bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time Banks as Transient Civic Organizations? Exploring the Dynamics of Decline
Authors: Glückler Johannes , Hoffmann Jakob
Published: December 2021

Time banks have become a popular type of civic organization constructed to facilitate egalitarian economic exchange through a community-bounded currency. Especially after the recent economic crises in Europe, the rise in the number of time banks has been accompanied by relative transience and sometimes short lifespans. We adopt a relational perspective to explore the dynamics of decline in the civic engagement of a time bank in southern Germany. Using methods of longitudinal social network analysis, we analyze the relational processes and individual trajectories of members within the emerging transaction network over a period of eight years. Rather than explaining why, we have found how relational trajectories of members through a structure of core and periphery have led to creeping decline in activity and membership. Given the repeated observation that time banks and other types of alternative economic practices are often characterized by considerable volatility and potential collapse, relational thinking and network analysis are especially suited to unpacking the underlying relational mechanisms that shape these outcomes of volatility and demise.
Unconstrained off-shell superfield formulation of 4D, $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 2 supersymmetric higher spins
Authors: Buchbinder Ioseph , Ivanov Evgeny , Zaigraev Nikita
Published: December 2021

Abstract

We present, for the first time, the complete off-shell 4D,$$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 superfield actions for any free massless integer spin s ≥ 2 fields, using the $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 harmonic super-space approach. The relevant gauge supermultiplet is accommodated by two real analytic bosonic superfields $$ {h}_{\alpha \left(s-1\right)\dot{\alpha}\left(s-1\right)}^{++} $$

h

α

s
−
1

α
̇

s
−
1

+
+

, $$ {h}_{\alpha \left(s-2\right)\dot{\alpha}\left(s-2\right)}^{++} $$

h

α

s
−
2

α
̇

s
−
2

+
+

and two conjugated complex analytic spinor superfields $$ {h}_{\alpha \left(s-1\right)\dot{\alpha}\left(s-1\right)}^{+3} $$

h

α

s
−
1

α
̇

s
−
1

+
3

, $$ {h}_{\alpha \left(s-2\right)\dot{\alpha}\left(s-1\right)}^{+3} $$

h

α

s
−
2

α
̇

s
−
1

+
3

, where α(s) := (α1. . . αs),$$ \dot{\alpha} $$

α
̇

(s) := ($$ \dot{\alpha} $$

α
̇

1. . .$$ \dot{\alpha} $$

α
̇

s). Like in the harmonic superspace formulations of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 Maxwell and supergravity theories, an infinite number of original off-shell degrees of freedom is reduced to the finite set (in WZ-type gauge) due to an infinite number of the component gauge parameters in the analytic superfield parameters. On shell, the standard spin content (s,s−1/2,s−1/2,s−1) is restored. For s = 2 the action describes the linearized version of “minimal” $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 Einstein supergravity.
Schrödinger evolution of two-dimensional black holes
Authors: Giddings Steven B.
Published: December 2021

Abstract

This paper systematically treats the evolving quantum state for two-dimensional black holes, with particular focus on the CGHS model, but also elucidating features generalizing to higher dimensions. This is done in Schrödinger picture(s), to exhibit the dynamic evolution of the state at intermediate times. After a review of classical solutions, also connecting to descriptions of higher-dimensional black holes, it overviews the canonical quantum treatment of the full evolution, including gravitational dynamics. Derived in an approximation to this, following conversion to “perturbation picture”, is the evolution of the quantum matter on the background geometry. Features of the evolving matter state are described, based on choice of a time slicing to put the evolution into ADM form. The choices of slicing as well as coordinates on the slices result in different quantum “pictures” for treating the evolution. If such a description is based on smooth trans-horizon slices, that avoids explicit reference to ultra-planckian modes familiar from traditional treatments, and exhibits the Hawking excitations as emerging from a “quantum atmosphere” with thickness comparable to the inverse temperature. Detailed study of the state exhibits the entanglement structure between Hawking quanta and the partner excitations inside the black hole, and the corresponding “missing information”. This explicit description also allows direct study of the evolution and features, e.g. as seen by infalling observers, of these partner excitations, helping to address various puzzles with them. Explicit treatment of the evolving state, and its extension to higher dimensions, provides further connections to information theory and a starting point for study of corrections that can unitarize evolution, arising from new quantum gravity effects — whether wormholes or something entirely different.
A consistent two-skyrmion configuration space from instantons
Authors: Halcrow Chris , Winyard Thomas
Published: December 2021

Abstract

To study a nuclear system in the Skyrme model one must first construct a space of low energy Skyrme configurations. However, there is no mathematical definition of this configuration space and there is not even consensus on its fundamental properties, such as its dimension. Here, we propose that the full instanton moduli space can be used to construct a consistent skyrmion configuration space, provided that the Skyrme model is coupled to a vector meson which we identify with the ρ-meson. Each instanton generates a unique skyrmion and we reinterpret the 8N instanton moduli as physical degrees of freedom in the Skyrme model. In this picture a single skyrmion has six zero modes and two non-zero modes: one controls the overall scale of the solution and one the energy of the ρ-meson field. We study the N = 1 and N = 2 systems in detail. Two interacting skyrmions can excite the ρ through scattering, suggesting that the ρ and Skyrme fields are intrinsically linked. Our proposal is the first consistent manifold description of the two-skyrmion configuration space. The method can also be generalised to higher N and thus provides a general framework to study any skyrmion configuration space.
How relevant is lumbar bone mineral density for the stability of symphyseal implants? A biomechanical cadaver study
Authors: Schwaabe Fanny , Gleich Johannes , Linhart Christoph , Keppler Alexander Martin , Woiczinski Matthias , Kammerlander Christian , Greiner Axel , Böcker Wolfgang , Cavalcanti Kußmaul Adrian
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Osteoporotic bone tissue appears to be an important risk factor for implant loosening, compromising the stability of surgical implants. However, it is unclear whether lumbar measured bone mineral density (BMD) is of any predictive value for stability of surgical implants at the pubic symphysis. This study examines the fixation strength of cortical screws in human cadaver specimens with different BMDs.

