bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Constitutionality of Diocesan Legislation Relating to Same-Sex Blessings and Marriage in the Anglican Church of Australia: A Case Note
Authors: Blake Garth
Published: December 2021

In November 2020, the Appellate Tribunal (the Tribunal) of the Anglican Church of Australia (ACA) provided its opinion on references as to the constitutionality of diocesan legislation relating to same-sex blessings and marriage. There were two concurrent references about a marriage blessing service intended for use in the Diocese of Wangaratta (the Wangaratta references). There were also two concurrent references about the Clergy Discipline Ordinance 2019 Amending Ordinance 2019 of the Diocese of Newcastle (the Newcastle references).
The fragmentation equation with size diffusion: Well posedness and long-term behaviour
Authors: LAURENÇOT PH. , WALKER CH.
Published: December 2021

The dynamics of the fragmentation equation with size diffusion is investigated when the size ranges in$(0,\infty)$. The associated linear operator involves three terms and can be seen as a nonlocal perturbation of a Schrödinger operator. A Miyadera perturbation argument is used to prove that it is the generator of a positive, analytic semigroup on a weighted$L_1$-space. Moreover, if the overall fragmentation rate does not vanish at infinity, then there is a unique stationary solution with given mass. Assuming further that the overall fragmentation rate diverges to infinity for large sizes implies the immediate compactness of the semigroup and that it eventually stabilizes at an exponential rate to a one-dimensional projection carrying the information of the mass of the initial value.
A Demodulation Algorithm for Periodically In-Plane Vibrating MEMS Based on a Stroboscopic Micro-Visual System
Authors: Yu Minhui , Sang Mei , Guo Cheng , Zhang Ruifeng , Zhao Fan , Liu Hongguang , Liu Tiegen
Published: December 2021

A high-frequency short-pulsed stroboscopic micro-visual system was employed to capture the transient image sequences of a periodically in-plane working micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) devices. To demodulate the motion parameters of the devices from the images, we developed the feature point matching (FPM) algorithm based on Speeded-Up Robust Features (SURF). A MEMS gyroscope, vibrating at a frequency of 8.189 kHz, was used as a testing sample to evaluate the performance of the proposed algorithm. Within the same processing time, the SURF-based FPM method demodulated the velocity of the in-plane motion with a precision of 10−5 pixels of the image, which was two orders of magnitude higher than the template-matching and frame-difference algorithms.
Multilayer metallic filters for Q/V band IMUX
Authors: Steffè Walter , Vitulli Francesco
Published: December 2021

Current designs of space IMUX filters are based on dual-mode circular waveguide cavities, on dielectric resonators or, at the lower end of the frequency spectrum, on coaxial resonators. This paper presents a new kind of IMUX filter aimed at high operating frequencies (Ka, Q, and V bands) which was developed in the frame of an ESA funded study named KALOS-DEVAQ. The new filter implements a quasi-elliptic frequency response and is characterized by simple geometry. The mechanical structure is composed of stacked metallic plates and it is well suited to be manufactured, at a low cost, with high accuracy. Despite the lower unloaded Q factor, the new configuration allows achieving a comparable flatness of insertion loss and group delay, thanks to the application of the pre-distortion technique. The increased insertion loss does not affect the system performances because it can be compensated by the amplification stages in the RF chain.
Guatemalan Adolescents' Hopes and Dreams
Authors: Ashdown Brien K. , Owens Gillian , DiPhilippo Angelina , Zhang Yuanfei , Deku Alexandra , Draznin-Nagy Samuel , Brown Carrie M.
Published: December 2021

Abstract. Utilizing adolescents' drawings to investigate their perceptions of self has a long history in psychology. The methodological approach is particularly useful in places, such as Guatemala, where the population may have relatively lower levels of literacy and/or less experience engaging with Western-style research surveys. By asking adolescents to draw a picture of themselves and list five characteristics that they hope to have in 15 years, we were able to collect valuable data on issues such as the students' desires for the future and what they see as possible for themselves. Participants ( N = 81, Mage= 14.56 years, 49.4% cisgender girls, all from Jocotenango, Guatemala) provided five characteristics that they hoped to have 15 years in the future and then drew a self-portrait of themselves 15 years in the future. The drawings and characteristics underwent a process of thematic analysis to determine patterns and themes that are prevalent in the data. Common themes that emerged include jobs or specific professions they hope to have, owning a home or property such as a car, and having a family. In the drawings, the common themes are similar: mentioning specific careers, owning a home or property, and having a family. These data can help us determine what type of future these students hope for to ensure that schools and other institutions are providing the tools students will need for those futures.
Tropical Cirrus in Global Storm‐Resolving Models: 2. Cirrus Life Cycle and Top‐of‐Atmosphere Radiative Fluxes
Authors: Turbeville S. M. , Nugent J. M. , Ackerman T. P. , Bretherton C. S. , Blossey P. N.
Published: December 2021

