bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding Brexit in Wales: Austerity, Elites and National Identity
Authors: Mackay Hugh
Published: September 2020

Support for Brexit in Wales looks similar to that in England. The turn-out in Wales was very high, the same as the UK average and, as in Brexit-voting parts of England, there was strong anti-immigration sentiment in Brexit-voting areas of Wales, with a feeling that immigration is keeping wages down. This chapter, however, focuses on several important differences: it explores what is distinctive about support for Brexit in Wales. Approaches to Brexit are different in Wales due to the historical relationship of Wales to England, and the distinct social structure and politics of Wales – specifically, its elite and its distinct politics. In England, those with the strongest sense of English national identity voted most heavily for Brexit, whilst those who identified as British more than English tended to vote Remain. Thus, in order to understand Brexit in Wales, the chapter analyses and explains Brexit voting and the nature of elite agents and identities in contemporary Wales.
Brexit, Devolution and Northern Ireland’s Political Parties: Differential Solutions, Special Status or Special Arrangements?
Authors: Birrell Derek , Carmichael Paul
Published: September 2020

Uniquely, Northern Ireland is distinctive within the UK in having power sharing arrangements between the parties. The parties within this system must confront the particular problems posed by Brexit: that Northern Ireland would be the only part of the UK with a land border with the EU, and that there are serious implications for cross border travel and trade, the large 'agri-food' industry and existing EU support for socio-economic improvement and the peace process. Underpinning the difficulties are fundamental policy cleavages between the two largest parties constituting the Northern Ireland Executive: the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which is in favour of leave, and Sinn Fein, which is in favour of remain. This chapter explains the implications for the Brexit negotiations, and examines the consequences of this deep division in the lack of a consensus in Northern Ireland on Brexit issues, total lack of agreement on government departments or Assembly committees publishing reports and little response to the fears of civic society about the consequences of Brexit.
Introduction: Accountability in the Counter-Terrorist State
Authors: Blackbourn Jessie , de Londras Fiona , Morgan Lydia
Published: September 2020

This chapter outlines the core argument of the book and the methodological approach to the research. It develops the concept of counter-terrorism review as legal, political, and policy processes that consider the application and impacts of counter-terrorism law and policy in theory as well as in practice, with a view to assessing its merits and contributing towards its improvement. It also establishes the importance of considering counter-terrorism review as a distinct phenomenon with the potential either to legitimate or to enhance accountability in the contemporary counter-terrorist state.
Generational Encounters with Higher Education
Authors: Bristow Jennie , Cant Sarah , Chatterjee Anwesa
Published: September 2020

The 21st century has witnessed significant changes to the structures and policies framing Higher Education. But how do these changes in norms, values, and purpose shape the generation now coming of age? Employing a generational analysis, this book offers an original approach to the study of education. Drawing on a British Academy-funded study, comprising a policy review, semi-structured interviews and focus groups with students and with academics of different generations, and an analysis of responses to the Mass Observation Study, the book explores the qualitative dimensions of the relationship between academics and students, and examines wider issues of culture and socialisation, from tuition fees and student mental health, to social mobility and employment.
The book begins with a discussion of the emergence of a ‘graduate generation’, in a context where 50 per cent of young people are encouraged to go to University, on the basis that this is a personal investment in their future careers. Subsequent chapters review the policy changes that have led to this framing of Higher Education as an increasingly individualised experience, where ‘student choice’ is operationalised as the means by which Universities are funded and held to account; historical differences in the experience of Higher Education; and the impact of these changes on the role and status of academic staff and the experience of current and prospective students.
A Mental Health ‘Crisis’?
Authors: Bristow Jennie , Cant Sarah , Chatterjee Anwesa
Published: September 2020

This chapter maps a framework for understanding the rise of mental health disorders in the undergraduate population, drawing a connection between broader social, cultural and educational change, and individual psychological malaise. The structural inconsistencies wrought by high expectations, contrasted with actual opportunities and experience, provide the basis for an insecure and individualised approach to Higher Education. Students experiencing high levels of anxiety are encouraged, both by the pressure to succeed and the procedures now in place within Universities to manage high levels of mental illness, to conceive of and present their distress in medicalised terms. The chapter explores the implications for the academic– student relationship, both in terms of the growing expectation on academics to act in loco parentis, and the extent to which the practice of study and the pursuit of knowledge itself comes to be considered potentially damaging to students’ mental health and emotional wellbeing.
Appearance of circularly polarized light in an atmosphere–ocean system
Authors: Adams James T.
Published: September 2020

Using a Monte Carlo algorithm to simulate the scattering of sunlight in an atmosphere–ocean system, the degree of circular polarization of light in the ocean has been calculated at multiple depths and directions. In this system circularly polarized light is produced by the reflection of light from beneath the surface at an incident angle greater than the critical angle. We present the results of these simulations for different solar angles, wavelengths of light, and models that include the presence of aerosols in the atmosphere and hydrosols in the water.
Feasibility of identifying reflection artifacts in photoacoustic imaging using two-wavelength excitation
Authors: Nguyen Ho Nhu Y. , Steenbergen Wiendelt
Published: September 2020

