bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engineering Saccharomyces cerevisiae for production of the valuable monoterpene d-limonene during Chinese Baijiu fermentation
Authors: Hu Zhihui , Lin Liangcai , Li Hongxuan , Li Ping , Weng Yanru , Zhang Cuiying , Yu Aiqun , Xiao Dongguang
Published: June 2020

d-Limonene, a cyclic monoterpene, possesses citrus-like olfactory property and multi-physiological functions. In this study, the d-limonene synthase (t LS) from Citrus limon was codon-optimized and heterologously expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The metabolic flux of canonical pathway based on overexpressing endogenous geranyl diphosphate synthase gene (ERG20) and its variant ERG20F96W−N127W was strengthened for improvement d-limonene production in Chinese Baijiu. To further elevate production, we established an orthogonal pathway by introducing neryl diphosphate synthase 1 (t NDPS1) from Solanum lycopersicum. The results showed that expressing ERG20 and ERG20F96W−N127W could enhance d-limonene synthesis, while expressing heterologous NPP synthase gene significantly increase d-limonene formation. Furthermore, we constructed a t LS–t NDPS1 fusion protein, and the best strain yielded 9.8 mg/L d-limonene after optimizing the amino acid linker and fusion order, a 40% improvement over the free enzymes during Chinese Baijiu fermentation. Finally, under the optimized fermentation conditions, a maximum d-limonene content of 23.7 mg/L in strain AY12α-L9 was achieved, which was the highest reported production in Chinese Baijiu. In addition, we also investigated that the effect of d-limonene concentration on yeast growth and fermentation. This study provided a meaningful insight into the platform for other valuable monoterpenes biosynthesis in Chinese Baijiu fermentation.
The role of socioeconomic factors on discontinuation of insulin during pregnancy—methodological challenges from a Swedish register-based study
Authors: Zhao Liwei , Cesta Carolyn E. , Pazzagli Laura
Published: June 2020

Aim

Continuous use of antidiabetic medication, especially insulin, is crucial for diabetes management. In pregnancy, adherence to medication is generally low and may also be associated with lower socioeconomic status. However, little is known about discontinuation of insulin in pregnant women and the potential role of socioeconomic factors. Therefore, this study aims to measure the associations between socioeconomic factors and insulin discontinuation during pregnancy in women using insulin prior to the start of pregnancy in Sweden.

Subjects and methods

This cohort study identified pregnancies recorded in the Swedish Medical Birth Register from 2006 to 2016 in women receiving insulin prior to the start of pregnancy (N = 6029). Discontinuation of insulin was defined as not receiving a refill within 120 days from the previous refill. Associations between discontinuation and socioeconomic factors were investigated via logistic regression. Sensitivity analyses were performed using different definitions of discontinuation.

Results

Women discontinued insulin use in 34.2% of pregnancies. The odds ratios (ORs) of discontinuation of insulin were 1.17 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01–1.37] for women with lower household disposable incomes and 1.14 (95% CI: 1.01–1.29) for women with lower educational levels. When testing a change in the maximum refill gap from 91 days to 180 days, women with lower educational levels and those born in non-Nordic countries showed greater associations with discontinuation.

Conclusion

The definition of discontinuation affects the level of association of socioeconomic factors with discontinuation. Nevertheless, discontinuation of insulin is common in Sweden, especially in the lower socioeconomic groups. The socioeconomic inequality in insulin use behavior is worth noting.
Microenterprise Intervention to Reduce Sexual Risk Behaviors and Increase Employment and HIV Preventive Practices Among Economically-Vulnerable African-American Young Adults (EMERGE): A Feasibility Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Jennings Mayo-Wilson Larissa , Coleman Jessica , Timbo Fatmata , Ssewamala Fred M. , Linnemayr Sebastian , Yi Grace T. , Kang Bee-Ah , Johnson Matthew W. , Yenokyan Gayane , Dodge Brian , Glass Nancy E.
Published: June 2020

Economic vulnerability, such as homelessness and unemployment, contributes to HIV risk among U.S. racial minorities. Yet, few economic-strengthening interventions have been adapted for HIV prevention in this population. This study assessed the feasibility of conducting a randomized clinical trial of a 20-week microenterprise intervention for economically-vulnerable African-American young adults. Engaging MicroenterprisE for Resource Generation and Health Empowerment (EMERGE) aimed to reduce sexual risk behaviors and increase employment and uptake of HIV preventive behaviors. The experimental group received text messages on job openings plus educational sessions, mentoring, a start-up grant, and business and HIV prevention text messages. The comparison group received text messages on job openings only. Primary feasibility objectives assessed recruitment, randomization, participation, and retention. Secondary objectives examined employment, sexual risk behaviors, and HIV preventive behaviors. Outcome assessments used an in-person pre- and post-intervention interview and a weekly text message survey. Several progression criteria for a definitive trial were met. Thirty-eight participants were randomized to experimental (n = 19) or comparison group (n = 19) of which 95% were retained. The comparison intervention enhanced willingness to be randomized and reduced non-participation. Mean age of participants was 21.0 years; 35% were male; 81% were unemployed. Fifty-eight percent (58%) of experimental participants completed ≥ 70% of intervention activities, and 74% completed ≥ 50% of intervention activities. Participation in intervention activities and outcome assessments was highest in the first half (~ 10 weeks) of the study. Seventy-one percent (71%) of weekly text message surveys received a response through week 14, but responsiveness declined to 37% of participants responding to ≥ 70% of weekly text message surveys at the end of the study. The experimental group reported higher employment (from 32% at baseline to 83% at week 26) and lower unprotected sex (79% to 58%) over time compared to reported changes in employment (37% to 47%) and unprotected sex (63% to 53%) over time in the comparison group. Conducting this feasibility trial was a critical step in the process of designing and testing a behavioral intervention. Development of a fully-powered effectiveness trial should take into account lessons learned regarding intervention duration, screening, and measurement.

Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov. NCT03766165. Registered 04 December 2018. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03766165
Covalent immobilization of luminescent oxygen indicators reduces cytotoxicity
Authors: Välimäki Hannu , Hyvärinen Tanja , Leivo Joni , Iftikhar Haider , Pekkanen-Mattila Mari , Rajan Dhanesh Kattipparambil , Verho Jarmo , Kreutzer Joose , Ryynänen Tomi , Pirhonen Jonatan , Aalto-Setälä Katriina , Kallio Pasi , Narkilahti Susanna , Lekkala Jukka
Published: June 2020

Luminescence-based oxygen sensing is a widely used tool in cell culture applications. In a typical configuration, the luminescent oxygen indicators are embedded in a solid, oxygen-permeable matrix in contact with the culture medium. However, in sensitive cell cultures even minimal leaching of the potentially cytotoxic indicators can become an issue. One way to prevent the leaching is to immobilize the indicators covalently into the supporting matrix. In this paper, we report on a method where platinum(II)-5,10,15,20-tetrakis-(2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorphenyl)-porphyrin (PtTFPP) oxygen indicators are covalently immobilized into a polymer matrix consisting of polystyrene and poly(pentafluorostyrene). We study how the covalent immobilization influences the sensing material’s cytotoxicity to human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived (hiPSC-derived) neurons and cardiomyocytes (CMs) through 7–13 days culturing experiments and various viability analyses. Furthermore, we study the effect of the covalent immobilization on the indicator leaching and the oxygen sensing properties of the material. In addition, we demonstrate the use of the covalently linked oxygen sensing material in real time oxygen tension monitoring in functional hypoxia studies of the hiPSC-derived CMs. The results show that the covalently immobilized indicators substantially reduce indicator leaching and the cytotoxicity of the oxygen sensing material, while the influence on the oxygen sensing properties remains small or nonexistent.
Stage-specific survival has improved for young breast cancer patients since 2000: but not equally
Authors: Trewin Cassia Bree , Johansson Anna Louise Viktoria , Hjerkind Kirsti Vik , Strand Bjørn Heine , Kiserud Cecilie Essholt , Ursin Giske
Published: June 2020

Purpose

The stage-specific survival of young breast cancer patients has improved, likely due to diagnostic and treatment advances. We addressed whether survival improvements have reached all socioeconomic groups in a country with universal health care and national treatment guidelines.

Methods

Using Norwegian registry data, we assessed stage-specific breast cancer survival by education and income level of 7501 patients (2317 localized, 4457 regional, 233 distant and 494 unknown stage) aged 30–48 years at diagnosis during 2000–2015. Using flexible parametric models and national life tables, we compared excess mortality up to 12 years from diagnosis and 5-year relative survival trends, by education and income as measures of socioeconomic status (SES).

Results

Throughout 2000–2015, regional and distant stage 5-year relative survival improved steadily for patients with high education and high income (high SES), but not for patients with low education and low income (low SES). Regional stage 5-year relative survival improved from 85 to 94% for high SES patients (9% change; 95% confidence interval: 6, 13%), but remained at 84% for low SES patients (0% change; − 12, 12%). Distant stage 5-year relative survival improved from 22 to 58% for high SES patients (36% change; 24, 49%), but remained at 11% for low SES patients (0% change; − 19, 19%).

Conclusions

Regional and distant stage breast cancer survival has improved markedly for high SES patients, but there has been little survival gain for low SES patients. Socioeconomic status matters for the stage-specific survival of young breast cancer patients, even with universal health care.
Predicting the geographic origin of Spanish Cedar (Cedrela odorata L.) based on DNA variation
Authors: Finch Kristen N. , Cronn Richard C. , Ayala Richter Marianella C. , Blanc-Jolivet Céline , Correa Guerrero Mónica C. , De Stefano Beltrán Luis , García-Dávila Carmen R. , Honorio Coronado Eurídice N. , Palacios-Ramos Sonia , Paredes-Villanueva Kathelyn , Jones F. Andrew
Published: June 2020

