bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Regenerative Co-benefits of Biophilic Design for People and the Environment
Authors: Andreucci Maria Beatrice , Loder Angela , McGee Beth , Brajković Jelena , Brown Martin
Published: September 2021

There is an increasing awareness of the role that buildings, districts, and neighborhoods play on health in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic that coincides with pressing climate concerns. This has renewed attention to the benefits of nature for both human and climate health. Buildings, cities, and regions are attempting to align regenerative design principles with human health goals but often lack the tools and knowledge to do so. This is partly rooted in a failure to understand how to apply research and policy for different contexts as well as at different scales. It is also still uncertain exactly what types of nature can lead to which types of benefit, and for whom, despite long-standing research within the environmental psychology, sustainability, and design fields. This chapter outlines key research paradigms that influence the way we understand the benefits of nature, where biophilic design theory sits in this field, and how it can be and has been applied at different scales through two case studies at the building and city scale. This chapter ends with the proposal of new directions for integrating biophilic design into regenerative design and policy.
Domain Analysis with TRIZ to Define an Effective “Design for Excellence” Framework
Authors: Brad Stelian
Published: September 2021

Design for Excellence (DfEx) is the name given to an engineering process where a product is designed to meet a set of objective functions that cover its lifecycle. There are negative correlations between different objective functions in this set and issues related to technological complexity are added, since modern products typically fall into the category of smart connected mechatronic products. This context leads to complexity in terms of tackling the design process. Simultaneous engineering and PLM platforms can only partially handle such levels of complexity. To our knowledge, the subject of DfEx was treated in current researches from a limited perspective, which does not necessarily cover the complexity of the present-day context. In order to formulate a reliable DfEx framework, this research considers a strategy based on tools that manage in a systematic way the process of identifying the comprehensive set of barriers and conflicts that obstruct DfEx. This research highlights the level of complexity in setting up a reliable methodology to DfEx of modern, sophisticated mechatronic products. A set of guidelines to be placed at the foundation of an effective DfEx methodology is formulated with the support of TRIZ.
Impact of the menstrual cycle on commercial prognostic gene signatures in oestrogen receptor-positive primary breast cancer
Authors: Haynes Ben P. , Schuster Gene , Buus Richard , Alataki Anastasia , Ginsburg Ophira , Quang Le Hong , Han Pham Thi , Khoa Pham Hong , Van Dinh Nguyen , Van To Ta , Clemons Mark , Holcombe Chris , Osborne Caroline , Evans Abigail , Skene Anthony , Sibbering Mark , Rogers Clare , Laws Siobhan , Noor Lubna , Cheang Maggie Chon U. , Cleator Susan J. , Smith Ian E. , Dowsett Mitch
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Changes occur in the expression of oestrogen-regulated and proliferation-associated genes in oestrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast tumours during the menstrual cycle. We investigated if Oncotype® DX recurrence score (RS), Prosigna® (ROR) and EndoPredict® (EP/EPclin) prognostic tests, which include some of these genes, vary according to the time in the menstrual cycle when they are measured.

Methods

Pairs of test scores were derived from 30 ER-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor-2-negative tumours sampled at two different points of the menstrual cycle. Menstrual cycle windows were prospectively defined as either W1 (days 1–6 and 27–35; low oestrogen and low progesterone) or W2 (days 7–26; high oestrogen and high or low progesterone).

Results

The invasion module score of RS was lower (− 10.9%; p = 0.098), whereas the ER (+ 16.6%; p = 0.046) and proliferation (+ 7.3%; p = 0.13) module scores were higher in W2. PGR expression was significantly increased in W2 (+ 81.4%; p = 0.0029). Despite this, mean scores were not significantly different between W1 and W2 for any of the tests and the two measurements showed high correlation (r = 0.72–0.93). However, variability between the two measurements led to tumours being assigned to different risk categories in the following proportion of cases: RS 22.7%, ROR 27.3%, EP 13.6% and EPclin 13.6%.

Conclusion

There are significant changes during the menstrual cycle in the expression of some of the genes and gene module scores comprising the RS, ROR and EP/EPclin scores. These did not affect any of the prognostic scores in a systematic fashion, but there was substantial variability in paired measurements.
MicroRNAs as a clue to overcome breast cancer treatment resistance
Authors: Garrido-Cano Iris , Pattanayak Birlipta , Adam-Artigues Anna , Lameirinhas Ana , Torres-Ruiz Sandra , Tormo Eduardo , Cervera Raimundo , Eroles Pilar
Published: September 2021

Breast cancer is the most frequent cancer in women worldwide. Despite the improvement in diagnosis and treatments, the rates of cancer relapse and resistance to therapies remain higher than desirable. Alterations in microRNAs have been linked to changes in critical processes related to cancer development and progression. Their involvement in resistance or sensitivity to breast cancer treatments has been documented by different in vivo and in vitro experiments. The most significant microRNAs implicated in modulating resistance to breast cancer therapies are summarized in this review. Resistance to therapy has been linked to cellular processes such as cell cycle, apoptosis, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, stemness phenotype, or receptor signaling pathways, and the role of microRNAs in their regulation has already been described. The modulation of specific microRNAs may modify treatment response and improve survival rates and cancer patients’ quality of life. As a result, a greater understanding of microRNAs, their targets, and the signaling pathways through which they act is needed. This information could be useful to design new therapeutic strategies, to reduce resistance to the available treatments, and to open the door to possible new clinical approaches.
Was Adam Smith an economic geographer?
Authors: Ioannou Stefanos , Wójcik Dariusz
Published: September 2021

