bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying redox heterogeneity in single-crystalline LiCoO2 cathode particles
Authors: Wei Chenxi , Hong Yanshuai , Tian Yangchao , Yu Xiqian , Liu Yijin , Pianetta Piero
Published: March 2020

Active cathode particles are fundamental architectural units for the composite electrode of Li-ion batteries. The microstructure of the particles has a profound impact on their behavior and, consequently, on the cell-level electrochemical performance. LiCoO2 (LCO, a dominant cathode material) is often in the form of well-shaped particles, a few micrometres in size, with good crystallinity. In contrast to secondary particles (an agglomeration of many fine primary grains), which are the other common form of battery particles populated with structural and chemical defects, it is often anticipated that good particle crystallinity leads to superior mechanical robustness and suppressed charge heterogeneity. Yet, sub-particle level charge inhomogeneity in LCO particles has been widely reported in the literature, posing a frontier challenge in this field. Herein, this topic is revisited and it is demonstrated that X-ray absorption spectra on single-crystalline particles with highly anisotropic lattice structures are sensitive to the polarization configuration of the incident X-rays, causing some degree of ambiguity in analyzing the local spectroscopic fingerprint. To tackle this issue, a methodology is developed that extracts the white-line peak energy in the X-ray absorption near-edge structure spectra as a key data attribute for representing the local state of charge in the LCO crystal. This method demonstrates significantly improved accuracy and reveals the mesoscale chemical complexity in LCO particles with better fidelity. In addition to the implications on the importance of particle engineering for LCO cathodes, the method developed herein also has significant impact on spectro-microscopic studies of single-crystalline materials at synchrotron facilities, which is broadly applicable to a wide range of scientific disciplines well beyond battery research.
Crystal structure of (4-chlorophenyl)(4-methylpiperidin-1-yl)methanone
Authors: Srividya J. , Reuben Jonathan D. , Revathi B. K. , Divya Bharathi M. , Anbalagan G.
Published: March 2020

The title compound, C13H16ClNO, contains a methylpiperidine ring in the stable chair conformation. The mean plane of the twisted piperidine ring subtends a dihedral angle of 39.89 (7)° with that of the benzene ring. In the crystal, weak C—H...O interactions link the molecules along the a-axis direction to form infinite molecular chains. H...H interatomic interactions, C—H...O intermolecular interactions and weak dispersive forces stabilize molecular packing and form a supramolecular network, as established by Hirshfeld surface analysis.
Silver(I) nitrate two-dimensional coordination polymers of two new pyrazinethiophane ligands: 5,7-dihydro-1H,3H-dithieno[3,4-b:3′,4′-e]pyrazine and 3,4,8,10,11,13-hexahydro-1H,6H-bis([1,4]dithiocino)[6,7-b:6′,7′-e]pyrazine
Authors: Assoumatine Tokouré , Stoeckli-Evans Helen
Published: March 2020

The two new pyrazineophanes, 5,7-dihydro-1H,3H-dithieno[3,4-b:3′,4′-e]pyrazine, C8H8N2S2, L1, and 3,4,8,10,11,13-hexahydro-1H,6H-bis([1,4]dithiocino)[6,7-b:6′,7′-e]pyrazine, C12H16N2S4, L2, both crystallize with half a molecule in the asymmetric unit; the whole molecules are generated by inversion symmetry. The molecule of L1, which is planar (r.m.s. deviation = 0.008 Å), consists of two sulfur atoms linked by a rigid tetra-2,3,5,6-methylenepyrazine unit, forming planar five-membered rings. The molecule of L2 is step-shaped and consists of two S–CH2–CH2–S chains linked by the central rigid tetra-2,3,5,6-methylenepyrazine unit, forming eight-membered rings that have twist-boat-chair configurations. In the crystals of both compounds, there are no significant intermolecular interactions present. The reaction of L1 with silver nitrate leads to the formation of a two-dimensional coordination polymer, poly[(μ-5,7-dihydro-1H,3H-dithieno[3,4-b;3′,4′-e]pyrazine-κ2
S:S′)(μ-nitrato-κ2
O:O′)silver(I)], [Ag(NO3)(C8H8N2S2)]
n
, (I), with the nitrato anion bridging two equivalent silver atoms. The central pyrazine ring is situated about an inversion center and the silver atom lies on a twofold rotation axis that bisects the nitrato anion. The silver atom has a fourfold AgO2S2 coordination sphere with a distorted shape. The reaction of L2 with silver nitrate also leads to the formation of a two-dimensional coordination polymer, poly[[μ33,4,8,10,11,13-hexahydro-1H,6H-bis([1,4]dithiocino)[6,7-b;6′,7′-e]pyrazine-κ3
S:S′:S′′](nitrato-κO)silver(I)], [Ag(NO3)(C12H16N2S4)]
n
, (II), with the nitrate anion coordinating in a monodentate manner to the silver atom. The silver atom has a fourfold AgOS3 coordination sphere with a distorted shape. In the crystals of both complexes, the networks are linked by C—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming supramolecular frameworks. There are additional C—H...S contacts present in the supramolecular framework of II.
Developing a theoretical framework for intelligent contract acceptance
Authors: McNamara Alan J. , Sepasgozar Samad M.E.
Published: March 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a novel theoretical technology acceptance model, namely, for predicting acceptance of the trending technology of intelligent contracts (iContracts) in construction, which aims to integrate the data from emerging cyber-physical systems being introduced to the sector through the industry 4.0 revolution. This model includes main dimensions and critical contributing factors to assess the readiness for the iContract concept within the construction contract environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Through an extensive literature review, the structure of a unique theoretical technology acceptance model for iContract implementation, within construction, was developed iContract acceptance model (iCAM). Relevant themes were assessed through the lens of the technology acceptance model framework and the four accepted dimensions of the technology readiness index (TRI) concept. The main components of the model were examined with selected practitioners, with relevant experience and understanding of the iContract concept, with thematic mapping of the discussions correlated back to 12 specific iContract contributing constructs of the four adapted TRI dimensions.