One of the remaining challenges of bringing photoacoustic imaging to clinics is the occurrence of reflection artifacts. Previously, we proposed a method using multi-wavelength excitation to identify and remove the RAs. However, this method requires at least 3 wavelengths. Here we improve the method further by reducing the required number of wavelengths to 2. We experimentally demonstrate this new method and compare it with the previous one. Results show that this new method holds great feasibility for identifying reflection artifacts in addition to preserving all advantages of the previous method.
Simultaneous diffuse optical and bioluminescence tomography to account for signal attenuation to improve source localization
Authors: Bentley Alexander , Rowe Jonathan E. , Dehghani Hamid
Published: September 2020

Photonics based pre-clinical imaging is an extensively used technique to allow for the study of biologically relevant activity typically within a small-mouse model. Namely, bioluminescent tomography (BLT) attempts to tomographically reconstruct the 3-dimensional spatial light distribution of luminophores within a small animal given surface light measurements and known underlying optical parameters. Often it is the case where these optical parameters are unknown leading to the use of a ‘best’ guess approach or to direct measurements using either a multi-modal or dedicated system. Using these conventional approaches can lead to both inaccurate results and extending periods of imaging time. This work introduces the development of an algorithm that is used to accurately localize the spatial light distribution from a bioluminescence source within a subject by simultaneously reconstructing both the underlying optical properties and source spatial distribution and intensity from the same set of surface measurements. Through its application in 2- and 3-dimensional, homogeneous and heterogenous numerical models, it is demonstrated that the proposed algorithm is capable of replicating results as compared to ‘gold’ standard where the absolute optical properties are known. Additionally, the algorithm has been applied to experimental data using a tissue mimicking block phantom, recovering a spatial light distribution that has a localization error of ∼1.53 mm, which is better than previously published results without the need of assumptions regarding the underlying optical properties or source distribution.
Full-field spectral-domain optical interferometry for snapshot three-dimensional microscopy
Authors: Iyer Rishyashring R. , Žurauskas Mantas , Cui Qi , Gao Liang , Theodore Smith R. , Boppart Stephen A.
Published: September 2020

Prevalent techniques in label-free linear optical microscopy are either confined to imaging in two dimensions or rely on scanning, both of which restrict their applications in imaging subtle biological dynamics. In this paper, we present the theoretical basis along with demonstrations supporting that full-field spectral-domain interferometry can be used for imaging samples in 3D with no moving parts in a single shot. Consequently, we propose a novel optical imaging modality that combines low-coherence interferometry with hyperspectral imaging using a light-emitting diode and an image mapping spectrometer, called Snapshot optical coherence microscopy (OCM). Having first proved the feasibility of Snapshot OCM through theoretical modeling and a comprehensive simulation, we demonstrate an implementation of the technique using off-the-shelf components capable of capturing an entire volume in 5 ms. The performance of Snapshot OCM, when imaging optical targets, shows its capability to axially localize and section images over an axial range of ±10 µm, while maintaining a transverse resolution of 0.8 µm, an axial resolution of 1.4 µm, and a sensitivity of up to 80 dB. Additionally, its performance in imaging weakly scattering live cells shows its capability to not only localize the cells in a densely populated culture but also to generate detailed phase profiles of the structures at each depth for long durations. Consolidating the advantages of several widespread optical microscopy modalities, Snapshot OCM has the potential to be a versatile imaging technique for a broad range of applications.
Third-harmonic generation enhancement in an ITO nanoparticle-coated microresonator
Authors: Pampel Steven K. , Bae Kyuyoung , Zohrabi Mo , Grayson Michael , Horning Thomas M. , Park Wounjhang , Gopinath Juliet T.
Published: September 2020

We report a ∼3-fold enhancement of third-harmonic generation (THG) conversion efficiency using indium tin oxide (ITO) nanoparticles on the surface of an ultra-high-Q silica microsphere. This is one of the largest microcavity-based THG enhancements reported. Phase-matching and spatial mode overlap are explored numerically to determine the microsphere radius (∼29 µm) and resonant mode numbers that maximize THG. Furthermore, the ITO nanoparticles are uniformly bonded to the cavity surface by drop-casting, eliminating the need for complex fabrication. The significant improvement in THG conversion efficiency establishes functionalized ITO microcavities as a promising tool for broadband frequency conversion, nonlinear enhancement, and applications in integrated photonics.
Aberration fields of pupil-offset off-axis two-mirror astronomical telescopes induced by ROC error
Authors: Bai Xiaoquan , Xu Boqian , Ma Hongcai , Gao Yan , Xu Shuyan , Ju Guohao
Published: September 2020

This paper presents a systematic and deep discussion on the aberration field characteristics of pupil-offset off-axis two-mirror astronomical telescopes induced by the radius of curvature (ROC) error based on the framework of the nodal aberration theory (NAT). The expressions of the third-order aberrations in off-axis two-mirror astronomical telescopes with ROC error are derived first. Then the astigmatic and coma aberration fields are discussed, and it is shown in a field constant astigmatism and coma will be induced by ROC error. The aberration compensation between axial misalignments and ROC error are further discussed, and it is shown that the net astigmatic and coma aberration field induced by ROC error can well be compensated by axial misalignments. Importantly, it is also demonstrated that the focal plane shift induced by ROC error can also be compensated at the same time. Also, this paper briefly analyzes the aberration field characteristics when there is the error of conic constant in optical system. Some other discussions are also presented concerning the ROC inconsistency in astronomical telescopes with a segmented primary mirror. This work will lead to a deep understanding of the influence of ROC error in pupil-offset off-axis astronomical telescopes.
All-fiber online Raman sensor with enhancement via a Fabry–Perot cavity
Authors: Yu Xingtao , Li Caoxin , Hu Dora Juan Juan , Milenko Karolina , Wang Guanghui , Shum Ping , Xu Fei , Lu Yanqing , Zhang Xuping
Published: September 2020