Methods

The lumbar BMD of ten human specimens was measured using quantitative computed tomography (qCT). A cut-off BMD was set at 120 mg Ca-Ha/mL, dividing the specimens into two groups. One cortical screw was drilled into each superior pubic ramus. The screw was withdrawn in an axial direction with a steady speed and considered failed when a force decrease was detected. Required force (N) and pull-out distance (mm) were constantly tracked.

Results

The median peak force of group 1 was 231.88 N and 228.08 N in group 2. While BMD values differed significantly (p < 0.01), a comparison of peak forces between both groups showed no significant difference (p = 0.481).

Conclusion

Higher lumbar BMD did not result in significantly higher pull-out forces at the symphysis. The high proportion of cortical bone near the symphyseal joint allows an increased contact of pubic screws and could explain sufficient fixation. This condition is not reflected by a compromised lumbar BMD in a qCT scan. Therefore, site-specific BMD measurement could improve individual fracture management.
Vermeidbare Sterblichkeit – Neufassung eines Indikators für die Präventionsberichterstattung
Authors: Weber Anke , Reisig Veronika , Buschner Andrea , Kuhn Joseph
Published: December 2021

Hintergrund

In der Gesundheitsberichterstattung wird ein Indikator „vermeidbare Sterblichkeit“ geführt. Der Indikator aggregiert ausgewählte Todesursachen. In Deutschland gibt es dazu 2 Varianten, beide sind nicht mehr aktuell. Mit der vorliegenden Arbeit wird eine Neukonzeption vorgeschlagen.

Methoden

Die Neukonzeption orientiert sich bei der Auswahl der Todesursachen an Vorarbeiten auf europäischer Ebene. Die Umsetzbarkeit und Plausibilität einer konsentierten OECD-Eurostat-Liste werden anhand der Daten der amtlichen Statistik in Bayern für die Jahre 2016–2018 überprüft. Die Analyse umfasst die Untersuchung der Variabilität über die Zeit und innerhalb der bayerischen Regierungsbezirke sowie mögliche systematische Verzerrungen durch regionale Unterschiede im Codierverhalten bzw. Veränderungen im Zeitverlauf.

Ergebnisse

Die OECD-Eurostat-Liste ist auf regionaler Ebene mit geringfügiger Modifikation umsetzbar. Es ergibt sich eine altersstandardisierte vermeidbare Sterblichkeit von knapp 23 Todesfällen je 10.000 Einwohnerinnen und Einwohner (EW) in Bayern im Jahr 2018, wobei die prävenierbaren Sterbefälle solche, die durch eine Behandlung hätten vermieden werden können, bei Weitem übersteigen. Für Männer liegt die Sterberate aufgrund vermeidbarer Ursachen bei 30 pro 10.000 männlichen EW und ist damit fast doppelt so hoch wie jene für Frauen (16 pro 10.000 weiblichen EW). Regional folgt die vermeidbare Sterblichkeit Befunden zur regionalen Gesundheit aus anderen Studien.

Diskussion und Fazit

Die Ergebnisse liefern keinen Anlass, von großen Zufallsschwankungen bzw. methodisch bedingten systematischen Verzerrungen auszugehen. Der Indikator wird zur Anwendung in der Gesundheitsberichterstattung vorgeschlagen.
Psychotherapie nach einem Suizidversuch – Evidenzlage und Bewertung
Authors: Teismann Tobias , Gysin-Maillart Anja
Published: December 2021

Suizidversuche gelten als einer der wichtigsten Risikofaktoren für Suizide. Vor diesem Hintergrund wurden in den letzten Jahren diverse Psychotherapieangebote für Personen nach einem Suizidversuch entwickelt und untersucht. Im Rahmen dieses Artikels wird der aktuelle Stand der Effektivitätsforschung zusammengefasst, es werden Beispiele für erfolgreiche suizidfokussierte Psychotherapieprogramme gegeben und der gegenwärtige Forschungs- und Wissensstand wird kritisch reflektiert. Die Ergebnisse von 2 aktuellen Cochrane-Reviews zur Psychotherapie nach selbstverletzendem Verhalten im Kindes‑, Jugend- und Erwachsenenalter sowie Befunde aus 14 weiteren Metaanalysen zur psychologischen Suizidprävention, die in den vergangenen 5 Jahren publiziert wurden, werden überblicksartig dargestellt.

