bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Infection prevention practices in the United States, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Japan: Results from national surveys
Authors: Greene M. Todd , Krein Sarah L. , Huis Anita , Hulscher Marlies , Sax Hugo , Sakamoto Fumie , Sakihama Tomoko , Tokuda Yasuharu , Fowler Karen E. , Saint Sanjay 
Published: February 2021

AbstractObjective:To assess the extent to which evidence-based practices are regularly used in acute care hospitals in different countries.Design:Cross-sectional survey study. Participants and setting: Infection preventionists in acute care hospitals in the United States (US), the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Japan.Methods:Data collected from hospital surveys distributed between 2015 and 2017 were evaluated to determine the use of practices to prevent catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI), central-line–associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI), ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), and Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI). Descriptive statistics were used to examine hospital characteristics and the percentage of hospitals reporting regular use of each infection prevention practice.Results:Survey response rates were 59% in the United States, 65% in the Netherlands, 77% in Switzerland, and 65% in Japan. Several recommended practices were used in the majority of hospitals: aseptic catheter insertion and maintenance (CAUTI), maximum sterile barrier precautions (CLABSI), semirecumbent patient positioning (VAP), and contact precautions and routine daily cleaning (CDI). Other prevention practices for CAUTI and VAP were used less frequently, particularly in Swiss and Japanese hospitals. Established surveillance systems were also lacking in Dutch, Swiss and Japanese hospitals.Conclusions:Most hospitals in the United States, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Japan have adopted certain infection prevention practices. Clear opportunities for reducing HAI risk in hospitals exist across all 4 countries surveyed.
Assessment of public health notification thresholds for Clostridioides difficile in acute-care hospitals—Colorado and Tennessee, 2018
Authors: Parikh Meghana P. , Dale Ariella P. , Bamberg Wendy M. , Kainer Marion A. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractObjectives:We aimed to identify a threshold number of Clostridioides difficile infections (CDI) for acute-care hospitals (ACHs) to notify public health agencies of outbreaks and we aimed to determine whether thresholds can be used with existing surveillance strategies to further infection reduction goals.Design:Descriptive analysis of laboratory-identified CDI reported to the National Healthcare Safety Network by Colorado and Tennessee ACH inpatient units in 2018.Methods:Threshold levels of ≥2, ≥3, and ≥4 CDI events per calendar month per unit (unit month) were assessed to identify units that would trigger facility reporting to public health. Values meeting thresholds were defined as alerts. Recurrent alerts were defined as alerts from units meeting the threshold ≥2 times within 12 months. The presence of alerts was compared to the number of excess infections to identify high-burden facilities.Results:At an alert threshold of ≥2 CDI events per unit month, 204 alerts occurred among 43 Colorado ACHs and 290 among 78 Tennessee ACHs. At a threshold of ≥3, there were 59 and 61 alerts, and at a threshold of ≥4, there were 17 and 10 alerts in Colorado and Tennessee, respectively. In both Colorado and Tennessee, at a threshold of ≥3 nearly 50% of alerts were recurrent, and facilities with at least one alert in 2018 accounted for ∼85% of the statewide excess infections.Conclusions:An alert threshold of ≥3 CDI events per unit month is feasible for rapid identification of outbreaks in ACHs. This threshold can facilitate earlier assessments and interventions in high-burden facilities.
Association between body mass index and macronutrients differs along the body mass index range of German adults: results from the German National Nutrition Survey II
Authors: Moon Kilson , Krems Carolin , Heuer Thorsten , Hoffmann Ingrid 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
The aim of the present study was to determine whether the association between body mass index (BMI) and the intake of macronutrients varies along the BMI distribution of German adults. Based on a sample of 9214 men and women aged 18–80 years from the representative cross-sectional German National Nutrition Survey (NVS) II, quantile regression was used to investigate the association between BMI and the intake of macronutrients independent of energy intake and other predictors. In both sexes, BMI was positively associated with the intake of total protein and animal protein over its entire range and negatively associated with vegetable protein. A negative association between BMI and the intake of polysaccharides was found along the entire range of BMI in men. There was a weak negative association between BMI and the intake of total fat and saturated fatty acids observed in normal-weight-range women only. In conclusion, the association between BMI and the intake of macronutrients varies along the BMI range. Animal protein intake is positively associated with BMI independent of energy intake in both sexes whereas only in men an inverse association of polysaccharide intake with BMI was shown.
A systematic review of anti-Entamoeba histolytica activity of medicinal plants published in the last 20 years
Authors: Nezaratizade Saeed , Hashemi Nooshin , Ommi Davood , Orhan Ilkay Erdogan , Khamesipour Faham 
Published: February 2021