The legality of wood products often depends on their origin, creating a need for forensic tools that verify claims of provenance for wood products. The neotropical tree species Cedrela odorata (Spanish cedar) is economically valuable for its wood and faces threats of overexploitation. We developed a 140 SNP assay for geographic localization of C. odorata specimens. Target capture and short-read sequencing of 46 C. odorata specimens allowed us to identify 140 spatially informative SNPs that differentiate C. odorata specimens by latitude, temperature, and precipitation. We assessed the broad applicability of these SNPs on 356 specimens from eight Cedrela species, three tissue types, and a range of DNA mass inputs. Origin prediction error was evaluated with discrete and continuous spatial assignment methods focusing on C. odorata specimens. Discrete classification with random forests readily differentiated specimens originating in Central America versus South America (5.8% error), while uncertainty increased as specimens were divided into smaller regions. Continuous spatial prediction with SPASIBA showed a median prediction error of 188.7 km. Our results demonstrate that array SNPs and resulting genotypes accurately validate C. odorata geographic origin at the continental scale and show promise for country-level verification, but that finer-scale assignment likely requires denser spatial sampling. Our study underscores the important role of herbaria for developing genomic resources, and joins a growing list of studies that highlight the role of genomic tools for conservation of threatened species.
Cognition-tracking-based strategies for diagnosis and treatment of minimal hepatic encephalopathy
Authors: Han Weijia , Zhang Huanqian , Han Ying , Duan Zhongping
Published: June 2020

Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE), which shows mild cognitive impairment, is a subtle complication of cirrhosis that has been shown to affect daily functioning and quality of life. However, until 2014, relevant guidelines do not give much attention to the diagnosis and treatment of MHE, resulting in patients being ignored and denied the benefits of treatment. In this review, we summarize recent cognition-based research about (1) alteration of nerve cells, including astrocytes, microglial cells and neurons, in mild cognitive impairment in MHE; (2) comparison of methods in detecting cognitive impairment in MHE; and (3) comparison of methods for therapy of cognitive impairment in MHE. We hope to provide information about diagnosis and treatment of cognitive impairment in patients with MHE.
Steringophorus merretti n. sp. (Digenea: Fellodistomidae) from the deep-sea fish Cataetyx laticeps Koefoed (Ophidiiformes: Bythitidae) from the Goban Spur, Northeastern Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Bray Rodney A. , Waeschenbach Andrea
Published: June 2020

A new species of deep-sea digenean, Steringophorus merretti n. sp., is described from the bythitid fish Cataetyx laticeps in deep waters of the Goban Spur, Northeastern Atlantic. It is distinguishable from other described members of the genus by its tiny eggs and large cirrus-sac. A phylogenetic tree, based on 28S rDNA sequences, indicates that this species is embedded within a clade of deep-sea species and is sister to the eurybathic species S. thulini Bray & Gibson, 1980. Steringotrema robertpoulini Pérez-Ponce de León, Anglade & Randhawa, 2018 falls within the Steringophorus Odhner, 1905 clade. In view of this the morphological and biological characteristics of species of Steringophorus and Steringotrema are discussed.
Relationship between severity of trunk decay of Pinus koraiensis and soil properties around roots
Authors: Xu Huadong , Chen Wenjing , Cao Yanjun , Wang Lihai
Published: June 2020

The decay rate of standing Korean pine (Pinus koraiensis) in natural forests can be as high as 50% and is likely influenced by the soil properties and nutrient and water status of the site. To clarify the relationship between the severity of tree decay and soil properties in order to prevent decay in a natural mixed forest in the Xiaoxing’an Mountains, wood strength of standing trees was nondestructively assessed, and the severity of decay of extracted wood cores was quantified based on differences in mass between two decayed increment cores extracted at breast height and an intact increment core near the decayed ones. Soil samples from the critical root zone (non-rhizosphere) of each tree were analyzed for chemical properties and microbial composition. The abundance of chemical elements (especially total N and K) and the species richness of soil microbes increased as decay severity increased. Fungal number (FN) and actinomycetes number (AN) were related to decay severity (R2 = 0.504). Bacterial number (BN) was higher than FN or AN, but had a minor effect on tree decay. Path analysis showed BN might indirectly inhibit decay by affecting FN. Decay severity was not significantly correlated with either soil fungal or bacterial diversity. These results suggest that forest managers need to monitor levels of fungi and total N and total K levels to reduce the decay of Korean pine.
Nano-silica-decorated Poly(m-Phenylene Isophthalamide) Separator with Enhanced Mechanical and Electrolyte Wetting Properties for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Jianjie , Yuan Biao , Pan Fusheng , Qiao Lina , Guo Jun , Duan Cuijia , Wu Wei , Chen Zan , Su Yanlei
Published: June 2020

Heat-resistant poly(m-phenylene isophthalamide) (PMIA) has attracted considerable attention as a novel separator for application in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs); however, its mechanical strength and electrolyte wettability are not ideal. Herein, a nano-silica-decorated poly(m-phenylene isophthalamide) (PMIA@SiO2) separator was fabricated with SiO2 nanoparticles uniformly attached to the pores and pore walls of the PMIA separator. The as-prepared PMIA@SiO2 separator has good mechanical strength (a 16% improvement compared with pristine PMIA) and wettability toward the electrolyte (the contact angle decreases from 34.0° to 23.1°). The PMIA@SiO2 separator also had a high ionic conductivity (0.75 mS/cm) and low interfacial electric resistance (75 Ω). The assembled LiCoO2/PMIA@SiO2-liquid electrolyte/Li cell displays good cycle performance with a capacity retention of 88.1% after 50 cycles. Furthermore, the cycling performance and rate capacity rarely changed after high-temperature treatment. Therefore, the nano-silica-decorated PMIA separator is a potential candidate for application in LIBs with high safety.
Holistic review on geosolar hybrid desalination system for sustainable development
Authors: Shah Dhruvin , Panchal Meet , Sanghvi Aditya , Chavda Hitendrasinh , Shah Manan
Published: June 2020

