issue to solve and is most commonly done through settling. However, settling is a slow process on its own and generally needs to be induced chemically or by introducing stress to the culture. Polymeric, cationic substances, such as cationised starch and chitosan, are often used for flocculation and settling. These large, positively charged molecules form large clusters with suspended particles in the liquid medium. In the present study, three natural organic flocculants (cationic starch, chitosan and acacia tannin S5T) were tested to harvest microalgal cultures grown in wastewater. Two microalgal species, one strain of Chlorella vulgaris and one strain of Scenedesmus obliquus, were cultured in municipal wastewater for different lengths of time, and settled using either cationic starch, chitosan or acacia tannin S5T. Results indicated that S5T worked with approximately the same efficiency in the two assayed species, although it requires a relatively high dosage to function (about 300 mg L−1), while the other two flocculants varied from species to species.
The conflict between existing and new business models: The effect of resource redeployment on incumbent performance
Authors: Wang Jiangzhe , Habibulla Halpitim
Published: March 2021

When an incumbent firm introduces a new business model (BM), the redeployment of resources from the old BM is crucial for the firm’s operational efficiency. While previous studies have largely focused on the bright side of resource redeployment (RR) on firm performance, this study focuses on its dark side effect, namely, the business model conflict (BMC). Using data of 133 traditional Chinese retail companies that have introduced an online retail BM, we find that RR increases the BMC and decreases the firm performance. In other words, BMC mediates the relationship between RR and incumbent performance. We also highlight the significant contingent effect of the new business model age (NBMA) and the autonomous business unit (ABU) for the new BM. These findings have concrete implications for both researchers and practitioners.
Distinguishing mid‐channel and bank‐attached fluvial bars by flow divergence: Implications for the interpretation of stratigraphic records
Authors: Ghinassi Massimiliano , Ielpi Alessandro , Ventra Dario , Martini Ivan , Finotello Alvise , Bellizia Elena
Published: March 2021

The characterization of ancient fluvial‐channel bars informs predictions of sedimentary facies distribution, and hence they are critical for interpreting river morphodynamics through time. Within active fluvial channels, sediment storage occurs along the banks or along their axial portion, generating bank‐attached or mid‐channel bars, respectively. This study introduces the angle of flow divergence (Δf), measured as the angle between the azimuths of bar accretionary slopes and local dune migration, and quantitatively explores its distribution in 103 channel reaches that have a sandy bed load and clear water. This dataset includes both mid‐channel and bank‐attached bars from low‐variable peak discharge rivers of Russia and Brazil. Remotely sensed evidence shows that dune migration transverse to the dip azimuth of bar slopes (Δf 90–110°) occurs both in mid‐channel and bank‐attached bars, contradicting the long‐standing tenet that palaeoflows nearly orthogonal to the dip azimuth of large‐scale inclined strata are indicative of sinuous, single‐thread palaeochannels. Only Δf values significantly higher (>140°) or lower (<60°) than 90° discriminate mid‐channel and bank‐attached fluvial bars. Comparisons between Δf values and bar‐accretionary styles suggest that mid‐channel bars formed by high‐peak and low‐peak variable discharge rivers tend to preserve axially and laterally accreting deposits, respectively. Nearly orthogonal divergence angles are found in bank‐attached bars irrespective of peak‐discharge variability. While stressing that analyses akin to the one presented here are to be complemented with additional sedimentological information from high‐quality outcrops, this study proposes a new, quantitative, approach to better distinguish fluvial bars, and hence possibly the planform pattern of associated channel bodies, from sedimentary successions. In particular, the data show that a reliable distinction between mid‐channel and bank‐attached bars should be based on comprehensive palaeocurrent and architectural information from various portions of preserved bar bodies, and that inferences based on limited datasets should be considered with caution.
Adding leaves to the Lepidoptera tree: capturing hundreds of nuclear genes from old museum specimens
Authors: Mayer Christoph , Dietz Lars , Call Elsa , Kukowka Sandra , Martin Sebastian , Espeland Marianne
Published: March 2021

Museum collections around the world contain billions of specimens, including rare and extinct species. If their genetic information could be retrieved at a large scale, this would dramatically increase our knowledge of genetic and taxonomic diversity information, and support evolutionary, ecological and systematic studies. We here present a target enrichment kit for 2953 loci in 1753 orthologous nuclear genes + the barcoding region of cytochrome C oxidase 1, for Lepidoptera and demonstrate its utility to obtain a large number of nuclear loci from dry, pinned museum material collected from 1892 to 2017. We sequenced enriched libraries of 37 museum specimens across the order Lepidoptera, many from higher taxa not yet included in high‐throughput molecular studies, showing that our kit can be used to generate comparable data across the order, and provides resolution both for shallower and deeper nodes. The filtered datasets (172 taxa, 234 464 amino acid positions and corresponding nucleotides from 1835 CDS regions) were used to infer a phylogeny of Lepidoptera, which is largely congruent in topology to recent phylogenomic studies, but with the addition of some key taxa. We furthermore present our TEnriAn (Target Enrichment Analysis) workflow for processing and combining target enrichment, transcriptomic and genomic data.
Alternative methods of platelet storage and pathogen reduction
Authors: Jimenez‐Marco Teresa , Quetglas‐Oliver Miguel
Published: March 2021