Cirrus clouds of various thicknesses and radiative characteristics extend over much of the tropics, especially around deep convection. They are difficult to observe due to their high altitude and sometimes small optical depths. They are also difficult to simulate in conventional global climate models, which have coarse grid spacings and simplified parameterizations of deep convection and cirrus formation. We investigate the representation of tropical cirrus in global storm‐resolving models (GSRMs), which have higher spatial resolution and explicit convection and could more accurately represent cirrus cloud processes. This study uses GSRMs from the DYnamics of the Atmospheric general circulation Modeled On Non‐hydrostatic Domains (DYAMOND) project. The aggregate life cycle of tropical cirrus is analyzed using joint albedo and outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) histograms to assess the fidelity of models in capturing the observed cirrus cloud populations over representative tropical ocean and land regions. The proportions of optically thick deep convection, anvils, and cirrus vary across models and are portrayed in the vertical distribution of cloud cover and top‐of‐atmosphere radiative fluxes. Model differences in cirrus populations, likely driven by subgrid processes such as ice microphysics, dominate over regional differences between convectively active tropical land and ocean locations.
Can NASA’s Gravity Satellites Detect Motions in Earth’s Core?
Authors: Kalomiris Megan
Published: December 2021

Measurements of our planet’s gravitational field could expose processes in the fluid outer core—if scientists can decipher the signals.
New “Snakebot” Could Map Cambodian Minefields
Authors: Cartier Kimberly
Published: December 2021

By navigating under dense vegetation, an innovative robot could significantly reduce the monetary, environmental, and human cost of demining Cambodia.
Lithium Storage and Release From Lacustrine Sediments: Implications for Lithium Enrichment and Sustainability in Continental Brines
Authors: Coffey D. M. , Munk L. A. , Ibarra D. E. , Butler K. L. , Boutt D. F. , Jenckes J.
Published: December 2021

Despite current and projected future reliance on lithium (Li) as a resource, deficiencies remain in genesis models of closed‐basin Li brines. Subsurface geochemical interactions between water and bulk solid phases from lacustrine sediments, are shown here to be the most important process for brine genesis and sustainability of the Clayton Valley, NV brine deposit. A new subsurface basin model was developed and used to select Li‐bearing solids to test the release mechanisms for Li. Ash (20–350 ppm Li) and bulk sediments (1,000–1,700 ppm Li) samples across depths in the basin represent the majority of the subsurface Li‐bearing materials. Temperature dependent (25°C–95°C) batch reaction experiments using low‐salinity groundwater from the basin indicate a positive relationship between the amount of Li released and temperature. Four‐step sequential extractions on a subset of bulk sediments indicate most Li is released from water and weak acid‐soluble portions with approximately 30% of the total Li contained in the sediments released overall. We conceptualize that Li is released from these samples via three mechanisms: (a) release of adsorbed Li; (b) cation exchange of Li and Mg and; (c) possible minor release from the silicate structure at elevated temperatures. Based on these results and the abundance of Li‐bearing sediments in the subsurface we estimate the mean Li mass in the basin materials to be between 24.4 and 58.0 Mt which provides a continuous supply from water‐rock interactions. This is now the largest known accumulation of Li in a basin‐fill continental setting on a global scale.
Heat Flow Distribution in the Chukchi Borderland and Surrounding Regions, Arctic Ocean
Authors: Zhang T. , Shen Z. Y. , Zhang F. , Ding M.
Published: December 2021

Fifty new heat flow measurements from the Chukchi Borderland (CBL) and adjacent regions of the central Arctic Ocean are reported, where heat flow measurements have been very limited. The average heat flow of the CBL (65 mW/m2) is significantly higher than that of the entire Amerasia Basin (53 mW/m2). In the CBL, the heat flow of the Chukchi Plateau (CP), Northwind Basin (NWB), and Northwind Ridge (NWR) are 64 mW/m2, 69 mW/m2, and 60 mW/m2, respectively. With the aid of nearby seismic profiles, the elevated regional heat flow in the CP and NWR was attributed to the enhanced radiogenic heating of the thick crust (25–29 km), while the most prominent heat flow in the relatively thin crust of the NWB is likely due to the residual heat of a major tectonic extension event. Further numerical heat conduction modeling suggests that the initial rifting of the Amerasia Basin during the Jurassic–Early Cretaceous could not induce such high heat flow in the NWB. Together with recent interpretations of seismic profiles, the elevated heat flow in the NWB could be explained by the residual heat of the Late Cretaceous–early Cenozoic extension. This extension event was contemporaneous with the seafloor spreading in the Makarov Basin and had also been associated with the onset of seafloor spreading in the Eurasia Basin.
The Response of the D and E Regions of the Equatorial Ionosphere to Solar Flare Events
Authors: Gopika P. G. , Ambili K. M. , Choudhary R. K.
Published: December 2021