AbstractAmoebiasis has emerged as a major health problem worldwide. It is endemic in the present scenario is different and sub-tropical regions especially in Asia, Latin America and also in Africa. Causative of amoebiasis is a protozoan known as Entamoeba histolytica. We screened all the databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, Medline and Google Scholar by using the keywords ‘anti-Entamoeba histolytica activity of medicinal plants, anti-Entamoeba histolytica activity of herbal drugs, the anti-amoebic activity of natural drugs’. In the present study, we found 7861 articles, where all articles were screened for bias analysis and included 32 full-matching articles in total reporting the use of medicinal plants as a remedy for amoebiasis. Through these articles, we found 42 herbs having anti-amoebic activity. In bias analysis, we also found four articles under high bias risk. In our study, seven medicinal plants were concluded to possess the most potent anti-amoebic activity based on their IC50 value, which was less than 1 μg mL−1. On bias analysis, we found four articles with high bias risk, hence these studies can be repeated for better results.
Variable Inverted Pendulum Applied to Humanoid Motion Design
Authors: Zielinska Teresa , Rivera Coba Gabriel R. , Ge Weimin 
Published: February 2021

SUMMARYDouble inverted pendulum model, stationary or on a cart, is computationally the simplest out of the range of reasonable models used for anthropomorphic robots motion synthesis. However, it is still not sufficient for describing more complex situations. The novel concept of variable double inverted pendulum (VDIP) for static postures and VDIP on cart (VDIPC) for dynamic cases is proposed. It provides a simplified but a sufficiently accurate tool for planning the human-like static and dynamic robot postures. Its variable parameters enable the description of both human static postures and motion dynamics. The variable length of the lower link is essential for the representation of postures attained by bending legs. The studies of a set of static and dynamic postures were used for deducing and verifying the locations of lower and upper joint of a double pendulum and the point masses. To justify the concept, human body and pendulum behaviors are compared taking into account a typical model of the human body. Static analysis was conducted by considering static human postures. Dynamic conditions were analyzed using the data acquired from human motion and thus the VDIPC definition was established. The zero moment point trajectories of the human and of VDIPC were compared, validating the correctness of VDIPC in dynamic situations. The formal description of VDIPC is provided together with the torques equilibrium condition needed for evaluating the dynamic postural stability, with the VDPIC representing the robot configuration. The VDPIC state equations are formulated in a form required by the predictive control method. The paper contributes to the motion synthesis methods of anthropomorphic robots taking into account postural control.
Seasonal and daily activity patterns by Eleonora’s FalconFalco eleonoraebased on GPS telemetry: a contribution to the species’ movement ecology at its breeding grounds
Authors: KASSARA C. , EVANGELIDIS A. , TSIOPELAS N. , BARBOUTIS C. , GIOKAS S. 
Published: February 2021