Research on alternative platelet (PLT) storage methods is focused on extending shelf‐life in order to improve PLT inventory management while maintaining quality and function. After decades of investigation, cryopreservation and cold storage are gaining prominence as methods that can dramatically improve PLT availability in remote, rural and isolated areas, including war zones. Patients with active bleeding who need to clot rapidly benefit from the procoagulant phenotype of cryopreserved or cold‐stored PLTs, which can quickly bind to the damaged endothelium. An innovative research area is combining pathogen reduction technologies (PRTs) with different storage methods. The advantages of refrigeration and cryopreservation can be maximized when used together with PRT treatment, allowing longer storage with a considerably reduced risk of infectious disease transmission.
Quality Improvement in a small‐scale Caribbean Blood Bank: the value of long‐term collaboration and stepwise process approach
Authors: Duits Ashley J. , Sillé Luigi , Smid Willem M.
Published: March 2021

Background

Compliance with accepted quality standards guarantees safe and effective blood transfusion in patients. Introduction of well‐defined quality systems in the Caribbean has however remained a big challenge.

Methods

The Red Cross Blood Bank Foundation on the island of Curaçao selected the EU GMP/GPG standards as the national blood programme quality standard. A stepwise quality improvement programme was designed in collaboration with Sanquin Consulting Services. The external audit results were used for formulating a yearly quality improvement plan. The main challenges and key success factors of the progress made over a 10‐year span are presented according to WHO key blood quality elements.

Results

The quality improvement programme showed the importance of legislation based on a voluntary non‐remunerated blood donor programme. A clearly defined national blood bank organizational structure with appropriate job descriptions, required competencies and appointment at the start of a dedicated quality manager were key basic elements. The focus of the yearly audits varied from technical issues, progress evaluation to emerging infectious diseases with special attention for the small‐scale blood bank environment. Use of EuBIS documents greatly facilitated the required GAP analyses. Introduction of automatization for TTI testing and PRT strongly improved the provision of safe blood products. Effective communication and collaboration should be included as key elements for a safe national blood programme.

Conclusion

Making use of a stepwise quality improvement programme, based on collaboration, compliance with international quality standards, provision of sufficient safe blood on the island of Curaçao, could be achieved in a sustainable manner.
Implementation Science: Application of Evidence‐Based Practice Models to Improve Healthcare Quality
Authors: Tucker Sharon , McNett Molly , Mazurek Melnyk Bernadette , Hanrahan Kirsten , Hunter Sarah C. , Kim Bo , Cullen Laura , Kitson Alison
Published: March 2021

Background

Translating research into practice is complex for clinicians, yet essential for high quality patient care. The field of implementation science evolved to address this gap by developing theoretical approaches to guide adoption and sustained implementation of practice changes. Clinicians commonly lack knowledge, time, and resources of how evidence‐based practice (EBP) models can guide implementation, contributing to the knowledge‐to‐practice gap.

Aim

This paper aimed to equip clinicians and other healthcare professionals with implementation science knowledge, confidence, and models to facilitate EBP change in their local setting and ultimately improve healthcare quality, safety, and population health outcomes.

Methods

The field of implementation science is introduced, followed by application of three select models. Models are applied to a clinical scenario to emphasize contextual factors, process, implementation strategies, and outcome evaluation. Key attributes, strengths, opportunities, and utilities of each model are presented, along with general resources for selecting and using published criteria to best fit clinical needs. Partnerships between implementation scientists and clinicians are highlighted to facilitate the uptake of evidence into practice.

Linking Evidence to Action

Knowledge of implementation science can help clinicians adopt high‐quality evidence into their practices. Application‐oriented approaches can guide clinicians through the EBP processes. Clinicians can partner with researchers in advancing implementation science to continue to accelerate the adoption of evidence and reduce the knowledge‐to‐action gap.
Zoonotic Bartonella species in Eurasian wolves and other free‐ranging wild mammals from Italy
Authors: Greco Grazia , Zarea Aya Attia Koraney , Sgroi Giovanni , Tempesta Maria , D’Alessio Nicola , Lanave Gianvito , Bezerra‐Santos Marcos Antônio , Iatta Roberta , Veneziano Vincenzo , Otranto Domenico , Chomel Bruno
Published: March 2021