Using measurements from a ground‐based magnetometer and an in‐house developed quasi‐two‐dimensional theoretical ionospheric model (QTD), the differential response of D and E regions of the equatorial ionosphere to the solar flare events which occurred on 20 February 2002 (M1.5 class), and 24 September 2011 (X1.9 class) has been investigated. The ground‐based magnetometer at Tirunelveli (8.71°N, 77.75°E, 2.9°S dip latitude) was used to monitor variations in the magnetic field (ΔH) during the two events. An abrupt increase in ΔH [positive Solar Flare Effect (SFE)] was noted during both the flare events, a signature of the prompt response to the flare. The ΔH, however, was seen to get weakened (reversed SFE) on 20 February 2002 at a time delay of about 10 min post flare peak. The weakening in ΔH happened during local noon (∼11:30 LT), a period when there was no sign of the counter electrojet (CEJ). The QTD model was used to simulate the ratio of field line integrated Hall to Pedersen conductivity and variations in the east–west currents during the flare events. Model simulations show differential response in the conductivity ratio at the D and E‐regions of the ionosphere during the period when the ionospheric current system was undergoing alternations manifesting as ΔH variations in the ground‐based magnetometer observations. We show that in addition to the changes in conductivity during a solar flare, the electric field variations also modulate ionospheric currents to produce differential footprints in ΔH as positive/negative SFE, SFE*, or reversed SFE.
Analyzing Bulk Flow Characteristics of Debris Flows Using Their High Frequency Seismic Signature
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Walter Fabian , McArdell Brian W. , de Haas Tjalling , Wenner Michaela , Chmiel Małgorzata , He Siming
Published: December 2021

Quantifying debris‐flow characteristics remains a key challenge in natural hazard research. Recent studies suggest that seismic signals can reveal debris‐flow properties. However, the accuracy and applicability of theoretical models linking bulk flow properties to the seismic signature of a debris flow remain elusive. By extending a previously proposed model of random single‐particle impact forces to multi‐particle force chains acting on the channel bed, we describe the generation of high frequency seismic signals, and thereby estimate the bulk flow dynamics of six debris‐flow events at Illgraben, Switzerland. The theoretically predicted basal force fluctuations agree with in‐situ measurements at a basal force plate and seismic signals recorded adjacent to the channel. According to our model, both random single‐particle impacts and random impacts caused by multi‐particle force chains control basal force fluctuations. The relative contributions of single particles and of multi‐particle force chains may vary significantly for different events and different positions within events. The relative contribution of multi‐particle force chains is expected to be larger in the flow front, where particle concentrations are higher. The ratio between single‐particle and multi‐particle contributions appears to control the non‐linear relation between flow depth and the magnitude of the high frequency seismic signals. Our results suggest that fluctuating basal forces are strongly controlled by particle size and flow depth, and open new perspectives for the understanding of bulk flow characteristics, such as flow depth and weight, and of the high frequency seismic signals generated by debris flows.
The vicK gene of Streptococcus mutans mediates its cariogenicity via exopolysaccharides metabolism
Authors: Deng Yalan , Yang Yingming , Zhang Bin , Chen Hong , Lu Yangyu , Ren Shirui , Lei Lei , Hu Tao
Published: December 2021

Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) is generally regarded as a major contributor to dental caries because of its ability to synthesize extracellular polysaccharides (EPS) that aid in the formation of plaque biofilm. The VicRKX system of S. mutans plays an important role in biofilm formation. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of vicK gene on specific characteristics of EPS in S. mutans biofilm. We constructed single-species biofilms formed by different mutants of vicK gene. Production and distribution of EPS were detected through atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Microcosmic structures of EPS were analyzed by gel permeation chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Cariogenicity of the vicK mutant was assessed in a specific pathogen-free rat model. Transcriptional levels of cariogenicity-associated genes were confirmed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The results showed that deletion of vicK gene suppressed biofilm formation as well as EPS production, and EPS were synthesized mostly around the cells. Molecular weight and monosaccharide components underwent evident alterations. Biofilms formed in vivo were sparse and contributed a decreased degree of caries. Moreover, expressional levels of genes related to EPS synthesis were down-regulated, except for gtfB. Our report demonstrates that vicK gene enhances biofilm formation and subsequent caries development. And this may due to its regulations on EPS metabolism, like synthesis or microcosmic features of EPS. This study suggests that vicK gene and EPS can be considered as promising targets to modulate dental caries.
Targeting PI3K/Akt signal transduction for cancer therapy
Authors: He Yan , Sun Miao Miao , Zhang Guo Geng , Yang Jing , Chen Kui Sheng , Xu Wen Wen , Li Bin
Published: December 2021