Die kognitive Verhaltenstherapie (KVT) und die dialektisch-behaviorale Therapie (DBT) haben sich als effektiv erwiesen. Insgesamt sind die gemittelten Effektstärken jedoch von geringer Größe und diverse methodische Probleme verunmöglichen weitreichende Schlussfolgerungen. Grundsätzlich kommt der suizidspezifischen Psychotherapie in der individuumszentrierten Suizidprävention besondere Bedeutung zu; die empirische Fundierung und Dissemination entsprechender Programme sind jedoch noch unzureichend.
Responses to larval herbivory in the phenylpropanoid pathway of Ulmus minor are boosted by prior insect egg deposition
Authors: Schott Johanna , Fuchs Benjamin , Böttcher Christoph , Hilker Monika
Published: December 2021

Main conclusion

Elms, which have received insect eggs as a ‘warning’ of larval herbivory, enhance their anti-herbivore defences by accumulating salicylic acid and amplifying phenylpropanoid-related transcriptional and metabolic responses to hatching larvae.

Plant responses to insect eggs can result in intensified defences against hatching larvae. In annual plants, this egg-mediated effect is known to be associated with changes in leaf phenylpropanoid levels. However, little is known about how trees—long-living, perennial plants—improve their egg-mediated, anti-herbivore defences. The role of phytohormones and the phenylpropanoid pathway in egg-primed anti-herbivore defences of a tree species has until now been left unexplored. Using targeted and untargeted metabolome analyses we studied how the phenylpropanoid pathway of Ulmus minor responds to egg-laying by the elm leaf beetle and subsequent larval feeding. We found that when compared to untreated leaves, kaempferol and quercetin concentrations increased in feeding-damaged leaves with prior egg deposition, but not in feeding-damaged leaves without eggs. PCR analyses revealed that prior insect egg deposition intensified feeding-induced expression of phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL), encoding the gateway enzyme of the phenylpropanoid pathway. Salicylic acid (SA) concentrations were higher in egg-treated, feeding-damaged leaves than in egg-free, feeding-damaged leaves, but SA levels did not increase in response to egg deposition alone—in contrast to observations made of Arabidopsis thaliana. Our results indicate that prior egg deposition induces a SA-mediated response in elms to feeding damage. Furthermore, egg deposition boosts phenylpropanoid biosynthesis in subsequently feeding-damaged leaves by enhanced PAL expression, which results in the accumulation of phenylpropanoid derivatives. As such, the elm tree shows similar, yet distinct, responses to insect eggs and larval feeding as the annual model plant A. thaliana.
In the family: access to, and communication of, familial information in clinical practice
Authors: Lucassen Anneke , Clarke Angus
Published: December 2021

How an individual’s genetic information is governed by confidentiality, and how the interests of others—such as close relatives—in knowing such information might be respected, has been the topic of much debate ever since genetic testing has become more prevalent. In this paper, two authors who often appear to have different views on familial disclosure, discuss where they agree on this topic.
The impact of tooth loss on cognitive function
Authors: Galindo-Moreno Pablo , Lopez-Chaichio Lucia , Padial-Molina Miguel , Avila-Ortiz Gustavo , O’Valle Francisco , Ravida Andrea , Catena Andres
Published: December 2021

Objective

To investigate if there is epidemiological evidence of an association between edentulism and cognitive decline beside that currently available from limited sample-sized case series and cross-sectional studies considering limited co-variables.

Materials and methods

Data from two USA national health surveys [NHIS 2014–2017 and NHANES 2005–2018] were analyzed using multinomial logistic regression to study the impact of type of edentulism and number of remaining teeth on memory and concentration problems. Age, gender, socioeconomic status, education level, cardiovascular health index, body mass index, exercise, alcohol, smoking habits, and anxiety and depression were used as covariates.

Results

The combined population sample was 102,291 individuals. Age, socioeconomic status, educational level, anxiety and depression levels, and edentulism showed the highest odds ratios for cognitive decline. Number of teeth present in the mouth was found to be a predictor of cognitive status. This association showed a gradient effect, so that the lower the number of teeth, the greater the risk of exhibiting cognitive decline.

Conclusions

Edentulism was found among the higher ORs for cognitive impairment.

Clinical relevance

Maintenance of functional teeth through the promotion of oral health may contribute to the preservation of memory/concentration and other essential cognitive functions. Thus, increasing and efficiently coordinating efforts aimed at preventing of tooth loss in the adult population could substantially contribute to reduce the incidence of cognitive impairment.
Anti-Haecceitism and Fundamentality
Authors: Scarpati Maria
Published: December 2021

Is everything about reality either qualitative or somehow determined by the qualitative character of reality itself? Metaphysical anti-Haecceitism is often taken to be the claim that this is the case, and to entail that reality is fundamentally qualitative. In this paper, I (1) argue against the idea that metaphysical anti-Haecceitism should be characterized in such terms, and (2) defend a novel way to phrase such a view. This will be done by taking the main arguments for anti-Haecceitism as a guide and by singling out the proper commitments of a view that satisfies the desideratum set forth by such arguments. The phrasing I shall offer will help tell the issue of anti-Haecceitism apart from some concerns about fundamentality that, I will contend, are orthogonal to it—among them, the question whether there is fundamentality at all.
Terahertz Multilayer Thickness Measurements: Comparison of Optoelectronic Time and Frequency Domain Systems
Authors: Liebermeister Lars , Nellen Simon , Kohlhaas Robert B. , Lauck Sebastian , Deumer Milan , Breuer Steffen , Schell Martin , Globisch Björn
Published: December 2021

