bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explainable t-SNE for single-cell RNA-seq data analysis
Authors: Han Henry , Zhang Tianyu , Li Chun , Benton Mary Lauren , Wang Juan , Li Junyi
Published: January 2022

Background

Single-cell RNA (scRNA-seq) sequencing technologies trigger the study of individual cell gene expression and reveal the diversity within cell populations. To measure cell-to-cell similarity based on their transcription and gene expression, many dimension reduction methods are employed to retrieve corresponding low-dimensional embeddings of input scRNA-seq data to conduct clustering. However, the methods lack explainability and may not perform well with scRNA-seq data because they are not customized for high-dimensional sparse scRNA-seq data.

Results

In this study, we propose an explainable t-SNE: cell-driven t-SNE (c-TSNE) that fuses cell differences reflected from biologically meaningful distance metrics for input data. Our study shows that the proposed method not only enhances the interpretation of the original t-SNE visualization but also demonstrates favorable single cell segregation performance on benchmark datasets compared to state-of-the-art peers. The robustness analysis shows that the proposed cell-driven t-SNE demonstrates robustness to dropout and noise in clustering. It provides a novel and practical way to investigate the interpretability of t-SNE in scRNA-seq data analysis. Unlike the general assumption that the explainability of a machine learning method may need to compromise with learning efficiency, the proposed explainable t-SNE improves both clustering efficiency and explainability. More importantly, our work suggests that widely used t-SNE can be easily misused in existing scRNA-seq analysis, because its default Euclidean distance can bring biases or meaningless results in cell difference evaluation for high-dimensional sparse scRNA-seq data. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first explainable t-SNE proposed in scRNA-seq analysis and will inspire other explainable machine learning method development in the field.

Conclusion

The proposed explainable t-SNE outperforms classic t-SNE and its peers in meaningful visualization and segregation. The poor performance of the classic t-SNE highlights the importance of developing explainable machine learning methods in scRNA-seq analysis. The explainable t-SNE is a data-centric customized ML enhance efficiency in data analysis through bringing more biological insights and interpretations.
Myeloid-biased HSC require Semaphorin 4A from the bone marrow niche for self-renewal under stress and life-long persistence
Authors: Toghani Dorsa , Zeng Sharon , Mahammadov Elmir , Crosse Edie I. , Seyedhassantehrani Negar , Burns Christian , Gravano David , Radtke Stefan , Kiem Hans-Peter , Rodriguez Sonia , Carlesso Nadia , Pradeep Amogh , Wilson Nicola K. , Kinston Sarah J. , Göttgens Berthold , Nerlov Claus , Pietras Eric , Mesnieres Marion , Maes Christa , Kumanogoh Atsushi , Worzfeld Thomas , Kharchenko Peter , Scadden David T. , Scialdone Antonio , Spencer Joel A , Silberstein Lev
Published: January 2022

Tissue stem cells are hierarchically organized. Those that are most primitive serve as key drivers of regenerative response but the signals that selectively preserve their functional integrity are largely unknown. Here, we identify a secreted factor, Semaphorin 4A (Sema4A), as a specific regulator of myeloid-biased hematopoietic stem cells (myHSC), which are positioned at the top of the HSC hierarchy. Lack of Sema4A leads to exaggerated myHSC (but not downstream “balanced” HSC) proliferation after acute inflammatory stress, indicating that Sema4A enforces myHSC quiescence. Strikingly, aged Sema4A knock-out myHSC expand but almost completely lose reconstitution capacity. The effect of Sema4A is non cell-autonomous, since upon transplantation into Sema4A-deficient environment, wild-type myHSC excessively proliferate but fail to engraft long-term. Sema4A constrains inflammatory signaling in myHSC and acts via a surface receptor Plexin-D1. Our data support a model whereby the most primitive tissue stem cells critically rely on a dedicated signal from the niche for self-renewal and life-long persistence.
Cell- and non-cell-autonomous ARF3 coordinates meristem proliferation and organ patterning in Arabidopsis
Authors: Zhang Ke , Zhang Hao , Pan Yanyun , Guo Lin , Tian Shijun , Wei Jiarong , Fu Yunze , Wang Cong , Qu Ping , Liu Liantao , Zhang Yongjiang , Sun Hongchun , Bai Zhiying , Dong Jingao , Li Cundong , Liu Xigang
Published: January 2022

