bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
M&M: A maximum duration design with the Maxcombo test for a group sequential trial of an immunotherapy with a random delayed treatment effect
Authors: Li Bosheng , Su Liwen , Ye Yuqing , Yan Fangrong 
Published: November 2021

A random delayed treatment effect is expected in a confirmatory clinical trial for an immunotherapy due to the individual heterogeneity of physiological conditions. For this reason, the delay time will be assumed to follow a continuous distribution that is difficult to estimate accurately based on the early‐phase data, which hinders the specification of the most powerful weighted log‐rank test. Therefore, we propose a simulation‐based maximum duration design with a robustly powerful Maxcombo test for a group sequential trial for the immunotherapy with the random delayed treatment effect. The design obtains the group sequential boundaries by a simulation procedure and determines the required maximum sample size using a one‐dimensional search in which another simulation procedure is used to calculate empirical power. The simulation researches proved the accuracy of the group sequential boundaries and their robustness against the misspecified maximum sample sizes for large samples and revealed their moderate sensitivity against the misspecified survival distributions under the null hypothesis of no difference. The studies investigated whether the type I error rate would inflate under the “inferior” null hypothesis and evaluated the robustness against different distributions of the delay time in terms of the empirical power among the Maxcombo tests and component weighted log‐rank tests.
Development of Molecularly Imprinted Polymer‐Based Optical Sensor for the Sensitive Penicillin G Detection in Milk
Authors: Safran Volkan , Göktürk Ilgım , Bakhshpour Monireh , Yılmaz Fatma , Denizli Adil 
Published: November 2021

AbstractIn this study, selective and sensitive Penicillin G (PEN−G) antibiotic detection from both aqueous solution and milk samples using molecular imprinting technique was performed by surface plasmon resonance sensor. For this purpose, PEN−G imprinted poly(2‐Hydroxyethyl methacrylate‐N‐methacroyl‐(L)‐cysteine methyl ester‐gold nanoparticles‐N‐methacryloyl‐L‐phenylalanine methyl ester (MIP‐AuNPs) nanosensor was prepared. Control experiments were carried out via the nanosensor without the addition of AuNPs (MIP) to examine the effect of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) incorporated to increase the surface plasmon resonance signal response. Moreover, to evaluate the imprinting efficiency, non‐imprinted (NIP‐AuNPs) nanosensor was designed using the same polymerization recipe except the addition of the PEN−G molecule. Characterization studies of MIP, MIP‐AuNPs and NIP‐AuNPs nanosensors were performed with FTIR‐ATR spectrophotometer. Also, MIP‐AuNPs and NIP‐AuNPs nanosensors were characterized by atomic force microscopy, ellipsometer and contact angle measurements. Imprinting efficiency (I.F: 7.83) for the MIP‐AuNPs nanosensor was determined by comparing it with the NIP‐AuNPs nanosensor. The MIP‐AuNPs nanosensor was 9.87 times more selective for the target PEN−G molecule than amoxicillin, and 16.78‐times than ampicillin. In addition, the amount of PEN−G in milk selected as a real sample was measured by spiking 5 ppb PEN−G into the milk.
Electrochemical Oxidation of Starch Investigated by Single‐Current‐Transition Method
Authors: Zhang Jiaxing , Cao Shengkui , Liu Peng , Shan Zhihua 
Published: November 2021

AbstractNumerous research has been conducted on starch oxidation, but few reports have described it quantitatively. The oxidation of soluble starch (SS) can be quantitatively determined using a single‐current‐step method, where the aldehyde group content of oxidized starch approaches the maximum value at the voltage jump point. To verify the feasibility of the method, SS electrooxidation and electrochemical synthesis with gelatin (G) are observed and analyzed with reference to voltage changes. As an experimental application, the electrochemical synthesis of SS‐G at varying pH is compared to that of a physical mixture SS+G. According to the changes in the electrosynthesis and differences in the structure and properties of the synthesized products, the single‐current‐step method can be used to distinguish online.
A mutation framework for evaluating security analysis tools in IoT applications
Authors: Alalfi Manar H. , Parveen Sajeda , Nazzal Bara' 
Published: November 2021