Abstract

We compare a state-of-the-art terahertz (THz) time domain spectroscopy (TDS) system and a novel optoelectronic frequency domain spectroscopy (FDS) system with respect to their performance in layer thickness measurements. We use equal sample sets, THz optics, and data evaluation methods for both spectrometers. On single-layer and multi-layer dielectric samples, we found a standard deviation of thickness measurements below 0.2 µm for TDS and below 0.5 µm for FDS. This factor of approx. two between the accuracy of both systems reproduces well for all samples. Although the TDS system achieves higher accuracy, FDS systems can be a competitive alternative for two reasons. First, the architecture of an FDS system is essentially simpler, and thus the price can be much lower compared to TDS. Second, an accuracy below 1 µm is sufficient for many real-world applications. Thus, this work may be a starting point for a comprehensive cross comparison of different terahertz systems developed for specific industrial applications.
Gambling Outlets Location in Urban Areas: A Case Study of Madrid
Authors: Pérez Levi , Rodríguez Ana , Shmarev Andrey
Published: December 2021

Cities are certainly a key factor in the location of gambling facilities. This paper aims to map the location of gambling outlets in urban areas and to examine potential links between neighborhoods socioeconomic and demographic characteristics and gambling supply, taking into account spatial dependencies of neighboring areas. This correlation is of interest because neighborhood characteristics may attract sellers, and because the presence of gambling sellers may cause changes in neighborhood demographics. Using detailed official data from the city of Madrid for the year 2017, three spatial econometric approaches are considered: spatial autoregressive (SAR) model, spatial error model (SEM) and spatial lag of X (explicative variables) model (SLX). Empirical analysis finds a strong correlation between neighborhoods characteristics and co-location of gambling outlets, highlighting a specific geographic patterning of distribution within more disadvantaged urban areas. This may have interesting implications for gambling stakeholders and for local governments when it comes to the introduction and/or increase of gambling availability.
Edge Network Routing Protocol Base on Target Tracking Scenario
Authors: Zhang Zhongyi , Zhao Weihua , Huang Ouhan , Jia Gangyong , Li Youhuizi , Mei Songzhu , Zhao Duan
Published: December 2021

Edge computing perfectly integrates cloud computing centers and edge-end devices together, but there are not many related researches on how the edge-end node devices work to form an edge network and what the protocols used to implement the communication among nodes in the edge network. Aiming at the problem of coordinated communication among edge nodes in the current edge computing network architecture, this paper proposes an edge network routing and forwarding protocol based on target tracking scenarios. This protocol can meet the dynamic changes of node locations, and the elastic expansion of node scale. Individual node failures will not affect the overall network, and the network ensures efficient real-time with less communication overhead. The experimental results display that the protocol can effectively reduce the communications volume of the edge network, improve the overall efficiency of the network, and set the optimal sampling period, so as to ensure that the network delay is minimized.
BepiColombo - Mission Overview and Science Goals
Authors: Benkhoff J. , Murakami G. , Baumjohann W. , Besse S. , Bunce E. , Casale M. , Cremosese G. , Glassmeier K.-H. , Hayakawa H. , Heyner D. , Hiesinger H. , Huovelin J. , Hussmann H. , Iafolla V. , Iess L. , Kasaba Y. , Kobayashi M. , Milillo A. , Mitrofanov I. G. , Montagnon E. , Novara M. , Orsini S. , Quemerais E. , Reininghaus U. , Saito Y. , Santoli F. , Stramaccioni D. , Sutherland O. , Thomas N. , Yoshikawa I. , Zender J.
Published: December 2021

BepiColombo is a joint mission between the European Space Agency, ESA, and the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency, JAXA, to perform a comprehensive exploration of Mercury. Launched on $20^{\mathrm{th}}$

20
th

October 2018 from the European spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, the spacecraft is now en route to Mercury.

Two orbiters have been sent to Mercury and will be put into dedicated, polar orbits around the planet to study the planet and its environment. One orbiter, Mio, is provided by JAXA, and one orbiter, MPO, is provided by ESA. The scientific payload of both spacecraft will provide detailed information necessary to understand the origin and evolution of the planet itself and its surrounding environment. Mercury is the planet closest to the Sun, the only terrestrial planet besides Earth with a self-sustained magnetic field, and the smallest planet in our Solar System. It is a key planet for understanding the evolutionary history of our Solar System and therefore also for the question of how the Earth and our Planetary System were formed.

The scientific objectives focus on a global characterization of Mercury through the investigation of its interior, surface, exosphere, and magnetosphere. In addition, instrumentation onboard BepiColombo will be used to test Einstein’s theory of general relativity. Major effort was put into optimizing the scientific return of the mission by defining a payload such that individual measurements can be interrelated and complement each other.
On the Monotonicity of the Isoperimetric Quotient for Parallel Bodies
Authors: Richter Christian , Saorín Gómez Eugenia
Published: December 2021

The isoperimetric quotient of the whole family of inner and outer parallel bodies of a convex body is shown to be decreasing in the parameter of definition of parallel bodies, along with a characterization of those convex bodies for which that quotient happens to be constant on some interval within its domain. This is obtained relative to arbitrary gauge bodies, having the classical Euclidean setting as a particular case. Similar results are established for different families of Wulff shapes that are closely related to parallel bodies. These give rise to solutions of isoperimetric-type problems. Furthermore, new results on the monotonicity of quotients of other quermassintegrals different from surface area and volume, for the family of parallel bodies, are obtained.
Cost stickiness and the firm’s organizational form: evidence from the property-liability insurance sector
Authors: Gores Timo , Rauch Jannes
Published: December 2021