In cell–cell communication, non-cell-autonomous transcription factors play vital roles in controlling plant stem cell fate. We previously reported that AUXIN RESPONSE FACTOR 3 (ARF3), a member of the ARF family with critical roles in floral meristem maintenance and determinacy, has a distinct accumulation pattern that differs from the expression domain of its encoding gene in the shoot apical meristem (SAM). However, the biological meaning of this difference is obscure. Here, we demonstrate that ARF3 expression is mainly activated at the periphery of the SAM by auxin, where ARF3 cell-autonomously regulates the expression of meristem–organ boundary-specific genes, such as CUP-SHAPED COTYLEDON1-3 (CUC1-3), BLADE ON PETIOLE1-2 (BOP1-2) and TARGETS UNDER ETTIN CONTROL3 (TEC3) to determine organ patterning. We also show that ARF3 is translocated into the organizing center, where it represses cytokinin activity and WUSCHEL expression to regulate meristem activity non-cell-autonomously. Therefore, ARF3 acts as a molecular link that mediates the interaction of auxin and cytokinin signaling in the SAM while coordinating the balance between meristem maintenance and organogenesis. Our findings reveal an ARF3-mediated coordination mechanism through cell–cell communication in dynamic SAM maintenance.
Sequence Coverage Visualizer: A web application for protein sequence coverage 3D visualization
Authors: Shao Xinhao , Grams Christopher , Gao Yu
Published: January 2022

Protein structure is connected with its function and interaction and plays an extremely important role in protein characterization. As one of the most important analytical methods for protein characterization, Proteomics is widely used to determine protein composition, quantitation, interaction, and even structures. However, due to the gap between identified proteins by proteomics and available 3D structures, it was very challenging, if not impossible, to visualize proteomics results in 3D and further explore the structural aspects of proteomics experiments. Recently, two groups of researchers from DeepMind and Baker lab have independently published protein structure prediction tools that can help us obtain predicted protein structures for the whole human proteome. Although there is still debate on the validity of some of the predicted structures, it is no doubt that these represent the most accurate predictions to date. More importantly, this enabled us to visualize the majority of human proteins for the first time. To help other researchers best utilize these protein structure predictions, we present the Sequence Coverage Visualizer (SCV), http://scv.lab.gy, a web application for protein sequence coverage 3D visualization. Here we showed a few possible usages of the SCV, including the labeling of post-translational modifications and isotope labeling experiments. These results highlight the usefulness of such 3D visualization for proteomics experiments and how SCV can turn a regular result list into structural insights. Furthermore, when used together with limited proteolysis, we demonstrated that SCV can help validate and compare different protein structures, including predicted ones and existing PDB entries. By performing limited proteolysis on native proteins at various time points, SCV can visualize the progress of the digestion. This time-series data further allowed us to compare the predicted structure and existing PDB entries. Although not deterministic, these comparisons could be used to refine current predictions further and represent an important step towards a complete and correct protein structure database. Overall, SCV is a convenient and powerful tool for visualizing proteomics results.
Antigenic evolution of SARS-CoV-2 in immunocompromised hosts
Authors: Smith Cameron A. , Ashby Ben
Published: January 2022

Prolonged infections of immunocompromised individuals have been proposed as a crucial source of new variants of SARS-CoV-2 during the COVID-19 pandemic. In principle, sustained within-host antigenic evolution in immunocompromised hosts could allow novel immune escape variants to emerge more rapidly, but little is known about how and when immunocompromised hosts play a critical role in pathogen evolution. Here, we use a simple mathematical model to understand the effects of immunocompromised hosts on the emergence of immune escape variants in the presence and absence of epistasis. We show that when the pathogen does not have to cross a fitness valley for immune escape to occur (no epistasis), immunocompromised individuals have no qualitative effect on antigenic evolution (although they may accelerate immune escape if within-host evolutionary dynamics are faster in immunocompromised individuals). But if a fitness valley exists between immune escape variants at the between-host level (epistasis), then persistent infections of immunocompromised individuals allow mutations to accumulate, therefore facilitating rather than simply speeding up antigenic evolution. Our results suggest that better genomic surveillance of infected immunocompromised individuals and better global health equality, including improving access to vaccines and treatments for individuals who are immunocompromised (especially in lower- and middle-income countries), may be crucial to preventing the emergence of future immune escape variants of SARS-CoV-2.

Lay Summary

We study the role that immunocompromised individuals may play in the evolution of novel variants of the coronavirus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. We show that immunocompromised hosts can be crucial for the evolution of immune escape variants. Targeted treatment and surveillance may therefore prevent the emergence of new variants.
Thermal-induced transformation of glutamic acid to pyroglutamic acid and self-cocrystallization: a charge–density analysis
Authors: Akram Sehrish , Mehmood Arshad , Noureen Sajida , Ahmed Maqsood
Published: January 2022