SummaryWith the growing and widespread use of Internet of Things (IoT) in our daily life, its security is becoming more crucial. To ensure information security, we require better security analysis tools for IoT applications. Hence, this paper presents an automated framework to evaluate taint‐flow analysis tools in the domain of IoT applications. First, we propose a set of mutational operators tailored to evaluate three types of sensitivity analysis, flow, path and context sensitivity. Then we developed mutators to automatically generate mutants for those types. We demonstrated the framework on a subset of mutational operators to evaluate three taint‐flow analysers, SaINT, Taint‐Things and FlowsMiner. Our framework and experiments ranked the taint analysis tools according to precision and recall as follows: Taint‐Things (99% recall, 100% precision), FlowsMiner (100% recall, 87.6% precision) and SaINT (100% recall, 56.8% precision). To the best of our knowledge, our framework is the first framework to address the need for evaluating taint‐flow analysis tools and specifically those developed for IoT SmartThings applications.
A study of variables that affect the process of sulfate attack of cement‐based materials subjected to stray current
Authors: Wang Baomin , Li Gaonian , Panesar Daman K. 
Published: November 2021

AbstractDurability is one of the most important considerations for subway structures. However, the cement‐based materials used in subway engineering can be jeopardized by sulfate and the stray current and therefore can be subjected to severe damage during service. This study aims to investigate the degradation process of cement‐based materials exposed to stray current and external sulfate. In particular, the effects of three key variables were evaluated: concentration of external sulfate solution, level of stray current and cement type. After exposure, the visual appearance, compressive strength, SO42−profiles and microstructure of cement‐based materials were analyzed. Moreover, the amounts of degradation products were measured to evaluate the influencing degree of different variables and further explain the degradation mechanisms. Experimental results of this study reveal that (a) sulfate attack was related to the external sulfate concentration, but the relation was changed due to the presence of stray current. One explanation is that sulfate ions can be quickly accumulated in the pores of cement‐based materials under the effect of stray current, which makes the chemical reaction of sulfate attack exchange from diffusion control to reaction control. (b) Stray current could accelerate external sulfate attack of cement‐based materials, and the greater the stray current, the more severe sulfate attack was induced. (c) Compared with P·I type cement, high sulfate resistant (HSR) cement showed a better resistance to external sulfate attack. (iv) And, the main degradation products, ettringite and gypsum, were observed in specimens after exposure. Additionally, stray current might induce the decomposition of ettringite. It should be paid more attention on the durability of cement‐based materials exposed to the coupled conditions of stray current and sulfate.
Inequity in water distribution and quality: A study of mid‐hill town of Nepal
Authors: Maskey Gyanu , Pandey Chandra , Bajracharya Roshan Man , Moncada Stefano 
Published: November 2021

AbstractHimalayan cities are highly vulnerable to climate change and increasingly exposed to water insecurity. Given the complexities of water usage within society, developing, allocating, and managing water resources equitably is a serious emerging challenge. This paper adopts a convergent mixed method approach to explore water inequity issues in water distribution and water quality among the core and peripheral wards of Dhulikhel, a mid‐hill town of Nepal. In doing so, the paper analyzes the determinants of inequitable water distribution in core and periphery wards, perception of water quality, and underlying causes of inequity in water quality in core and peripheral wards. The paper found that various socioeconomic, environmental, technological, and governance‐related factors are causing inequity in water distribution. Our analysis showed that climate change is adding on top of these existing challenges, exacerbating inequity in access to water. This paper also found that while core wards benefit from donor schemes that ensure good water quality, the peripheral wards do not enjoy the reach of such schemes, and given climate change impacts on rainfall patterns, seasonal availability of water is likely to be unpredictable in the future.
Multi-scale Inequality and Segregation: Theory and Estimation
Authors: Owen Gwilym , Manley David , Johnston Ron , Birabi Tim , Song Hui , Wang Bifeng 
Published: November 2021