Economic geographers typically associate Adam Smith with the pin factory, the division of labour, and the ‘invisible hand’ of the market. We show that a closer reading of The Wealth of Nations reveals a much richer and broader range of ideas, which we illustrate by focusing on six themes: methodology, the role of physical geography and land in development, urban scale, institutions, commercial centres, and financial geography. On commercial centres, for example, Smith offers a vivid elaboration of what causes a ‘home bias’ in international trade. Similarly, in a largely neglected part of the book, Smith offers a thorough set of reflections as to what turned Amsterdam into the leading financial centre of Europe during the seventeenth century and eighteenth centuries. Overall, we argue that in all these themes and across them, Smith offers insights valuable to contemporary economic geography, making the Wealth of Nations worthy a place in an anthology of the discipline.
The influence of bearing surfaces on revisions due to dislocations in total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Castagnini Francesco , Bordini Barbara , Cosentino Monica , Ancarani Cristina , Mariotti Federica , Biondi Federico , Faldini Cesare , Traina Francesco
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Recurrent dislocations are still the most frequent reason for revision in total hip arthroplasty (THA). The impact of bearing surfaces on dislocations is still controversial. We hypothesized that: (1) bearing surfaces influence the revisions due to dislocations; (2) ceramic-on-ceramic reduced the revisions for dislocations in adjusted models; (3) Delta-on-Delta bearings reduced the revisions for dislocations in comparison to surfaces with cross-linked polyethylene.

Materials and methods

The regional arthroplasty registry was enquired about bearing surfaces and revisions for dislocations and instability. Unadjusted and adjusted rates were provided, including sex, age (<65 years or ≥65 years), head diameter (≤28 mm or >28 mm; <36 mm or ≥36 mm) as variables. 44,065 THAs were included.

Results

The rate of revisions for dislocations was significantly lower in ceramic-on-ceramic and metal-on-metal bearings (unadjusted rates). After adjusting for age, sex, and head size (36 and 28 mm), hard-on-hard bearings were protective (p < 0.05): ceramic-on-ceramic had a lower risk of revisions due to dislocation than ceramic-on-polyethylene (HR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2–2.2 p = 0.0009). The rate of revisions for dislocation was similar in bearings with cross-linked polyethylene and Delta-on-Delta articulations, in unadjusted and adjusted models.

Conclusion

Bearings with conventional polyethylene were more predisposed to dislocations. Currently adopted bearings exerted no significant influence on revisions due to dislocations. These findings could be primarily related to wear, but due to the time distribution, soft tissue envelopes and surface tension may also play a role. Pre-clinical biomechanical evaluations and prospective matched cohort studies are required to draw definitive conclusions.
A simple and sensitive detection of the binding ligands by using the receptor aggregation and NMR spectroscopy: a test case of the maltose binding protein
Authors: Chae Young Kee , Um Yoonjin , Kim Hakbeom
Published: September 2021

Protein-ligand interaction is one of the highlights of molecular recognition. The most popular application of this type of interaction is drug development which requires a high throughput screening of a ligand that binds to the target protein. Our goal was to find a binding ligand with a simple detection, and once this type of ligand was found, other methods could then be used to measure the detailed kinetic or thermodynamic parameters. We started with the idea that the ligand NMR signal would disappear if it was bound to the non-tumbling mass. In order to create the non-tumbling mass, we tried the aggregates of a target protein, which was fused to the elastin-like polypeptide. We chose the maltose binding proteinas a test case, and we tried it with several sugars, which included maltose, glucose, sucrose, lactose, galactose, maltotriose, and β-cyclodextrin. The maltose signal in the H-1 NMR spectrum disappeared completely as hoped around the protein to ligand ratio of 1:3 at 298 K where the proteins aggregated. The protein signals also disappeared upon aggregation except for the fast-moving part, which resulted in a cleaner background than the monomeric form. Since we only needed to look for a disappearing signal amongst those from the mixture, it should be useful in high throughput screening. Other types of sugars except for the maltotriose and β-cyclodextrin, which are siblings of the maltose, did not seem to bind at all. We believe that our system would be especially more effective when dealing with a smaller target protein, so both the protein and the bound ligand would lose their signals only when the aggregates formed. We hope that our proposed method would contribute to accelerating the development of the potent drug candidates by simultaneously identifying several binders directly from a mixture.
Applicant Reactions to Digital Selection Methods: A Signaling Perspective on Innovativeness and Procedural Justice
Authors: Folger Nicholas , Brosi Prisca , Stumpf-Wollersheim Jutta , Welpe Isabell M.
Published: September 2021