Findings

The paper contributes to the body of knowledge by proposing a novel iCAM for a trending technology based on the specific requirements of iContract adoption. The interviews show that while the desire to digitalise the contractual environment exists, the readiness of the sector for such a disruptive change is unknown.

Practical implications

The findings and proposed conceptual iCAM offers a lens for the further development of the iContract concept by assisting practitioners to forecast digital readiness of the contract process in construction.

Originality/value

This study offers a unique and theoretical framework, in an embryonic field, for predicting the success of iContract implementation within construction organisations through the digital, industry 4.0 and revolution.
The strange case ofUSv.ZTE: a prosecution, a ban, a fine and a presidential intervention
Authors: Sutherland Ewan
Published: March 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the prosecution by US authorities of Zhongxing Telecommunication Equipment (ZTE) Corporation for its violation of sanctions against the sale of systems to Iran and North Korea; the violation of the plea agreement; and, following presidential intervention, the imposition of a further fine and restructuring of its management.

Design/methodology/approach

An analysis of the materials used in court proceedings and speeches by officials in the case against ZTE

Findings

The US president intervened in a quasi-judicial matter in which a foreign firm had violated US sanctions that he had supported to lessen the penalties it faced. The firm had also violated its plea agreement. This personal intervention weakened enforcement of US sanctions on human rights and weapons of mass destruction (WMD). However, it revealed the excessive reliance of Chinese manufacturers on US-domiciled suppliers of semiconductors and software.

Research limitations/implications

Neither was access to Chinese documents possible nor would it have been practicable to interview managers at ZTE.

Practical implications

Enforcement of US sanctions on the sale of telecommunications equipment have now been moved from strict enforcement on matters of human rights and WMD into political, trade and even personal negotiations with the US president.

Originality/value

A first analysis of a telecommunications sanctions case.
Simulation of the temperature field for massive concrete structures using an interval finite element method
Authors: Xie Zhiqiang , Wang Lei , Zhu Zhengyang , Fu Zhi , Lv Xingdong
Published: March 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce an interval finite element method (IFEM) to simulate the temperature field of mass concrete under multiple influence uncertainties e.g. environmental temperature, material properties, pouring construction and pipe cooling.

Design/methodology/approach

Uncertainties of the significant factors such as the ambient temperature, the adiabatic temperature rise, the placing temperature and the pipe cooling are comprehensively studied and represented as the interval numbers. Then, an IFEM equation is derived and a method for obtaining interval results based on monotonicity is also presented. To verify the proposed method, a non-adiabatic temperature rise test was carried out and subsequently simulated with the method. An excellent agreement is achieved between the simulation results and the monitoring data.

Findings

An IFEM method is proposed and a non-adiabatic temperature rise test is simulated to verify the method. The interval results are discussed and compared with monitoring data. The proposed method is found to be feasible and effective.

Originality/value

Compared with the traditional finite element methods, the proposed method taking the uncertainty of various factors into account and it will be helpful for engineers to gain a better understanding of the real condition.
On modeling of responses generated by travel 2.0 implementation: fuzzy rule-based systems
Authors: Basaran Murat Alper , Dogan Seden , Kantarci Kemal
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Web 2.0 applications enable travelers to evaluate several services and assessment attributes. Constructed websites in several languages trigger a new way of data collections resulting in data streams leading to the accumulation of vast amounts of data, called big data. The need for analysis is in high demand. This study aims to construct a model to investigate which single attribute or interrelated ones having an impact on the performances of hotels.

Design/methodology/approach

The total number of 1,137 observations collected from the website HolidayCheck.de are used from the hotels in the Bavaria region in 2016. Bavaria is a region where both domestic and foreign travelers mostly prefer to visit. Fuzzy rule-based systems, which is a combination of fuzzy set theory (FST) and fuzzy logic, are used. Although the FST is used to convert linguistically expressed perceptions by travelers into mathematically usable data, fuzzy logic is used to construct a model between service attributes and price-performance (PP) to attain the set of single and interrelated attributes on the assessment of PP.