The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway plays a crucial role in various cellular processes and is aberrantly activated in cancers, contributing to the occurrence and progression of tumors. Examining the upstream and downstream nodes of this pathway could allow full elucidation of its function. Based on accumulating evidence, strategies targeting major components of the pathway might provide new insights for cancer drug discovery. Researchers have explored the use of some inhibitors targeting this pathway to block survival pathways. However, because oncogenic PI3K pathway activation occurs through various mechanisms, the clinical efficacies of these inhibitors are limited. Moreover, pathway activation is accompanied by the development of therapeutic resistance. Therefore, strategies involving pathway inhibitors and other cancer treatments in combination might solve the therapeutic dilemma. In this review, we discuss the roles of the PI3K/Akt pathway in various cancer phenotypes, review the current statuses of different PI3K/Akt inhibitors, and introduce combination therapies consisting of signaling inhibitors and conventional cancer therapies. The information presented herein suggests that cascading inhibitors of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, either alone or in combination with other therapies, are the most effective treatment strategy for cancer.
Current hydrogel advances in physicochemical and biological response-driven biomedical application diversity
Authors: Cao Huan , Duan Lixia , Zhang Yan , Cao Jun , Zhang Kun
Published: December 2021

Hydrogel is a type of versatile platform with various biomedical applications after rational structure and functional design that leverages on material engineering to modulate its physicochemical properties (e.g., stiffness, pore size, viscoelasticity, microarchitecture, degradability, ligand presentation, stimulus-responsive properties, etc.) and influence cell signaling cascades and fate. In the past few decades, a plethora of pioneering studies have been implemented to explore the cell–hydrogel matrix interactions and figure out the underlying mechanisms, paving the way to the lab-to-clinic translation of hydrogel-based therapies. In this review, we first introduced the physicochemical properties of hydrogels and their fabrication approaches concisely. Subsequently, the comprehensive description and deep discussion were elucidated, wherein the influences of different hydrogels properties on cell behaviors and cellular signaling events were highlighted. These behaviors or events included integrin clustering, focal adhesion (FA) complex accumulation and activation, cytoskeleton rearrangement, protein cyto-nuclei shuttling and activation (e.g., Yes-associated protein (YAP), catenin, etc.), cellular compartment reorganization, gene expression, and further cell biology modulation (e.g., spreading, migration, proliferation, lineage commitment, etc.). Based on them, current in vitro and in vivo hydrogel applications that mainly covered diseases models, various cell delivery protocols for tissue regeneration and disease therapy, smart drug carrier, bioimaging, biosensor, and conductive wearable/implantable biodevices, etc. were further summarized and discussed. More significantly, the clinical translation potential and trials of hydrogels were presented, accompanied with which the remaining challenges and future perspectives in this field were emphasized. Collectively, the comprehensive and deep insights in this review will shed light on the design principles of new biomedical hydrogels to understand and modulate cellular processes, which are available for providing significant indications for future hydrogel design and serving for a broad range of biomedical applications.
Face detection in untrained deep neural networks
Authors: Baek Seungdae , Song Min , Jang Jaeson , Kim Gwangsu , Paik Se-Bum
Published: December 2021

Face-selective neurons are observed in the primate visual pathway and are considered as the basis of face detection in the brain. However, it has been debated as to whether this neuronal selectivity can arise innately or whether it requires training from visual experience. Here, using a hierarchical deep neural network model of the ventral visual stream, we suggest a mechanism in which face-selectivity arises in the complete absence of training. We found that units selective to faces emerge robustly in randomly initialized networks and that these units reproduce many characteristics observed in monkeys. This innate selectivity also enables the untrained network to perform face-detection tasks. Intriguingly, we observed that units selective to various non-face objects can also arise innately in untrained networks. Our results imply that the random feedforward connections in early, untrained deep neural networks may be sufficient for initializing primitive visual selectivity.
Intraperitoneal microbial contamination drives post-surgical peritoneal adhesions by mesothelial EGFR-signaling
Authors: Zindel Joel , Mittner Jonas , Bayer Julia , April-Monn Simon L. , Kohler Andreas , Nusse Ysbrand , Dosch Michel , Büchi Isabel , Sanchez-Taltavull Daniel , Dawson Heather , Gomez de Agüero Mercedes , Asahina Kinji , Kubes Paul , Macpherson Andrew J. , Stroka Deborah , Candinas Daniel
Published: December 2021

Abdominal surgeries are lifesaving procedures but can be complicated by the formation of peritoneal adhesions, intra-abdominal scars that cause intestinal obstruction, pain, infertility, and significant health costs. Despite this burden, the mechanisms underlying adhesion formation remain unclear and no cure exists. Here, we show that contamination of gut microbes increases post-surgical adhesion formation. Using genetic lineage tracing we show that adhesion myofibroblasts arise from the mesothelium. This transformation is driven by epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling. The EGFR ligands amphiregulin and heparin-binding epidermal growth factor, are sufficient to induce these changes. Correspondingly, EGFR inhibition leads to a significant reduction of adhesion formation in mice. Adhesions isolated from human patients are enriched in EGFR positive cells of mesothelial origin and human mesothelium shows an increase of mesothelial EGFR expression during bacterial peritonitis. In conclusion, bacterial contamination drives adhesion formation through mesothelial EGFR signaling. This mechanism may represent a therapeutic target for the prevention of adhesions after intra-abdominal surgery.
Maximizing quantum discord from interference in multi-port fiber beamsplitters
Authors: Cariñe J. , Asan-Srain M. N. , Lima G. , Walborn S. P.
Published: December 2021