With the increasing scarcity of water and unavailability of portable drinking water at many places, in this paper, we present a feasible solution to this problem. The only solution in sight right now is to carry out the desalination of the huge saline water bodies. The conventional methods to do so have resulted in a failure as with the consumption of fossil fuel to run them, which in turn results in global warming. This draws us more towards the usage of renewable energy and its importance in order to obtain portable water from the saline and brackish water. In this study, we present to you a novel hybrid method that uses the geothermal energy and sun energy to produce fresh drinkable desalinated water from the seawater. This proposed system does not require fossil fuel to run, and hence, along with keeping the environment pure, it is a solution to the burning problem of water crisis throughout the world. With the help of engineering and technological skills, we can draft a better future for humanity.
Investigation of fines migration for a high-pressure, high-temperature carbonate gas reservoir offshore Malaysia
Authors: Sazali Y. A. , Sazali W. M. L. , Ibrahim J. M. , Graham G. , Gödeke S.
Published: June 2020

A high CO2carbonate gas field offshore Sarawak, Malaysia, is scheduled for development. Fines migration has been identified as a potential risk for a sustained and stable production for this field, triggering this investigation. The reservoir investigated (subdivided in S3, S2, S1 formation) has an average 8% clays, of which over 50% are migratory illites and 15% migratory kaolinite. This paper discusses the laboratory findings and factors contributing to fines migration for this reservoir. We conducted core flood tests to determine critical flow rates for the onset of fines migration of high CO2hydrocarbon gas and CO2-saturated brine within the production gas zone. In addition, we measured total suspended solids during each incremental rate stage and performed scanning electron microscopy–energy-dispersive X-ray (SEM–EDX) analysis on the effluents collected. We also performed mineralogical analysis of formation rocks to determine clay types, amount, and morphology. Core floods performed with CO2-saturated brine on S3 and S2 cores showed damage at a critical flow rate of 10 ml/min with permeability recovery of 65–75%. This shows that CO2-saturated brine tends to mobilize the fines such as illite and kaolinite. Core floods performed with high CO2hydrocarbon gas showed permeability recovery of 93–96% at rates up to 10 ml/min. SEM analysis on effluents collected showed presence of silicate and carbonate particles with size of 5–50 μm. A combined salt dropout and fines mobilization core flood showed a higher degree of formation damage due to fines mobilization with 74% permeability recovery compared to baseline permeability compared to core floods with high CO2hydrocarbon gas. However, the formation damage due to fines mobilization for this experiment was reversible. Overall, the results indicate that a high potential for fines migration in this type of carbonate system exists for CO2-saturated brine flow with significant less potential for dry CO2flow.
Evaluating the reliability of gestalt quality ratings of medical education podcasts: A METRIQ study
Authors: Jason M. Woods Jason M. , Chan Teresa M. , Roland Damian , Riddell Jeff , Tagg Andrew , Brent Thoma Brent
Published: June 2020

Introduction Podcasts are increasingly being used for medical education. Studies have found that the assessment of the quality of online resources can be challenging. We sought to determine the reliability of gestalt quality assessment of education podcasts in emergency medicine.

Methods An international, interprofessional sample of raters was recruited through social media, direct contact, and the extended personal network of the study team. Each participant listened to eight podcasts (selected to include a variety of accents, number of speakers, and topics) and rated the quality of that podcast on a seven-point Likert scale. Phi coefficients were calculated within each group and overall. Decision studies were conducted using a phi of 0.8.

Results A total of 240 collaborators completed all eight surveys and were included in the analysis. Attendings, medical students, and physician assistants had the lowest individual-level variance and thus the lowest number of required raters to reliably evaluate quality (phi >0.80). Overall, 20 raters were required to reliably evaluate the quality of emergency medicine podcasts.

Discussion Gestalt ratings of quality from approximately 20 health professionals are required to reliably assess the quality of a podcast. This finding should inform future work focused on developing and validating tools to support the evaluation of quality in these resources.
Was ist Wissen, was ist Können? Deutungen des Kompetenzbegriffs und deren psychometrische Konsequenzen im Kontext von Fachwissen und Variablenkontrollstrategie
Authors: Nehring Andreas , Schwichow Martin
Published: June 2020