Findings

No single attribute plays a key role in PP assessment. However, two or more interrelated combinations have different impacts on PP. For example, when “Food—Drink” and “Room” moves together from average to good level, PP reaches the highest level of assessment.

Research limitations/implications

Accessibility to too much data is difficult.

Practical implications

A model can be continuously run so that any changes can be observed during the incoming of data.

Social implications

As the consumer reviews and ratings are the crucial source of information for other travelers, hoteliers must monitor and respond them on time in order to deal with the complaints.

Originality/value

Travelers’ perceptions or evaluations are treated with a FST that measures the impression of human beings. New modeling enables researchers to observe not only any single attribute but also interrelated ones on the PP.
Evaluation of compression-recovery and thermal characteristics of multilayer bedding textiles
Authors: Özer Sedat , Erayman Yüksel Yaşar , Korkmaz Yasemin
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Design of bedding textiles that contact the human body affects the sleep quality. Bedding textiles contribute to comfort sense during the sleep duration, in addition to ambient and bed microclimate. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of different layer properties on the compression recovery and thermal characteristics of multilayer bedding textiles.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, woven and knitted multilayer bedding textiles were manufactured from fabric, fiber, sponge and interlining, respectively. Different sponge thickness, fiber and interlining weight were used in the layers of samples. Later, the pilling resistance, compression and recovery, air permeability and thermal conductivity of multilayer bedding textiles were investigated.

Findings

The results indicated that samples with the higher layer weight and thickness provide better compression recovery and lower air permeability properties. It was also found that knitted surfaces show the higher air permeability than the woven surfaces depending on the fabric porosity. Layer properties have insignificant effect on the thermal conductivity values.

Originality/value

While researchers mostly focus on thermal comfort properties of garments, there are limited studies about comfort properties of bedding textiles in the literature. Furthermore, compression recovery properties of bedding textiles have also a great importance in terms of comfort. Originality of this study is that these properties were analyzed together.
Traditionscapes in emerging markets
Authors: Dalmoro Marlon , Costa Pinto Diego , Herter Márcia Maurer , Nique Walter
Published: March 2020

Purpose

This research aims to develop and test the traditionscapes framework in which consumers appropriate local traditions as a resource to foster cultural identity in emerging markets.

Design/methodology/approach

A multi-level research approach with qualitative (n = 38) and quantitative data (n = 600) was employed in the context of gaucho traditions in the southern part of Brazil (Rio Grande do Sul state).

Findings

The findings indicate that traditionscapes operate in a fluid process that engenders local culture attachment into tradition value through the consumer identification process. Traditionscapes build a sense of local cultural attachment that functions as a source of social, cultural, and local identification. Findings also support our three-stage traditionscapes framework, emphasizing the identification process that depends on consumers' global culture resistance.

Originality/value

This research provides a novel viewpoint to the well-established relationship between tradition and globalization in consumption studies. We contribute to this debate by shifting the discussion to the fluid process of traditionscapes in which tradition value is engendered through consumer appropriation and identification with local traditions, even in a globalized context. Although recent research suggests that global culture can disrupt local traditions, traditionscapes operate as an extended perspective that coexists with other global cultural flows.
Entrepreneurial orientation and performance in SMEs
Authors: Isichei Ejikeme Emmanuel , Emmanuel Agbaeze Kalu , Odiba Maria Onyejeche
Published: March 2020

Purpose

This paper addresses the mediating effect of structural infrastructure capability on the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation (EO) and SMEs performance in emerging economies, focusing on Nigeria. It addresses the need to ensure that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are able to overcome the inherent challenges in their external environment actively and, thus, contribute to economic growth through internal management variables.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a survey design, utilising a sample of 377 SMEs covering the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria. A questionnaire was used for data collection, and data analysis was conducted using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) with the aid of SmartPLSv3.

Findings

The study found that innovativeness and proactiveness, as dimensions of EO, have a significant effect on SMEs' performance. Risking-taking, however, showed no significant effect on performance. The study found that structural infrastructure capability significantly mediates the EO–performance relationship.

Practical implications

The paper provides practical implications for society, as managers and SMEs' support agencies in emerging markets can be encouraged to focus more on internal management activities to support knowledge sharing within the organisation, given its relevance to improving performance, rather than focusing only on EO.

Originality/value

The study further strengthens and validates the resource-based view (RBV) theory and contributes to expanding knowledge on the relevance of internal management variables (knowledge sharing) in managing small and medium-scale enterprises. The study further advances theories regarding knowledge management's role, as a function of internal management system in the EO–performance relationship, thus helping to close the research gap related to these relationships from an emerging-economy perspective.
Pro-environmental behavior in nutricosmetics product purchase context
Authors: Quoquab Farzana , Mohammad Jihad , Shahrin Ruzanna
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Though the concern over pro-environmental behavior is growing, there is a lack of a valid scale to measure pro-environmental behavior in nutricosmetics context. Nutricosmetics products are believed to boost health and fitness and thus gained worldwide popularity. Many consumers in recent days are purchasing nutricosmetics products because of its positive impact toward human health and less harm toward the environment. However, to date, there is no valid instrument to measure this construct. To fill this gap in the existing literature, this study aims to develop a valid and reliable scale to measure pro-environmental behavior in nutricosmetics purchase (PEB-NP).