Fourth-order interference is an information processing primitive for photonic quantum technologies, as it forms the basis of photonic controlled-logic gates, entangling measurements, and can be used to produce quantum correlations. Here, using classical weak coherent states as inputs, we study fourth-order interference in 4 × 4 multi-port beam splitters built within multi-core optical fibers, and show that quantum correlations, in the form of geometric quantum discord, can be controlled and maximized by adjusting the intensity ratio between the two inputs. Though these states are separable, they maximize the geometric discord in some instances, and can be a resource for protocols such as remote state preparation. This should contribute to the exploitation of quantum correlations in future telecommunication networks, in particular in those that exploit spatially structured fibers.
Deaminative chlorination of aminoheterocycles
Authors: Ghiazza Clément , Faber Teresa , Gómez-Palomino Alejandro , Cornella Josep
Published: December 2021

Selective modification of heteroatom-containing aromatic structures is in high demand as it permits rapid evaluation of molecular complexity in advanced intermediates. Inspired by the selectivity of deaminases in nature, herein we present a simple methodology that enables the NH2 groups in aminoheterocycles to be conceived as masked modification handles. With the aid of a simple pyrylium reagent and a cheap chloride source, C(sp2)‒NH2 can be converted into C(sp2)‒Cl bonds. The method is characterized by its wide functional group tolerance and substrate scope, allowing the modification of >20 different classes of heteroaromatic motifs (five- and six-membered heterocycles), bearing numerous sensitive motifs. The facile conversion of NH2 into Cl in a late-stage fashion enables practitioners to apply Sandmeyer- and Vilsmeier-type transforms without the burden of explosive and unsafe diazonium salts, stoichiometric transition metals or highly oxidizing and unselective chlorinating agents.
A dataset of dual calcium and voltage optical mapping in healthy and hypertrophied murine hearts
Authors: He Shicheng , Kou Kun , O’Shea Christopher , Chen Tangting , Mu-u-min Razik , Dong Ruirui , Ren Huiying , Zhou Xiaolin , Fan Zhongcai , Tan Xiaoqiu , Pavlovic Davor , Ou Xianhong , Lei Ming
Published: December 2021

Pathological hypertrophy underlies sudden cardiac death due to its high incidence of occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias. The alteration of transmural electrophysiological properties in hypertrophic cardiac murine tissue has never been explored previously. In this dataset, we have for the first time conducted high-throughput simultaneous optical imaging of transmembrane potential and calcium transients (CaT) throughout the entire hypertrophic murine hearts at high temporal and spatial resolution. Using ElectroMap, we have conducted multiple parameters analysis including action potential duration/calcium transient duration, conduction velocity, alternans and diastolic interval. Voltage-calcium latency was measured as time difference between action potential and CaT peak. The dataset therefore provides the first high spatial resolution transmural electrophysiological profiling of the murine heart, allowing interrogation of mechanisms driving ventricular arrhythmias associated with pathological hypertrophy. The dataset allows for further reuse and detailed analyses of geometrical, topological and functional analyses and reconstruction of 2-dimensional and 3-dimentional models.
Effects of probiotics on loperamide-induced constipation in rats
Authors: Inatomi Takio , Honma Mihoko
Published: December 2021

The role of probiotics in mitigating constipation, gut immunity, and gut microbiota has not been well studied. We aimed to evaluate the effects of probiotics on loperamide (LP)-induced constipation in Sprague–Dawley rats. Altogether, 150 male Sprague–Dawley rats (age 8 weeks) were used in the experiments following a 12-day acclimatisation period and were randomly divided into three treatment groups (groups 1, 2, and 3). Spastic constipation was induced via oral LP administration (3 mg/kg) for 6 days, 1 h before administering each test compound in groups 1 and 2. A probiotic solution (4 mL/kg body weight) was orally administered once a day for 6 days in group 2. In group 1, a phosphate buffer solution was orally administered once a day for 6 days, 1 h after each LP administration. In group 3, a phosphate buffer solution was orally administered once a day for 6 days. In the probiotic group, faecal parameters improved; faecal n-butyric acid, acetic acid, and IgA concentrations were increased; intestinal transit time was shortened; and disturbance of intestinal microbiota was inhibited. Our findings suggest that this probiotic was useful in improving various symptoms caused by constipation.
Impact of polymyxin B hemoperfusion therapy on high endotoxin activity level patients after successful infection source control: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Lee Won Young , Kim Hee Ju , Kim Eun Young
Published: December 2021

