bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Empowering Lone Parents to Progress towards Employability
Authors: LINDSAY COLIN , PEARSON SARAH , BATTY ELAINE , CULLEN ANNE MARIE , EADSON WILL
Published: April 2021

Policymakers in liberal welfare states like the UK have prioritised extending the reach of compulsory activation to target vulnerable jobseeker groups, such as lone parents. However, such interventions – especially when combined with intensified welfare conditionality – appear to have had limited positive effects on lone parents’ employability, while often negatively impacting wellbeing. This article argues that the problem is a disconnect between the complex barriers to employability faced by lone parents (including their need to balance work and caring) and the content of ‘work-first’ activation favoured by successive UK Governments. We report positive findings from in-depth interviews with lone parents and key stakeholders involved in more person-centred, non-compulsory local employability services. Multi-agency service delivery, collaborative governance and a clear role for user voice in programme design were important facilitators of positive experiences. Our analysis points to the need for services that empower lone parents to make choices to progress towards employment while supporting family life.
Marital offence-specific forgiveness as mediator in the relationships between personality traits and marital satisfaction among older couples: Perspectives on Lars Tornstam's theory of gerotranscendence
Authors: Brudek Paweł , Kaleta Kinga
Published: April 2021

As a result of the gerotranscendence process, marital satisfaction becomes especially important in old age. At the same time, researchers emphasise that the effect of seniors’ personality on their marital satisfaction depends on many mediators. The analysis of literature suggests that one such variable might be forgiveness. Thus, the aim of the present research was to investigate whether forgiveness mediates the relationship between personality traits and marital satisfaction in late adulthood. The study involved 315 participants aged 60–75. Three psychological methods were used: (a) the Marital Satisfaction Questionnaire for Older Persons; (b) the NEO-Five Factor Inventory; and (c) the Marital Offence-Specific Forgiveness Scale. The analyses that have been undertaken revealed a number of significant associations. Neuroticism was positively related to resentment-avoidance and negatively to benevolence and marital satisfaction, whereas extraversion, agreeableness and conscientiousness were negatively correlated with resentment and positively with benevolence and satisfaction. The results also showed that both dimensions of dyadic forgiveness mediated the relationships between personality traits and marital satisfaction in ageing persons. They suggest that forgiveness of a spouse, when enhanced, could work as a buffer against the negative impact of neuroticism on marital happiness, as well as allowing the transfer of positive aspects of extraverted, agreeable and conscientious tendencies into marriage. Practical implications of the study for counselling older adults are recommended.
The effect of circadian rhythms on shipping accidents
Authors: Vinagre-Ríos Juan , Pérez-Canosa José-Manuel , Iglesias-Baniela Santiago
Published: April 2021

It is a well-known fact that humans are subject to circadian alterations caused by the action of sunlight. This strongly affects their behaviour and skill, making them change their level of alertness from high at daytime to low at night-time. Taking into account this biological feature, and considering that commercial shipping is one of the oldest round-the-clock activities, raises the question whether bridge watchkeepers can carry out their tasks on night shifts with the same level of alertness as on day shifts. Furthermore, night bridge watchkeeping has to be performed in darkness or very dim light to improve the visual capacity of lookouts. A sample of vessel collisions was analysed and it was find out that this kind of accident tends to be more frequent and more serious during the darkness period of the solar day.
How time matters in the UN Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review: Humans, objects, and time creation
Authors: McNeilly Kathryn
Published: April 2021

The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of the United Nations Human Rights Council is an innovative monitoring mechanism in the international human rights law system. As the UPR matures, scholars have increasingly sought to stand back and understand it as a process. In this article, I take work in this vein further by considering more closely the actors involved in the UPR – humans and objects – and highlighting the time creating effects that emerge from the relationships between them. Across the various stages of the UPR, a range of temporalities – from cyclicality and linearity to retrogression and suspension of time – are produced and sustained by people, reports, data, lists, microphones, screens, computers, action plans, and desks, just to name a few. I argue from this that time is materially made in the review process, often in micro and taken for granted ways. In its operation, the UPR appears as a collection of temporal assemblages. Or, in language drawn from actor-network theory (ANT), an assortment of fluid and interweaving sets of actants networked together who generate ideas of time across its practice. Apprehending time creation in this material, the ANT-inflected way is highly significant for scholars and practitioners interested in the UPR. It holds potential to influence how this process can be understood, approached, and located within international human rights law as itself a larger, time creating actor-network.
StkTokens: Enforcing well-bracketed control flow and stack encapsulation using linear capabilities
Authors: SKORSTENGAARD LAU , DEVRIESE DOMINIQUE , BIRKEDAL LARS
Published: April 2021