Design/methodology/approach

To develop and validate the PEB-NP scale, a sequential process is followed which includes item generation, item selection, item purification and item validation. Relevant literature was reviewed and qualitative interviews were carried out to generate the items. Next, experts’ opinion was sought to select the items. Two studies were conducted (N= 150,N= 448) to explore the factor structure and to validate the scale. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used to purify the scale, whereas confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) using SmartPLS (version 3) was used to validate the scale.

Findings

Based on EFA output, 14 items were retained which were then validated using CFA. The results revealed that, PEB-NP is a hierarchical multi-dimensional construct. The dimensions are “environmental aesthetics,” “conservation behavior (reduce and recycle)” and “health consciousness.” The findings from CFA confirmed the EFA results and established that pro-environmental behavior is a third-order factor model in which conservation dimension is consisted of two sub-dimensions, namely, “reduce” and “recycle” behavior.

Practical implications

The newly developed scale will enable the marketers and policymakers to segment their consumers based on this scale to better strategize the marketing efforts in fulfilling their needs. Not only this, the PEB-NP scale will benefit marketers in understanding the behavioral pattern and purchase preference of the pro-environmental consumers with regard to the nutricosmetics consumption. This research also provides suggestions for future researchers in the pro-environmental behavior and nutricosmetics fields.

Originality/value

This study is a pioneer study to develop and validate the PEB scale in the context of nutricosmetics purchase.
Brand and retailer co-branding
Authors: Childs Michelle , Jin Byoungho Ellie
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Many fashion brands employ growth strategies that involve strategically aligning with a retailer to offer exclusive co-brands that vary in duration and perceived fit. While growth and publicity are enticing, pursuing collaboration may change consumers' evaluation of the brand. Utilising commodity and categorisation theory, this research tests how a brand may successfully approach a co-brand with a retailer.

Design/methodology/approach

Three experimental studies manipulate and test the effect of co-brand duration (limited edition vs ongoing) (Study 1), the degree of brand-retailer fit (high vs low) (Study 2), and its combined effect (Study 3) on changes in consumers' brand evaluation.

Findings

Results reveal that consumers' evaluations of brands become more favourable when: (1) brand-retailer co-brand make products available on a limited edition (vs ongoing) basis (Study 1), (2) consumers perceive a high (vs low) degree of brand-retailer fit (Study 2) and (3) both conditions are true (Study 3).

Research limitations/implications

In light of commodity and categorisation theory, this study helps to understand the effectiveness of a brand-retailer co-branding strategy.

Practical implications

To increase brand evaluations, brands should engage in a limited edition strategy, rather than ongoing when collaborating with retailers. It is also important to select an appropriately fitting retailer for a strategic partnership when creating a co-brand.

Originality/value

While previous studies highlight the importance of perceived fit upon extension, perceived fit between brand and retailer co-brand had yet to be investigated. Additionally, this research investigates changes in brand evaluations to more accurately understand how co-branding strategies impact the brand.
Networking competence and its impact on the employability of knowledge workers
Authors: Fryczyńska Marzena , Ciecierski Christina
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Studies show that employability is fast becoming a significant subject when managing contemporary careers. Indeed, employee networking is a prerequisite for career success, but the literature lacks findings regarding the impact of networking on employability. Meanwhile, network organizations in the knowledge economy are gaining popularity and bringing rise to the number of knowledge workers in the labor force. The purpose of this paper is to show the impact of employee networking competence on the employability of knowledge workers, particularly in the wider context of network organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to verify our theoretical model, data was collected among a controlled sample of 1189 knowledge workers using a Computer Assisted Web Interview (CAWI) surveying technique. Our model was verified through a series of structural equation models (SEM).

Findings

Results show positive effects of network organizations and knowledge work on the networking competence of knowledge workers. The employability of knowledge workers does not just increase as these workers perform high-quality knowledge work. In order for employability to rise, knowledge workers must also exhibit networking competence. However, our study findings show that networking competence plays only a mediating role in the employability of knowledge workers.

Originality/value

This study focuses on the employability of knowledge workers in network organizations, which is an increasingly important concept for contemporary management. The paper contributes to the literature through its furthering of network and career management theories.
Prevalence and risk factors for gallstone disease: A population‐based cross‐sectional study
Authors: Song Sen Tao , Shi Jian , Wang Xiao Hang , Guo Yi Bin , Hu Ping Fang , Zhu Feng , Zeng Xin , Xie Wei Fen
Published: March 2020

Objective

To explore the prevalence of and risk factors for gallstone disease in Shanghai, China.