SummaryEleonora’s FalconFalco eleonoraeis a migratory raptor, well-known for its delayed breeding period. Owing to its great mobility, current information on its distribution pattern during the pre-breeding period is rather sporadic, mainly based on field observations and only one telemetry study. Likewise, the species’ ranging activity during the breeding period has not been thoroughly investigated due to methodological limitations of the approaches implemented in previous studies, again amounting to only two telemetry studies in recent years. In this study we aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the species’ ranging activity at its breeding grounds based on telemetry. Utilizing GPS data from six adult females originating from the core of the species’ breeding range we explored broad- and fine-scale activity patterns while at their breeding grounds. Our results indicated that during the pre-breeding period the falcons visited high biodiversity areas lying hundreds of kilometres away from their colonies, exhibiting site-fidelity, as shown for falcons from other breeding colonies in the past. During the breeding period the falcons roamed at an average distance of 17 km from their nesting sites, but their ranging activity could be observed up to 130 km. In accordance with the species’ breeding biology, the falcons tended to perform longer trips as the nestlings became more independent. The temporal pattern of ranging activity fitted well with the diurnal variability of the autumn migration flux. Furthermore, nest attendance tended to decrease in windy conditions and as the season progressed, and to increase when southerly winds blew. Despite the low number of tracked falcons, our study set a reference basis for future studies highlighting the importance of specific (protected) areas during the pre-breeding period and providing the first assessment of the movement ecology of the species during the pre-breeding and breeding period in Greece.
Chromosomal microarray detects genetic risks of neurodevelopmental disorders in newborns with congenital heart disease
Authors: Gill Kamalvir , Sasaki Jun , Jayakar Parul , Sosa Lisa , Welch Elizabeth 
Published: February 2021

AbstractObjective:To compare the genetic testing results of neonates with CHD by chromosomal microarray to karyotyping and fluorescence in situ hybridisation analysis.Methods:This was a single-centre retrospective comparative study of patients with CHD and available genetic testing results admitted to the cardiac ICU between January, 2004 and December, 2017. Patients from 2004 to 2010 were tested by karyotyping and fluorescence in situ hybridisation analysis, while patients from 2012 to 2017 were analysed by chromosomal microarray.Results:Eight-hundred and forty-nine neonates with CHD underwent genetic testing, 482 by karyotyping and fluorescence in situ hybridization, and 367 by chromosomal microarray. In the karyotyping and fluorescence in situ hybridisation analysis group, 86/482 (17.8%) had genetic abnormalities detected, while in the chromosomal microarray group, 135/367 (36.8%) had genetic abnormalities detected (p < 0.00001). Of patients with abnormal chromosomal microarray results, 41/135 (30.4%) had genetic abnormality associated with neurodevelopmental disorders that were exclusively identified by chromosomal microarray. Conotruncal abnormalities were the most common diagnosis in both groups, with karyotyping and fluorescence in situ hybridisation analysis detecting genetic abnormalities in 26/160 (16.3%) patients and chromosomal microarray detecting abnormalities in 41/135 (30.4%) patients (p = 0.004). In patients with d-transposition of the great arteries, 0/68 (0%) were found to have genetic abnormalities by karyotyping and fluorescence in situ hybridisation compared to 7/54 (13.0%) by chromosomal microarray.Conclusions:Chromosomal microarray identified patients with CHD at genetic risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, allowing earlier intervention with multidisciplinary care and more accurate pre-surgical prognostic counselling.
Individualism and attitudes towards reporting corruption: evidence from post-communist economies
Authors: Amini Chiara , Douarin Elodie , Hinks Tim 
Published: February 2021

AbstractIndividualistic values are often presented as promoting economic development; however, their links to relevant behaviour and preferences at the micro-level remain under-explored. Here we investigate the relationship between individualistic values and personal attitudes towards reporting corruption. Unlike much of the previous research which focuses on attitudes towards corruption, we analyse the micro-level mechanisms relating to one's willingness to escape the status quo and act against corruption. We also focus on a region associated with persistently high levels of perceived corruption. Our findings indicate that individualism is associated with a greater likelihood to act against corruption. The effect estimated is small but highly significant and robust to changes in estimators and specifications. We also find evidence that institutional trust and individualism strengthen each other to generate greater willingness to report corruption.
Experience vs. knowledge in comparative law: critical notes on Pierre Legrand's ‘sensitive epistemology’
Authors: Siliquini-Cinelli Luca 
Published: February 2021