Research has shown that the use of digital technologies in the personnel selection process can have both positive and negative effects on applicants’ attraction to an organization. We explain this contradiction by specifying its underlying mechanisms. Drawing on signaling theory, we build a conceptual model that applies two different theoretical lenses (instrumental-symbolic framework and justice theory) to suggest that perceptions of innovativeness and procedural justice explain the relationship between an organization’s use of digital selection methods and employer attractiveness perceptions. We test our model by utilizing two studies, namely one experimental vignette study among potential applicants (N = 475) and one retrospective field study among actual job applicants (N = 335). With the exception of the assessment stage in Study 1, the positive indirect effects found in both studies indicated that applicants perceive digital selection methods to be more innovative. While Study 1 also revealed a negative indirect effect, with potential applicants further perceiving digital selection methods as less fair than less digitalized methods in the interview stage, this effect was not significant for actual job applicants in Study 2. We discuss theoretical implications for the applicant reactions literature and offer recommendations for human resource managers to make use of positive signaling effects while reducing potential negative signaling effects linked to the use of digital selection methods.
First Hitting Time of Brownian Motion on Simple Graph with Skew Semiaxes
Authors: Dassios Angelos , Zhang Junyi
Published: September 2021

Consider a stochastic process that lives on n-semiaxes emanating from a common origin. On each semiaxis it behaves as a Brownian motion and at the origin it chooses a semiaxis randomly. In this paper we study the first hitting time of the process. We derive the Laplace transform of the first hitting time, and provide the explicit expressions for its density and distribution functions. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate the application of our results.
Neutron computed laminography yields 3D root system architecture and complements investigations of spatiotemporal rhizosphere patterns
Authors: Rudolph-Mohr Nicole , Bereswill Sarah , Tötzke Christian , Kardjilov Nikolay , Oswald Sascha E.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Root growth, respiration, water uptake as well as root exudation induce biogeochemical patterns in the rhizosphere that can change dynamically over time. Our aim is to develop a method that provides complementary information on 3D root system architecture and biogeochemical gradients around the roots needed for the quantitative description of rhizosphere processes.

Methods

We captured for the first time the root system architecture of maize plants grown in rectangular rhizotrons in 3D using neutron computed laminography (NCL). Simultaneously, we measured pH and oxygen concentration using fluorescent optodes and the 2D soil water distribution by means of neutron radiography. We co-registered the 3D laminography data with the 2D oxygen and pH maps to analyze the sensor signal as a function of the distance between the roots and the optode.

Results

The 3D root system architecture was successfully segmented from the laminographic data. We found that exudation of roots in up to 2 mm distance to the pH optode induced patterns of local acidification or alkalization. Over time, oxygen gradients in the rhizosphere emerged for roots up to a distance of 7.5 mm.

Conclusion

Neutron computed laminography allows for a three-dimensional investigation of root systems grown in laterally extended rhizotrons as the ones designed for 2D optode imaging studies. The 3D information on root position within the rhizotrons derived by NCL explained measured 2D oxygen and pH distribution. The presented new combination of 3D and 2D imaging methods facilitates systematical investigations of a wide range of dynamic processes in the rhizosphere.
What Are Grand Chambers for?
Authors: BOBEK Michal
Published: September 2021

In multi-panelled higher jurisdictions, a larger, extended formation of judges tends to be established within the court. It bears various names: the grand chamber, the extended chamber, the expanded composition, the reunion of several chambers, a court sitting en banc, an extended section or a division of a court. In larger but not too large jurisdictions, the same role is adopted by the plenary. For ease of reference, I shall refer to all such extended judicial formations with the generic name ‘grand chamber’.

To bear the same name does not necessarily mean to perform the same function. As a Czech lawyer, I have always intuitively assumed that the role of such a body within an apex court is to unify the case law. In the Czech Republic, as well as in a number of other supreme continental jurisdictions for that matter, there tends to be only one reason for the presence of a grand chamber within a supreme court: to unify the diverging lines of case law and to set a clear line of precedent. However, that has never really been the job description, least of all the practice, of the Grand Chamber of the Court of Justice of the European Union (‘Court’). This begs the question: what may then be other structural reasons for the existence of such a body within an apex jurisdiction? What is the specific role, function, and ensuing justification for the Grand Chamber of the Court?

This article offers some personal reflections on that question. It is structured as follows: it begins with a short comparative overview of some of the grand chambers within European (national) courts, overseas in the common law world, as well as at the European Court of Human Rights, in order to tease out the functional rationale for various types of extended judicial compositions within those systems (Part I). Next, two types of such functional justifications for grand chambers in the form of ideal models are identified (Part II). Finally, those justifications are then considered in light of the legislative design and the current practice of the Grand Chamber of the Court, before concluding with two modest suggestions (Part III).
Using mobile big data to support emergency preparedness and address economically vulnerable communities during the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria
Authors: Gilbert Joanne , Adekanmbi Olubayo , Harrison Charlie
Published: September 2021