We examine the existence of cost stickiness in the German property-liability insurance sector by analyzing if the percentage increase in administrative costs for a rise in premiums is larger than the percentage decrease in administrative costs for an equivalent drop in premiums. In addition, we analyze if sticky cost behavior depends on insurance firms’ organizational form. Using company-level data from German property-liability insurance firms for the years 2001–2017 and regression analyses, we find that administrative costs are sticky in the insurance sector, as administrative costs increase on average 0.82% per 1% increase in premiums but decrease only 0.6% per 1% decrease in premium income. Moreover, we find that stock insurers exhibit lower levels of cost stickiness, indicating better monitoring mechanisms.
Microbial processes during deposition and diagenesis of Banded Iron Formations
Authors: Dreher Carolin L. , Schad Manuel , Robbins Leslie J. , Konhauser Kurt O. , Kappler Andreas , Joshi Prachi
Published: December 2021

Banded Iron Formations (BIFs) are marine chemical sediments consisting of alternating iron (Fe)-rich and silica (Si)-rich bands which were deposited throughout much of the Precambrian era. BIFs represent important proxies for the geochemical composition of Precambrian seawater and provide evidence for early microbial life. Iron present in BIFs was likely precipitated in the form of Fe3+ (Fe(III)) minerals, such as ferrihydrite (Fe(OH)3), either through the metabolic activity of anoxygenic photoautotrophic Fe2+ (Fe(II))-oxidizing bacteria (photoferrotrophs), by microaerophilic bacteria, or by the oxidation of dissolved Fe(II) by O2 produced by early cyanobacteria. However, in addition to oxidized Fe-bearing minerals such as hematite (FeIII2O3), (partially) reduced minerals such as magnetite (FeIIFeIII2O4) and siderite (FeIICO3) are found in BIFs as well. The presence of reduced Fe in BIFs has been suggested to reflect the reduction of primary Fe(III) minerals by dissimilatory Fe(III)-reducing bacteria, or by metamorphic (high pressure and temperature) reactions occurring in presence of buried organic matter. Here, we present the current understanding of the role of Fe-metabolizing bacteria in the deposition of BIFs, as well as competing hypotheses that favor an abiotic model for BIF deposition. We also discuss the potential abiotic and microbial reduction of Fe(III) in BIFs after deposition. Further, we review the availability of essential nutrients (e.g. P and Ni) and their implications on early Earth biogeochemistry. Overall, the combined results of various ancient seawater analogue experiments aimed at assessing microbial iron cycling pathways, coupled with the analysis of the BIF rock record, point towards a strong biotic influence during BIF genesis.
From isolation to application: a case study of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi of the Arabian Peninsula
Authors: Al-Yahya’ei Mohamed N. , Błaszkowski Janusz , Al-Hashmi Hamood , Al-Farsi Khaled , Al-Rashdi Ismail , Patzelt Annette , Boller Thomas , Wiemken Andres , Symanczik Sarah
Published: December 2021

The vegetation in the Arabian Peninsula experiences drought, heat, soil salinity, and low fertility, mainly due to low phosphorus (P) availability. The beneficial mycorrhizal symbiosis between plants and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) is a key factor supporting plant growth under such environmental conditions. Therefore, AMF strains isolated from these soils might be useful as biotechnological tools for agriculture and revegetation practices in the region. Here we present a pioneering program to isolate, identify, and apply AMF isolated from rhizosphere soils of agricultural and natural habitats, namely date palm plantations and five native desert plants, respectively in the Southern Arabian Peninsula. We established taxonomically unique AMF species as single-spore cultures as part of an expanding collection of AMF strains adapted to arid ecosystems. Preliminary experiments were conducted to evaluate the abilities of these AMF strains to promote seedling growth of a main crop Phoenix dactylifera L. and a common plant Prosopis cineraria L. (Druce) in the Arabian Peninsula. The results showed that inoculation with certain AMF species enhanced the growth of both plants, highlighting the potential of these fungi as part of sustainable land use practices in this region.
Experimental study on the performance of emulsions produced during ASP flooding
Authors: Laben Ahmed B. , Kayiem Hussain H. Al- , Alameen Mohammed A. , Khan Javed A. , Belhaj Ahmed F. , Elraies Khaled A.
Published: December 2021