Der vorliegende Beitrag untersucht, inwiefern sich verschiedene Deutungen des Kompetenzbegriffs in psychometrische Modelle überführen lassen und welche Konsequenzen daraus für das Assessment in quantitativen Studien erwachsen könnten. Auf Grundlage von Verhältnisbestimmungen von deklarativem Fachwissen und prozessorientierten Kompetenzen werden dazu Between- und Within-Item-IRT-Modelle definiert und zur Re-Analyse eines Datensatzes einer Querschnittsstudie zur Variablenkontrollstrategie (n = 990) angewendet. Bei Betrachtung der Personenschätzer für die Kompetenzausprägungen, die aus den Modellen generiert werden, zeigt sich, dass ca. ein Drittel der Schülerinnen und Schüler, je nach Modell, unterschiedlichen Quartilen der Verteilung zugewiesen werden. Gleichzeitig wird deutlich, dass die Modelle zu unterschiedlichen Informationen hinsichtlich der Zunahme an Wissen oder prozessorientierten Kompetenzen über Jahrgänge hinweg wie auch hinsichtlich von Geschlechterunterschieden in der Kompetenzausprägung führen können. Die Ausprägungen prozessorientierter Kompetenzen von Mädchen fallen aufgrund oder vielmehr trotz des (im Mittel) geringeren Fachwissens höher aus, wenn der Psychometrie ein unabhängiges, aber fachwissensrelatives Kompetenzverständnis zugrunde gelegt wird. Der Beitrag diskutiert diese Befunde mit Blick auf Konsequenzen für Grundlagenforschung, Systemmonitoring und Unterrichtsentwicklung.
Effectiveness of perineural and intravenous dexamethasone added to bupivacaine for transversus abdominis plane block in post-cesarean delivery pain control: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Zemedkun Abebayehu , Admasu Wosenyeleh , Jemal Bedru , Abiy Sileshi , Mola Simeneh , Mulugeta Hailemariam
Published: June 2020

ABSTRACT

Background:

Cesarean delivery (CD) has been one of the most frequently performed major surgical interventions and causes severe postoperative pain. Abdominal field blocks like TAP block are mostly preferred as postoperative analgesia for this operation. Using different adjuvants like dexamethasone by different routes increases the quality and duration of block and maximizes patient satisfaction. The objective of this study was to compare the effectiveness of perineural and intravenous dexamethasone for post-cesarean delivery pain control.

Methodology:

An institutional based prospective cohort study was conducted on 87 patients. Data collection methods include a preoperative chart review, intraoperative observation, and postoperative patient interview at 4 th, 6 th, 8 th, 12 th, and 24 th hours. Kruskal Wallis with post hoc analysis was used to compare postoperative severity of pain score and cumulative analgesic consumption. Time to first analgesic request was analyzed using Kaplan Meier survival analysis with log rank. Categorical variables were analyzed by chi-square.

Result:

Time to first analgesic request was significantly longer in TAP-IVD and TAP-PD compared to TAP alone (p < 0.05). The postoperative NRS score at rest and on coughing was significantly lowered in TAP-PD and TAP-IVD group compared to TAP alone group (p < 0.05). The total analgesic consumption in the first 24 h was significantly lower in TAP-IVD and TAP-PD group compared to TAP alone group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Dexamethasone 8 mg both intravenously and perineurally is effective adjuvant to bupivacaine on bilateral TAP block with prolonged and potent analgesia and reduced analgesic consumption.

Research registry:

UIN = researchregistry5538.

Highlights:
Optimal Budget Allocations for Protected Area Acquisition To Store Carbon in a Local Community Under Economic Growth Uncertainty
Authors: Sharma Bijay P. , Cho Seong-Hoon , Hellwinckel Chad M.
Published: June 2020

We analyze optimal budget allocations to acquire protected areas for carbon storage while balancing risk and return from protection under economic growth uncertainty in a local community. Our study is the first to explore how risk of uncertain economic growth affects cost of protected area acquisition using real estate values at the parcel level, enabling us to estimate the site-specific opportunity cost of carbon storage. The Pareto optimal trade-off frontier between the expected carbon storage benefit and its variance provides a continuum of risk-return combinations. The pattern of the trade-off relationship implies that risk mitigation is less costly in terms of foregone expected benefit when risk is higher than when it is lower. Our results also find that the difference in cluster-specific budget allocations between the strong economic growth scenario and the weak economic growth scenario subsequently decreases between the point of expected benefit maximization and the point of variance minimization. Our findings of optimal hectares of land for protected area acquisition for carbon storage and corresponding benefits and costs serve as an empirically informed knowledge base to help a local community prioritize acquisition of potential protected areas for carbon storage under economic growth uncertainty.
The Compatibility of Private Health Insurance Schemes with EU Law: Applying the Health Insurance Exception beyond Substitutive Private Health Insurance
Authors: NIKOLIĆ Bruno
Published: June 2020

The lack of clarity as to the scope of the health insurance exception enshrined in Article 206 of the Solvency II Directive has created uncertainties surrounding the implications for government intervention in the private health insurance market. A contentious interpretation of the health insurance exception, offered by former EU Commissioner Bolkestein, and the approach subsequently taken by the Commission and the Court of Justice of the European Union in assessing the compatibility of Member State intervention in private health insurance have led to a divergence in the application of EU law, which further increases uncertainties around the legality of Member State intervention. This article proposes an alternative interpretation of the health insurance exception that draws on a contemporary understanding of private health insurance as a socio-economic institution aimed at achieving a highly competitive social market economy. This alternative interpretation extends the applicability of the health insurance exception from substitutive private health insurance to complementary private health insurance that covers statutory user charges and thus improves the compliance of national health insurance systems in several Member States with EU law and enhances the coherence of EU law.
A New Way of Teaching Criminology for Investigation and Trial: A Narrative-Based Approach
Authors: Schioppetto Giulia , Monzani Marco , Ciappi Silvio
Published: June 2020