In this Letter, a novel all-fiber online Raman sensor with significant signal enhancement via a Fabry–Perot (FP) cavity is proposed and demonstrated. The FP cavity structure is formed by inserting a long-pass coated fiber and a gold-plated capillary into a silver-lined capillary with a gap. A corroded single-mode fiber is inserted into the gold-plated capillary to guide the excitation light into the FP cavity. The multiple reflections of excitation light in the FP cavity have significantly increased the interaction volume between the light and the sample. Experiment results have demonstrated an enhancement factor of 5 times in the detected Raman signal for ethanol compared to that measured using the silver-lined hollow-core fiber-based Raman cell without FP cavity, or 86 times compared with direct detection using a bare fiber tip. The measurement results are in good agreement with theoretical analyses. This Raman sensor with signal enhancement via the FP cavity has the potential to realize rapid sample replacement and online detection with high sensitivity and high accuracy for biochemical applications.
Steady-state and time-resolved upconversion photoluminescence in Yb3+-Er3+ co-doped transparent ceramics of YAG
Authors: Tang Fei , Li Haoqi , Tian Kangzhen , Ning Jiqiang , Ye Honggang , Xu Shijie
Published: September 2020

Transparent ceramics (TCs) represent a new family of functional hard materials. In this Letter, steady-state and time-resolved upconversion photoluminescence in

Y
b

3
+

-

E
r

3
+

co-doped TC of yttrium aluminum garnet (TC-YAG) are reported for the first time, to the best of our knowledge. Under the excitation of near-infrared 940 nm laser at room temperature, the

Y
b

3
+

-

E
r

3
+

co-doped TC-YAG emits intense multi-color luminescence consisting of cyan, green, and red groups of sharp lines. More excitingly, the green group of luminescence due to the transitions from

4

S

3

/

2

to

4

I

15

/

2

states of

E
r

3
+

are the prominent components with the average lifetime of

∼

0.3

m
s

. The internal quantum efficiency of the green luminescence is estimated to be 32.8%. A unique dual-resonance energy transfer from

Y
b

3
+

to

E
r

3
+

via the excited-state vibronic transitions is proposed as the principal mechanism of the strongest green luminescence of

E
r

3
+

ions in TC-YAG.
First report of PCR-based detection of Helicobacter species DNA in Camelus dromedarius in Egypt
Authors: Youssef Ahmed , Afifi Ahmed , Hamed Ayman , Enany Mohamed
Published: September 2020

Background and Aim: Helicobacter species infections have epidemiological and zoonotic impacts, and different species of Helicobacter have been implicated in infecting humans and animals. The aim of this study was to investigate Helicobacter species infections in Camelus dromedarius.

Materials and Methods: Fecal samples were collected from 32 camels from 9 camel farms located at Ismailia Governorate, Egypt. The collected samples were investigated by bacteriological isolation and conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays targeting the 16S ribosomal RNA gene.

Results: Although Helicobacter species could not be isolated from all the examined samples, Helicobacter DNA was detected in 2 (22.22%) of the 9 camel farms. Of the 32 camel fecal samples examined, 4 (12.5%) were positive for Helicobacter species as analyzed by the PCR assay.

Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of PCR-based detection of Helicobacter species infections in C. dromedarius. Further epidemiological studies are required to clarify Helicobacter species infections in camels.
A (I)LEGITIMIDADE DE ATUAÇÃO DOS GOVERNOS ESTADUAIS E MUNICIPAIS PARA O COMBATE AO COVID-19
Authors: Dil Gabriel , Gallas Mirelle
Published: September 2020

A pandemia mundial da Covid-19 colocou o Brasil em estado de emergência, exigindo a tomada de decisões rápidas e extremas pelo poder executivo, nos vários níveis da federação. Em que pese as inúmeras medidas tomadas tenham respaldo da Organização Mundial da Saúde, passou-se a perceber uma guerra política que levou a discussão quanto à legitimidade da atuação dos entes federados. Analisa-se, portanto, a competência dos entes federados para a tomada de decisões que visem a proteção ao direito à saúde, o que foi objeto de recente decisão na Ação Direta de Inconstitucionalidade nº 6.341, proposta pelo Partido Democrático Trabalhista, perante o Supremo Tribunal Federal.
ŚWIETLISTA DĄBROWA POTENTILLO ALBAE-QUERCETUM LIBBERT 1933 NOM. INVERS. W ŚRODKOWEJ CZĘŚCI WYŻYNY KRAKOWSKO-CZĘSTOCHOWSKIEJ
Authors: Brzeg Andrzej , Wika Stanisław
Published: September 2020