Thermal-induced transformation of glutamic acid to pyroglutamic acid is well known. However, confusion remains over the exact temperature at which this happens. Moreover, no diffraction data are available to support the transition. In this article, we make a systematic investigation involving thermal analysis, hot-stage microscopy and single-crystal X-ray diffraction to study a one-pot thermal transition of glutamic acid to pyroglutamic acid and subsequent self-cocrystallization between the product (hydrated pyroglutamic acid) and the unreacted precursor (glutamic acid). The melt upon cooling gave a robust cocrystal, namely, glutamic acid–pyroglutamic acid–water (1/1/1), C5H7NO3·C5H9NO4·H2O, whose structure has been elucidated from single-crystal X-ray diffraction data collected at room temperature. A three-dimensional network of strong hydrogen bonds has been found. A Hirshfeld surface analysis was carried out to make a quantitative estimation of the intermolecular interactions. In order to gain insight into the strength and stability of the cocrystal, thetransferability principlewas utilized to make a topological analysis and to study the electron-density-derived properties. Thetransferredmodel has been found to be superior to the classical independent atom model (IAM). The experimental results have been compared with results from a multipolar refinement carried out using theoretical structure factors generated from density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Very strong classical hydrogen bonds drive the cocrystallization and lend stability to the resulting cocrystal. Important conclusions have been drawn about this transition.
Fuel flow rate modeling for descent using cuckoo search algorithm: a case study for point merge system procedure at Istanbul airport
Authors: Oruc Ridvan , Sahin Ozlem , Baklacioglu Tolga
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to create a new fuel flow rate model using cuckoo search algorithm (CSA) for the descending stage of the flight.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the actual flight data record data of the B737-800 aircraft, a new fuel flow rate model has been developed for this aircraft type. The created model is to predict the fuel flow rate with high accuracy depending on the altitude and true airspeed. In addition, the CSA fuel flow rate model was used to calculate the fuel consumption for the point merge system, which is used for combining the initial approach to the final approach at Istanbul Airport, the largest airport of Turkey.

Findings

As a result of the analysis, the correlation coefficient value is found as 0.996858 for Flight 1, 0.998548 for Flight 2, 0.995363 and 0.997351 for Flight 3 and Flight 4, respectively. The values that are so close to 1 indicate that the model predicts the real fuel flow rate data with high accuracy.

Practical implications

This model is considered to be useful in air traffic management decision support systems, aircraft performance models, models used for trajectory prediction and strategies used by the aviation community to reduce fuel consumption and related emissions.

Originality/value

The importance of this study lies in the fact that to the best of the authors’ knowledge, it is the first fuel flow rate model developed using CSA for the descent stage in the existing literature; the data set used is real values.
Fake or real news? Understanding the gratifications and personality traits of individuals sharing fake news on social media platforms
Authors: Sampat Brinda , Raj Sahil
Published: January 2022

Purpose

“Fake news” or misinformation sharing using social media sites into public discourse or politics has increased dramatically, over the last few years, especially in the current COVID-19 pandemic causing concern. However, this phenomenon is inadequately researched. This study examines fake news sharing with the lens of stimulus-organism-response (SOR) theory, uses and gratification theory (UGT) and big five personality traits (BFPT) theory to understand the motivations for sharing fake news and the personality traits that do so. The stimuli in the model comprise gratifications (pass time, entertainment, socialization, information sharing and information seeking) and personality traits (agreeableness, conscientiousness, extraversion, openness and neuroticism). The feeling of authenticating or instantly sharing news is the organism leading to sharing fake news, which forms the response in the study.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptual model was tested by the data collected from a sample of 221 social media users in India. The data were analyzed with partial least squares structural equation modeling to determine the effects of UGT and personality traits on fake news sharing. The moderating role of the platform WhatsApp or Facebook was studied.

Findings

The results suggest that pass time, information sharing and socialization gratifications lead to instant sharing news on social media platforms. Individuals who exhibit extraversion, neuroticism and openness share news on social media platforms instantly. In contrast, agreeableness and conscientiousness personality traits lead to authentication news before sharing on the social media platform.

Originality/value

This study contributes to social media literature by identifying the user gratifications and personality traits that lead to sharing fake news on social media platforms. Furthermore, the study also sheds light on the moderating influence of the choice of the social media platform for fake news sharing.
Fostering sustainable logistics businesses: the role of innovation ecosystems and institutional contexts for logistics firms in China
Authors: Liu Yulong , Chung Henry F.L. , Mi Lili
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Drawing on institution embeddedness and the resource-based view, the authors develop a theoretical framework and empirically examine how intra-national innovation ecosystems and environmental institutions impact logistics service providers' (LSPs) technological innovation (TI) and green practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors test the theoretical framework based on survey data of 328 Chinese LSPs. Archival datasets complement the survey data.

Findings

The research reveals that intra-national institutional forces of formal and informal environment-related institutions can mitigate LSPs' reliance on their firm-specific advantages when engaging in TI and green practices. Results from a three-way interaction indicate that intra-national innovation ecosystems positively moderate the effects of environmental institutions.

Research limitations/implications

The research has three critical implications. First, the study reveals the contingency role of intra-national environment-related institutions and innovation ecosystems in shaping green logistics. Second, the study finds new results about the roles of informal environmental institutions. Finally, intra-national innovation ecosystems can override environmental institutions in influencing the green practices of LSPs.