AbstractThis paper expounds some critical reflections on Pierre Legrand's recent account of James Gordley's and James Whitman's comparative methodologies. Pushing his unconventional writing style to the limits and labelling Gordley's ‘positivist’ and Whitman's ‘cultural’ comparative law, Legrand's piece appears to be taking the first step towards a new, more sensitive phase for the comparative study of law and legal cultures. The paper argues that, contrary to what might be first thought, Legrand's ‘sensitive epistemology’ cannot act as a gateway to cultural otherness. This is because it is wholly in line with the constructivist objectification of life that characterises the study and practice of law both within and outside the comparative-law dimension.
What is the Role of Technology in Recruitment and Selection?
Authors: Nikolaou Ioannis 
Published: February 2021

AbstractWe explore a number of new developments in the field of employee recruitment and selection with a focus on recent technological developments. We discuss examples of technological developments across the four stages of the recruitment and selection process. In the attraction stage we discuss how on-line/internet recruitment and especially social networking websites have changed dramatically the focus of attracting candidates effectively. In the next stage of screening, we discuss how cybervetting and applicant tracking systems offer opportunities but also threats for recruiters and candidates. In the third stage of employee selection, we focus especially on two new selection methods; the asynchronous/digital interview and gamification/games-based assessment, along with the critical role and impact applicant reactions have on the selection process. Finally, we briefly discuss the main technological developments in on-boarding and socialization, and we conclude with a few suggestions for future research in this field.
Models of Maghematization: Observational Evidence in Support of a Magnetic Unstable Zone
Authors: Ge Kunpeng , Williams Wyn , Nagy Lesleis , Tauxe Lisa 
Published: February 2021

AbstractRecent micromagnetic simulations predict that particles have an abnormal region of low magnetic stability for grain sizes near the domain state transitions from single domain to single vortex. The implications of this zone are not yet fully understood, but if the size range of this window changes as a function of applied field and temperature then it is likely to contribute to observational uncertainties in paleomagnetic recordings. The narrow size range of this zone means that its effects are difficult to identify when integrated across the much wider distribution of grain sizes present in a sample. Here we report a method of examining the unstable region using low temperature oxidation of magnetite. The rock magnetic experiments on partially oxidized particles with a median diameter close to the unstable zone are reinterpreted using micromagnetic simulations of a multilayer core‐shell structure. The predicted magnetic properties exhibit significantly improved agreement with experimental data than that of the previously reported single core‐shell coupled geometry. The observed changes in remanence and coercivity are associated with predicted domain structure changes near a proposed magnetic unstable zone (∼80–∼120 nm), and so provide the first experimental indication of the existence of such a region. We also demonstrate that magnetic remanence in particles with grain sizes outside this size range were stable to maghemitization. The research provides ideas for the experimental study of the “magnetic unstable zone” and is significant to the correct interpretation of magnetic recordings. Finally, the partially oxidized magnetite particles are able to record paleomagnetic signals.
Compactive Deformation of Sandstone Under Crustal Pressure and Temperature Conditions
Authors: Jefferd Mark , Brantut Nicolas , Meredith Philip G. , Mitchell Thomas M. , Plümper Oliver 
Published: February 2021