We sought to evaluate the clinical implication of endotoxin levels in gram-negative bacilli (GNB)-induced abdominal septic shock patients with polymyxin B-hemoperfusion (PMX-HP) treatment. A prospective cohort of 60 patients who received surgical infectious source control for abdominal sepsis from January 2019 to December 2020 was included in the study. Endotoxin activity (EA) levels and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) scores were assessed immediately after surgery (baseline), 24, and 48 h post baseline. With receiver operating characteristic curves, the patients were stratified into two groups by the EA cut-off value (high-risk group vs low-risk group) and the clinical outcomes were compared. Logistic regression was performed to identify the clinical impact of PMX-HP on in-hospital death. Among the 31 high-risk patients (EA level ≥ 0.54), 16 patients (51.6%) received PMX-HP treatment and showed significant decreases in EA levels compared to patients who underwent conventional treatment only (− 0.34 vs − 0.12, p = 0.01). SOFA scores also showed significant improvement with PMX-HP treatment (12.8–8.9, p = 0.007). Fourteen in-hospital deaths occurred (45.2%), and PMX-HP treatment had a protective effect on in-hospital death (odds ratio (OR) 0.04, p = 0.03). In 29 low-risk patients (EA level < 0.54), seven patients (24.1%) received PMX-HP treatment and showed significant decreases in EA levels (0.46–0.16, p = 0.018). However, SOFA scores and in-hospital deaths were not improved by PMX-HP treatment. EA level significantly decreased after PMX-HP treatment and it may represent a therapeutic option to improve organ impairment and in-hospital death in septic shock patients with EA levels exceeding 0.54.
The importance of termites and fire to dead wood consumption in the longleaf pine ecosystem
Authors: Ulyshen Michael D. , Sheehan Thomas N.
Published: December 2021

Microbes, insects, and fire are the primary drivers of wood loss from most ecosystems, but interactions among these factors remain poorly understood. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that termites and fire have a synergistic effect on wood loss from the fire-adapted longleaf pine (Pinus palustris Mill.) ecosystem in the southeastern United States. We predicted that the extensive galleries created by termites would promote the ignition and consumption of logs by fire. We exposed logs from which termites had or had not been excluded to prescribed fire after 2.5 years in the field. We found little support for our hypothesis as there was no significant interactive effect of termites and fire on wood mass loss. Moreover, there was no significant difference in mass loss between burned and unburned logs. Termites were responsible for about 13.3% of observed mass loss in unprotected logs, a significant effect, while microbial activity accounted for most of the remaining mass loss. We conclude that fire has little effect on wood loss from the longleaf pine ecosystem and that termite activity does not strongly promote wood combustion. However, longer term research involving multiple burn cycles, later stages of decay, and differing fire intensities will be needed to fully address this question.
On the optical anisotropy in 2D metal-halide perovskites
Authors: Steger Mark , Janke Svenja M. , Sercel Peter C. , Larson Bryon W. , Lu Haipeng , Qin Xixi , Yu Victor Wen-zhe , Blum Volker , Blackburn Jeffrey L.
Published: December 2021

We develop a better understanding of the many contributing factors that give rise to extreme optical anisotropy in 2D perovskites, and we then show that spin-coated films can exhibit excellent order comparable with exfoliated crystals.
Peptide cyclisation promoted by supramolecular complex formation
Authors: Hartendorp Arnout P. T. , de Zwart Felix J. , Bieräugel Hans , Bruin Bas de , Reek Joost N. H. , van Maarseveen Jan H.
Published: December 2021

Lactamisation of phenol-ester activated peptide esters is promoted by supramolecular Zn-TPP complex formation.
Recent advances in transition-metal-free trifluoromethylation with Togni's reagents
Authors: Chen Jin-Yang , Huang Jing , Sun Kai , He Wei-Min
Published: December 2021

Transition-metal-free trifluoromethylations have attracted significant research interest driven by the increasing importance of CF3-containing compounds.
Carbene-enabled ether activation through the formation of oxonium: a theoretical view
Authors: Wang Ya-Nan , Wang Xinghua , Li Shi-Jun , Lan Yu
Published: December 2021

Here, we report a theoretical investigation of the reactivity and chemoselectivity of carbene-enabled ether activation.
Inferior alveolar nerve canal segmentation by local features based neural network model
Authors: Maheswari P. Uma , Banumathi A. , Ulaganathan G. , Yoganandha R.
Published: December 2021

The detection of Inferior Alveolar Nerve Canal (IAC) plays major and crucial role in dental surgical procedures to avoid damage to IAC during the course of treatment. Exact visualization and detection of IAC is necessary for precise surgery planning to prevent IAC damage. The proposed method comprises of three stages namely, novel edge enhancement, candidate classification and candidate pixel clustering to detect the IAC. For better visualization of IAC, initially the edges of dental OPG images are enhanced using a novel structural filter. Candidate regions are selected from the enhanced image by the proposed Multi Hidden Layer Extreme Learning Machine Artificial Neural Network (MELMANN) model driven by combined regional features such as Histogram of Gradients (HOG), Local Binary Pattern (LBP) and Gray Level Co‐occurrence Matrix (GLCM). Consequently the candidate region pixels are clustered by a Self‐Organising Map‐based Neural Network (SOM ‐ NNC) along with active contour method to detect the IAC completely. Experimental results show that this method effectively delineated the IAC with the Dice coefficient of 0.854 ± 0.05.Therefore, the proposed method has high potential in clearly visualizing IAC to avoid neurological sensory disorders in oral and maxillofacial surgery and implantology and it provides better prediagnostic approach to the surgeons.
Financial performance of Slovak insurance companies. Covid-19 consequences
Authors: Grofcikova Janka , Izakova Katarina
Published: December 2021