Originality/value

Taking a unique angle of institution embeddedness coupled with the resource-based view, the authors examined how intra-national ecosystems and environmental institutions impact LSPs' TI and green practices.
Corporate governance reform in Nigeria: upstream and downstream interventions
Authors: Nakpodia Franklin , Olan Femi
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Internal (e.g. firm performance, internal stakeholders) and external pressures (e.g. globalisation, technology, corporate scandals) have intensified calls for corporate governance reforms across varieties of capitalism. Yet, corporate governance practices among developing economies remain problematic. Drawing insights from Africa’s largest economy (Nigeria) and relying on the resource dependence theorisation, this study aims to address two questions – what are the prerequisites for effective reforms; and what reforms yield robust corporate governance?

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a qualitative methodology comprising semi-structured interviews with 21 executives in publicly listed Nigerian firms. The interviews were analysed using the content analysis technique.

Findings

This study proposes two sequential reforms (i.e. the upstream and downstream). The upstream factors highlight the preconditions that support corporate governance reforms, i.e. government commitment and enabling environment, while the downstream reforms combine elements of awareness and regulation to proffer robust corporate governance interventions.

Originality/value

This research further stresses the need to consider a bottom-up approach to corporate governance in place of the dominant top-down strategy. This strategy allows agents to participate actively in corporate governance policy-making rather than a top-down model, which imposes corporate governance on agents.
Tribological behavior of UHMWPE in water lubrication: the effect of molding temperature
Authors: Zhou Xincong , Yang Chaozhen , Huang Jian , Liu Xueshen , Zhong Da , Wang Peng , Wan Gao
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is adopted in water-lubricated bearings for its excellent performance. This paper aims to investigate the tribological properties of UHMWPE with a molecular weight of 10.2 million (g mol‐1) under different molding temperatures.

Design/methodology/approach

The UHMWPE samples were prepared by mold pressing under constant pressure and different molding temperatures (140°C, 160°C, 180°C, 200°C, 220°C). The friction and wear tests in water were conducted at the RTEC tribo-tester.

Findings

The friction coefficient and wear loss decreased first and rose later with the increasing molding temperature. The minimums of the friction coefficient and wear loss were found at the molding temperatures of 200°C. At low melting temperatures, the UHMWPE molecular chains could not unwrap thoroughly, leading to greater abrasive wear. On the other hand, high melting temperatures will cause the UHMWPE molecular chains to break up and decompose. The optimal molding temperatures for UHMWPE were found to be 200°C.

Originality/value

Findings are of great significance for the design of water-lubricated UHMWPE bearings.
Genetic nutrition programmes – disappointment or empowered health? Exploring consumer engagement to understand social health change
Authors: Conroy Denise Maria , Errmann Amy , Young Jenny , Fifita Ilaisaane M.E.
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This research aims to gain insight into how consumers interact with a commercially available genetic nutrition programme, DNAfit, to explore health change via an intervention.

Design/methodology/approach

Focus groups were conducted between June and October 2019, pre-, during- and post-intervention, with a total sample of 14 younger (aged 25–44 years) and 14 mature (aged 45–65 years) cohorts from New Zealand. Qualitative thematic analysis was completed with the help of NVivo software.

Findings

Younger participants in this study engaged less overall with DNAfit, felt the service did not match their lifestyles and did not encourage their believability of genetic personalised nutrition (GPN). In contrast, mature participants had positive engagement with GPN, as their motivation to use the service fit with their motivation for longevity. Overall, social uptake in health changes based on GPN is likely to depend on life stage.

Originality/value

This paper adds to limited social marketing research, which seeks novel avenues to explore how consumers engage with GPN technologies to drive social change, assisting social marketers on how to more effectively deliver health programmes that allow consumer-driven interaction to build health capabilities.
Young adult drug interventions: a social marketing systematic review and research agenda
Authors: Riedel Aimee , Mulcahy Rory , Beatson Amanda , Keating Byron
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to report on the first comprehensive, social marketing systematic review of interventions targeting illicit drug use by young adults.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 3,169 papers were screened, with 20 relevant empirical studies meeting the eligibility criteria for the systematic review. These were analysed according to Andreasen’s (2002) and NSMC’s (2006) social marketing benchmarks.

Findings

The findings provide evidence regarding the efficacy of behavioural and clinical interventions targeting individuals and groups, including motivational, life skills training, cognitive behavioural therapy, comprehensive health and social risk assessments and buprenorphine treatment interventions. Further, results evidence that there is yet to be an intervention which has implemented the full marketing mix, and limited studies have used the social marketing benchmarks of exchange and competition.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to conduct a comprehensive systematic review and provide key recommendations outlining the potential for social marketing to support the improved uptake and efficacy of interventions. A research agenda is also put forward to direct future social marketing scholarship in the area of young adult drug interventions.
Information professionals' quality of work-life and its impact on their job performance
Authors: Soroya Saira Hanif , Sarwar Tehmina , Soroya Muhammad Shahid
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Job performance (JP) of employees is a key indicator of success for any organization; however, job performance is dependent on many factors including personal and organizational. The current study aims to investigate this phenomenon concerning the quality of work-life (QoWL).