With the declaration of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Nigeria in 2020, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) instigated a collaboration with MTN Nigeria to develop data-driven insights, using mobile big data (MBD) and other data sources, to shape the planning and response to the pandemic. First, a model was developed to predict the worst-case scenario for infections in each state. This was used to support state-level health committees to make local resource planning decisions. Next, as containment interventions resulted in subsistence/daily paid workers losing their income and ability to buy essential food supplies, NGF and MTN agreed a second phase of activity, to develop insights to understand the population clusters at greatest socioeconomic risk from the impact of the pandemic. This insight was used to promote available financial relief to the economically vulnerable population clusters in Lagos state via the HelpNow crowdfunding initiative. This article discusses how anonymized and aggregated mobile network data (MBD), combined with other data sources, were used to create valuable insights and inform the government, and private business, response to the pandemic in Nigeria. Finally, we discuss lessons learnt. Firstly, how a collaboration with, and support from, the regulator enabled MTN to deliver critical insights at a national scale. Secondly, how the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation and the GSMA COVID-19 Privacy Guidelines provided an initial framework to open the discussion and define the approach. Thirdly, why stakeholder management is critical to the understanding, and application, of insights. Fourthly, how existing relationships ease new project collaborations. Finally, how MTN is developing future preparedness by creating a team that is focused on developing data-driven insights for social good.
How to Develop the EU Justice Scoreboard into a Rule of Law Index: Using an Existing Tool in the EU Rule of Law Crisis in a More Efficient Way
Authors: Jakab András , Kirchmair Lando
Published: September 2021

In this Article we argue that rule of law indices are a powerful tool to detect ills in the rule of law of EU Member States. In order to explain how to improve the indices’ potential, we give a critical overview of the methodological issues of the four rule of law indices which we consider particularly instructive for our purpose. These are the indices provided by the Freedom House (“Freedom in the World,” FIW), the Bertelsmann Stiftung (“Bertelsmann Transformation Index,” BTI), the World Bank (“Worldwide Governance Indicators,” WGI), and the World Justice Project (“Rule of Law Index,” WJP RLI). After analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of these indices, we turn to the EU Justice Scoreboard (EUJS). While the introduction of the EUJS in 2013 has already been an important step in order to lay the ground for an EU-wide analysis, in this Article we suggest how the EUJS should be further developed into a proper rule of law index by aggregating expert opinions into a single number. This would make the EUJS a significantly more useful tool in the ongoing EU rule of law crisis.
The “War” Against Covid-19: State of Exception, State of Siege, or (Constitutional) Emergency Powers?: The Italian Case in Comparative Perspective
Authors: Corradetti Claudio , Pollicino Oreste
Published: September 2021

Is the Covid-19 pandemic changing the constitutional-power structures of our democracies? Is this centennial public health emergency irreversibly constraining our liberties? The paper examines recent state-measures of containment during the initial phase of spread of the Covid-19 crisis. It compares primarily the Italian scenario with the Chinese and the American one. It asks whether the measures adopted particularly in the Italian case (known as DPCMs) amount to a state of exception or to a use of emergency powers. Cognizant of the authoritarian risks in severed enjoyments of constitutional rights, the authors conclude that this is not what occurred in the case of solid democracies. At the level of governmental analysis, the “decree” strategy of the Italian DPCMs allude to paternalistic forms of power-exercise that empty the self-determining prerogative of the parliament.
Best Efforts in the Taxonomy of Obligation – The Case of the EU Vaccine Contracts
Authors: Schanze Erich
Published: September 2021

The purchase of Covid-19 vaccines by the EU Commission as agent for the Member States has caused substantial political discussion, including a lawsuit against the producer AstraZeneca in Brussels in 2021. The article looks at these purchase contracts as examples for a problematic use of “best efforts“ clauses in commercial contracting, considering some key jurisdictions. The clauses are discussed from a drafting perspective, including their function and their theoretical background in comparative law. It concludes with a primer for the drafting process, looking at some basic contracting schemes for softening or intensifying obligations.
Judicial Dialogue in Social Media Cases in Europe: Exploring the Role of Peers in Judicial Adjudication
Authors: Psychogiopoulou Evangelia
Published: September 2021

This Article aims to examine the social media jurisprudence of national courts in a selected set of EU Member States by focusing on judicial dialogue specifically via references to the case law of other courts. Do judges in social media cases engage with the case law of peers, and if so how and to what extent? The analysis investigates whether national judges draw on the jurisprudence of higher domestic courts, foreign courts and/or European supranational courts—the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) and the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR)—and explores the use of such jurisprudence. It is based on 147 cases from the constitutional and/or supreme courts of Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Italy, Latvia, Slovakia, and Slovenia. Although judicial dialogue is generally limited in the cases under study, the analysis illustrates the different ways in which courts interact with the rulings of peers and informs on the latter’s contribution to judicial assessment.
Tribal Priorities
Authors: Shryock Andrew
Published: September 2021

In the oral traditions of Jordan's Balga tribes, one event occurs many times: local shaykhs are invited to a feast by the Turks, and at this feast the shaykhs are attacked, arrested, or killed. Sometimes it is the Ottomans who are betrayed by their bedouin hosts. Either way, they should have seen it coming—that is usually the narrator's conclusion—but the lure of hospitality was strong. Something about these encounters was worth the risk of ending up in manacles, or dead.
First reported nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 outbreak in a hospital-based laundry facility
Authors: Goldenfeld Miki , Zuckerman Neta , Amit Sharon , Tal Ilana , Hasson Sabrina , Gefen-Halevi Shiraz , Biber Asaf , Mor Orna , Regev-Yochay Gili
Published: September 2021

Nosocomial severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) outbreaks among health care workers have been scarcely reported so far. This report presents the results of an epidemiologic and molecular investigation of a SARS-CoV-2 outbreak among laundromat facility workers in a large tertiary centre in Israel. Following the first three reported cases of SARS-CoV-2 among laundromat workers, all 49 laundromat personnel were screened by qRT-PCR tests using naso- and oropharingeal swabs. Epidemiologic investigations included questionnaires, interviews and observations of the laundromat facility. Eleven viral RNA samples were then sequenced, and a phylogenetic analysis was performed using MEGAX.