The paper presents the results of phytosociological research on the thermophilous oak forest Potentillo albae-Quercetum Libbert 1933 nom. invers., which has been carried out in the central part of the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland. The association, which has been stated in 7 localities, is a new type of forest vegetation in this region. On the basis of 35 relevés, made in 2001 following the Braun-Blanquet method, the only subassociation P.a.-Q. brachypodietosum pinnati has been distinguished. It has been divided into two variants: with Pleurozium schreberi (on acid sites), and with Asarum europaeum (on basic ones). The investigated phytocoenoses abound in floristic peculiarities, such as: Adenophora liliifolia, Bupleurum longifolium, Euphorbia angulata, Festuca amethystina ssp. ritschlii, Lilium martagon, Potentilla alba.
NOWE STANOWISKA ŻAGWICY LISTKOWA TEJ GRIFOLA FRONDOSA (Dicks .) GRAY W PARKU KRAJOBRAZOWY m im. g en. DEZYDEREGO CHŁAPOWSKIEGO
Authors: Kujawa Anna , Michalak Marlena , Kujawa Krzysztof , Sobczyk Sylwia
Published: September 2020

The paper presents the Grifola frondosa distribution in the central part of the General Dezydery Chłapowski Landscape Park. 14 fruit bodies of the species were found developing on 8 specimens of Quercus robur, located in rural parks, tree belts along roads and tree alleys.
NOWE STANOWISKO SOPLÓWKI BUKOWEJ HERICIUM CORALLOIDES (Scop.) Pers. w WIELKOPOLSCE
Authors: Kujawa Anna , Konik Judyta
Published: September 2020

The paper presents a new locality of the protected fungus Hericium coralloides located in a manorial park in Turew. Nine basiodiocarps grew on a fragment of trunk of Ulmus sp. lying at the alley. The described locality is the fourth known in Wielkopolska region.
GRZYBY MAKROSKOPIJNE KAMPUSU UNIWERSYTETU IM. ADAMA MICKIEWICZA MORASKO W POZNANIU
Authors: Brzeg Andrzej , Lisiewska Maria
Published: September 2020

The paper presents the list of fungi taxa, which were discovered in the area of the Adam Mickiewicz University Morasko campus in Poznań. The investigations were conducted in the years 1979–1980 and 2002–2018. All plant formations (fragments of forests, afforestations, shrubs, swards, meadows, lawns and patches of synanthropic vegetation) were penetrated. In total, 261 species of macrofungi were found. Some of them were collected only in the first period of investigations.
The Enlightenment period – a continuous source of “light” or the Western world’s spell of fallacies and distortions?
Authors: Drozdowicz Zbigniew
Published: September 2020

In my reflections I relate to the disputes concerning the philosophical heritage of the Enlightenment period. I refer to the two significantly different positions concerning this issue, that of the liberals and of communitarians. The former tend to have a generally positive attitude towards the achievements of the period, taken to constitute a cultural breakthrough in the thinking of man, his needs and ways of satisfying them. The latter, however, evaluate the period negatively, and even consider it to be an acceleration in the loss of culturally important values and qualities. Both of them assume that an important role in the cultural changes has been played by philosophers – only that the former think it was a positive role, while the latter find it negative.
Państwo – polityka – Internet. Rola nowych mediów w funkcjonowaniu współczesnych systemów politycznych
Authors: Rogowski Łukasz
Published: September 2020

The article presents the relationship between the Internet, the state and politics. It starts from describing similarities between politics and social aspects of the Internet. This is described in the context of Web 2.0, collective intelligence, informal circuits of cultural content and multitasking. Then two perspectives of the functioning of the Internet in the contemporary state and politics are shown. The first, which is a top-down perspective, describes the concepts of e-government and e-participation. The second one, which is bottom-up, refers to new types of election campaigns as well as the role of new media in social change. In conclusion, there are some questions regarding cyberdemocracy and digital citizenship.
Glokalność w globalnej sieci. Analiza zjawiska sieciowej tożsamości narodowej na przykładzie RuNetu
Authors: Drewniak Anna
Published: September 2020

The aim of the text is to use the concept of glocality (Robertson) to discuss the specific character of RuNet, the Russian-language Internet, the limits of which are not based on geographical boundaries but language. The emergence of RuNet, both at the level of nomenclature and at the level of giving it peculiar characteristics that distinguish it from the rest of the web resources, is related to the initial lack of compatibility of the Cyrillic and Latin Internet. On the one hand, due to the emergence of a separate Russian-language space on the web, the native search engines (such as Яндекс), blogging platforms or social networking sites (ВКонтакте) preferred by the Russians occupy several or sometimes even a dozen or so percent of the world market. This is an obvious phenomenon as the portals of a group of German-speaking, French-speaking, Latin American countries and China do not achieve such results. On the other hand, the difference in notation has favoured self-isolation of RuNet, which, by its distinctiveness, has become a part of the web isolated on a global scale. Oneof the most significant indicators of RuNet’s glocality is its functioning in the field of neo-imperial ideas. The notion which is visible on every level of the decentralized message that Russia is once again becoming an empire is a constantly recurring chorus of Internet divagations. The glocality of the Russian-speaking Internet does not constitute the plain total sum of pre-national and postnational elements, but the ratio of these two systems, a peculiar, original version of the “third way.” The summing up of the article will be an attempt at answering the question where this way will lead RuNet.
Aus der Oratio XVIII des Libanios (P.Berol. 17081)
Authors: Poethke Günter
Published: September 2020

Editio princeps of parts of Libanius’ oratio XVIII preserved on fragments of a papyrus codex.
Amtliches Schreiben an Polykrates (?) (P.UB Trier S 109-67)
Authors: Bounta Spyridoula
Published: September 2020