ASP (Alkaline/Surfactant/Polymer) flooding is one of the most promising techniques that has proven to have successful application in several laboratory and pilot tests. However, the formation of persistent and stable emulsions is one of the associated problems with ASP flooding. The present work investigated the effect of sodium carbonate alkaline, Alpha Olefin Sulfonate (AOS) surfactant, and GLP100 polymer on produced crude oil emulsion. The study was conducted by measuring the emulsion stability in terms of water separation and rag layer volume using a TurbiScan analyzer, the dispersed droplet size using cross-polarization microscopy, the interfacial tension using spinning drop tensiometer, and rheological properties using rheometer. The experimental results have shown that AOS presence increased the emulsion stability only when its concentration is above 100 ppm. Meanwhile, below 100 ppm, the presence of AOS promoted water separation and reduced the rag layer volume. In a less significant manner, a high concentration of sodium carbonate alkali increased the stability of the emulsion. The use of GLP100 Polymer has shown substantial ability in promoting water separation and reducing the rag layer volume to a minimal level. It is believed that the outcomes of this work will aid in developing a suitable destabilization process to enhance the oil–water separation and produced water treatment from ASP flooding in the oil production fields. Further investigations on AS, AP, SP as well as the ASP's combined effect on emulsion stability, droplet size, interfacial tension and rheological properties are highly recommended to support the decision-makers on the EOR implementations with chemical additives.
Methoprene, a juvenile hormone analogue, modifies maturation and emergence in overwintering Osmia rufa L. adults
Authors: Giejdasz Karol , Fliszkiewicz Monika , Wasielewski Oskar
Published: December 2021

The development of methods aimed at activation of imagos at any point of wintering provides a compelling potential avenue to utilize bees for pollination of greenhouse crops during autumn, winter, and early spring. In this study, we tested methoprene, a juvenile hormone (JH) analogue as a chemical stimulant to end a diapause of Osmia rufa L. and enable bee activation and emergence under experimental conditions. The application of methoprene significantly reduced the emergence time of adult bees in winter months as compared to vehicle (acetone) and negative controls. Bees treated with methoprene started to emerge 3–6 days earlier than bees from acetone and control groups and finished emergence 2–6 days earlier too. Statistically significant differences were observed between methoprene and controls groups of male and female in all tested incubation periods. It was also observed that the effects of methoprene were significantly more effective in female specimens during the first 2 months of winter. Moreover, in females, methoprene improved reproductive traits such as an increase in the size of terminal oocytes. Similarly, in males, methoprene treatment resulted in a significant increase in a seminal vesicle size and dynamic elevation of spermatozoa number. Taken together, our results indicate that methoprene may play an important role in the termination of diapause, bee activation, and emergence.
Neuroinflammation in Epilepsy—Diagnostics and Therapeutic Perspectives
Authors: Lach Piotr , Klus Wiktoria , Zajdel Krystian , Szeleszczuk Adam , Komorowska Ewelina , Burda Klaudia , Kurowski Przemysław
Published: December 2021

Epilepsy is a neurological disease that affects approximately 1% of the world’s population. Epilepsy is characterized by the occurrence of repeated epileptic seizures due to abnormal neuronal activity. Although this disorder is currently incurable, it can be controlled for years with the appropriate therapy and patient adherence. Inflammation is an organism’s natural response to a pathological stimulus, aimed at eliminating the triggering factor. Multiple studies point out a significant correlation between an increased level of inflammatory mediators and the frequency of epileptic seizures. Increased levels of IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IFN-γ, and TNF-α were found in the serum of patients with epilepsy. Additionally, pro-inflammatory cytokines were found to be upregulated during epileptic activity in rodents: CCL2 and CCR2 receptor expression was shown to be upregulated during inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide administration, and CXCR5 was found to be primarily upregulated in brain cells. Early detection of the described factors may serve as a biomarker for epilepsy but also hold potential in developing novel immunomodulating therapies. Thus, a better understanding of the immune system’s involvement is necessary for the development of new therapeutic perspectives in epilepsy.
Nonlinear pentagonal intuitionistic fuzzy number and its application in EPQ model under learning and forgetting
Authors: Chakraborty Avishek , Pal Shilpi , Mondal Sankar Prasad , Alam Shariful
Published: December 2021

In this current era, the concept of nonlinearity plays an important and essential role in intuitionistic fuzzy arena. This article portrays an impression of different representation of nonlinear pentagonal intuitionistic fuzzy number (PIFN) and its classification under different scenarios. A new de-intuitification technique of non-linear PIFN is addressed in this article along with its various graphical representations. Additionally, in this paper, we have observed this by applying it in an economic production quantity model where the production is not perfect and defective items are produced which are reworked. The model is considered under learning and forgetting, where learning is considered as linear, nonlinear PIFN and crisps arena. It is observed from the numerical study that high learning effects in rework lead to decrease in production of defective item, which, besides an economic advantage, may have a positive effect on the environment. Even though forgetting has an adverse effect, the average total cost is much less than that of the basic model which ignores worker learning and forgetting. Finally, comparative and sensitivity analysis result shows the utility of this noble work.
Do Guarantees of Non-Recurrence Actually Help to Prevent Systemic Violations? Reflections on Measures Taken to Prevent Domestic Violence
Authors: Ferstman Carla
Published: December 2021

This article assesses the effectiveness of guarantees of non-recurrence to prevent the recurring, systemic violation of domestic violence. I consider whether there is any evidence to demonstrate that the measures ordered in response to state due diligence failings concerning domestic violence produced a change that that can be understood as effectively contributing to prevention. This is done principally by reviewing reports on the implementation of domestic violence judgments and decisions issued by the Inter-American and European regional human rights systems and by the UN CEDAW Committee. However, as is shown, for the most part these bodies have carried out only superficial scrutiny of the effectiveness in practice of measures undertaken by states to guarantee non-recurrence. Thus, I identify a number of areas which merit further cross-disciplinary study.
Molecular epidemiology of an extended multiple-species OXA-48 CPE outbreak in a hospital ward in Ireland, 2018–2019
Authors: Brehony Carina , Domegan Lisa , Foley Margaret , Fitzpatrick Margaret , Cafferkey Jacqueline P. , O’Connell Karina , Dinesh Binu , McNamara Eleanor , Duffy Fionnuala , Fitzpatrick Fidelma , Burns Karen
Published: December 2021

Objectives:

Molecular epidemiological description of an OXA-48 CPE outbreak affecting a tertiary-care hospital ward in Ireland over an extended period (2018–2019).