The narrative-based approach acts as the only tool capable of creating and assigning a meaning to individual life stories, linking individuals to their actions. The use of narrative as a reference frame for understanding the motive of the crime therefore offers an innovative perspective into criminology and its forensic application. Through the stories of the criminals and the victims, of society, and the world of justice as a whole, doing narrative criminology means listening to and accurately analysing criminal life stories to shed some light and meaning on the obscure elements of reality that from time to time take shape as a violent act. After a review of the most recent literature in the criminological narrative area, the present work analyses the role of the criminologist as an expert who provides an essential contribution during investigation and trial phases. Moreover, the work proposes the use of a narrative approach and the contribution of a narrative criminologist in two different moments of the criminal procedure: during the investigation phase, through a preventive methodological narrative training of forensic experts, with emphasis on team work, and in the trial phase through the use of criminological interviews to assess criminal liability and dangerousness.
Incorporating preauthorization into antimicrobial stewardship pharmacist workflow reduces Clostridioides difficile and gastrointestinal panel testing
Authors: Tran Nikki N. , Mills John P. , Zimmerman Christopher , Gandhi Tejal N. , Tribble Alison C. , Petty Lindsay A. , Nagel Jerod , Brancaccio Adamo , Scappaticci Gianni , Patel Twisha , Dillman Nicholas O. , Regal Randolph , Klein Kristin C. , Washer Laraine , Marshall Vincent D. , Sweeney Jennifer , Rao Krishna , Eschenauer Gregory A.
Published: June 2020

Objective:

To evaluate whether incorporating mandatory prior authorization for Clostridioides difficile testing into antimicrobial stewardship pharmacist workflow could reduce testing in patients with alternative etiologies for diarrhea.

Design:

Single center, quasi-experimental before-and-after study.

Setting:

Tertiary-care, academic medical center in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Patients:

Adult and pediatric patients admitted between September 11, 2019 and December 10, 2019 were included if they had an order placed for 1 of the following: (1) C. difficile enzyme immunoassay (EIA) in patients hospitalized >72 hours and received laxatives, oral contrast, or initiated tube feeds within the prior 48 hours, (2) repeat molecular multiplex gastrointestinal pathogen panel (GIPAN) testing, or (3) GIPAN testing in patients hospitalized >72 hours.

Intervention:

A best-practice alert prompting prior authorization by the antimicrobial stewardship program (ASP) for EIA or GIPAN testing was implemented. Approval required the provider to page the ASP pharmacist and discuss rationale for testing. The provider could not proceed with the order if ASP approval was not obtained.

Results:

An average of 2.5 requests per day were received over the 3-month intervention period. The weekly rate of EIA and GIPAN orders per 1,000 patient days decreased significantly from 6.05 ± 0.94 to 4.87 ± 0.78 (IRR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.56–0.93; P = .010) and from 1.72 ± 0.37 to 0.89 ± 0.29 (IRR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.37–0.77; P = .001), respectively.

Conclusions:

We identified an efficient, effective C. difficile and GIPAN diagnostic stewardship approval model.
Origin and significance of Lovén's Law in echinoderms
Authors: Paul Christopher R. C. , Hotchkiss Frederick H. C.
Published: June 2020

Lovén's Law described the position of larger basicoronal ambulacral plates in echinoids. The smaller basicoronal plates form first in ontogeny. We restate Lovén's Law to describe the position of first ambulacral plates using Carpenter's ambulacra and left (L) or right (R) as: AR, BL, CR, DL, ER, with EA the pair of ambulacra both identical and adjacent. First ambulacral plates of the Cambrian edrioasteroid,Walcottidiscus, code identically. The transition from a tri-radiate 1-1-1 pattern to the 2-1-2 ambulacral pattern ofWalcottidiscusand other pentaradiate Paleozoic echinoderms results in Lovén's Law. This provides an hypothesis for the origin of Lovén's Law and predicts its widespread occurrence among echinoderm classes.

The ‘BD different’ pattern of primary brachioles in pentaradiate glyptocystitoid Rhombifera results from subterminal branching of the ambulacra. The ontogenetic sequence was triradiate, then lateral ambulacra bifurcated, and finally second brachioles developed. Positions of second brachioles of pentaradiate glyptocystitoids code as AR, BL, CR, DL, ER. Other examples of Lovén's Law occur in Diploporita, Ophiuroidea, Edrioasteroidea, Edrioblastoidea, Holothuroidea, Ophiocistioidea, andBothriocidaris. Our working hypothesis is that Lovén's Law arose with pentaradiality. An objective test requires a reliable independent landmark across all classes, which does not exist currently. Our hypothesis is only parsimonious if Lovén's Law arose just once in echinoderm evolution and is widespread within the phylum. So far, both conditions appear to be met, but edrioasteroid first ambulacral cover plates commonly exhibit an alternative Lovén-like pattern of AL, BL, CR, DL, ER, with AB the identical adjacent ambulacra.