This article presents an unpublished Ptolemaic papyrus from the collection of the University of Trier. It contains an official letter probably to an oikonomos concerning a tax-collection, which requires further investigation.
The Dung Boats of Memphis (2nd–3rd Centuries CE)
Authors: Nantet Emmanuel
Published: September 2020

The πλοῖον κοπρηγόν was a specific kind of boat that was dedicated to the conveyance of manure. It is evidenced in Memphis only by two Roman papyri. It seems that there were several kinds of such boats, operating on various scales and revealing various architectural features. The conveyance of dung may imply elites who were interested in a lucrative agriculture.
Automatic generation of checklists from business process model and notation (BPMN) models for surgical assist systems
Authors: Ryniak Claudia , Burgert Oliver
Published: September 2020

Checklists are a valuable tool to ensure process quality and quality of care. To ensure proper integration in clinical processes, it would be desirable to generate checklists directly from formal process descriptions. Those checklists could also be used for user interaction in context-aware surgical assist systems. We built a tool to automatically convert Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN) process models to checklists displayed as HTML websites. Gateways representing decisions are mapped to checklist items that trigger dynamic content loading based on the placed checkmark. The usability of the resulting system was positively evaluated regarding comprehensibility and end-user friendliness.
Deep learning for semantic segmentation of organs and tissues in laparoscopic surgery
Authors: Scheikl Paul Maria , Laschewski Stefan , Kisilenko Anna , Davitashvili Tornike , Müller Benjamin , Capek Manuela , Müller-Stich Beat P. , Wagner Martin , Mathis-Ullrich Franziska
Published: September 2020

Semantic segmentation of organs and tissue types is an important sub-problem in image based scene understanding for laparoscopic surgery and is a prerequisite for context-aware assistance and cognitive robotics. Deep Learning (DL) approaches are prominently applied to segmentation and tracking of laparoscopic instruments. This work compares different combinations of neural networks, loss functions, and training strategies in their application to semantic segmentation of different organs and tissue types in human laparoscopic images in order to investigate their applicability as components in cognitive systems. TernausNet-11 trained on Soft-Jaccard loss with a pretrained, trainable encoder performs best in regard to segmentation quality (78.31% mean Intersection over Union [IoU]) and inference time (28.07 ms) on a single GTX 1070 GPU.
Force effects on anatomical structures in transoral surgery − videolaryngoscopic prototype vs. conventional direct microlaryngoscopy
Authors: Schild Leon R. , Lemke Dominik , Boehm Felix , Greve Jens , Dürselen Lutz , Scheithauer Marc O. , Hoffmann Thomas K. , Schuler Patrick J.
Published: September 2020

Direct microlaryngoscopy is a frequently performed procedure in otorhinolaryngology, whereby considerable force is exerted on the patients’ teeth, as well as oropharyngeal and laryngeal structures. Especially in cases of a challenging exposure of the anterior commissure, the cervical spine needs to be brought into a hyperextended position, which is not possible in every patient. Therefore, the conflict between the straight rigid microlaryngoscope and the curvature of the oropharyngeal corridor frequently results in tissue trauma with the consequence of teeth fracture, hematoma or nerve injury. We have developed the s-MAC system, a hyper-angulated video laryngoscope with flexible instruments for transoral laryngeal surgery, which so far shows high feasibility in preclinical studies. Due to its curved shape it may exert less force on teeth and supraglottis as conventional direct microlaryngoscopy. We quantified the effects of these two surgical systems using flexible pressure sensors in two different scenarios: a mobile, hyperextended and an immobile cervical spine of the dummy, to simulate a challenging airway. We could demonstrate a 21% (40% with immobilized cervical spine) reduction of the average peak force acting on the maxillary incisors and a 55% (65% with immobilized cervical spine) reduction of the average intraoperative force on the supraglottis. The developed prototype applied therefore significantly less force on upper front teeth and supraglottis as compared to conventional direct microlaryngoscopy – especially in the case of an immobilized cervical spine.
The roles of biomolecules in corrosion induction and inhibition of corrosion: a possible insight
Authors: Karn Santosh Kumar , Bhambri Anne , Jenkinson Ian R. , Duan Jizhou , Kumar Awanish
Published: September 2020

Biofilms cause huge economic loss to the industry through corrosion. A deeper understanding of how biofilms form, develop and interact will help to decipher their roles in promoting and inhibiting corrosion, thus in controlling it. The present review explores most mechanisms of biofilm development and maintenance with particular emphasis on the roles of the biomolecules characteristic of biofilms, including exopolysaccharides (EPSs), proteins/enzymes, lipids, DNA and other metabolites in the corrosion process. These biomolecules play a significant role in the electron transfer process resulting in corrosion induction and inhibition. Microbial attachment, biofilm formation, the EPS matrix and both positive and negative effects by specific biofilm-forming genes all play roles in the electron transfer process. The current review describes these roles in detail. Although challenging to understand and control, the potential of biomolecules in the corrosion process is huge, and the coming decades will witness significant progress in the field. As well as discussing the technologies available for investigating corrosion induction and its inhibition, we also point to gaps in this knowledge.
Nursing students’ engagement and experiences with virtual reality in an undergraduate bioscience course
Authors: Thompson David Scott , Thompson Alison P. , McConnell Kristen
Published: September 2020

Objectives

The challenges of bioscience courses such as anatomy and physiology in nursing education are well documented. Virtual reality has recently become accessible and may support student engagement. The purpose of this project was to describe students’ engagement and experiences with virtual reality in a first-year nursing course on anatomy, physiology, and health assessment.