Methods:

Microbiological testing and whole-genome sequencing (WGS) were performed on all 56 positive OXA-48 outbreak case isolates.

Results:

In total, 7 different species were identified: Enterobacter hormaechei (n = 35, 62.5%), Escherichia coli (n = 12, 21.4%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 5, 8.9%), Klebsiella oxytoca (n = 1, 1.8%), Klebsiella michiganensis (n = 1, 1.8%), Citrobacter freundii (n = 1, 1.8%), and Serratia marcesens (n = 1, 1.8%). E. hormaechei ST78 was the most common genotype (n = 14, 25%). Two major pOXA-48 plasmid types were identified throughout the outbreak, ‘types’ 1 and 2, and 5 major E. hormaechei clonal groupings were identified: ST78, ST108, ST1126, ST135, and ST66. Within each of the ST108, ST1126, ST135 and ST66 groups, the pOXA-48 harbored within each isolate were the same. Within ST78, 9 isolates contained the pOXA48 ‘type 2’ plasmid and 5 contained the ‘type 1’ plasmid. Environmental specimens were taken from different outbreak ward locations: handwash basins, sink and shower drains, and taps. Of 394 environmental specimens, OXA-48 CPE was isolated from 26 (6.6%).

Conclusions:

This prolonged outbreak of OXA-48 CPE was confined to one ward, but it exemplifies the complexity and difficulty in the control of these organisms. With multiple species and genotypes involved, they may be better described as ‘plasmid outbreaks.’ WGS provided insights into this diversity and potential transmission among cases, though its usefulness would be enhanced by analysis as close as possible to real time so that interventions can be implemented as soon as data are available.
“The Vast and Unsolved Enigma of Power”: Business History and Business Power
Authors: ROLLINGS NEIL
Published: December 2021

Business is commonly regarded as one of the powerful actors in the world today. However, this position is neither as straightforward as often believed nor particularly new. Nevertheless, business historians have not focused on the topic of business power to date, often leaving it as something lurking in the background of their analyses. There are signs that this may be beginning to change with the growth of studies on the history of capitalism, but this revised presidential address encourages business historians to engage more fully and explicitly with the concept of power and to recognize the different ways in which the concept can be used to enlighten the study of business history.
Distribution of Gymnodinium catenatum Graham cysts and its relation to harmful algae blooms in the northern Gulf of California
Authors: Castañeda-Quezada Rigel , García-Mendoza Ernesto , Ramírez-Mendoza Rafael , Helenes Javier , Rivas David , Romo-Curiel Alfonsina E. , Lago-Lestón Asunción
Published: December 2021

Germination of cysts serves as inoculum for the proliferation of some dinoflagellates, and cyst abundance in sediments represents crucial information to understand and possibly predict Harmful Algae Blooms (HABs). Cyst distribution is related to the physical characteristics of the sediments and the hydrodynamics (circulation) of a particular region. In the northern Gulf of California (nGC) several Gymnodinium catenatum HABs have been recorded. However, the presence of resting cysts and the effect of hydrodynamics on their distribution in the nGC have not been investigated. This study evaluated cyst abundance, distribution and their relation to local circulation in surface sediments during two periods that coincided with a non-bloom year condition (July 2016) and after a major HAB registered in the nGC that occurred in January 2017. Also, a numerical ocean model was implemented to characterize the transport and relocation of cysts and sediments in the region. Gymnodinium catenatum cysts were heterogeneously distributed with some areas of high accumulation (as high as 158 cyst g−1, and 27% of total cyst registered). Cysts seemed to be transported in an eastward direction after deposition and accumulated in an extensive area that probably is the seedbed responsible for the initiation of HABs in the region. The nGC is a retention area of cysts (and sediments) that permit the formation of seedbeds that could be important for G. catenatum HAB development. Our results provide key information to understand G. catenatum ecology and specifically, to understand the geographic and temporal appearance of HABs in the nGC.
Reverse Research Design: Research Design in the Undergraduate Classroom
Authors: Ayoub Phillip M.
Published: December 2021

Teaching research design is a core component of a political science curriculum. In our pedagogy, we often do two things separately: expecting students to (1) read and digest the work of established scholars, and (2) explore their own interests in the form of a research design or research paper. In a reverse research design, I bridge these two components with a pedagogical tool. I use a published book or article relevant to the course and students retrace the published author’s process, placing themselves in the author’s shoes. Rewinding some years, students imagine that they are this author writing a grant proposal to conduct the (now-completed) study. This helps students to work through the steps of research design, putting aside until later the more intimidating hurdle of articulating their own research question and project. This article explains reverse research design and describes the teaching resources and methods for implementation.
Verschiedene Perspektiven von Therapiepausen und Kombinations-therapien bei Osteoporose
Authors: Oser Sven , Häuselmann Hans Jörg
Published: December 2021