The integrated investigation defined three genetic clusters and helped identify the index cases and the assumed routes of transmission. It was then deduced that shared commute and public showers played a role in SARS-CoV-2 transmission in this outbreak, in addition to improper PPE use and social gatherings (such as social eating and drinking). In this study, we present an integrated epidemiologic and molecular investigation may help detect the routes of SARS-CoV-2 transmission, emphasising such routes that are less frequently discussed. Our work reinforces the notion that person-to-person transmission is more likely to cause infections than environmental contamination (e.g. from handling dirty laundry).
Differences in seed germination response of two populations of Phelipanche ramosa (L.) Pomel to a set of GR24 concentrations and durations of stimulation
Authors: Gibot-Leclerc Stéphanie , Connault Manon , Perronne Rémi , Dessaint Fabrice
Published: September 2021

Phelipanche ramosa is a major weed holoparasite characterized by a broad host range with a suboptimal development on numerous hosts, suggesting inter- or intra-species specificities. Seeds of P. ramosa germinate after exposure to exogenous chemicals exuded by surrounding host roots such as strigolactones, the concentrations of these germination stimulants varying between hosts. In France, P. ramosa is characterized by genetically differentiated populations presenting varying germination rates and a host specificity. The objective of our study was to investigate the sensitivity of seeds of two P. ramosa populations harvested on tobacco and oilseed rape, to a set of GR24 concentrations, a synthetic strigol analogue. The assessment of the germination rate was based on in vitro experiments. Seeds of P. ramosa were placed in Petri dishes with various concentrations of GR24. The cumulative number of germinated seeds of P. ramosa was counted several times after application of the treatment. Cumulative germination curves were analysed using a three-parameter log-logistic model and a time-to-event approach. The results show that the germination rate of P. ramosa seeds depends on the GR24 concentration and the duration of stimulation, but also that the response to these two factors varies greatly according to the origin of the P. ramosa seeds. The difference in germination speed between P. ramosa populations further shows distinct responses at the intraspecific level, thus suggesting that the specialization of P. ramosa probably occurs at least from the first stage of the holoparasite cycle.
Gender and Nation Tightly Bound
Authors: Stern Yarden
Published: September 2021

In her solo performance, Knot in My Name, Ita Segev utilizes transaesthetic strategies and technology to elucidate her mutually dependent investments in gender and nation and the urgent personal and political stakes of the ongoing Israeli occupation for the performer and her American audience alike.
Prophesizing the End of Theatre
Authors: Kalawski Andrés , Opazo Cristián
Published: September 2021

The Chilean police keep firing pellets and tear gas bombs in the streets, blinding and injuring people by the hundreds. The people keep demonstrating. Two months before the protests of October 2019, a problematic documentary play, Animales invisibles, while distorting the genre, prophesied what was to come precisely in the way it departed from the documentary.
District nurses’ experiences of using a clinical decision support system and an assessment tool at elderly care units in primary health care: a qualitative study
Authors: Lagerin Annica , Törnkvist Lena , Fastbom Johan , Lundh Lena
Published: September 2021

Aim:

The present study aimed to describe the experience of district nurses (DNs) in using a clinical decision support system (CDSS) and the safe medication assessment (SMA) tool during patient visits to elderly care units at primary health care centres.

Background:

In Swedish primary health care, general practitioners (GPs) prescribe and have the responsibility to regularly review older adults’ medications, while DN (nurses specialised in primary health care) play an important role in assessing older adults’ ability to manage their medications, detecting potential drug-related problems and communicating with patients and GPs about such problems. In a previous feasibility study, we found that DNs who use a combination of a CDSS and the SMA tool identified numerous potentially harmful or dangerous factors and took a number of nursing care actions to improve the safety and quality of patients’ medication use. In telephone interviews, patients indicated that they were positive towards the assessment and interventions.

Methods:

Individual interviews with seven DNs who worked at six different primary health care centres in Region Stockholm were carried out in 2018. In 2019, an additional group interview was conducted with two of the seven DNs so they could discuss and comment on preliminary findings. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyse the interview transcripts.

Findings: Using the tools, the DNs could have a natural conversation about medication use with older adults. They could get a clear picture of the older adults’ medication use and thus obtain information that could facilitate collaboration with GPs about this important component of health care for older adults. However, for the tools to be used in clinical practice, some barriers would have to be overcome, such as the time-consuming nature of using the tools and the lack of established routines for interprofessional collaboration regarding medication discussions.
Das schmerzhafte Handgelenk
Authors: Guidi Marco , Nietlispach Viviane , Huber Nora , Besmens Inga S. , Rothenfluh Esin , Frueh Florian S. , Calcagni Maurizio
Published: September 2021

