| 1. |
- Abelev, Betty, et al.
(author)
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Long-range angular correlations on the near and away side in p-Pb collisions at root S-NN=5.02 TeV
- 2013
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In: Physics Letters. Section B: Nuclear, Elementary Particle and High-Energy Physics. - : Elsevier BV. - 0370-2693. ; 719:1-3, s. 29-41
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Angular correlations between charged trigger and associated particles are measured by the ALICE detector in p-Pb collisions at a nucleon-nucleon centre-of-mass energy of 5.02 TeV for transverse momentum ranges within 0.5 < P-T,P-assoc < P-T,P-trig < 4 GeV/c. The correlations are measured over two units of pseudorapidity and full azimuthal angle in different intervals of event multiplicity, and expressed as associated yield per trigger particle. Two long-range ridge-like structures, one on the near side and one on the away side, are observed when the per-trigger yield obtained in low-multiplicity events is subtracted from the one in high-multiplicity events. The excess on the near-side is qualitatively similar to that recently reported by the CMS Collaboration, while the excess on the away-side is reported for the first time. The two-ridge structure projected onto azimuthal angle is quantified with the second and third Fourier coefficients as well as by near-side and away-side yields and widths. The yields on the near side and on the away side are equal within the uncertainties for all studied event multiplicity and p(T) bins, and the widths show no significant evolution with event multiplicity or p(T). These findings suggest that the near-side ridge is accompanied by an essentially identical away-side ridge. (c) 2013 CERN. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
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| 2. |
- Abelev, Betty, et al.
(author)
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Measurement of prompt J/psi and beauty hadron production cross sections at mid-rapidity in pp collisions at root s=7 TeV
- 2012
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In: Journal of High Energy Physics. - 1029-8479. ; :11
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The ALICE experiment at the LHC has studied J/psi production at mid-rapidity in pp collisions at root s = 7 TeV through its electron pair decay on a data sample corresponding to an integrated luminosity L-int = 5.6 nb(-1). The fraction of J/psi from the decay of long-lived beauty hadrons was determined for J/psi candidates with transverse momentum p(t) > 1,3 GeV/c and rapidity vertical bar y vertical bar < 0.9. The cross section for prompt J/psi mesons, i.e. directly produced J/psi and prompt decays of heavier charmonium states such as the psi(2S) and chi(c) resonances, is sigma(prompt J/psi) (p(t) > 1.3 GeV/c, vertical bar y vertical bar < 0.9) = 8.3 +/- 0.8(stat.) +/- 1.1 (syst.)(-1.4)(+1.5) (syst. pol.) mu b. The cross section for the production of b-hadrons decaying to J/psi with p(t) > 1.3 GeV/c and vertical bar y vertical bar < 0.9 is a sigma(J/psi <- hB) (p(t) > 1.3 GeV/c, vertical bar y vertical bar < 0.9) = 1.46 +/- 0.38 (stat.)(-0.32)(+0.26) (syst.) mu b. The results are compared to QCD model predictions. The shape of the p(t) and y distributions of b-quarks predicted by perturbative QCD model calculations are used to extrapolate the measured cross section to derive the b (b) over bar pair total cross section and d sigma/dy at mid-rapidity.
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| 3. |
- Abelev, Betty, et al.
(author)
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Underlying Event measurements in pp collisions at root s=0.9 and 7 TeV with the ALICE experiment at the LHC
- 2012
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In: Journal of High Energy Physics. - 1029-8479. ; :7
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- We present measurements of Underlying Event observables in pp collisions at root s = 0 : 9 and 7 TeV. The analysis is performed as a function of the highest charged-particle transverse momentum p(T),L-T in the event. Different regions are defined with respect to the azimuthal direction of the leading (highest transverse momentum) track: Toward, Transverse and Away. The Toward and Away regions collect the fragmentation products of the hardest partonic interaction. The Transverse region is expected to be most sensitive to the Underlying Event activity. The study is performed with charged particles above three different p(T) thresholds: 0.15, 0.5 and 1.0 GeV/c. In the Transverse region we observe an increase in the multiplicity of a factor 2-3 between the lower and higher collision energies, depending on the track p(T) threshold considered. Data are compared to PYTHIA 6.4, PYTHIA 8.1 and PHOJET. On average, all models considered underestimate the multiplicity and summed p(T) in the Transverse region by about 10-30%.
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| 4. |
- Edvardsson, Ingi Runar, et al.