We propose and study StkTokens: a new calling convention that provably enforces well-bracketed control flow and local state encapsulation on a capability machine. The calling convention is based on linear capabilities: a type of capabilities that are prevented from being duplicated by the hardware. In addition to designing and formalizing this new calling convention, we also contribute a new way to formalize and prove that it effectively enforces well-bracketed control flow and local state encapsulation using what we call a fully abstract overlay semantics.
Assessment of Prehospital Monitor/Defibrillators forClostridioides difficileContamination
Authors: Gibson Cody Vaughn , Swindell Jonathan Edwin , Collier George Donald
Published: April 2021

Objectives:

The purpose of this study was to determine ifClostridioides difficile(C. diff) was present on the electrocardiogram (ECG) right arm leads, blood pressure cuffs, and fingertip pulse oximetry sensors of monitor/defibrillators used in the prehospital setting.

Methods:

On March 22, 2019, a total of 20 prehospital monitor/defibrillators located at an Emergency Medical Service (EMS) station in Alabama (USA) were assessed forC. diff.The inside area of the fingertip pulse oximetry sensor, patient contact side of the blood pressure cuff, and right arm ECG lead of monitor/defibrillators (n = 60) were swabbed using a sterile cotton-tipped applicator saturated in a 0.85% Sodium Chloride solution. These cotton-tipped applicators were then inserted, scored, and released into Banana Broth vials. The vials were then sealed tightly and immediately transported to the laboratory, where they were incubated at 36°C for 72 hours. Colorimetric change from red to yellow was considered a positive indication for the presence ofC. diff.

Results:

Of 20 blood pressure cuffs, 15 hadC. diffcontamination (75%);C. diffwas also present on 19 of 20 fingertip pulse oximeter sensors (95%) and 20 of 20 ECG right arm monitor leads (100%).

Conclusion:

Prehospital monitor/defibrillators may represent a significant reservoir ofC. diffand other pathogenic bacteria. Improved disinfection protocols for reusable monitoring equipment and transition to disposable monitoring equipment used in the prehospital setting may reduce the risk of patient and EMS provider infection.
Does the Glass Slipper Fit?
Authors: Hefner Veronica , Kretz Valerie Ellen
Published: April 2021

Abstract. This study is a cross-sectional survey investigating the links between viewing Disney princess films and reports of romantic beliefs, relationship-contingent self-esteem, and attitudes relating to masculine courtship strategies. Results from the survey of 438 undergraduate students indicate a positive association between viewing Disney princess films and reports of relationship-contingent self-esteem, particularly for men, and endorsement of masculine strategies about courtship. Findings are discussed in the context of cultivation and social cognitive theory.
Historical Variability and Lifecycles of North Atlantic Midlatitude Cyclones Originating in the Tropics
Authors: Baker Alexander J. , Hodges Kevin I. , Schiemann Reinhard K. H. , Vidale Pier Luigi
Published: April 2021

North Atlantic tropical and post‐tropical cyclones impact midlatitude regions, but the inhomogeneous observational record of the latter stages of tropical cyclones precludes many climatological analyses. The frequency of tropical‐origin storms basin‐wide is projected to increase under anthropogenic climate change, so establishing confidence in our knowledge of their historical variability and lifecycles—against which climate model simulations may be evaluated—is important. We used a Lagrangian feature‐tracking algorithm to identify tropical cyclones that impacted Northeast North America and Europe in seven global reanalysis data sets, distinguishing systems that retained warm‐core structures or underwent warm seclusion from those that underwent extratropical transition, acquiring cold‐core, frontal structures. Over the last four decades, ∼25% and ∼10% of tropical‐origin cyclones made landfall across Northeast North America and Europe, respectively, as warm‐core systems, with, on average, higher wind speeds than cold‐core systems. Historical warm‐core and cold‐core landfalls also exhibit distinct tracks, likely responding to differing steering flow and midlatitude conditions.
Linking the Dissolved and Particulate Domain of Organic Carbon in Inland Waters
Authors: Lau Maximilian P.
Published: April 2021