Zusammenfassung. Schmerzen im Handgelenk sind ein Problem, das Betroffene in ihren alltäglichen Aktivitäten deutlich einschränken kann. Die Ursachen sind mannigfaltig und die Behandlung häufig anspruchsvoll. Bei der Aufarbeitung der korrekten Diagnose ist ein systematischer Ansatz daher hilfreich. Ziel dieses Artikels ist, einen klaren Ansatz für die Evaluation von Handgelenkschmerzen bei Erwachsenen aufzuzeigen.
Secular Trends of Suicide in the City of São Paulo, 1904–2017
Authors: Bando Daniel Hideki , Prado de Mello Jorge Maria Helena , Waldman Eliseu Alves , Volpe Fernando Madalena , Lester David
Published: September 2021

Abstract. Background: Few reports from developing countries have described long-term trends in suicide. Aims: To investigate the age-, sex-, and method-specific trends in suicide over the period 1904–2017 in São Paulo. Method: Mortality data were obtained from SEADE, DATASUS, and PRO-AIM. Results: Suicide peaked in the mid-1910s and mid-1950s, being higher among men. There was an upward trend from the 1920s for men and from the 1930s for women. Suicide rates have declined since the mid-1950s, reaching lower rates in the past 40 years. Men aged 60+ had higher rates at the beginning and a decreasing trend. Suicide rates among men aged 20–39 and 40–59 peaked in the mid-1950s and declined until the late 1970s, thereafter remaining stable. Women aged 20–39 years had the highest rates with decreasing trends from the mid-1950s. No trends were detected for the age group 40–59, and women aged 60+ presented a decreasing trend. Rates among women aged 0–19 declined after the late 1970s. Suicide by poisoning peaked in the 1950s, and there was a downward trend for firearms and an upward trend for hanging. Conclusion: Suicide trends vary by sex, age group, and method. Accurate monitoring of these trends is an important task for suicide prevention and public health agencies and personnel.
A Framework to Assess the Potential Uncertainties of Three FPAR Products
Authors: Chen Xin , Chen Tiexi , Shu Yu , Yan Qingyun , Han Qifei , Wei Xueqiong , Li Chaofan , Wang Guojie , Xie Yong
Published: September 2021

The remote sensing products of the fraction of photosynthetically active radiation (FPAR) are widely used in large‐scale terrestrial vegetation condition monitoring and ecological modeling. However, the validation and evaluation of these products are still insufficient due to limited ground measurements. A framework is proposed in this study that does not rely on ground FPAR observations to evaluate the potential uncertainties of three FPAR data sets over a large scale. Two independent methods, including a statistical method named extended triple colocation (ETC) and FPAR‐based gross primary production (GPP) comparative evaluation at the site level, are integrated. The framework was applied to three widely used FPAR products, including GLASS (Global Land Surface Satellite), GEOV2 (version 2 of the COPERNICUS 1‐km product), and MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer), in China from 2001–2015. The root‐mean‐square error (RMSE) and correlation coefficient (R) based on the ETC method showed that at the national spatial scale, GEOV2‐FPAR had the highest precision (RMSEFPAR = 0.0367, RFPAR = 0.9012), followed by MODIS‐FPAR (RMSEFPAR = 0.0482, RFPAR = 0.8392) and GLASS‐FPAR (RMSEFPAR = 0.0536, RFPAR = 0.736). In particular, each FPAR data set was locally optimal over some regions. Using a light use efficiency model, GPP was calculated using these three FPAR data sets and other identical variables and parameters at 22 eddy flux sites. General coherent results were found in both GPP evaluation and site‐level ETC analysis of these three FPAR data sets. Therefore, we conclude that this framework is reliable and applicable in evaluating the potential uncertainties of FPAR.
Assessing the cognitive status of Drosophila by the value-based feeding decision
Authors: Yu Chih-Chieh , Chang Ferng-Chang , Hong Yong-Huei , Li Jian-Chiuan , Chen Po-Lin , Chen Chun-Hong , Chiu Tzai-Wen , Lu Tsai-Te , Wang Yun-Ming , Kao Chih-Fei
Published: September 2021

Decision-making is considered an important aspect of cognitive function. Impaired decision-making is a consequence of cognitive decline caused by various physiological conditions, such as aging and neurodegenerative diseases. Here we exploited the value-based feeding decision (VBFD) assay, which is a simple sensory–motor task, to determine the cognitive status ofDrosophila. Our results indicated the deterioration of VBFD is notably correlated with aging and neurodegenerative disorders. Restriction of the mushroom body (MB) neuronal activity partly blunted the proper VBFD. Furthermore, using theDrosophilapolyQ disease model, we demonstrated the impaired VBFD is ameliorated by the dinitrosyl iron complex (DNIC-1), a novel and steady nitric oxide (NO)-releasing compound. Therefore we propose that the VBFD assay provides a robust assessment ofDrosophilacognition and can be used to characterize additional neuroprotective interventions.
Safety and immunogenicity of SARS-CoV-2 variant mRNA vaccine boosters in healthy adults: an interim analysis
Authors: Choi Angela , Koch Matthew , Wu Kai , Chu Laurence , Ma LingZhi , Hill Anna , Nunna Naveen , Huang Wenmei , Oestreicher Judy , Colpitts Tonya , Bennett Hamilton , Legault Holly , Paila Yamuna , Nestorova Biliana , Ding Baoyu , Montefiori David , Pajon Rolando , Miller Jacqueline M. , Leav Brett , Carfi Andrea , McPhee Roderick , Edwards Darin K.
Published: September 2021