(author)
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Strategic outsourcing in SMEs
- 2020
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In: Journal of Small Business and Enterprise Development. - : Emerald Group Publishing Limited. - 1462-6004 .- 1758-7840. ; 27:1, s. 73-84
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Purpose So far, there are very few empirical research studies available on the outsourcing pattern among small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The purpose of this paper is to examine strategic outsourcing among Icelandic SME service firms, from 2009 to 2018. Design/methodology/approach The data presented in this paper cover responses from 802 small service firms, which were collected through telephone and online questionnaires. In order to have sufficient data on strategic outsourcing and to ensure a decent analysis, three surveys were combined. Findings The main finding of the present paper is that SMEs that have a developed strategy on outsourcing seem to perform better than those who do not have. The former are more likely to have achieved cost reduction, especially in housing and finance, and they use outsourcing to increase core businesses. They select vendor firms more on the bases of cost and services, rather than personal contacts. Also, these firms have improved service quality, by focusing on their core competences. Originality/value To the authors' knowledge, the present study is one of the few empirical studies that have examined outsourcing in SMEs from a strategic perspective. The findings are valuable for managerial practice and could be a base for outsourcing strategies in SMEs.
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| 5. |
- Edvardsson, Ingi Runar, et al.
(author)
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The outsourcing practice among small knowledge-intensive service firms
- 2021
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In: VINE. - : Emerald Group Publishing Limited. - 2059-5891. ; 51:1, s. 177-191
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Purpose: This paper aims to present findings on outsourcing practices in small service firms in Iceland, where the prime focus is on knowledge-intensive service firms. Design/methodology/approach: To gain information on the scope and reason for outsourcing, telephone and online surveys were used. In total, 802 firms participated in the surveys, which were conducted in the period 2009-2018. Findings: The results show that knowledge-intensive firms outsource far more than other service firms and are also more likely to have an outsourcing strategy. The grounds for increased outsourcing are cost reduction and strategic reasons, such as a focus on core competency and the search for external knowledge. In comparison with other firms, knowledge-intensive firms are increasingly outsourcing cleaning, security services, canteen and transportation, IT processes, human resource management, training and consulting. Additionally, managers of these firms select suppliers more on the basis of cost and quality. They also realize more cost savings as a consequence of outsourcing. Outsourcing had a very limited effect on employment in the firms, while cost reduction was achieved in 48.3 per cent of the firms involved. Research limitations/implications: The findings are in line with the resource-based theory and, interestingly, this is not limited to knowledge-based firms, but to a large portion of service firms as well. Originality/value: This is the first in-depth study on outsourcing patterns in knowledge-intensive firms, which uses theoretical classification in empirical analysis.
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| 6. |
- Jonsdottir, Sigridur Sia, et al.
(author)
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Pain management and medical interventions during childbirth among perinatal distressed women and women dissatisfied in their partner relationship : A prospective cohort study
- 2019
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In: Midwifery. - : Elsevier. - 0266-6138 .- 1532-3099. ; 69, s. 1-9
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate possible associations between distress in pregnant women and their use of pain management and medical interventions. Furthermore, we assessed the effects of reported dissatisfaction in relationship with their partner, or weak social support. Design: This was a prospective cohort study. Setting: Women were invited to participate while attending prenatal care at participating Icelandic health care centres. Birth outcome data were obtained from the hospitals where these women gave birth. Participants: Women in this study participated in a research project where 2523 women were screened three times during pregnancy for anxiety and depression. Women who had positive results at screening were invited to a semi-structured interview during pregnancy as well as every fourth woman who had negative results. Five hundred and sixty-two women participated in the interviews and the final sample was 442 women. Measurements: Distress was defined as symptoms of anxiety, stress and depression. The Edinburgh Post-partum Depression Scale (EPDS) and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scales (DASS) were used for screening purposes. During the interview, the women answered the Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS), the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and the Adverse Experienced Interview (AEI). The main outcome variables that were obtained from the women's childbirth records were: (1) use of pain management, categorized as: epidural analgesia, non-pharmacological pain management, nitrous oxide, pharmacological medication, or no pain management; (2) medical interventions categorized as: induction, stimulation, and episiotomy; and (3) mode of childbirth. A logistic regression analysis, adjusted for significant covariates, was conducted. Findings: A significant association was found between perinatal distress at 16 weeks gestation and use of epidural as single pain management. Overall, distressed women were 2.6 times more likely than non-distressed women to use epidural as a single pain management. They were also less likely to go through childbirth without use of any pain management method. Women who were dissatisfied in their relationship were significantly more likely to undergo induction of childbirth, an episiotomy and/or a vacuum extraction than those who were satisfied in their relationship, regardless if they were distressed or not. No association was found between social support and the outcome variables. Key conclusions: Women with perinatal distress were more likely to use an epidural than non-distressed women. The use of an epidural might help them manage pain and uncertainties related to childbirth. Women who were dissatisfied in their partner relationship may be more likely to undergo induction of childbirth, episiotomy and/or vacuum extraction. Implication for practice: Midwives need to acknowledge the possible association of distress and use of an epidural during childbirth and screen for distress early in pregnancy. It is important to offer counselling and help during pregnancy for expectant parents who are distressed or dissatisfied in their relationship. (C) 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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| 7. |
- Jonsdottir, Sigridur Sia, et al.