Methods

A population‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted in Shanghai between 2016 and 2017. Using a three‐stage stratified sampling strategy, 4009 participants (1753 men and 2256 women) from 10 districts were enrolled.

Results

The overall prevalence of gallstones was 6.83% (6.22% for men vs 7.31% for women, P = 0.173). According to the multivariate analysis, individuals aged ≥40 years (odds ratio [OR] 3.058, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.110–4.433, P < 0.001), hypertension (OR 1.479, 95% CI 1.076–2.034, P = 0.016), thyroid disease (OR 1.409, 95% CI 1.029–1.928, P = 0.032), a family history of gallstones (OR 2.234, 95% CI 1.362–3.662, P = 0.001) and a waist‐to‐height ratio ≥0.5 (OR 1.656, 95% CI 1.197–2.292, P = 0.002) had an increased risk of developing gallstones. The risk of gallstone disease was 2.232 (95% CI 1.167–4.268, P = 0.015) times higher in individuals with elevated C4 levels than in those with normal C4 levels. Diabetes (OR 4.144, 95% CI 1.171–14.671, P = 0.028) was a risk factor for the formation of gallstones with diameters ≥1 cm, and men were more susceptible to develop multiple stones (OR 2.356, 95% CI 1.321–4.200, P = 0.004).

Conclusion

Individuals aged ≥40 years, with a history of hypertension and familial gallstones, a high waist‐to‐height ratio, thyroid disease and high C4 levels were related to an increased risk of gallstone disease.
Do motor coordination and sleep difficulties predict peer functioning in children and adolescents with attention‐deficit and hyperactivity disorder after accounting for existing ADHD symptomology?
Authors: Mancini Vincent O. , Althorpe Kathryn E. , Chen Wai
Published: March 2020

Children with attention‐deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are more likely to experience peer problems compared to their non‐ADHD peers, though ADHD‐specific symptoms only partially explain this association. This study examined whether sleep difficulties and motor coordination problems are additional predictors of peer problems in an ADHD population. An ADHD sample of 72 participants aged 6–14 years (M = 9.86 years, SD = 1.79 years) was evaluated for an association of peer problems with measures of motor coordination, sleep difficulties as well as ADHD and comorbidity symptoms. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis (HMRA) was used to test the current study aims. Motor coordination, but not sleep difficulties, predicted additional variance in peer problems after controlling for inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, internalizing problems, oppositionality, and conduct problems. Poor motor coordination predicts peer problems beyond ADHD symptoms. Clinicians seeking to improve peer functioning in children with ADHD should also consider motor coordination difficulties in addition to existing treatment strategies.

Statement of contribution

What is already known

Children with attention‐deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) experience greater peer problems (i.e., making friends, being victimized, participating in play) than their typically developing peers.

Previous studies have attributed this association between ADHD and peer problems to the symptoms of ADHD (i.e., inattention and/or hyperactivity) disrupting the typical trajectory of social development.

However, quantitative studies have identified that symptoms of ADHD predict only portion of the variance in a child’s peer problems – highlighting that there may be other unique factors that contribute to the higher incidence of peer problems typically observed in this population.

What this study adds

This study tested whether additional theoretically relevant factors could predict levels of peer problems in children with ADHD beyond the primary symptoms of the disorder.

Internalizing symptomatology, conduct problems, oppositionality, motor coordination, and sleep difficulties were added to a regression model already including inattention and hyperactivity symptoms. These factors explained 51% of the variability in peer problems.

In this sample of 72 ADHD children, the results of the final model highlighted that only motor coordination and conduct problems remained significant predictors of peer problems – highlighting two potentially important target areas for screening and intervention.
Increased risk of dementia among patients with overactive bladder treated with an anticholinergic medication compared to a beta‐3 agonist: a population‐based cohort study
Authors: Welk Blayne , McArthur Eric
Published: March 2020

Objective

To determine if there is an increased risk of dementia among patients with overactive bladder (OAB) starting an anticholinergic medication compared to those starting a beta‐3 agonist.

Methods

We conducted a population‐based, retrospective, matched cohort study using linked administrative data from Ontario, Canada from 2010 to 2018. We matched 47 324 new users of anticholinergic medications (oxybutynin, tolterodine, solifenacin, darifenacin, fesoterodine, trospium) to 23 662 new users of a beta‐3 agonist medication (mirabegron); all of the included medications are only indicated for the treatment of OAB. We measured 75 baseline variables (including comorbid conditions, recent medications, and prior healthcare utilization) and used these to create a propensity score; groups were similar across all measured variables after matching. The primary exposure was the class of OAB medication (anticholinergic or beta‐3 agonist). The primary outcome was dementia using a validated administrative data definition.