The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) and variants of interest (VOIs) with decreased susceptibility to neutralization has generated interest in assessments of booster doses and variant-specific vaccines. Clinical trial participants who received a two-dose primary series of the COVID-19 vaccine mRNA-1273 approximately 6 months earlier entered an open-label phase 2a study (NCT04405076) to evaluate the primary objectives of safety and immunogenicity of a single booster dose of mRNA-1273 or variant-modified mRNAs, including multivalent mRNA-1273.211. As the trial is currently ongoing, this exploratory interim analysis includes preliminary descriptive results only of four booster groups (n = 20 per group). Immediately before the booster dose, neutralizing antibodies against wild-type D614G virus had waned (P < 0.0001) relative to peak titers against wild-type D614G measured 1 month after the primary series, and neutralization titers against B.1.351 (Beta), P.1 (Gamma) and B.1.617.2 (Delta) VOCs were either low or undetectable. Both the mRNA-1273 booster and variant-modified boosters were safe and well-tolerated. All boosters, including mRNA-1273, numerically increased neutralization titers against the wild-type D614G virus compared to peak titers against wild-type D614G measured 1 month after the primary series; significant increases were observed for mRNA-1273 and mRNA-1273.211 (P < 0.0001). In addition, all boosters increased neutralization titers against key VOCs and VOIs, including B.1.351, P.1. and B.1.617.2, that were statistically equivalent to peak titers measured after the primary vaccine series against wild-type D614G virus, with superior titers against some VOIs. This trial is ongoing.
Effect of constant collision mean free time on the boundary layer of the active collisional warm plasma
Authors: Khoram Mansour , Masoudi S. Farhad
Published: September 2021

The plasma boundary layer is analyzed for a plasma in contact with a conducting plain surface where the ion temperature is comparable with the electron temperature and the plasma pressure is sufficiently high. The variations of electrical potential from the plasma-presheath boundary to the wall is studied using the fluidal formalism of plasma in three approaches; plasma and sheath asymptotic solutions and full solution. In the full solution approach, fluidal equations lead to a singularity when the ion velocity reaches the ion thermal speed. It is shown that removing the singularity causes a well-defined eigenvalue problem and leads to smooth solutions for the model equations. Some of the applicable aspects such as the floating velocity and density of ions, the floating electrical potential and an estimation of the floating thickness of the boundary layer are obtained. The dependency of these quantities on the ionization degree, the ion temperature and ion-neutral collision is examined too.
Red Panda feces from Eastern Himalaya as a modern analogue for palaeodietary and palaeoecological analyses
Authors: Basumatary Sadhan K. , Gogoi Rajib , Tripathi Swati , Ghosh Ruby , Pokharia Anil K. , McDonald H. Gregory , Sherpa Norbu , van Asperen Eline N. , Agnihotri Rajesh , Chhetri Geetamani , Saikia Korobi , Pandey Arya
Published: September 2021

Modern feces samples of the endangered red panda (Ailurus fulgens) were examined using multiproxy analysis to characterize the dietary patterns in their natural habitat in India. An abundance of Bambusoideae phytoliths and leaves (macrobotanical remains) provide direct evidence of their primary dietary plants. In contrast, Bambusoideae pollen is sporadic or absent in the pollen assemblages. An abundance ofLepisorusspores and its leaves along with broadleaved taxa,Betula,Engelhardtia, andQuercusare indicative of other important food sources. Average δ13C values (− 29.6‰) of the red panda feces indicate typical C3type of plants as the primary food source, while the, δ15N values vary in narrow range (3.3–5.1‰) but conspicuously reveal a seasonal difference in values most likely due to differing metabolic activities in summer and winter. The multiproxy data can provide a baseline for the reconstruction of the palaeodietary and palaeoecology of extinct herbivores at both regional and global scales.
Sex-differences in the effect of obstructive sleep apnea on patients hospitalized with pulmonary embolism and on in-hospital mortality
Authors: de-Miguel-Diez Javier , Lopez-Herranz Marta , Hernandez-Barrera Valentín , Jimenez David , Monreal Manuel , Jiménez-García Rodrigo , López-de-Andrés Ana
Published: September 2021

We determined sex differences in the prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) among patients hospitalized with pulmonary embolism (PE) in Spain (2016–2018). We also compared outcomes according to the presence of OSA, and identified variables associated with in-hospital-mortality (IHM) after PE using the Spanish National Hospital Discharge Database. We identified 46,794 hospital admissions for PE; of these, 5.47% had OSA. OSA was more prevalent among men than women (7.57% vs. 3.65%, p < 0.001), as in the general population. Propensity score matching did not reveal differences in concomitant conditions or procedures between patients with and without OSA, except for the use of non-invasive ventilation, which was more frequent in patients with OSA. IHM was similar in patients with and without OSA (3.58% vs. 4.31% for men and 4.39% vs. 4.93% for women; p > 0.05). Older age, cancer, atrial fibrillation, non-septic shock, and need for mechanical ventilation increased IHM in men and women with OSA hospitalized with PE. The logistic regression model showed no sex differences in IHM among patients with OSA.
Single-molecule kinetic locking allows fluorescence-free quantification of protein/nucleic-acid binding
Authors: Rieu Martin , Valle-Orero Jessica , Ducos Bertrand , Allemand Jean-François , Croquette Vincent
Published: September 2021