Zusammenfassung. Die sequenzielle und kombinierte Therapie der Osteoporose ist herausfordernd aufgrund der vielen Möglichkeiten und schwierig, weil insbesondere für Kombinationstherapien keine belastbaren Frakturdaten verfügbar sind, meistens aufgrund zu kleiner Studien. Grundsatz der sequenziellen und kombinierten Therapie der Osteoporose ist, dass die osteoanabole Therapie (Teriparatid, TPTD), ob sequenziell oder kombiniert, zu einer Zunahme der Knochendichte (BMD) vor allem im Bereich der LWS führt. Einzige Ausnahme bildet die Sequenz von TPTD nach Denosumab (Dmab), welche zu einem Verlust (transient) der BMD sowohl der LWS wie der Hüfte führt; aus diesem Grund ist diese Sequenz unbedingt zu vermeiden. Ein zweiter Grundsatz ist, dass die Wirkung der osteoanabolen Therapie (TPTD) umso mehr verzögert und verringert wird, je intensiver und länger die antiresorptive Vorbehandlung war. Ein dritter Grundsatz ist die Notwendigkeit einer antiresorptiven Nachbehandlung nach Therapien mit TPTD und Dmab oder deren Kombination, um vertebrale Frakturen zu verhindern (Dmab) und die Knochendichte zu erhalten (TPTD). Eine Wirkung der osteoanabolen Therapie mit TPTD auf die BMD der Hüfte ist nur in Kombination mit einer antiresorptiven Therapie (Bisphosphonate, Dmab) zu erwarten. Wird die antiresorptive Therapie nicht weitergeführt, kommt es zu einem transienten Verlust in den ersten Monaten der osteoanabolen Monotherapie, und zwar umso stärker, wenn die antiresorptive Vorbehandlung sehr intensiv war.
Unraveling the Controls on Snow Disappearance in Montane Conifer Forests Using Multi‐Site Lidar
Authors: Safa H. , Krogh S. A. , Greenberg J. , Kostadinov T. S. , Harpold A. A.
Published: December 2021

Snow disappearance date (SDD) affects the ecohydrological dynamics of montane forests, by altering water availability, forest fire regime, and the land surface energy budget. The forest canopy modulates SDD through competing processes; dense canopy intercepts snowfall and enhances longwave radiation while shading snowpack from shortwave radiation and sheltering it from the wind. Limited ground‐based observations of snow presence and absence have restricted our ability to unravel the dominant processes affecting SDD in montane forests. We apply a lidar‐derived method to estimate fractional snow cover area (fSCA) at two relatively warm sites in the Sierra Nevada and two colder sites in the Rocky Mountains, which we link to SDD. With the exception of late season snowpack and low fSCA, snow retention is longer under low vegetation density than under high vegetation density in both warm and cold sites. Warm forests consistently have longer snow retention in open areas compared to dense under canopy areas, particularly on south‐facing slopes. Cold forests tend to have longer snow retention under lower density canopy compared to open areas, particularly on north‐facing slopes. We use this empirical analysis to make process inferences and develop an initial framework to predict SDD that incorporates the role of topography and vegetation structure. Building on our framework will be necessary to provide better forest management recommendations for snowpack retention across complex terrain and heterogenous canopy structure.
Rock Structure Explains Slow Seismic Waves
Authors: Lee Jack
Published: December 2021

New findings contrast with a prevailing hypothesis for low seismic velocity in subduction zones.
A Novel Network‐Based Approach to Determining Measurement Representation Error for Model Evaluation of Aerosol Microphysical Properties
Authors: Asher Elizabeth , Thornberry Troy , Fahey David W. , McComiskey Allison , Carslaw Kenneth , Grunau Sophie , Chang Kai‐Lan , Telg Hagen , Chen Ping , Gao Ru‐Shan
Published: December 2021

Atmospheric aerosol size and abundance influence radiative effects and climate change. To date, efforts to constrain global climate models' radiative forcing with in situ aerosol observations have been hamstrung by uncertainty. One source of error, the regional “representation error,” arises when accurate but sparse single‐point measurements of atmospheric aerosol distributions are compared with a model value, assuming that the single‐point measurement is representative of the model domain. The Portable Optical Particle Spectrometer network in the Southern Great Plains (POPSnet‐SGP) campaign has demonstrated that a network of nearly autonomous aerosol instruments operating at ambient temperature and relative humidity (with low measurement error) may be used to quantify measurement representation error and investigate the factors introducing heterogeneity in aerosol distributions across a rural, continental background region. Measurements were made using Portable Optical Particle Spectrometer (POPS) instruments at several sites for five months across the Department of Energy's Aerosol Radiation Measurement Southern Great Plains (ARM‐SGP) User Facility in the central USA. Measurement representation error decreased with longer averaging periods (20%–40% between 1 s and 1 day), varied between sites by 10%–20% for aerosol concentration 140–2,500 nm in diameter (N_140), and was higher for aerosols >400 nm in diameter (N_400). Our measurements also show the influence of local meteorology on aerosol surface area (A_140) and size distributions: A_140 is positively correlated with wind speed and relative humidity, negatively correlated with precipitation, and lower given westerly winds. We conclude that the POPSnet approach provides considerably more insight into the spatial variability in the aerosol population that can be used to constrain climate models than would be available from similar networks of PM 2.5 monitors.