Results

The most common anticholinergics used were tolterodine (40%), oxybutynin (29%) and solifenacin (26%). The median (interquartile range [IQR]) prescription duration of anticholinergics was 30 (30–170) days. The median (IQR) prescription duration of a beta‐3 agonist (mirabegron) was 64 (30–317) days. There was an increased risk of dementia among anticholinergic users compared to beta‐3 agonist users (hazard ratio 1.23, 95% confidence interval 1.12–1.35). There was a significant effect modification based on both gender and age; men and those aged ≤75 years on anticholinergics had the highest risk of dementia relative to similar beta‐3 agonist users.

Conclusions

The use of anticholinergic medications among patients with OAB was associated with an increased risk of new‐onset dementia compared to beta‐3 agonist users. These results address the potential protopathic bias present in other studies on this topic and support the association between anticholinergic medication use and dementia.
Prognostic value of HLA class I expression in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Koike Kazushige , Dehari Hironari , Shimizu Shota , Nishiyama Koyo , Sonoda Tomoko , Ogi Kazuhiro , Kobayashi Junichi , Sasaki Takanori , Sasaya Takashi , Tsuchihashi Kei , Tsukahara Tomohide , Hasegawa Tadashi , Torigoe Toshihiko , Hiratsuka Hiroyoshi , Miyazaki Akihiro
Published: March 2020

Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class Ⅰ molecules play a central role in anticancer immunity, but their prognostic value in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remains unclear. We examined HLA class I expression in 2 distinct tumor compartments, namely, the tumor center and invasive front, and evaluated the association between its expression pattern and histopathological status in 137 cases with OSCC. Human leukocyte antigen class Ⅰ expression was graded semiquantitatively as high, low, and negative. At the invasive front of the tumor, HLA class I expression was high in 72 cases (52.6%), low in 44 cases (32.1%), and negative in 21 cases (15.3%). The HLA class I expression in the tumor center was high in 48 cases (35.0%), low in 58 cases (42.4%), and negative in 31 cases (22.6%). The 5‐year overall survival and disease‐specific survival rates were good in cases with high HLA class I expression at the invasive front; however, there was no significant difference in survival based on HLA class I expression in the tumor center. In addition, high HLA class I expression was correlated with high CD8+ T cell density, whereas negative HLA class I expression was correlated with low CD8+ T cell density at the invasive front. These results suggest that it is easier for CD8+ T cells to recognize presented peptides in the case of high HLA class Ⅰ expression at the tumor invasive front and could be a prognostic factor for OSCC.
Review of benefits and risks for children in open adoption arrangements
Authors: Smith Megan , González‐Pasarín Lucía , Salas María D. , Bernedo Isabel M.
Published: March 2020

Following changes to our country's child protection legislation in 2015, adoptees in Spain have the possibility of post‐adoption contact with their birth families. This review aims to provide social workers with a resource to guide their decision‐making by evaluating both the benefits and risks associated with open adoption. Of the 26 studies reviewed, 22 reported benefits and 8 discussed risks. Overall, contact with birth families is more commonly associated with positive than with negative outcomes for the adoptee, especially when the adoptive family is capable of communicative openness. The results support current policy on open adoptions, but in line with previous research, we emphasize the need for contact arrangements to be decided on a case‐by‐case basis and to be monitored.
Angiogenic T cells are decreased in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus and recruited by the dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor Linagliptin: A subanalysis from a randomized, placebo‐controlled trial (RELEASE study)
Authors: de Boer Stefanie A. , Reijrink Melanie , Abdulahad Wayel H. , Hoekstra Elisa S. , Slart Riemer H. J. A. , Heerspink Hiddo J. L. , Westra Johanna , Mulder Douwe J.
Published: March 2020

Angiogenic T (Tang) cells are mediators of vascular repair, and are characterized by surface expression of CXCR4. This receptor for stromal cell‐derived factor‐1α (SDF‐1α) is cleaved by dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4). Tang cell levels were investigated in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) compared with matched healthy controls and after treatment with the DPP‐4 inhibitor Linagliptin. People with T2DM were randomized to 5 mg/day Linagliptin (n = 20) or placebo (n = 21) for 26 weeks. Tang cell frequency was identified in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (CD3+CD31+CXCR4+) and levels of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) (CD34+CD133+KDR+) were also assessed in whole blood. Circulating Tang cell levels were significantly lower in people with T2DM compared with the healthy control group. SDF‐1α levels increased significantly in Linagliptin‐treated people with T2DM compared to placebo, and a trend was observed in change of Tang cell levels, while EPC count did not change. In conclusion, circulating Tang cell levels were considerably lower in people with T2DM, while a trend was observed in recruitment of Tang cells after 26 weeks of treatment with Linagliptin. These data suggest that DPP‐4 inhibitors may potentially exert beneficial effects on bone marrow‐driven vascular repair.
Assessing the best performing pedotransfer functions for predicting the soil‐water characteristic curve according to soil texture classes and matric potentials
Authors: Abdelbaki Ahmed M.
Published: March 2020