Fluorescence-free micro-manipulation of nucleic acids (NA) allows the functional characterization of DNA/RNA processing proteins, without the interference of labels, but currently fails to detect and quantify their binding. To overcome this limitation, we developed a method based on single-molecule force spectroscopy, called kinetic locking, that allows a direct in vitro visualization of protein binding while avoiding any kind of chemical disturbance of the protein’s natural function. We validate kinetic locking by measuring accurately the hybridization energy of ultrashort nucleotides (5, 6, 7 bases) and use it to measure the dynamical interactions of Escherichia coli/E. coli RecQ helicase with its DNA substrate.
Emergent chiroptical properties in supramolecular and plasmonic assemblies
Authors: Nizar N. S. Shahana , Sujith Meleppatt , Swathi K. , Sissa Cristina , Painelli Anna , Thomas K. George
Published: September 2021

This tutorial provides a comprehensive description of the origin of chiroptical properties of supramolecular and plasmonic assemblies in the UV–visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum.
A paper-based sensor for rapid and ultrasensitive detection of ibuprofen in water and herbal tea
Authors: Li Shaozhen , Ge Wenliang , Suryoprabowo Steven , Liu Jie , Kuang Hua , Zhu Jianping , Liu Liqiang , Xu Chuanlai
Published: September 2021

A rapid lateral-flow ICA strip based on GNPs was developed to detect ibuprofen in water and herbal tea. The cut-off value of the strip is 10 ng mL−1 in water and 1 ng mL−1 in herbal tea samples. The results could be observed within 6 min with the naked eye.
Solvent-assisted crystallization of two-dimensional Ruddlesden–Popper perovskite
Authors: Su Yingjie , Xu Cai , Gao Liguo , Wei Guoying , Ma Tingli
Published: September 2021

A solvent-assisted method for preparing two-dimensional perovskite films was proposed to accurately control the top-down crystallization process of two-dimensional perovskites.
Cation enrichment in the ion atmosphere is promoted by local hydration of DNA
Authors: Ma Chun Yu , Pezzotti Simone , Schwaab Gerhard , Gebala Magdalena , Herschlag Daniel , Havenith Martina
Published: September 2021

Electrostatic interaction in the ion atmosphere goes beyond continuum models. Instead, the contribution of hydration of both ions and DNA is crucial for the composition of the atmosphere and the free energy.
Thermally regenerative electrochemically cycled flow batteries with pH neutral electrolytes for harvesting low-grade heat
Authors: Qian Xin , Shin Jungwoo , Tu Yaodong , Zhang James Han , Chen Gang
Published: September 2021

Continuous electrochemical heat engine is enabled by thermally regenerative electrochemically cycled flow battery, which can be used for harvesting waste heat with temperatures lower than 100 °C.
Mechanism and kinetics for the reaction of methyl peroxy radical with O2
Authors: Lakshmanan Sandhiya , Hase William L. , Smith Gregory P.
Published: September 2021

Quantum chemical calculations and dynamics simulations were performed to study the reaction between methyl peroxy radical (CH3O2) and O2.
UV and VUV-induced fragmentation of tin-oxo cage ions
Authors: Haitjema Jarich , Wu Lianjia , Giuliani Alexandre , Nahon Laurent , Castellanos Sonia , Brouwer Albert M.
Published: September 2021

Tin-oxo cage ions undergo Sn–C bond cleavage upon (V)UV excitation. Counterions influence further fragmentation, as they form covalent bonds to the cage.
Fabrication of conjugated polyimides with porous crosslinked networks and their application as cathodes for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Cui Tian-Lu , Zhang Wen-Bei , Chen Jian-Jun , Zhang Bo-Wen , Wang Hui , Zhang Xue-Jing
Published: September 2021

We synthesized a series of conjugated porous polymers with crosslinked networks and assessed their performance as cathodes for lithium-ion batteries.
Hexylresorcinol calix[4]arene-assisted synthesis of ZnO–Au micro–nano materials with enhanced photodegradation performance to degrade harmful organic compounds
Authors: Yao Yufeng , Yuan Jiayi , Shen Ming , Du Bin
Published: September 2021

HRCA not only acts as a reducing agent, but also plays a role in morphology regulation in the synthesis of ZnO–Au micro–nano materials. Gold particles deposited on the formed ZnO sheets and prevented the sheet-like ZnO from accumulating.
„Neues“ österreichisches
Strahlenschutzrecht
Authors: Weissensteiner Sabine
Published: September 2021

Das bisherige österreichische Strahlenschutzgesetz datierte aus dem Jahre
1969 und wurde zum 1. August 2020 durch eine Neufassung ersetzt. Die Neufassung
wurde zum Anlass genommen, um das gesamte Strahlenschutzrecht besser
verständlich und systematischer zu gestalten. Die
grundsätzlichen Regelungen des Strahlenschutzes in Österreich
haben sich jedoch nicht grundlegend verändert. Das hohe Schutzniveau im
Strahlenschutz bleibt bestehen.