Research background: Globalization trends are manifested at many levels as key phenomena of current business in the international environment. The development of international cooperation, interconnection of economies and emergence of multinational companies enable companies to increase their efficiency and performance, strengthen their position in the global market, which makes them resilient to global risks and increases investors’ return on investment. Currently, the COVID-19 pandemic with its related side effects present significant global risks that have affected strong financial companies, insurance companies included. Risk-insuring insurers face several challenges in this regard in terms of fulfillment of contractual obligations towards clients on the one hand, and the need to ensure the required financial performance and return on invested resources for the owners on the other.

Purpose of the article: The aim of the paper is to identify and quantify the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and related measures and consequences on the financial situation of insurance companies with the seat in Slovakia.

Methods: The financial performance of insurance companies will be quantified for the years 2016-2020 through selected indicators of financial analysis that are used by Standard & Poor’s. Significance of differences will be detected through the Wilcoxon Two-Related-Samples Test. The sample of entities includes all insurance companies seated in Slovakia.

Findings & Value added: The basic characteristics of the Slovak insurance market within the period 2019-2020 indicate a decrease in value of gross written premiums (-2.47%), insurance claims and benefits (-12.3%) and an increase of the reinsurer’s share of written premiums (2.17%) and of claims paid (22.54%).
The behaviour of entrepreneurs before and during the crisis with an emphasis on the company’s internal financial resources
Authors: Pokorná Pavla
Published: December 2021

Research background: To conduct the research, we used data from two surveys conducted in the Czech Republic before the outbreak of the Covid crisis and after the full wave of the crisis. The research focused on the behaviour of entrepreneurs in the field of finance and planning. Statistical methods for data processing suitable for obtaining relevant results were used.

Purpose of the article: The paper aims to map the behaviour of entrepreneurs in relation to their business. During business, the entrepreneur decides on the direction of the company and its relationship to the external and the internal environment, which forms the overall image of the company. Drawing on internal and external resources is a very complex decision-making process and is a key element for many companies and entrepreneurs during the Covid 19 pandemic, either in the development of the company or in its existence as such.

Methods: The research was conducted in two periods, before the emergence of the COVID - 19 virus, i.e., in the autumn of 2018 and after the first wave of the covid crisis (autumn 2020). They were attended by 488 respondents from all over the Czech Republic. Correlation and square tests were used to evaluate the results. For some statements, a change was demonstrated for some, the hiding of respondents did not change. Finally, research was carried out on reinvestment activities in the addressed companies.

Findings & Value added: The results suggest that certain behaviours of entrepreneurs have changed, but there are aspects where the change has occurred but is not statistically significant. All aspects create an overall picture of the behaviour of entrepreneurs, which must be quickly adjusted to the current situation, because without constant adaptation to the environment, the company will not have a long life.
The Effect of the Pandemic on Character Education for Children in Schools
Authors: Nurhayati Praja Wina , Hyangsewu Pandu
Published: December 2021

Research background: The background of this research is to find out the development of character education values during this covid-19 pandemic. Where during the COVID-19 pandemic, the community was required to carry out online activities including the field of education, namely schools that were conducted online for school students. The method used by researchers in this study is by distributing online questionnaires with a total of 13 respondents who contributed. Character education has a focus on the process of instilling values, in the form of understandings, procedures for caring for and living these values, and how a student can have the opportunity to be able to practice these values in real terms. Of course, character education is very important for students in preparing their future in order to achieve their goals and to be applied in social life.

Purpose of the article: This research is motivated to determine the development of the value of character education during the Covid-19 pandemic. Where when the Covid-19 pandemic, the community was required to carry out activities online, including in the field of education, namely schools that were conducted online for school students.

Methods: The method used by researchers in this study is by distributing questionnaires online with a total of 13 respondents who contributed. Character education has a focus on the process of cultivating values, in the form of understandings, procedures for caring for and living these values, and how a student can have the opportunity to be able to practice these values in real terms.
Saving and management of income as part of financial literacy in today´s globalized world
Authors: Beranová Markéta , Navrátilová Miroslava
Published: December 2021

Research background:The role of knowledge and information in today's globalized world is growing. In today's globalized world, moreover, under the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic, financial management is crucial.

Purpose of the article:The aim of the presented article is to evaluate financial literacy with a focus on saving part of income as a reserve amongst the young university students.

Methods:Primary data were obtained by a quantitative research using a questionnaire survey (n = 1 437) in 2018 amongst full time bachelor and master degree students at three selected universities. Selected universities are focus on economy and agriculture and each of them is from another region of the Czech Republic. In the analytical part of article was used testing of statistical hypotheses.