Organic carbon (OC) in inland waters is found in either dissolved or particulate states, each contributing differently to carbon cycling through state‐specific forms of transport, processing, and mineralization. Degradation of macroscopic organic material into solutes is the most common transition between these states, yet there is also the potential for dissolved organic carbon to aggregate and form particles. This latter process at the soil‐stream interface is subject of a new study by Einarsdóttir et al. (2020, https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JG005654) published in this issue. Their findings advance the understanding of the links between the dissolved and the particulate domain of OC with possible implication for long‐term OC burial and ecosystem functioning of inland waters.
The relationship between air pollutants and maternal socioeconomic factors on preterm birth in California urban counties
Authors: Mekonnen Zesemayat K. , Oehlert John W. , Eskenazi Brenda , Shaw Gary M. , Balmes John R. , Padula Amy M.
Published: April 2021

Background

Preterm birth is the leading cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality in the U.S. and disparities among racial and ethnic groups persist. While etiologies of preterm birth have not been fully elucidated, it is probable that environmental and social factors play a role.

Objective

We hypothesized that there is an interactive association between exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) or ozone (O3) and neighborhood socioeconomic factors that increase the risk of preterm birth.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study using geocoded birth certificate data between 2007 and 2011, daily ambient air quality data on PM2.5 and O3, and American Community Survey (2007–2011 5-year estimates) data to assess census tract-level socioeconomic factors in California urban counties.

Results

Our study found a small positive association between maternal exposures to PM2.5 and O3 and preterm birth that varied by gestational exposure period. In mixed-effects models, we found an increase in the risk of preterm birth for a one-unit change in PM2.5 averaged across the entire pregnancy (AOR = 1.02, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.02) and O3 during 3-months pre-pregnancy (AOR = 1.03, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.04). Interaction between census tract-level factors and air pollutants showed an increase in the risk of preterm birth among mothers living in higher socioeconomic areas, though, a fixed cohort bias sensitivity analysis showed these associations were not significant.

Significance

These findings substantiate previous studies that showed associations between air pollution and preterm birth, even as pollution levels have decreased. This study has important implications for policy decisions and may help inform research on potential mechanisms of preterm birth.
COVID-19 preparedness—a survey among neonatal care providers in low- and middle-income countries
Authors:   The International Neonatal COVID-19 Consortium, Klingenberg Claus , Tembulkar Sahil K. , Lavizzari Anna , Roehr Charles C. , Ehret Danielle E. Y. , Vain Nestor Eduardo , Mariani Gonzalo Luis , Erdeve Omer , Lara-Diaz Victor Javier , Velaphi Sithembiso , Cheong Hon Kin , Bisht Surender Singh , Waheed Khawaja Ahmad Irfan , Stevenson Alexander G. , Al-Kafi Nisreen , Roue Jean-Michel , Barrero-Castillero Alejandra , Molloy Eleanor J. , Zupancic John A. F. , Profit Jochen
Published: April 2021

Objective

To evaluate COVID-19 pandemic preparedness, available resources, and guidelines for neonatal care delivery among neonatal health care providers in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) across all continents.

Study design

Cross-sectional, web-based survey administered between May and June, 2020.

Results

Of 189 invited participants in 69 LMICs, we received 145 (77%) responses from 58 (84%) countries. The pandemic provides significant challenges to neonatal care, particularly in low-income countries. Respondents noted exacerbations of preexisting shortages in staffing, equipment, and isolation capabilities. In Sub-Saharan Africa, 9/35 (26%) respondents noted increased mortality in non-COVID-19-infected infants. Clinical practices on cord clamping, isolation, and breastfeeding varied widely, often not in line with World Health Organization guidelines. Most respondents noted family access restrictions, and limited shared decision-making.

Conclusions

Many LMICs face an exacerbation of preexisting resource challenges for neonatal care during the pandemic. Variable approaches to care delivery and deviations from guidelines provide opportunities for international collaborative improvement.
Physical and functional performance assessment in pediatric oncology: a systematic review
Authors: Söntgerath Regine , Däggelmann Julia , Kesting Sabine V. , Rueegg Corina S. , Wittke Torge-Christian , Reich Simon , Eckert Katharina G. , Stoessel Sandra , Chamorro-Viña Carolina , Wiskemann Joachim , Wright Peter , Senn-Malashonak Anna , Oschwald Vanessa , Till Anne-Marie , Götte Miriam
Published: April 2021

Background

Research indicates reduced physical performance from diagnosis into survivorship of pediatric cancer patients. However, there is no systematic information or guideline available on the methods to assess physical performance and function in this population. The purpose was to systematically compile and describe assessments of physical performance and function in patients and survivors of pediatric cancer, including cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, speed, balance, flexibility, functional mobility, gait and motor performance test batteries.