Methods

We used a cross-sectional design and collected both quantitative and qualitative data. The Exploratory Learning Model guided our work.

Results

Students perceived their engagement to be higher in virtual reality compared to other teaching methods. Their experiences were positive with students reporting that they found it easy to use, it helped their learning, and they recommended more of it.

Conclusions

Virtual reality is an accessible tool for supporting student engagement. The Exploratory Learning Model is a useful conceptualization for integrating virtual reality into a course. Future research on the relationship between virtual reality and learning achievements is warranted.
Grüße aus der Klausurwerkstatt – Tipps zum juristischen Lernen und Klausurenschreiben
Authors: Bock Merle , Hülskötter Tim
Published: September 2020

Dass es auch im Jurastudium »ohne Fleiß keinen Preis« gibt, ist jedem Studierenden schon nach den ersten Vorlesungswochen bewusst. Frust kommt allerdings allzu schnell auf, wenn es trotz Fleiß keinen Preis in Form von Noten über dem Durchschnitt oder gar bestandenen Klausuren gibt. Der Beitrag wendet sich an Studierende aller Semester und gibt ihnen Tipps an die Hand, wie sie sich zum einen das vielbeschworene »juristische Handwerkszeug« aneignen können, das es ihnen ermöglicht, sich selbst wenig und unbekannte Normkomplexe und Auslegungsprobleme zu erschließen. Zum anderen legt der Beitrag den Fokus darauf, wie dieses Handwerkszeug in der Klausur eingesetzt wird. Dabei werden die einzelnen Bearbeitungsschritte der Klausurlösung von der Sachverhaltsanalyse über das Erstellen der Lösungsskizze bis zum Ausformulieren des Gutachtens mit einer gelungenen Argumentation an den Schwerpunkten erläutert.
Pseudo-thrombocytopenia (PTCP). A challenge in the daily laboratory routine?
Authors: Schuff-Werner Peter , Mansour Joe , Gropp Angela
Published: September 2020

Anticoagulation with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) is a necessary pre-requisite for automated blood cell counting. With a prevalence of 0.01–1%, EDTA anticoagulation is accompanied by time- and temperature-dependent in vitro aggregation of platelets, resulting in false low counts. To avoid wrong clinical conclusions, spontaneous anticoagulant-induced platelet agglutination should therefore be recognized during analysis. This might be a challenge for the routine laboratory.

The actual knowledge of this rare but clinically important laboratory artefact will be summarized and reviewed in the following, based on our own experiences and the available literature. This includes pathophysiological and epidemiological aspects, valuable information regarding the detection and prevention of a PTCP, and the possibilities for determination of the correct platelet count.
An extension of the method of brackets. Part 2
Authors: Gonzalez Ivan , Jiu Lin , Moll Victor H.
Published: September 2020

The method of brackets, developed in the context of evaluation of integrals coming from Feynman diagrams, is a procedure to evaluate definite integrals over the half-line. This method consists of a small number of operational rules devoted to convert the integral into a bracket series. A second small set of rules evaluates this bracket series and produces the result as a regular series. The work presented here combines this method with the classical Mellin transform to extend the class of integrands where the method of brackets can be applied. A selected number of examples are used to illustrate this procedure.
A Puerto Rican chemist with coffee
Authors: De Jesús Luis R.
Published: September 2020

It is always a great honor to be able to celebrate with colleagues the anniversary of a prestigious magazine. As I write this invited article for the celebration of the 60th Anniversary of publication of the IUPAC Journal, Pure and Applied Chemistry, I ponder upon my upbringing as a Puerto Rican academic, scientist, and chemist. The roads through school, academia, and life are often turbulent and not straightforward. Herein, I share a short recollection of my story as a young chemist and the aspirations I look forward to.
Rethinking U.S. National Security after Covid19
Authors: Bilmes Linda J.
Published: September 2020

The United States has traditionally defined national security in the context of military threats and addressed them through military spending. This article considers whether the United States will rethink this mindset following the disruption of the Covid19 pandemic, during which a non-military actor has inflicted widespread harm. The author argues that the US will not redefine national security explicitly due to the importance of the military in the US economy and the bipartisan trend toward growing the military budget since 2001. However, the pandemic has opened the floodgates with respect to federal spending. This shift will enable the next administration to allocate greater resources to non-military threats such as climate change and emerging diseases, even as it continues to increase defense spending to address traditionally defined military threats such as hypersonics and cyberterrorism.
Encapsulation and retention of 225Ac, 223Ra, 227Th, and decay daughters in zircon-type gadolinium vanadate nanoparticles
Authors: Toro-González Miguel , Dame Ashley N. , Mirzadeh Saed , Rojas Jessika V.
Published: September 2020