Bartonellae are emerging vector‐borne pathogens infecting humans, domestic mammals and wildlife. Ninety‐seven red foxes (Vulpes vulpes), 8 European badgers (Meles meles), 6 Eurasian wolves (Canis lupus), 6 European hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus), 3 beech martens (Martes foina) and 2 roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) from Italian Nature Conservatory Parks were investigated for Bartonella infection. Several Bartonella species (9.84%; 95% CI: 4.55–15.12), including zoonotic ones, were molecularly detected among wolves (83.3%; 95% CI: 51–100.00), foxes (4.12%; 95% CI: 0.17–8.08), hedgehogs (33.33%; 95% CI: 0.00–71.05) and a roe deer. Bartonella rochalimae was the most common Bartonella species (i.e. in 4 foxes and 2 wolves) detected. Candidatus B. merieuxii and B. vinsonii subsp. berkhoffii were identified for the first time in wolves. Furthermore, Bartonella schoenbuchensis was identified in a roe deer and a new clone with phylogenetic proximity to B. clarridgeiae was detected in European hedgehogs. Zoonotic and other Bartonella species were significantly more frequent in Eurasian wolves (p < .0001), than in other free‐ranging wild mammals, representing a potential reservoir for infection in humans and domestic animals.
COVID-19 changing the face of the world. Can sub-Sahara Africa cope?
Authors: Machingauta Mandidayingeyi Hellen , Lungu Bwayla , Lungu Edward M
Published: March 2021

We formulate a mathematical model for the spread of the coronavirus which incorporates adherence to disease prevention. The major results of this study are: first, we determined optimal infection coefficients such that high levels of coronavirus transmission are prevented. Secondly, we have found that there?  exists several optimal pairs of removal rates, from the general population of asymptomatic and symptomatic infectives respectively that can protect hospital bed capacity and flatten the hospital admission curve. Of the many optimal strategies, this study recommends the pair that yields the least number of coronavirus related deaths. The results for South Africa, which is better placed than the other sub-Sahara African countries, show that failure to address hygiene and adherence issues will preclude the existence of an optimal strategy and could result in a more severe epidemic than the Italian COVID-19 epidemic. Relaxing lockdown measures to allow individuals to attend to vital needs such as food replenishment increases household and community infection rates and the severity of the overall infection.
Multiband asymmetric sound absorber enabled by ultrasparse Mie resonators
Authors: Shao Chen , Liu Chen , Ma Chengrong , Long Houyou , Chen Kai , Cheng Ying , Liu Xiaojun
Published: March 2021

On the quest towards efficiently eliminating noises, the development of a subwavelength sound absorber with the capability of free ventilation remains challenging. Here, we theoretically propose and experimentally demonstrate an asymmetric metamaterial absorber constructed by tuned Mie resonators (MRs) with unbalanced intrinsic losses. The lossy MR layer is highly dissipative to consume the sound energy while the lossless one acts as an acoustically soft boundary. Thus, the absorber presents quasi-perfect absorption (95% in experiment) for sound waves incident from the port nearer the dissipative MR and large-amount reflection (71% in experiment) from the opposite port. Moreover, the fluid dynamics investigation confirms the superior character of free air circulation owing to the ultrasparsity (volume filling ratio as low as 5%) of the absorber and its robustness to the velocity of airflows. Due to the multiple-order resonant modes of MR, we further demonstrate the flexibility of a methodology to extend asymmetric absorptions into multibands. Coupled mode analysis is employed to reveal the physical mechanism and further indicates that sparsity can be tuned by attentively controlling the reference leakage factor and intrinsic loss.
Associations Between Accelerometer-Based Free-Living Walking and Self-Reported Walking Capability Among Community-Dwelling Older People
Authors: Skantz Heidi , Rantalainen Timo , Karavirta Laura , Rantakokko Merja , Palmberg Lotta , Portegijs Erja , Rantanen Taina
Published: March 2021

The authors examined whether accelerometer-based free-living walking differs between those reporting walking modifications or perceiving walking difficulty versus those with no difficulty. Community-dwelling 75-, 80-, or 85-year-old people (N = 479) wore accelerometers continuously for 3–7 days, and reported whether they perceived no difficulties, used walking modifications, or perceived difficulties walking 2 km. Daily walking minutes, walking bouts, walking bout intensity and duration, and activity fragmentation were calculated from accelerometer recordings, and cut points for increased risk for perceiving walking difficulties were calculated using receiver operating characteristic analysis. The authors’ analyses showed that accumulating ≤83.1 daily walking minutes and walking bouts duration ≤47.8 s increased the likelihood of reporting walking modifications and difficulties. Accumulating walking bouts ≤99.4 per day, having walking bouts ≤0.119 g intensity, and ≥0.257 active to sedentary transition probability fragmented activity pattern were associated only with perceiving walking difficulties. The findings suggest that older people’s accelerometer-based free-living walking reflects their self-reported walking capability.