Methods

We searched the databases PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and Cochrane Database and performed abstract and full-text selection of 2619 articles according to the Cochrane Handbook of Systematic Reviews. Information on patients characteristics, assessments, information on validity and reliability, and relevant references was extracted.

Results

In summary, 63 different assessments were found in 149 studies including 11639 participants. Most studies evaluated cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle strength with the majority conducted off treatment. Some outcomes (e.g. speed) and diagnoses (e.g. neuroblastoma) were severely underrepresented. With the exception of gait, leukemia patients represented the largest group of individuals tested.

Conclusions

Insufficient data and patient heterogeneity complicate uniform recommendations for assessments. Our results support researchers and practitioners in selecting appropriate assessment to meet their specific research questions or individual daily practice needs.

Impact

This systematic review includes 149 studies and provides a comprehensive summary of 63 assessments to evaluate cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, speed, balance, flexibility, functional mobility, gait or motor performance test batteries in patients and survivors of pediatric cancer.

We present the most studied fields within the pediatric cancer population, which are cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle strength, off treatment phase, and leukemia patients.

We propose research priorities by identification of subgroups in terms of cancer type, phase of treatment, and outcome of interest that are underrepresented in studies currently available.
Comparisons of abdominal wall reconstruction for ventral hernia repairs, open versus robotic
Authors: Nguyen Barbara , David Bryan , Shiozaki Teisha , Gosch Kensey , Sorensen G. Brent
Published: April 2021

The surgical complexities of our current population have pushed the technological limits of healthcare, urging for minimally invasive approaches. For ventral hernias, in particular, robotic assisted laparoscopic repairs have been met with conflict. Cost and longer operative times are among the arguments against robotic surgery, although thorough evaluation of patient outcomes could potentially advocate for use of this tool. We attempted to approach this by retrospectively reviewing our own data. We reviewed charts between September 2016 and February 2017 of patients receiving complex hernia repairs, either a standard open repair (SOR) or robotic-assisted repair (RAR). Data collected included preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative care. Of the 43 patients reviewed, 16 were SOR, versus 27 RAR. Patients were comparable in age, gender, BMI, diabetes as a comorbidity; average hernia defect size was similar between the two groups. Although operative times were longer in the RAR group, estimated blood loss (EBL) was less. Hospital stay was also shorter in the RAR group, at 3.0 ± 1.9 days versus 9.6 ± 8.4 days for the OAR group. Of those requiring critical care management, only one patient had a robotic assisted repair, versus half of the patients who received an open repair. Of the patients who presented to the emergency department within 30 days of surgery, each group had four patients, and two from the OAR group required admission. Our data is consistent with other literature supporting shorter lengths of stays. Although the robotic approach did required a longer operative time, the resulting improved patient outcomes support this technique for complex ventral hernia repairs.
Identification of shell-color-related microRNAs in the Manila clam Ruditapes philippinarum using high-throughput sequencing of small RNA transcriptomes
Authors: Ding Jianfeng , Wen Qiang , Huo Zhongming , Nie Hongtao , Qin Yanjie , Yan Xiwu
Published: April 2021

Shell-color polymorphism is a common phenomenon in several mollusk species and has been associated with thermal capacity, developmental stability, shell strength, and immunity. Shell-color polymorphism has been related to the differential expression of genes in several signal transduction pathways; however, the functions of micro-RNAs (miRNAs) in shell-color formation remain unclear. In the present study, we compared high-quality, small-RNA transcriptomes in three strains of the Manila clam Ruditapes philippinarum with specific shell-color patterns, artificially selected for six generations. Totals of 114 known and 208 novel miRNAs were identified by high-throughput sequencing, of which nine known and one novel miRNA were verified by stem-loop quantitative real time-polymerase chain reaction. Predicted miRNA targets were subjected to Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses. miR-137 and miR-216b and the Hedgehog signaling pathway and Wnt signaling pathway were identified as being potentially involved in pigment formation and regulation in R. philippinarum. These results may help to clarify the role of miRNAs in shell coloration and shed light on the mechanisms regulating color formation in bivalve shells.
Bio-convective and chemically reactive hybrid nanofluid flow upon a thin stirring needle with viscous dissipation
Authors: Khan Arshad , Saeed Anwar , Tassaddiq Asifa , Gul Taza , Kumam Poom , Ali Ishtiaq , Kumam Wiyada
Published: April 2021