AbstractThischapterexploresmulti-scaleestimationmethods as an important future direction for segregation research in China. We explain how these recently developed methods help address many longstanding problems in traditional index-based segregation research and open up new avenues of research on Chinese cities. We explain the conceptual framework underpinning multilevel analysis in the form of a series of propositions that capture the theoretical basis and outline why a multilevel approach to segregation is advantageous. We then illustrate how this approach can be applied to China using census data on Shijiazhuang, the capital city of Hebei Province. We use the model to consider segregation of different ethnic groups and of migrants versus non-migrants. We conclude with a discussion of our findings and our thoughts on future directions for research and the implications for policy.
Renovation of Shantytowns and Construction of New Communities
Authors: Li Guoqing 
Published: November 2021

AbstractLarge-scale shantytown renovation initiated in 2005 has completely changed the living environment of lower-income residents in Chinese cities. It has also brought about great changes in the make-up of urban communities. Over 100 million people now live in newly renovated former shantytowns, creating a new type of communityacross China's cities and towns. This chapter summarises the evolutionary phases in this process, outlining the characteristics and the different models involved. It then uses research from field investigations into four models of shantytown reconstruction to consider changes in social mobility and levels of segregation within the reconstructed communities. It also establishes the more holistic features of these new communities as a model for future development and greater social integration. The process draws on the shared heritage—the ‘roots and souls’—of earlier communities and reshapes ‘shantytown removal’ in a more socially integrated way for the future development of Chinese urban society.
Decision Premises, Learning and Organizational Resilience Addressing Novel Adversities
Authors: Frigotto Maria Laura , Gaio Loris , Narduzzo Alessandro , Zamarian Marco 
Published: November 2021

AbstractOrganizational resilience is traditionally associated with the ability to understand and to respond to the ongoing situation, even under unusual conditions. The capability to detect novel and unexpected situations plays a fundamental role in this process. Following (Simon‚ 1991), we believe that decision premises affect the problem representation and, ultimately, the possibility to detect, interpret and respond to novel situations, thus enhancing resilience. From this perspective, the ability to expand the perceptual limits of observation and to conceive a novel representation of the problem requires revising the initial decision premises. This theory of how organizations learn how to solve novel problems provides the foundation to introduce a role designed to legitimately challenge the decision premises and, ultimately, the spectrum of alternatives that are taken into consideration as possible solutions. To illustrate our proposal to increase organizational resilience, we introduce an exemplary real case stemming from the practice of the emergency management organizations under scrutiny of our research team; this case is reconstructed as a conversational narrative of the two key participants.
Organizational Persistence in Highly Institutionalized Environments: Unpacking the Relation Between Identity and Resilience
Authors: Geschwind Lars , Pinheiro Rómulo , Stensaker Bjørn 
Published: November 2021

AbstractDespite growing academic interest in understanding the conditions under which resilient organizations adapt to challenging circumstances, little attention to date has been paid to the role played by ‘soft’ factors such as identity as an enabler or property of resilient behaviour. In this chapter, we propose that different forms of legitimacy contribute to the framing of acceptable identities affecting the endurance of central elements over time, thus shaping resilience. By splitting up forms of legitimacy and by analysing elements of organizational identity separately, we provide a novel framework that enables a deeper understanding of identity formation processes in complex environments on the one hand and their links with resilience on the other. Through a historically based analysis of a Nordic university over a 40-year period, we demonstrate the complex, dynamic relationship between external legitimacy, identity adaptation and resilience in the context of organizational transformation. By establishing a link between identity, legitimacy and resilience, the study provides critical insights into the conditions affecting organizational persistence within highly institutionalized organizational fields, such as higher education.
How Interdependence Explains the World of Teamwork
Authors: Johnson Matthew , Bradshaw Jeffrey M. 
Published: November 2021