Design/methodology/approach

The study design was quantitative, and a questionnaire was filled by 130 professional librarians based on a convenient sampling technique. The research population was academic information professionals (IPs) serving the university libraries of Lahore, Pakistan. Data were analyzed using SPSS (20.0).

Findings

Job career satisfaction is proved a key indicator of JP along with job control and general well-being (GWB). Counterproductive work behavior (CWB), which is a negative behavior, is significantly affected by poor job satisfaction (JS), stress, feelings of unhappiness and low workplace autonomy.

Practical implications

The study suggests that if poor JS, stress, feelings of unhappiness and low workplace autonomy could be manipulated positively, CWB may be reduced and there are chances to improve the JP of IPs.

Originality/value

This is one of the first attempts that focuses on QoWL and its impact on JP of IPs. The study findings may help leaders and library administration to take employees' friendly decisions to provide a conducive work environment.
Business employability for late millennials: exploring the perceptions of generation Z students and generation X faculty
Authors: Kyrousi Antigone G. , Tzoumaka Eugenia , Leivadi Stella
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The paper aims to explore employability in business as perceived by Generation Z (late millennials) business students and faculty. It focuses on perceptions regarding necessary employability skills from the diverse standpoints of two different groups of stakeholders within one Higher Education Institution.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a Mixed Qualitative Design approach including a core and a supplementary component; Generation Z student perceptions are initially identified through a thematic analysis of students’ research reports on employability. These perceptions are then further contextualized through findings from a series of personal interviews conducted with Generation X academics in the same institution.

Findings

The findings support the two basic dimensions of perceived employability, work readiness and employability skills, for which students and educators hold similar notions. Both stakeholders distinguish between “hard” and “soft” skills, but filter their relative importance through a generational lens. An emerging finding was the link between personality traits and perceived employability skills.

Originality/value

The paper examines the much-debated issue of perceived employability through the eyes of Generation Z students; research on employability perceptions of Generation Z is, to date, limited. The topic is timely, as Generation Z is the newest generation entering the business job market. In addition, the paper adds to the emerging contemporary stream of literature exploring employability in the field of business education.
From conventional to digital leadership: exploring digitalization of leadership and innovative work behavior
Authors: Erhan Tuğba , Uzunbacak Hasan Huseyin , Aydin Erhan
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The leadership shift from conventional to digital comes from the compulsory digitalization of the workplace because the technological progress provides the opportunity of doing work remotely, and this is a great advantage of reducing costs that stem from the offline workplace. Thus, this research aims at demonstrating the relationship between digitalization of leadership and innovative work behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 320 Turkish department managers in the Textile Industry through digital leadership and innovate work behavior scales. The hypotheses were tested using path analysis. The analyses were conducted by using SPSS and AMOS package programs.

Findings

The results show that the employees’ perceptions of digital leadership have a positive and significant effect on all dimensions of an employee innovative work behavior. Also, the leaders with high digital skills were perceived positively by the employees and the employees tend to adapt innovative behaviors when they have the digitally skilled leaders.

Originality/value

This study contributes to leadership research by providing evidence for the role of leadership shift in innovative work behavior. Extending the verification of leadership shift in innovative work behavior that can be adopted in Turkey has also been considered.
Effect of compatibilisers on the cure characteristics and mechanical properties of ternary rubber blend composites
Authors: Abdelsalam Amir A. , El-Sabbagh Salwa H. , Mohamed Wael S. , Li Jian , Wang Lihua , Ismail Hanafi , Abdelmoneim Ahmed , Khozami Mohsen A.
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to study the effects of various compatibilisers (maleic anhydride (MAH), methyl methacrylate/butyl acrylate emulsion lattice, and adhesion system (HRH)) on properties of carbon black (CB) filled with natural rubber (NR)/styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR)/ nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) blends). A series of NR/SBR/NBR blends at a 30/30/40 blend ratio reinforced with 45 phr of CB was prepared using the master-batch method.

Design/methodology/approach

The tensile properties such as the tensile strength, stress at 100, 200 and 300% elongations, and elongation at break (EB)% were studied. Additionally, the morphological properties of compatibilised and uncompatibilised composites were compared to determine the optimal compatibiliser content.

Findings

The influence of compatibilisers appeared on all the properties studied. The properties of the blends compatibilised with prepared emulsion are very distinct from those of blends compatibilised with MAH and adhesion systems.

Research limitations/implications

Interactions among the different components of blends at the interfaces have a high impact on the interfacial properties of the rubber blend.

Practical implications

Compatibilisers significantly improve the physicomechanical properties of the resulting composites with the loading of investigated compatibilisers because of the uniform dispersion of CB in the rubber matrix.

Social implications

Using blends in the rubber industry leads to high-efficiency production of low-cost products.