In this work, the thermal analysis for bio-convective hybrid nanofluid flowing upon a thin horizontally moving needle is carried out. The chemical reaction and viscous dissipation has also considered for flow system in the presence of microorganism. The hybrid nanoparticles comprising of Copper $$\left( {Cu} \right)$$

Cu

and Alumina $$\left( {Al_{2} O_{3} } \right)$$

A

l
2

O
3

are considered for current flow problem. Mathematically the flow problem is formulated by employing the famous Buongiorno’s model that will also investigate the consequences of thermophoretic forces and Brownian motion upon flow system. Group of similar variables is used to transform the model equations into dimensionless form and have then solved analytically by homotopy analysis method (HAM). It has established in this work that, flow of fluid declines due to increase in bioconvection Rayleigh number, buoyancy ratio and volume fractions of nanoparticles. Thermal flow grows due to rise in Eckert number, Brownian, thermophoresis parameters and volume fraction of nanoparticles. Concentration profiles increase due to growth in Brownian motion parameter and reduces due to increase in thermophoresis parameter and Lewis number. Motile microorganism profile declines due to augmentation in Peclet and bioconvection Lewis numbers. Moreover, the percentage enhancement in the drag force and rate of heat transfer using conventional nanofluid and hybrid nanofluid are observed and discussed. The hybrid nanofluid increases the skin friction and heat transfer rate more rapidly and efficiently as compared to other traditional fluids. A comparison of the present study with the existing literature is also conducted with a closed agreement between both results for variations in thickness of the needle.
A unified survival-analysis approach to insect population development and survival times
Authors: Ma Zhanshan
Published: April 2021

There are two major categories of observation data in studying time-dependent processes: one is the time-series data, and the other is the perhaps lesser-recognized but similarly prevalent time-to-event data (also known as survival or failure time). Examples in entomology include molting times and death times of insects, waiting times of predators before the next attack or the hiding times of preys. A particular challenge in analyzing time-to-event data is the observation censoring, or the incomplete observation of survival times, dealing which is a unique advantage of survival analysis statistics. Even with a perfectly designed experiment being conducted perfectly, such ‘naturally’ censoring may still be unavoidable due to the natural processes, including the premature death in the observation of insect development, the variability in instarship, or simply the continuous nature of time process and the discrete nature of sampling intervals. Here we propose to apply the classic Cox proportional hazards model for modeling both insect development and survival rates (probabilities) with a unified survival analysis approach. We demonstrated the advantages of the proposed approach with the development and survival datasets of 1800 Russian wheat aphids from their births to deaths, observed under 25 laboratory treatments of temperatures and plant growth stages.
EX-vivo whole blood stimulation with A2E does not elicit an inflammatory cytokine response in patients with age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Durhuus Jon Ambæk , Rozing Maarten P. , Nielsen Marie Krogh , Molbech Christopher Rue , Keijzers Guido , Scheibye-Knudsen Morten , Rasmussen Lene Juel , Westendorp Rudi G. J. , Sørensen Torben Lykke
Published: April 2021

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a highly prevalent degenerative disease and a leading cause of vision loss worldwide. Evidence for an inflammatory component in the development of AMD exists, yet the exact mechanisms remain unclear. Bisretinoid N-retinylidene-N-retinylethanolamine (A2E) in retinal pigmental epithelial (RPE) cells, and in extracellular deposits constitutes a hallmark of AMD, but its role in the pathology of AMD is elusive. Here, we tested the hypothesis that A2E is responsible for the heightened inflammatory activity in AMD. To this end, we measured ex vivo mRNA expression of the cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10 in whole blood samples after stimulation with A2E in a clinical sample of 27 patients with neovascular AMD and 24 patients with geographic atrophy secondary to AMD. Patients’ spouses (n = 30) were included as non-affected controls. After stimulation with A2E, no statistical differences were found in the median expression level of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10 between the control group, and the neovascular AMD and the geographic atrophy group. Our findings do not support evidence for the hypothesis, that A2E per se contributes to heightened inflammatory activity in AMD.
Impact of monthly headache days on anxiety, depression and disability in migraine patients: results from the Spanish Atlas
Authors: Irimia P. , Garrido-Cumbrera M. , Santos-Lasaosa S. , Aguirre-Vazquez M. , Correa-Fernández J. , Colomina I. , Pozo-Rosich P.
Published: April 2021