The soil‐water characteristic curve (SWCC) is a key input to many hydrological and water‐quality models that simulate water movement and solute transport in the vadose zone. Over the past four decades a considerable number of pedotransfer functions (PTFs) have been developed to predict SWCC. The goal of this study was to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of 30 PTFs, 11 discrete functions and 19 continuous functions. The SWCC predicted by different PTFs was statistically compared to SWCC measured for 2046 United States soils. The performance of each function was evaluated for soils of different textural classes and at four matric potentials: −4, −10, −33 and − 1,500 kPa. The results showed that for point PTFs, the PTF developed by Adhikary et al. (2008), was the best function to predict SWCC in very fine soils, whereas the PTF developed by Fooladmand (2011), showed the best performance in fine, medium fine, medium and coarse soils. For continuous PTFs, the PTF developed by Saxton et al. (1986), showed the best performance in very fine soil; the PTF developed by Cosby et al. (1984), showed the best performance in fine soil; the PTF developed by Rawls and Brakensiek (1985) showed the best performance in medium fine soil; and the PTF of Zacharias and Wessolek (2007), showed the best performance in medium and coarse soils. With respect to matric potentials, the PTFs of Gupta and Larson (1979), Dashtaki et al. (2010), and Hua et al. (2011), were the best performing point PTFs to predict SWCC at −4, −10, −33 and − 1,500 KPa, respectively. The continuous PTFs developed by Mayr and Jarvis (1999), Rosetta SSC (Schaap et al. 2001), Cosby et al. (1984), and Al Majou et al. (2007), showed the best performance to predict SWCC at −4, −10, −33 and − 1,500 kPa, respectively. The results of this study may be useful to hydrologic modelling as it identifies the most accurate PTF for each soil textural class and across the matric potential ranges.

Highlights

Performances of 30 pedotransfer functions of SWCCs were evaluated using soil database from the USA.

The pedotransfer functions were classified into 11 point functions and 19 continuous functions.

The pedotransfer functions were evaluated at five soil texture classes and four matric potentials

Best‐performing pedotransfer functions were identified for each texture class and matric potential.
The E3 ubiquitin ligase Smurf2 regulates PARP1 stability to alleviate oxidative stress‐induced injury in human umbilical vein endothelial cells
Authors: Qian Hao , Zhang Naijin , Wu Boquan , Wu Shaojun , You Shilong , Zhang Ying , Sun Yingxian
Published: March 2020

Oxidative stress injury is involved in many cardiovascular diseases, like hypertension and myocardial infarction. Ubiquitination is a ubiquitous protein post‐translational modification that controls a wide range of biological functions and plays a crucial role in maintaining the homeostasis of cells in physiology and disease. Many studies have shown that oxidative stress damage is inextricably linked to ubiquitination. We demonstrate that Smurf2, an E3 ubiquitinated ligase, is involved in HUVEC apoptosis induced by oxidative stress to alleviate H2O2‐induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and the apoptosis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). At the same time, we found that Smurf2 can bind the poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase‐1(PARP1), and the interaction is enhanced under the stimulation of oxidative stress. We further study and prove that Smurf2 can promote PARP1 ubiquitination and degradation. Collectively, we demonstrate Smurf2 degradation of overactivated PARP1 by ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway to protect HUVEC and alleviate oxidative stress injury.
Practitioner Review: Effective management of functional difficulties associated with sensory symptoms in children and adolescents
Authors: Lane Alison E.
Published: March 2020

Background

Sensory symptoms are defined as atypical behavioral responses to daily sensory stimuli that impact on the performance of everyday routines. Sensory symptoms have been observed in young people with and without developmental concerns. There is uncertainty, however, regarding the best way to identify and manage sensory symptoms. The aim of this paper is  to provide a review of current best evidence regarding measurement of and interventions for sensory symptoms.

Methods

A narrative review methodology is adopted to address the aims of this paper. First, sensory symptoms are defined, and then, an overview of the evidence for the relationship between sensory symptoms and childhood function is provided. Second, commonly used sensory assessment tools are summarized and evaluated. Finally, an overview and critique of the evidence for sensory and nonsensory‐based interventions addressing sensory symptoms are given.

Results

The terminology used to describe sensory symptoms varies by discipline, and several conceptual taxonomies including sensory subtypes have been proposed. There is ample evidence to support the association of sensory symptoms with childhood function including social engagement, repetitive behaviors, anxiety, and participation in self‐care routines. Measurement of sensory symptoms is dominated by proxy‐report instruments, and few single instruments assess the entire domain of sensory symptomatology. The evidence for interventions for sensory symptoms is emerging but still limited by low quantity and methodological concerns.