Findings & Value added:The attitude of the respondents was examined by asking whether they store a part of their income as a reserve in case of an unforeseen situation, i.e., whether they form a kind of financial reserve. Of the total number of respondents, 76.83% (1,104) declared that they saved part of their income for unforeseen situations or for other needs. Other respondents, 23.17% (333), stated that they do not create such a reserve. Statistical evaluation proved a dependence between the sex of respondents and the responses mentioned above (the structure of the responses in relation to the gender of the respondents shows that more than half of those who answered that they save part of their income as a reserve are women).
Managerial skills in the globalized world in chosen EU countries
Authors: Čulková Katarína , Hrehová Daniela , Seňová Andrea , Teplická Katarína
Published: December 2021

Research background: Managerial skills play an increasing role in the globalized world of the business and European Commission is aware of the importance of acquiring and developing a wide range of skills. To solve challenges and problems in business practice, the manager needs to have a wide range of skills in various areas.

Purpose of the article: The contribution is focused on the use of managerial skills in the practice of the selected EU companies. The aim is to find out what managerial skills managers consider important in their practice, which of them they use in the performance of their profession, and how much time they devote to them. Another equally important task of the research is to obtain the necessary data to prepare the necessary training skills for their managers.

Methods: A proven questionnaire survey was used to obtain the necessary data. The target respondents were randomly selected managers at all levels of management with varying degrees of education. The survey is conducted with large number of managers at various levels of the management.

Findings & Value added: The results of the survey show reserves in managerial skills using in the company and can be used to suggest potential improvements for managers, based on the results of a questionnaire survey. The contribution can be used in the management and development of international business of any company.
Possibilities of gamification in online learning at the University of Žilina
Authors: Gajanova Lubica
Published: December 2021

Research background: The current classical education system also used at the University of Žilina has certain gamification elements. However, it does not meet needs of most students, and is even very demotivating for a large proportion of students. Students perceive studying only as their duty, instead of perceiving it as something they enjoy and like to do. With the advent of modern technologies, the way of teaching without them is beginning to seem uninteresting and often ineffective.

Purpose of the article: The COVID-19 global pandemic and the necessary national measures taken to combat the spread of the virus can significantly disrupt the provision of education. According to Resolution on the future of European education in the context of Covid-19 now is the right time to rethink and modernize curricula and procedures and accelerate change, by promoting digitization and innovation through gamification as well. The purpose of the paper is detect the possibilities of gamification in online learning at the University of Žilina.

Methods: The survey was conducted to obtain the necessary primary data. It was statistically tested by one-way ANOVA, which represents the option of analysis of variance.

Findings & Value added: The aim of the paper is to find a statistically significantly different segment of students from the University of Žilina, who have greatly expressed interest in gamification in online learning in order to increase their motivation.
Glocal trends and employer ratings as a critical branding approach in the social economy
Authors: Heide Michael P.
Published: December 2021

Research background: The global corona pandemic that broke out at the beginning of 2020 is considered a catalyst for the necessary digitization of organizations - including in the social economy. In addition to social issues, the corona crisis primarily affects the economic framework, in particular securing liquidity to maintain business activity. Furthermore, the shortage of skilled workers is exacerbated by the change to the labor market. At the same time, Generation Y is populating the job market with their changed demands and is presenting employers with central challenges. This primarily includes maintaining the innovation and competitiveness of the socio-economic organization.

Purpose of the article: The aim of this research contribution is to show organizations how information from web-based employer review portals can be used for decision-making. The focus is on the identification of critical success factors for the organization-specific stakeholder orientation, especially for employer branding.

Methods: The author has analyzed secondary data due to the pandemic in order to identify and systematize HR tendencies. In doing so, available (online) data from Bitkom was used, supplemented by ratings and comments on the web platform for employer ratings kununu.com.

Findings & Value added: Employer rating portals are developing into an interactive forum and shaping the image of employers - employer branding, which is supported by social media. The design of an attractive employer brand must be understood as a strategic management task in social economy organizations.
Correlation between beer consumption per capita and number of active breweries in the selected European countries
Authors: Szarková Xénia , Savov Radovan
Published: December 2021

Research background: Craft beer is becoming one of the most popular alcoholic beverages globally, during the last decade. Additionally, industrial beer producers started to offer some special craft beer types that prove the rising demand for differentiated beer products.

Purpose of the article: Since one of our common fields of interest is the development of the brewing industry, we intended to provide an overview of a recent trend in this sector, which is the expansion of craft breweries. As the data reveals, this trend has been present in various European countries, as well. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to show that the trend of craft brewing is present in countries with strong brewing history such as Belgium, the Czech Republic, or Germany, and in those countries which are not considered as typical beer producers because of their location and culture.

Methods: The information provided in this paper was retrieved mainly from scientific papers that focus on the brewing industry and the craft beer revolution. To be able to offer transparent and understandable results, we retrieved data from the reports of Brewers of Europe, which is a European non-profit association. Therefore, the research methods used are the comparison of quantitative data and correlation.

Findings & Value added: The paper provides an overview of the expanding craft beer industry in the selected European countries and how strong the relation between beer consumption per capita (l) and number of active breweries is.