UUID:http://zoobank.org/4c40d338-8bfa-4515-9037-934f3bbab153
Fossil barnacles from the Antarctic Peninsula: refining ways of exploring the nature of rare and/or delicate specimens employing X-ray Computer Tomography (CT)
Authors: Stilwell Jeffrey D. , Buckeridge John St. J. S. , Bevitt Joseph J. , Zahra David
Published: June 2020

Assessment of unique and potentially significant fossils may be considerably compromised by surrounding matrix. This paper assesses a fossil barnacle group from the mid to late Eocene of Seymour Island, off the Antarctic Peninsula, that potentially has very significant phylogenetic importance. It discusses why the specimen could be significant, and describes and applies as a proof of concept an advanced imaging technique, using X-ray Computed Tomography (CT), that was effectively employed to confirm systematic taxonomy with virtual 3-D sections through the specimen. In this case, the Antarctic barnacle's complex internal plate morphologies were resolved by advanced 3-D imaging, such that a taxonomic attribution could be made to either the Archaeobalanidae or Austrobalanidae, excluding the initial assessment of Coronulidae, which would have otherwise been allusive.
Is Facebook the Internet? Ethnographic Perspectives on Open Internet Governance in Brazil
Authors: Omari Jeffrey
Published: June 2020

This article explores the ideals of open Internet governance in Brazil. I examine Brazil’s Internet law, theMarco Civil da Internet(MCI), which promotes the right to Internet access, online privacy, and net neutrality. The MCI’s ideals of a free and open Internet are challenged by Internet companies, such as Facebook, which offer “zero-rating” promotions that provide limited, free mobile data to low-income subscribers. I juxtapose the ideals of openness embodied in the regulatory sphere of the MCI with those of Brazil’scultura livre(free culture) movement to show the ascendance of open values in Brazilian governance and culture. Accordingly, I employ the rhetorical question, “Is Facebook the Internet?” to demonstrate the ways in which commitments to open Internet governance, expressed in both the cultural and regulatory realms, run counter to the more proprietary ideals of the transnational tech community.
Geochemical and mineralogical characterization of sediments from Lake Futalaufquen (42.8°S, Andean Patagonia) to evaluate their potential as paleoclimatic proxies
Authors: Daga Romina , Ribeiro Guevara Sergio , Rizzo Andrea , Vreča Polona , Lojen Sonja , Williams Natalia , Musso Telma , León Valeria , Poiré Daniel , Arcagni Marina , Arribére María
Published: June 2020

Lake sediments are key archives for paleoenvironmental investigation as they provide continuous records of the depositional history of the lake and its watershed. Lake Futalaufquen (42.8°S) is an oligotrophic waterbody located in Los Alerces National Park in the Andes of northern Patagonia, South America. A sedimentary sequence covering 1600 years was recovered to analyze the potential for paleoenvironmental reconstructions of the last millennia. Integration of different geochemical and mineralogical parameters and comparison with climatic reconstructions from other Patagonian records give clues for the identification of a warm period around AD 800–1000, associated with the Medieval Climatic Anomaly. The high frequency of tephra layers beginning in the mid-sixteenth century precludes identification of the Little Ice Age, recorded in northern Patagonia as a cold period from the fourteenth to the eighteenth century. Furthermore, the parameters analysed do not provide evidence of late-twentieth-century global warming. However, Zn deposition, a long-distance atmospheric transport process of anthropogenic origin, was identified during the last century.
The Black Parlatoria Scale, Parlatoria ziziphi (Lucas, 1853) (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha: Diaspididae): a guide to field identification
Authors: Jendoubi Hanen , Garcia-Mari Ferran , Russo Agatino , Suma Pompeo
Published: June 2020

Pest control is easier and more effective when pests are correctly identified. The Black Parlatoria Scale, Parlatoria ziziphi (Lucas, 1853) (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha: Diaspididae) is an important invasive pest in citrus-growing countries. This diaspidid has historically been difficult to control, because its immature stages are difficult to identify due to confusion with similar Parlatoria species. No field descriptions of female or male developmental stages are available for P. ziziphi. We provide the first description of field characteristics of the developmental stages of P. ziziphi. Colonies were reared in the laboratory on sour orange plants and lemon fruits to illustrate the distinctive features of each instar. An illustrated field guide of all life-cycle stages of male and female P. ziziphi is provided for correct species identification and better pest management. This tool is designed to help recognize P. ziziphi in field-scouting programmes or quarantine inspections, without the need for taxonomic expertise in identifying the Parlatoria group.
A parallel particle-in-cell code for spacecraft charging problems
Authors: Zhang Kai , Cai Shiying , Cai Chunpei , Cooke David L.
Published: June 2020

This paper reports the recent development of a full-scale particle-in-cell (PIC) simulation package highlighting an efficient electro-statics (ES)-PIC implementation for spacecraft charging problems. Numerical simulations are crucial in studying plasma flows because analytical solutions are rare, and experiments are expensive. There are many types of plasma flow that need various numerical methods for efficient and accurate simulations; as such, how to implement and organize those different methods into one comprehensive simulation package is challenging. This work adopted several modern software design patterns and developed a versatile package that includes various PIC schemes. This package has an open architecture, clean interfaces with both serial and parallel simulation capabilities. Two benchmark test cases are included to demonstrate the capabilities of this package. Then two plasma flows around a positively charged probe are simulated, and the results are discussed. The simulation results are consistent with past simulation results, and new insights are obtained. This work can lead to the development and organization of more sophisticated plasma simulation solvers in the future.
A molecular-genetic reassessment of the circumscription of the lichen genusIcmadophila
Authors: Ludwig Lars R. , Kantvilas Gintaras , Nilsen Andy R. , Orlovich David A. , Ohmura Yoshihito , Summerfield Tina C. , Wilk Karina , Lord Janice M.
Published: June 2020