Unwanted targeting of healthy organs caused by the relocation of radionuclides from the target site has been one of the limiting factors in the widespread application of targeted alpha therapy in patient regimens. GdVO4 nanoparticles (NPs) were developed as platforms to encapsulate α-emitting radionuclides 223Ra, 225Ac, and 227Th, and retain their decay daughters at the target site. Polycrystalline GdVO4 NPs with different morphologies and a zircon-type tetragonal crystal structure were obtained by precipitation of GdCl3 and Na3VO4 in aqueous media at room temperature. The ability of GdVO4 crystals to host multivalent ions was initially assessed using La, Cs, Bi, Ba, and Pb as surrogates of the radionuclides under investigation. A decrease in Ba encapsulation was obtained after increasing the concentration of surrogate ions, whereas the encapsulation of La cations in GdVO4 NPs was quantitative (∼100%). Retention of radionuclides was assessed in vitro by dialyzing the radioactive GdVO4 NPs against deionized water. While 227Th was quantitatively encapsulated (100%), a partial encapsulation of 223Ra (∼75%) and 225Ac (>60%) was observed in GdVO4 NPs. The maximum leakage of 221Fr (1st decay daughter of 225Ac) was 55.4 ± 3.6%, whereas for 223Ra (1st decay daughter of 227Th) the maximum leakage was 73.0 ± 4.0%. These results show the potential of GdVO4 NPs as platforms of α-emitting radionuclides for their application in targeted alpha therapy.
Sémiotique textuelle et albums pour la jeunesse: intertextualité et lecteur modèle
Authors: Guillemette Lucie
Published: September 2020

Selon la perspective de l’œuvre ouverte développée par Eco, « un texte est un tissu d’espaces blancs, d’interstices à remplir … un mécanisme paresseux qui vit sur la plus-value de sens qui y est introduite par le destinataire » (Eco 1985, Lector in fabula ou la coopération interprétative dans les textes narratifs, Myriem Bouzaher (trad.). Paris: Grasset, 66–67). C’est à cette plus-value de sens, concomitante à l’activité interprétative, que la présente étude s’attardera, et ce, afin d’identifier d’abord des éléments de l’album d’enfance nécessitant l’interprétation d’un lecteur modèle et d’en convoquer par la suite les significations qui peuvent être appliquées au texte.

Plus précisément, il s’agira de décrire et d’analyser les mécanismes intertextuels qui enrichissent l’organisation syntaxique et sémantique de quatre albums d’enfance parus au Québec entre 1992 et 2002 et qui nécessitent l’intervention d’un lecteur modèle pour identifier les systèmes de signification et les savoirs qui y sont rattachés. Les albums soumis à l’investigation reprennent le schéma narratif de contes de fée connus et celui d’une nouvelle contemporaine. L’hypothèse est la suivante: si les composantes génériques de l’album dévoilent à un jeune lecteur des univers de références connus et familiers, le processus de l’intertextualité sollicite des contenus qui, soumis à l’interprétation d’un lecteur modèle, font parfois surgir des structures de signification inattendues.
Theoretical and experimental solid state studies of Ethyl 1-benzyl-2-(thiophen-3-yl)-1H-benzo[d]imidazole-5-carboxylate
Authors: Madan Kumar Shankar , Kumar Vasantha , Al-Ghorbani Mohammed , Shivaram Holla Bantwala , Poojary Boja , Praveen Padikkaruvanth , Chandra Nayak Siddaiah , Mohan Janani S. , Thamotharan Subbiah , Shamprasad Varija Raghu , Lokanath Neratur Krishnappagowda , Al-Zaqri Nabil , Alsalme Ali
Published: September 2020

The title compound Ethyl 1-benzyl-2-(thiophen-3-yl)-1H-benzo[d]imidazole-5-carboxylate (BI) is prepared and characterized using spectroscopic methods. The theoretical optimization and three dimensional molecular structure are confirmed by X-ray diffraction method (single crystal). The C–H…π intermolecular interactions stabilize the crystal structure. The intermolecular contacts in the crystal structure are quantified using Hirshfeld surfaces and the crystal packing is elucidated using 3D energy frameworks analysis. In the frameworks, the dispersion energy term is dominated over the electrostatic energy term. The structural optimization was carried out with B3LYP/6-311++G (d, p) level of theory. The visual representations of positive and negative potentials (electrostatic potential) are mapped on the electron density isosurface. The band gap energy (HOMO-LUMO) of the molecule is calculated to be 4.36 eV. Structural conformation of BI is compared with similar structures.
Molecular interactions at the bovine embryo–endometrial epithelium interface
Authors: Sponchiado Mariana , Marei Waleed F A , Beemster Gerrit T S , Bols Peter E J , Binelli Mario , Leroy Jo L M R
Published: September 2020

In cattle, pre-implantation embryo development occurs within the confinement of the uterine lumen. Current understanding of the bi-lateral molecular interactions between embryo and endometrium that are required for a successful pregnancy is limited. We hypothesized that the nature and intensity of reciprocal embryo-endometrium interactions depend on the extent of their physical proximity. Bovine endometrial epithelial cells (bEECs) and morulae were co-cultured in juxtacrine (Contact+) or non-juxtacrine (Contact−) apposition. Co-culture with bEECs improved blastocyst rates on day 7.5, regardless of juxtaposition. Contact+ regulated transcription of 1797 endometrial genes vs only 230 in the Contact− group compared to their control (no embryos) counterparts. A subset of 50 overlapping differentially expressed genes (DEGs) defined embryo-induced effects on bEEC transcriptome irrespective of juxtaposition. Functional analysis revealed pathways associated with interferon signaling and prostanoid biosynthesis. A total of 175 genes displayed a graded expression level depending on Contact+ or Contact−. These genes were involved in interferon-related and antigen presentation pathways. Biological processes enriched exclusively in Contact+ included regulation of cell cycle and sex-steroid biosynthesis. We speculate that, in vivo, embryonic signals fine-tune the function of surrounding cells to ultimately maximize pregnancy success.
Property comparisons and bonding efficiency of UF and PMDI bonded particleboards as affected by key process variables
Authors: Papadopoulos Antonios N.
Published: September 2020