Conclusions

Effective management of sensory symptoms may mitigate the burden of neurodevelopmental disability and mental illness in young people. Identification of sensory symptoms should be conducted by a skilled practitioner utilizing multiple measurement methods. Intervention protocols for sensory symptoms should be informed by current best evidence which is strongest for Ayres Sensory Integration®, Qigong massage, the Alert Program®, and Social Stories. To make significant progress in this field, however, new intervention studies must address the question of ‘what intervention works for whom?’.
Wound healing in an elasmobranch fish is not impaired by high‐CO2 exposure
Authors: Bouyoucos Ian A. , Shipley Oliver N. , Jones Emily , Brooks Edward J. , Mandelman John W.
Published: March 2020

The purpose of this study was to test the effects of high CO2 exposure on wound healing rates in an elasmobranch fish (Urobatis jamaicensis). Small dermal injuries (8 mm biopsy) closed by 22 days post wounding with a decrease in haematocrit. High CO2 exposure (ΔpH = 1.4) did not influence healing rate or haematocrit. Combined, these data provide evidence that minimally invasive scientific procedures have short‐term impacts on elasmobranch fishes even during exposure to a chronic stressor. Therefore, wound healing rates may not be strongly impacted by ocean acidification (ΔpH = 0.4).
The onset of piscivory in a freshwater fish species: analysis of behavioural and physiological traits
Authors: Colchen Tatiana , Dias Andréa , Gisbert Enric , Teletchea Fabrice , Fontaine Pascal , Pasquet Alain
Published: March 2020

The onset of piscivory in fish, resulting in a shift from zooplankton or invertebrate to fish prey, was studied on pikeperch (Sander lucioperca) larvae displaying and not displaying piscivorous behaviour at different ages (23, 30, 37, 44 and 52 days post‐hatching) using behavioural (attack, capture and swimming activity), morphological (allometry) and digestive enzymatic (trypsin, α‐amylase and pepsin) analyses. The shift from zooplanktonic food items (Artemia nauplii) to a piscivorous diet did not occur at the same time for all individuals within the same cohort. Predation tests, conducted under controlled conditions (20°C; ad libitum feeding), showed that some larvae attacked fish prey as early as the age of 3 weeks [11.0 ± 1.3 mm total length (TL)], whereas others did not start until the age of 6 weeks (16.6 ± 1.9 mm TL). Piscivorous individuals were bigger, with larger heads, longer tails, higher acid protease and lower alkaline protease activities, than non‐piscivorous conspecifics. In conclusion, high interindividual variability in morphological and digestive system developments linked to the development of predatory abilities could induce cannibalism in fish.
Digital redlining and the fintech marketplace: Evidence from US zip codes
Authors: Friedline Terri , Chen Zibei
Published: March 2020

The rise of digital technologies enables new manifestations of racialization in financial services with marketplace implications. Akin to redlining in the lending market, racialization in the spatial availability of digital technologies—including financial technologies or “fintech”—may raise the costs of banking in black and brown communities. This paper investigates associations between communities' racial makeup and rates of fintech by leveraging 2015 Esri Business Analyst Market Potential data from the universe of high‐poverty zip codes. Poor black and brown communities experience a form of digital redlining by having the lowest fintech rates. Every percentage increase in a community's black population was associated with an 18% decrease in their rate of high‐speed internet access, 1% decrease in smartphone ownership, 12% decrease in online banking, and 3% decrease in mobile banking. Relationships were opposite for communities with increasing white populations where whiteness attracts higher rates of fintech, even amidst high poverty.
Staying in “the works of living”: How older adults employ marketplace resources to age successfully
Authors: LaBarge Monica C. , Pyle Martin
Published: March 2020

Despite being a large and rapidly growing consumer population, limited marketing research examines how older adult consumers pursue marketplace well‐being in the face of the challenges posed by aging. Using depth interviews and drawing on literatures from both marketing and gerontology, we develop a model that bridges disparate perspectives of older adults in the marketing literature, exploring how older consumers navigate the tensions between successful aging and vulnerability as they seek to maximize their quality of life in the marketplace. From this analysis, we present a more nuanced portrait of how older adults pursue well‐being across consumption domains to fulfill their aspirations and maintain their independence, as well as identify ways that marketers and public policymakers can assist in those pursuits.
Abuse as a reaction of perfectionistic leaders: A moderated mediation model of leader perfectionism, perceived control, and subordinate feedback seeking on abusive supervision
Authors: Guo Li , Chiang Jack Ting‐Ju , Mao Jih‐Yu , Chien Chung‐Jen
Published: March 2020

In this paper, we explore why and when perfectionistic leaders are likely to abuse subordinates. The results of a multi‐wave, multi‐source survey study of 253 pairings of leader–subordinate dyads indicate that perfectionistic leaders are likely to perceive less control than non‐perfectionistic leaders and are thus likely to show more abusive behaviour towards subordinates. In addition, subordinate feedback‐seeking behaviour moderates this mediated relationship. Specifically, the less subordinates seek feedback from perfectionistic leaders, the less control the leaders perceive themselves to have and the more abusive behaviour the leaders will exhibit towards the subordinates. Implications for theory, practice, and future research are also discussed.

Practitioner points

Perfectionistic leaders can engage in abusive behaviours that impede functioning.

Perfectionistic leaders tend to perceive less control and thus abuse subordinates, especially when perceiving less subordinate feedback‐seeking behaviour.