AbstractThe transition from macroscopically brittle to macroscopically ductile deformation in porous sandstones is known to be pressure dependent, with compactive, ductile behavior occurring only once significant effective pressures have been reached. Within the crust, such effective pressures are associated with burial depths in the range 0.5–6 km, where the temperature is likely 35°C–200°C. To test the importance of such elevated temperature on the strength and deformability of sandstone, a series of constant strain rate, triaxial deformation experiments were performed on three different water saturated sandstones at either ambient temperature or 150°C. For each sandstone, an effective pressure range was used which spanned both the brittle and ductile deformation regimes, up to a maximum of 120 MPa. In the brittle regime, we observed a temperature‐dependent lowering of the yield stress of between 8% and 17%. Within the ductile regime, we observed an even greater reduction in the yield stress of between 9% and 37%. A further notable observation is that the transition from dilatant, brittle behavior to compactive, ductile behavior tends to occur at a lower effective pressure at elevated temperature. The weakening observed at elevated temperature can be explained by a reduction in fracture toughness, which is shown mathematically to cause greater weakening in the ductile regime than in the brittle regime. The apparent reduction in fracture toughness at elevated temperature is potentially driven by a combination of a reduction in surface energy and, to a minor extent, an increase in subcritical crack growth rate.
The Thermal Diffusivity of Sedimentary Rocks: Empirical Validation of a Physically Based α − φ Relation
Authors: Fuchs Sven , Förster Hans‐Jürgen , Norden Ben , Balling Niels , Miele Roberto , Heckenbach Esther , Förster Andrea 
Published: February 2021

AbstractUnderstanding the thermal behavior of nonsteady state subsurface geosystems, when temperature changes over time, requires knowledge on the speed of heat propagation and, thus, of the rock's thermal diffusivity as essential thermo‐physical parameter. Mixing models are commonly used to describe thermo‐physical properties of polymineralic rocks. A thermal diffusivity‐porosity relation is known from literature that incorporates common mixing models into the heat equation and properly works for unconsolidated, clastic clayey, and sandy marine sediments of high porosity (35%–80%). We have proofed the relation's applicability for consolidated, isotropic sedimentary rocks of low porosity (<35%). The performance of this approach was evaluated for consolidated quartz‐dominated sandstones containing air, water, and heptane as pore‐ and/or fracture‐filling medium. For these rocks, the reliability of the relation was confirmed for the entire range of porosity and all three media, with water‐saturated rocks displaying an almost perfect fit between measured and modeled thermal diffusivity. Additional measurements conducted on a larger suite of low‐porous siliciclastic and carbonate rocks imply that it is also suitable to acceptably good to infer the thermal diffusivity of mineralogically more diverse sedimentary rocks. In contrast to other common mixing models, this relation is appropriate to convert thermal‐diffusivity data obtained on air‐saturated samples into such reflecting water‐saturated conditions. This is of particular importance for handling data acquired from methods limited to the measurement of dry samples, for example, laser‐flash analysis. In conclusion, the applied relation is suited to model thermal‐diffusivity data of isotropic sedimentary rocks of different porosity and independent of the pore fluid.
Influence of Hydraulic Connectivity on Carbon Burial Efficiency in Mackenzie Delta Lake Sediments
Authors: Lattaud J. , Bröder L. , Haghipour N. , Rickli J. , Giosan L. , Eglinton T. I. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractThe Arctic is undergoing accelerated changes in response to ongoing modifications to the climate system, and there is a need for local to regional scale records of past climate variability in order to put these changes into context. The Mackenzie Delta region in northern Canada is populated by numerous small shallow lakes. They are classified as no‐, low‐, and high‐closure (NC, LC, and HC, respectively) lakes, reflecting varying degrees of connection to the river main stem, and have different sedimentation characteristics. This study examines sedimentological (mineral surface area, grain size), carbon isotopic (bulk and molecular‐level) and inorganic isotopic (neodymium) characteristics of sediment cores from three lakes representing each class. We find that HC lake sediments exhibit strikingly different properties from the other lake sediments. Specifically, they are characterized by higher organic carbon loadings per unit mineral surface area and with relatively minor influence from allochthonous, petrogenic (rock‐derived) organic carbon. In contrast, LC and NC lakes have the potential to record basin‐scale climatic changes at a high resolution by virtue of enhanced detrital sedimentation. Overall the delta lakes have the capacity to bury about 2 MtC year−1, with little changes in the last 200 years. However, in the (near) future, an increased number of high closure lakes might change the carbon burial efficiency of the Mackenzie Delta as they seem to retain less carbon than NC and LC lakes.