AbstractCurrent attempts to understand human-machine systems are complex and unwieldy. Multiple disciplines throw different concepts and constructs at the problem, but there is no agreed-to framework to assemble these interrelated moving parts into a coherent system. We proposeinterdependenceas the common factor that unifies and explains these moving parts and undergirds the different terms people use to talk about them. In this chapter, we will describe a sound and practical theoretical framework based on interdependence that enables researchers to predict and explain experimental results in terms of interlocking relationships among well-defined operational principles. Our exposition is not intended to be exhaustive, but instead aims to describe the basic principles in a way that allows the gist to be grasped by a broad cross-disciplinary audience through simple illustrations.
The Problem with Universities Today
Authors: Heller Richard Frederick 
Published: November 2021

AbstractManagerialism creates burdens for academics with no evidence for its benefit. Business imperatives override educational. There is needless competition between universities. Research imperatives override education. Global inequalities in educational need are ignored, universities have not kept up with the way young people gain information and initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of higher education are ‘tinkering’ rather than the required total re-thinking of higher education.
Online public discourse on artificial intelligence and ethics in China: context, content, and implications
Authors: Mao Yishu , Shi-Kupfer Kristin 
Published: November 2021

AbstractThe societal and ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI) have sparked discussions among academics, policymakers and the public around the world. What has gone unnoticed so far are the likewise vibrant discussions in China. We analyzed a large sample of discussions about AI ethics on two Chinese social media platforms. Findings suggest that participants were diverse, and included scholars, IT industry actors, journalists, and members of the general public. They addressed a broad range of concerns associated with the application of AI in various fields. Some even gave recommendations on how to tackle these issues. We argue that these discussions are a valuable source for understanding the future trajectory of AI development in China as well as implications for global dialogue on AI governance.
Case study: risk associated to wearing silver or graphene nanoparticle-coated facemasks for protection against COVID-19
Authors: Estevan Carmen , Vilanova Eugenio , Sogorb Miguel A. 
Published: November 2021

AbstractThe world is living a pandemic situation derived from the worldwide spreading of SARS-CoV-2 virus causing COVID-19. Facemasks have proven to be one of the most effective prophylactic measures to avoid the infection that has made that wearing of facemasks has become mandatory in most of the developed countries. Silver and graphene nanoparticles have proven to have antimicrobial properties and are used as coating of these facemasks to increase the effectivity of the textile fibres. In the case of silver nanoparticles, we have estimated that in a real scenario the systemic (internal) exposure derived from wearing these silver nanoparticle facemasks would be between 7.0 × 10–5 and 2.8 × 10–4 mg/kg bw/day. In addition, we estimated conservative systemic no effect levels between 0.075 and 0.01 mg/kg bw/day. Therefore, we estimate that the chronic exposure to silver nanoparticles derived form facemasks wearing is safe. In the case of graphene, we detected important gaps in the database, especially regarding toxicokinetics, which prevents the derivation of a systemic no effect level. Nevertheless, the qualitative approach suggests that the risk of dermal repeated exposure to graphene is very low, or even negligible. We estimated that for both nanomaterials, the risk of skin sensitisation and genotoxicity is also negligible.
Radiosynthesis and characterization of [18F]BS224: a next-generation TSPO PET ligand insensitive to the rs6971 polymorphism
Authors: Lee Sang Hee , Denora Nunzio , Laquintana Valentino , Mangiatordi Giuseppe Felice , Lopedota Angela , Lopalco Antonio , Cutrignelli Annalisa , Franco Massimo , Delre Pietro , Song In Ho , Kim Hye Won , Kim Su Bin , Park Hyun Soo , Kim Kyungmin , Lee Seok-Yong , Youn Hyewon , Lee Byung Chul , Kim Sang Eun 
Published: November 2021

Abstract

Purpose
Translocator protein 18-kDa (TSPO) positron emission tomography (PET) is a valuable tool to detect neuroinflammed areas in a broad spectrum of neurodegenerative diseases. However, the clinical application of second-generation TSPO ligands as biomarkers is limited because of the presence of human rs6971 polymorphism that affects their binding. Here, we describe the ability of a new TSPO ligand, [18F]BS224, to identify abnormal TSPO expression in neuroinflammation independent of the rs6971 polymorphism.