Originality/value

The rubber blending has a significant positive effect on a wide range of applications such as structural applications, aerospace, military, packaging, tires and biomedical. Hence, improving the compatibility of blends will make new materials suitable for new applications.
Development of flame retardant cotton and acrylic blend textile fabric finish with Enset pseudostem sap
Authors: Dejene Bekinew Kitaw , Fenta Terefe Belachew , Korra Chirato Godana
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The potential for burn injuries arises from contact with a hot surface, flame, hot liquid and steam hazards. The purpose of this study is to develop the flame retardant acrylic and cotton blend textile finished with Enset Ventricosum pseudostem sap (EPS).

Design/methodology/approach

The two fabric was produced from (30% acrylic with 70% cotton) and (35% acrylic with 65% cotton) blend. The extracted sap was made alkaline and applied on two mordanted blend fabrics. The effect of blend ratio, the concentration of EPS and treatment time on flammability, Flame retardant properties of both the control and the treated fabrics were analyzed in terms of vertical flammability based on the design of the experiment software using central composite design. The air permeability and tensile strength of treated and controlled fabric were measured.

Findings

The blended fabrics at different blended ratios were flame retardant with an optimized result of burning time 2.902 min and 2.775 min and char length 6.442 cm and 7.332 cm in the warp and weft direction, respectively, at a concentration of 520 ml and time 33.588 min. There was a slight significant change in mechanical strengths and air permeability. The thermal degradation and the pyrolysis of the fabric samples were studied using thermogravimetric analysis and the chemical composition by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy abbreviated as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The wash durability of the treated fabric at different blend ratios was carried out for the optimized sample and the test result shows that the flame retardancy property is durable up to 15 washes.

Originality/value

Development of flame retardant cotton and acrylic blend textile fabric finish with ESP was studied; this work provides application of EPS for flame resistance which is optimized statically and successfully applied for a flame retardant property on cotton-acrylic blend fabric.
Validation of design and materials for additive manufacturing of endocavitary mechanical distractor
Authors: Sierra Jose Manuel , Fernandez Maria del Rocio , Rodriguez Garcia Jose Ignacio Ignacio , Cortizo Jose Luis , Villazon Marta María
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This paper describes the evolution of the design of a mechanical distractor fabricated using additive manufacturing (AM) technology for use in surgical procedures, such as transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM). The functionality of the final device was analysed and the suitability of different materials was determined.

Design/methodology/approach

Solid modelling and finite element modelling software were used in the design and validation process to allow the fabrication of the device by AM. Several prototypes were manufactured and tested in this study.

Findings

A new design was developed to greatly simplify the existing devices used in TEM surgery. The new design is easy to use, more economical and does not require pneumorectum. Different AM materials were investigated with regard to their mechanical properties, orientation of parts in the three-dimensional (3D) printer and cytotoxicity to select the optimal material for the design.

Social implications

The device designed by AM can be printed anywhere in the world, provided that a 3D printer is available; the 3D printer does not have to be a high-performance printer. This makes surgery more accessible, particularly in low-income regions. Moreover, patient recovery is improved and pneumorectum is not required.

Originality/value

A suitable mechanical distractor was designed for TEM, and different materials were validated for fabrication by AM.
Competition–colonisation trade‐offs are found among but not within wind‐dispersed Pinus species
Authors: Wyse Sarah V. , Hulme Philip E.
Published: January 2022

The competition–colonisation trade‐off is recognised as a key mechanism for diversity maintenance, whereby weak competitors can avoid competition with stronger competitors due to their greater dispersal ability. To date, most theoretical and empirical work has focused on trade‐offs among different species yet a within‐species perspective is crucial to assess the scope for natural selection on competition–colonisation trade‐offs.

For six wind‐dispersed Pinus species encompassing a wide range of seed masses, we examined whether within and among species there was evidence that heavier seeds typically disperse shorter distances but produce seedlings that are stronger competitors with a higher likelihood of successful establishment, under different treatment conditions.

Within species, we found seedling establishment to be independent of diaspore terminal velocity (a measure of dispersal potential), which would maximise the variation in potential dispersal distances and locations reached by the seeds shed from a parent tree, and therefore the chances that some offspring will reach a favourable recruitment site. However, among Pinus species the likelihood of seedling emergence and survival was higher in species that produce heavier seeds with higher terminal velocity.