(author)
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Pregnancy complications, sick leave and service needs of women who experience perinatal distress, weak social support and dissatisfaction in their partner relationships
- 2020
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In: Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences. - : John Wiley & Sons. - 0283-9318 .- 1471-6712. ; 34:1, s. 167-180
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Introduction Although perinatal distress is acknowledged as a burdening condition for pregnant women, its effects on pregnancy are not well known. This study was conducted to increase knowledge regarding the effects of distress on pregnancy-related problems. The study also assessed women's need for sick leave and increased prenatal care due to distress, and the effects of weak social support and dissatisfaction with their partner relationships. Methods In total, 2523 women were screened for perinatal distress three times during pregnancy in this quantitative cohort study. Structured psychiatric interviews were conducted following the screening, with 562 of the participants. Data from participants' pregnancy records were also analysed. The study was conducted in primary healthcare centres in Iceland after receiving approval from the Icelandic National Bioethical Committee. The main outcome measures were pregnancy problems, sick leave issued and prenatal service needs. Results Data from 503 women were analysed. The perinatal distress group (PDG) was significantly more likely than was the nondistressed group (NDG) to experience fatigue, vomiting and pelvic pain after controlling for background variables. Distressed women who reported weak family support experienced symptoms of nausea and heartburn. The PDG needed more frequent prenatal care than did the NDG and was issued sick leave for up to 42 days longer. Dissatisfaction in the partner relationship and with the division of household tasks and childcare was strongly associated with distress, the development of complications and the need for sick leave. Discussion Identification of perinatal distress by midwives and other healthcare professionals is important, since distress may be linked to women's complaints of fatigue, vomiting, pelvic pain and need for prolonged sick leave, and additional prenatal care services will be needed. Perceived dissatisfaction in the partner relationship and with the division of household tasks should also form part of clinical practice and assistance provided.
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| 8. |
- Oddsson, Asmundur, et al.
(author)
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Deficit of homozygosity among 1.52 million individuals and genetic causes of recessive lethality
- 2023
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In: Nature Communications. - : Springer Nature. - 2041-1723. ; 14:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Genotypes causing pregnancy loss and perinatal mortality are depleted among living individuals and are therefore difficult to find. To explore genetic causes of recessive lethality, we searched for sequence variants with deficit of homozygosity among 1.52 million individuals from six European populations. In this study, we identified 25 genes harboring protein-altering sequence variants with a strong deficit of homozygosity (10% or less of predicted homozygotes). Sequence variants in 12 of the genes cause Mendelian disease under a recessive mode of inheritance, two under a dominant mode, but variants in the remaining 11 have not been reported to cause disease. Sequence variants with a strong deficit of homozygosity are over-represented among genes essential for growth of human cell lines and genes orthologous to mouse genes known to affect viability. The function of these genes gives insight into the genetics of intrauterine lethality. We also identified 1077 genes with homozygous predicted loss-of-function genotypes not previously described, bringing the total set of genes completely knocked out in humans to 4785.
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| 9. |
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| 10. |
- Stadil, Tatjana, et al.
(author)
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Surgical repair of long-gap esophageal atresia : A retrospective study comparing the management of long-gap esophageal atresia in the Nordic countries
- 2019
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In: Journal of Pediatric Surgery. - : Elsevier BV. - 0022-3468 .- 1531-5037. ; 54:3, s. 423-428
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background:Several surgical procedures have been described in the reconstruction of long-gap esophageal atresia (LGEA). We reviewed the surgical methods used in children with LGEA in the Nordic countries over a 15-year period and the postoperative complications within the first postoperative year.Methods:Retrospective multicenter medical record review of all children born with Gross type A or B esophageal atresia between 01/01/2000 and 12/31/2014 reconstructed within their first year of life.Results:We included 71 children; 56 had Gross type A and 15 type B LGEA. Delayed primary anastomosis (DPA) was performed in 52.1% and an esophageal replacement procedure in 47.9%. Gastric pull-up (GPU) was the most frequent procedure (25.4%). The frequency of chromosomal abnormalities, congenital heart defects and other anomalies was significantly higher in patients who had a replacement procedure. The frequency of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) was significantly higher after DPA compared to esophageal replacement (p = 0.013). At 1-year follow-up the mean body weight was higher after DPA than after organ interposition (p = 0.043).Conclusion: DPA and esophageal replacement procedures were equally applied. Postoperative complications and follow-up were similar except for the development of GER and the body weight at 1-year follow-up. Long-term results should be investigated.Type of study:Treatment study.
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