Methods
An in vitro competitive inhibition assay of BS224 was conducted with [3H]PK 11195 using membrane proteins isolated from 293FT cells expressing TSPO-wild type (WT) or TSPO-mutant A147T (Mut), corresponding to a high-affinity binder (HAB) and low-affinity binder (LAB), respectively. Molecular docking was performed to investigate the interaction of BS224 with the binding sites of rat TSPO-WT and TSPO-Mut. We synthesized a new 18F-labeled imidazopyridine acetamide ([18F]BS224) using boronic acid pinacol ester 6 or iodotoluene tosylate precursor 7, respectively, via aromatic 18F-fluorination. Dynamic PET scanning was performed up to 90 min after the injection of [18F]BS224 to healthy mice, and PET imaging data were obtained to estimate its absorbed doses in organs. To evaluate in vivo TSPO-specific uptake of [18F]BS224, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory and ischemic stroke rat models were used.

Results
BS224 exhibited a high affinity (Ki = 0.51 nM) and selectivity for TSPO. The ratio of IC50 values of BS224 for LAB to that for HAB indicated that the TSPO binding affinity of BS224 has low binding sensitivity to the rs6971 polymorphism and it was comparable to that of PK 11195, which is not sensitive to the polymorphism. Docking simulations showed that the binding mode of BS224 is not affected by the A147T mutation and consequently supported the observed in vitro selectivity of [18F]BS224 regardless of polymorphisms. With optimal radiochemical yield (39 ± 6.8%, decay-corrected) and purity (> 99%), [18F]BS224 provided a clear visible image of the inflammatory lesion with a high signal-to-background ratio in both animal models (BPND = 1.43 ± 0.17 and 1.57 ± 0.37 in the LPS-induced inflammatory and ischemic stroke rat models, respectively) without skull uptake.

Conclusion
Our results suggest that [18F]BS224 may be a promising TSPO ligand to gauge neuroinflammatory disease-related areas in a broad range of patients irrespective of the common rs6971 polymorphism.
Candida periprosthetic joint infections — risk factors and outcome between albicans and non-albicans strains
Authors: Karczewski Daniel , Ren Yi , Andronic Octavian , Akgün Doruk , Perka Carsten , Müller Michael , Kienzle Arne 
Published: November 2021

Abstract
Background
Despite its scarcity, fungal periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is of great clinical relevance as diagnosis and treatment are highly challenging. Previous analyses focused on the treatment rather than the role of the causative fungal agent on clinical outcome. This is the largest study of its kind to evaluate Candida strain–dependent differences in patients with fungal PJI.

Methods
We retrospectively analyzed 29 patients who underwent surgical intervention due to Candida hip or knee PJI in our department from 2010 to 2018. PJI was defined according to IDSA, recurrent PJI according to modified Delphi consensus criteria. Statistical analysis was performed using t-test, chi-square test with Yates correction, and log rank test.

Results
Besides age and affected joint, no significant differences were found between Candida albicans and non-albicans PJI patients (75.83 versus 64.11 years, p = 0.012; 12 hip versus two knee cases, p = 0.013). Most patients received two- (27.59%) or three-stage exchange surgery (41.38%). There was a statistical trend towards an increase in surgery needed in non-albicans Candida PJI (2.92 versus 2.12; p = 0.103). After initial Candida PJI treatment, functional prosthesis implantation was achieved in 72.41% of all patients. At last follow-up, infection-free survival was at 26.79% in Candida albicans versus 72.00% in non-albicans PJI (p = 0.046).

Conclusions
In this study, we found infection-free survival rates to be significantly decreased in patients with albicans compared to non-albicans Candida PJI. While age and affected joint might play a confounding role, we speculate the causative pathogen to play a decisive role in disease progression.