The purpose of this paper was to compare physical properties of conventional particleboard bonded with amounts of UF and PMDI resin and to examine the effect of mat moisture content (MC), wax content and platen temperature on their bonding efficiency, as determined by internal bond strength. It was found that PMDI not only gave superior board properties compared with the UF, but the amount required was reduced considerably as well. The MC of the mat and the platen temperature did not significantly affect the bonding efficiency of PMDI bonded boards, but the bonding efficiency of UF bonded boards. The inclusion of 1% wax significantly affected the bonding efficiency of both resins, however the loss in strength was higher in UF than in PMDI bonded boards.
Characterization of the diffusion of organic fungicides with amine oxides in white pine and white spruce
Authors: Pepin Simon , Blanchet Pierre , Landry Véronic
Published: September 2020

Wood products, especially those used in outdoor conditions, can be damaged by dimensional changes and decay fungi. It is therefore advised to use impregnation treatments to mitigate these hazards. While the potency of the chemicals employed in the treatments is important, characterization of the treatments is also crucial to ensure deep and durable protection. In this study, eastern white pine (Pinus strobus L.) and white spruce (Picea glauca (Moench) Voss) were impregnated with propiconazole and 3-iodo-2-propynyl butylcarbamate (IPBC) through diffusion. Instead of using pressure treatments, the samples were dipped in solutions containing amine oxides, which can diffuse into the wood. The treatments were characterized by the mass of fungicide impregnated, fungicide leaching, and the impregnation depths of both the fungicides and the amine oxides. It was found that the treatment impregnated slightly more than 0.040 kg/m3 of both fungicides, meeting EU standards. It was also shown that the presence of amine oxides slightly prevented the leaching of the fungicides in white pine. The penetration of the amine oxides was several millimeters deep in all directions, but the penetrations of the fungicides were much shorter and only longitudinal.
Physical and mechanical properties of soy-lignin bonded Rhizophora spp. particleboard as a tissue-equivalent phantom material
Authors: Zuber Siti Hajar , Hashikin Nurul Ab. Aziz , Yusof Mohd Fahmi Mohd , Hashim Rokiah
Published: September 2020

Experimental binderless and adhesive-bonded particleboards were made from three different sample sizes, 0 to 103 µm, 104 to 210 µm, and 211 to 500 µm from Rhizophora spp. wood trunk at 1.0 g cm-3. The objective was to evaluate the physical and mechanical properties of the particleboards. The binderless and soy-lignin bonded particleboards were fabricated and studied based on the density, internal bonding, modulus of rupture, water absorption, and thickness swelling. Microstructure study using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and elemental analysis by carbon hydrogen nitrogen (CHN) analyser were also performed. Particleboards with adhesives improved the internal bond strength. Smaller particle sizes also were shown to be able to improve the thickness swelling outcomes, with lower hygroscopic properties. The SEM images showed that smaller particle size allowed better bonding with adhesives and provided superior strength in the fabrication of tissue equivalent phantom material. The CHN ratio demonstrated by soy flour and lignin revealed no major difference when compared with the Rhizophora spp. samples, showing basic chemical composition of natural adhesives, which was crucial in the fabrication of tissue-mimicking phantom. The study revealed the potential of soy flour and lignin as adhesives for the fabrication of Rhizophora spp. particleboard as a tissue equivalent phantom material.
Incinerate, recycle, or wash and reuse
Authors: Hubbe Martin A.
Published: September 2020

What is the best way to minimize the environmental impact of using a product such as paper? Three debating teams were formed within a university class. One team advocated increased recycling of paper. Another team pointed to evidence showing reduced environmental impact and lower net CO 2 emissions if the paper is incinerated rather than recycled. A third team advocated the replacement of paper by items such as porcelain plates and video screens, cutting costs and reducing waste by multiple reuse.
Utilization of a chemical-mechanical pulp with improved properties from poplar wood in the composition of packing papers
Authors: Boeva-Spiridonova R. , Petkova E. , Georgieva N. , Yotova L. , Spiridonov I.
Published: September 2020

The aim of the present work is to obtain a chemical-mechanical pulp (CMP) from poplar wood with improved properties, to be used in packing papers in place of more expensive softwood or hardwood pulp. For improving the CMP quality indicators, a preliminary treatment of the pulp has been carried out with a mixture of oxidizing enzymes produced from Phanerochaete chrysosporium, including lignin peroxidase, manganese peroxidase, and laccase. The two types of fiber materials obtained were double-stage bleached and then ground to 30oSR. It was found that preliminary enzyme treatment yielded CMP with improved physical, mechanical, and optical properties. The enzyme-pretreated CMP also refined faster, thus reducing the electricity consumption. Bleached CMP from poplar wood, obtained after preliminary enzyme treatment, could be successfully utilized at levels up to 40% in the composition of various packaging papers.