The circumscription of the lichenized ascomycete genusIcmadophilaTrevis. in the familyIcmadophilaceaeTriebel was investigated. Sequences of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and large subunit of nuclear ribosomal DNA (nuLSU) were generated for the fiveIcmadophilaspecies and additional members ofIcmadophilaceaefrom the generaDibaeis,Endocena,Knightiella,Siphula,SiphulellaandThamnolia. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that threeIcmadophilaspecies are closely related: the type,I. ericetorum(L.) Zahlbr., which is widespread in Eurasia and North America,I. aversa(Nyl.) Rambold & Hertel from Central and South America, andI. japonica(Zahlbr.) Rambold & Hertel, which is restricted to Far East Russia and Japan. The genusKnightiellaMüll. Arg. is reinstated to accommodateI. splachnirima(Hook.f. & Taylor) D. J. Galloway emend. L. Ludw., which occurs in New Zealand and Australia. Two further species ofKnightiella,K. eucalypti(Kantvilas) Kantvilas andK. queenslandicaKantvilas, are found to be unrelated toK. splachnirima, and are accommodated in two newly described genera,KnightiellastrumandSiphulopsisrespectively.KnightiellastrumL. Ludw. & Kantvilas is characterized by a squamulose, erhizinate, whitish to pale grey thallus with a green, coccoid photobiont and by containing thamnolic acid.SiphulopsisKantvilas & A. R. Nilsen is similarly characterized by an erhizinate, whitish to pale grey thallus, with a green, coccoid photobiont and containing thamnolic acid, but is instead fruticose. This study reveals considerable diversity within AustralasianIcmadophilaceae; ongoing work in the Southern Hemisphere and tropical regions may reveal additional species in this family and clarify the relationships of these newly described genera.
Evaluation of 3D printing costs in surgery: a systematic review
Authors: Serrano Carole , Fontenay Sarah , van den Brink Hélène , Pineau Judith , Prognon Patrice , Martelli Nicolas
Published: June 2020

Objectives

The use of three-dimensional (3D) printing in surgery is expanding and there is a focus on comprehensively evaluating the clinical impact of this technology. However, although additional costs are one of the main limitations to its use, little is known about its economic impact. The purpose of this systematic review is to identify the costs associated with its use and highlight the first quantitative data available.

Methods

A systematic literature review was conducted in the PubMed and Embase databases and in the National Health Service Economic Evaluation Database (NHS EED) at the University of York. Studies that reported an assessment of the costs associated with the use of 3D printing for surgical application and published between 2009 and 2019, in English or French, were included.

Results

Nine studies were included in our review. Nine types of costs were identified, the three main ones being printing material costs (n = 6), staff costs (n = 3), and operating room costs (n = 3). The printing cost ranged from less than U.S. dollars (USD) 1 to USD 146 (in USD 2019 values) depending on the criteria used to calculate this cost. Three studies evaluated the potential savings generated by the use of 3D printing technology in surgery, based on operating time reduction.

Conclusion

This literature review highlights the lack of reliable economic data on 3D printing technology. Nevertheless, this review makes it possible to identify expenditures or items that should be considered in order to carry out more robust studies.
A PROBABILISTIC FRIENDSHIP NETWORK MODEL
Authors: Dizon-Ross Rebecca , Ross Sheldon M.
Published: June 2020

We consider a friendship model in which each member of a community has a latent value such that the probability that any two individuals are friends is a function of their latent values. We consider such questions as does information thatiandjare both friends withkmake it more likely thatiandjare themselves friends. Among other things, we show that for fixed setsSandT, the more friends thatihas inS, then the stochastically more friendsihas inT. We consider how a variation of the friendship paradox applies to our model. We also study the distribution of the number of friendless individuals in the community and derive a bound on the total variation distance between it and a Poisson with the same mean.
Risk factors and temporal patterns of disordered eating differ in adolescent boys and girls: Testing gender-specific appearance anxiety models
Authors: Zimmer-Gembeck Melanie J. , Webb Haley J. , Kerin Jessica , Waters Allison M. , Farrell Lara J.
Published: June 2020

Adolescent dieting and disordered eating (DE) are risks for clinical eating disorders. In this five-wave longitudinal study, we tested gender-specific models linking early risk factors to temporal patterns of DE, considering appearance anxiety as a mediator. Participants were 384 Australian students (age 10 to 13; 45% boys) who reported their purging and skipping meals, experience with appearance-related teasing, media pressure, and appearance anxiety. Parents reported pubertal maturation and height/weight was measured. Gender differences in temporal patterns of DE were found and predictive models were tested using latent-variable growth curve and path models. Boys’ DE was generally stable over time; girls showed stability in purging but an average increase in skipping meals. Peer teasing, media pressure, and pubertal maturation were associated with more elevated initial DE in girls, and pubertal maturation was associated with a steeper increase in DE. For boys, body mass index had a direct positive association with DE. Appearance anxiety was associated with more DE, but there was only one significant indirect effect via anxiety, which was for boys’ pubertal maturation. Findings support the dominant role of social interactions and messages, as well as pubertal maturation, for girls’ DE and the prominence of physical risk factors for explaining boys’ DE.