We found a marked competition–colonisation trade‐off among all six species consistent with expectations from coexistence theory. In contrast, within species, there was no evidence of competition–colonisation trade‐offs for any species, despite differences in the relationships between diaspore mass and terminal velocity. This is consistent with weak selection within species for a competition–colonisation trade‐off. The results suggest that within‐species trade‐offs do not influence the risk of invasive spread.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Towards shared prosperity in sub‐Saharan Africa: How does the effect of economic integration compare to social equity policies?
Authors: Ofori Isaac K. , Cantah William G. , Afful Benedict , Hossain Saddam
Published: January 2022

This study extends the inclusive growth literature on sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA) by addressing two conspicuous gaps. First, the study examines the effects of social equity policies and economic integration on inclusive growth. Second, the study investigates the joint effects of economic integration and resource allocation on inclusive growth. Using data on 43 SSA countries for the period 1980–2019, we provide robust evidence from the GMM estimator to show that relative to economic integration, social equity policies are rather remarkable in enhancing inclusive growth. The results further reveal that, although economic integration induces inclusive growth, the effect is pronounced in the presence of productive resource allocation. Policy recommendations are provided in line with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement and the reversals of welfare gains due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Effects of basal and premixed insulin on glycemic control in type 2 diabetes patients based on multicenter prospective real‐world data
Authors: Peng Ying , Xu Peihong , Shi Juan , Zhang Yifei , Wang Shujie , Zheng Qidong , Wang Yufan , Ke Tingyu , Li Li , Zhao Dong , Dai Yuancheng , Dong Qijuan , Ji Bangqun , Xu Fengmei , Gu Weiqiong , Wang Weiqing
Published: January 2022

Background

To investigate the different efficacies of glycemic control between basal and premixed insulin in participants with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) when non‐insulin medications fail to reach treatment targets.

Methods

This was a prospective, large‐scale, real‐world study at 10 diabetes centers in China. Between June 2017 and June 2021, we enrolled 1104 T2DM participants initiated with either once‐daily basal insulin or twice‐daily premixed insulin when the glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) control target was not met after at least two non‐insulin agents were administered. A Cox proportional hazards regression model adjusting for multiple influencing factors was performed to compare the different effects of basal and premixed insulin on reaching the HbA1c control target.

Results

At baseline, basal insulin (57.3%) was prescribed more frequently than premixed insulin (42.7%). Patients with a higher body mass index (BMI) or higher HbA1c levels were more likely to receive premixed insulin than basal insulin (both p < 0.001). After a median follow‐up of 12.0 months, compared to those with premixed insulin, the hazard ratio for reaching the HbA1c target to those with basal insulin was 1.10 (95% CI, 0.92‐1.31; p = 0.29) after adjustment, and less weight gain was observed in those with basal insulin than with premixed insulin (percentage change of BMI from baseline −0.37[5.50]% vs 3.40[6.73]%, p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

In this real‐world study, once‐daily basal insulin was more frequently prescribed and had similar glycemic control effects but less weight gain compared with twice‐daily premixed insulin when used as initiation therapy for those in whom glycemic control with non‐insulin medications failed.
Nursing outcomes and interventions associated with the nursing diagnoses: Risk for or actual frail elderly syndrome
Authors: Argenta Carla , Zanatta Elisangela Argenta , Adamy Edlamar Kátia , Lucena Amália de Fátima
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To clinically validate nursing outcomes and interventions associated with the nursing diagnoses of Risk for Frail elderly syndrome or Frail elderly syndrome.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study utilized an instrument containing assessment cues, nursing diagnoses, outcomes, and interventions in a sample of 28 older adults. The Generalized Estimation Equation model, complemented by the Bonferroni test, was used for statistical analysis.

Results

Twenty‐three (82%) older adults were diagnosed with Risk for Syndrome and five (18%) with Frail elderly syndrome. Ten outcomes and three interventions were validated with significant differences statistically.

Conclusions

The clinical validation made it possible to demonstrate the clinical evolution of these patients under follow‐up.

Implications for Nursing Practice

Those outcomes and interventions are a linkages proposal between them and the nursing diagnoses.

Objetivo

Validar clinicamente os resultados e intervenções de enfermagem associados ao diagnóstico de enfermagem Risco para Síndrome do Idoso Frágil ou Síndrome do Idoso Frágil.

Métodos

Estudo transversal que utilizou um instrumento contendo possibilidades de avaliação, diagnóstico de enfermagem, resultados e intervenções em uma amostra de 28 idosos. A análise estatística utilizou o modelo de Equações de Estimativas Generalizadas, complementado pelo teste de Bonferroni.

Resultados

Vinte e três (82%) idosos foram diagnosticados com Risco de Síndrome e cinco (18%) idosos com Síndrome. Dez resultados e três intervenções foram validados com diferença estatisticamente significativa.

Conclusões

A validação clínica permitiu demonstrar a evolução clínica desses pacientes em acompanhamento.

Implicações para a prática de enfermagem. Esses resultados e intervenções são uma proposta de vínculo entre eles e os diagnósticos de enfermagem.
The Unexpected Effect of the 2001 Crisis: The Revival of Right‐Wing Mobilisation in Argentina
Authors: Natalucci Ana
Published: January 2022

The mass protests of December 2001 were a turning point in Argentine politics. However, their effects in the mid‐ to long term have been less clear. This article argues that the 2001 crisis had two distinct consequences. The first, which was expected and immediate, was the stimulus given to left‐wing grassroots organisations. The other, unexpected and deferred, was the revitalisation of right‐wing collectives in subsequent years. The article uses a multiple technique approach.
Perceptions of support in shelter environments for caregivers and young children experiencing family homelessness
Authors: Vrabic Sarah C. , Herbers Janette E. , Davis Mariah , Thomas Courtney
Published: January 2022

Background

Young children who stay with their families in homeless shelters face chronic challenges related to extreme poverty and acute risks from stressful events surrounding the loss of housing and move to shelter. These adversities increase the likelihood of a range of poor developmental outcomes. Consistent with the risk and resilience perspective, however, many children who experience family homelessness succeed, functioning as well or better than their non‐homeless peers. As such, efforts to support resilience should consider how best to enhance protective factors, such as supportive environments within shelter settings.

Methods

With data from 60 caregivers of children ages birth to 5 years recruited from family shelters, we assessed caregivers' perceptions of community support as well as child and family well‐being in terms of recent adverse experiences, parenting stress, access to social support, and child social–emotional functioning.

Results

Many caregivers experiencing family homelessness perceived negative aspects of the shelters where they were staying with their children. Furthermore, children whose caregivers had more negative perceptions of the shelter environment displayed worse social–emotional functioning, even when accounting for differences in parenting stress, recent family adversity, and other sources of social support.

Conclusions

Because young children rely on their caregivers as primary resources for nurturance and support, we encourage family homelessness service providers to work in partnership with caregivers to create more inclusive and empowering practices within the shelter context. Doing so is likely to improve children's developmental outcomes and the overall well‐being of the families.
Teletherapy for children with developmental disorders during the COVID‐19 pandemic in the Philippines: A mixed‐methods evaluation from the perspectives of parents and therapists
Authors: Eguia Kathlynne F. , Capio Catherine M.
Published: January 2022

Objectives

As a response to the lockdown associated with COVID‐19 in the Philippines, therapy services for children with developmental disorders shifted to telehealth (i.e., teletherapy). This study evaluated the delivery of teletherapy from the perspectives of parents and therapists.

Methods

Participants consisted of parents (n = 47) and therapists (n = 102) of children with developmental disorders who were receiving teletherapy during the lockdown. A mixed‐methods triangulation design‐convergence model was adopted; participants were invited to respond to an online survey with closed‐ and open‐ended questions. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and non‐parametric inferential tests, while qualitative data were examined using thematic analysis.

Results

Overall satisfaction with teletherapy was positive, with parents reporting significantly higher satisfaction compared with therapists. Satisfaction was positively associated with the frequency of teletherapy sessions for parents and with their years of experience for therapists. The top enabling factors were family participation and effective communication. The main challenges were time constraints and difficulty with instruction and monitoring associated with the two‐dimensional nature of teletherapy. The benefits included parents' empowerment and enhanced understanding of their children's needs.

Discussion

Delivery of teletherapy was enabled by a heightened focus on family‐centred care. The evaluation findings suggest that the general satisfaction with teletherapy and the benefits associated with family‐centred care would potentially promote teletherapy as a service delivery mode to continue beyond the pandemic.
The development of place value concepts: Approximation before principles
Authors: Mix Kelly S. , Bower Corinne A. , Hancock Gregory R. , Yuan Lei , Smith Linda B.
Published: January 2022

Place value concepts were measured longitudinally from kindergarten (2017) to first grade (2018) in a diverse sample (n = 279; Mage = 5.76 years, SD = 0.55; 135 females; 41% Black, 38% White, 8% Asian, 12% Latino). Children completed three syntactic tasks that required an explicit understanding of base‐10 symbols and three approximate tasks that could be completed without this explicit understanding. Approximate performance was significantly better in both age groups. A factor analysis confirmed that syntactic and approximate tasks tapped separate latent variables in kindergarten, but not in first grade. Path analyses indicated that only kindergarten approximate performance predicted overall first‐grade place value understanding. These findings suggest that explicit understanding of base‐10 principles develops from implicit, partial knowledge of multidigit numbers.
Approach to childhood glaucoma: A review
Authors: Karaconji Tanya , Zagora Sophia , Grigg John R.
Published: January 2022

Childhood glaucoma represents a heterogenous group of rare ocular conditions that may result in significant sight threatening complications related to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). It can be classified as either primary or secondary and the latter may have systemic associations. This review will be based on the work of the childhood glaucoma research network (CGRN) and will focus on the diagnosis and management of the most common types of childhood glaucoma. These include primary congenital glaucoma (PCG) and juvenile open angle glaucoma (JOAG) as well as secondary causes of glaucoma associated with non‐acquired ocular anomalies (Axenfeld‐Rieger anomaly; Peters anomaly and Aniridia), glaucoma associated with systemic disease (Sturge Weber syndrome and Neurofibromatosis), those due to acquired conditions (Uveitic glaucoma, trauma and tumours) and importantly glaucoma following cataract surgery.