Identifying highly disabled patients or at high risk of psychiatric comorbidity is crucial for migraine management. The burden of migraine increases with headache frequency, but the number of headache days (HDs) per month after which disability becomes severe or the risk of anxiety and depression is higher has not been established. Here, we estimate the number of HDs per month after which migraine is associated with higher risk of anxiety and depression, severe disability and lower quality of life. We analysed 468 migraine patients (mean age 36.8 ± 10.7; 90.2% female), of whom 38.5% had ≥ 15 HDs per month. Our results show a positive linear correlation between the number of HDs per month and the risk of anxiety (r = 0.273; p < 0.001), depression (r = 0.337; p < 0.001) and severe disability (r = 0.519; p < 0.001). The risk of anxiety is higher in patients having ≥ 3HDs per month, and those with ≥ 19HDs per month are at risk of depression. Moreover, patients suffering ≥ 10HDs per month have very severe disability. Our results suggest that migraine patients with ≥ 10HDs per month are very disabled and also that those with ≥ 3HDs per month should be screened for anxiety.
Anti-Acanthamoeba synergistic effect of chlorhexidine and Garcinia mangostana extract or α-mangostin against Acanthamoeba triangularis trophozoite and cyst forms
Authors: Sangkanu Suthinee , Mitsuwan Watcharapong , Mahabusarakam Wilawan , Jimoh Tajudeen O. , Wilairatana Polrat , Girol Ana Paula , Verma Ajoy K. , de Lourdes Pereira Maria , Rahmatullah Mohammed , Wiart Christophe , Siyadatpanah Abolghasem , Norouzi Roghayeh , Mutombo Polydor Ngoy , Nissapatorn Veeranoot
Published: April 2021

Acanthamoeba spp. can cause amoebic keratitis (AK). Chlorhexidine is effective for AK treatment as monotherapy, but with a relative failure on drug bioavailability in the deep corneal stroma. The combination of chlorhexidine and propamidine isethionate is recommended in the current AK treatment. However, the effectiveness of treatment depends on the parasite and virulence strains. This study aims to determine the potential of Garcinia mangostana pericarp extract and α-mangostin against Acanthamoeba triangularis, as well as the combination with chlorhexidine in the treatment of Acanthamoeba infection. The minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of the extract and α-mangostin were assessed in trophozoites with 0.25 and 0.5 mg/mL, for cysts with 4 and 1 mg/mL, respectively. The MIC of the extract and α-mangostin inhibited the growth of A. triangularis trophozoites and cysts for up to 72 h. The extract and α-mangostin combined with chlorhexidine demonstrated good synergism, resulting in a reduction of 1/4–1/16 of the MIC. The SEM results showed that Acanthamoeba cells treated with a single drug and its combination caused damage to the cell membrane and irregular cell shapes. A good combination displayed by the extract or α-mangostin and chlorhexidine, described for the first time. Therefore, this approach is promising as an alternative method for the management of Acanthamoeba infection in the future.
Ab initio adiabatic study of the AgH system
Authors: Alrebdi Tahani A. , Souissi Hanen , Alkallas Fatemah H. , Aouaini Fatma
Published: April 2021

In the framework of the Born–Oppenheimer (BO) method, we illustrate our ab-initio spectroscopic study of the of silver hydride molecule. The calculation of 48 electrons for this system is very difficult, so we have been employed a pseudo-potential (P.P) to reduce the big number of electrons to two electrons of valence, which is proposed by Barthelat and Durant. This allowed us to make a configuration interaction (CI). The potential energy curves (PECs) and the spectroscopic constants of AgH have been investigated for Σ+, Π and Δ symmetries. We have been determined the permanent and transition dipole moments (PDM and TDM), the vibrational energies levels and their spacing. We compared our results with the available experimental and theoretical results in the literature. We found a good accordance with the experimental and theoretical data that builds a validation of the choice of our approach.
Chemical compounds released by combustion of polymer composites flat belts
Authors: Krawiec Piotr , Warguła Łukasz , Czarnecka-Komorowska Dorota , Janik Paweł , Dziechciarz Anna , Kaczmarzyk Piotr
Published: April 2021

Machines and devices for the production, transport and segregation of products are placed in production and storage rooms. Flat conveyor and drive belts are very often used for their construction. Due to heavy loads and difficult operating conditions, these belts can catch fire and, as a result, become the main source of air contaminants harmful to human health and life. This article examines the emission level of toxic chemical compounds most often produced during the thermal decomposition and combustion of flat drive and conveyor belts. Six types of flat belts, which were made of various polymer materials, i.e., polyamide, rubber, and polyurethane, and were pyrolyzed in a tube furnace at 950 °C, were tested for emission. Using an Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy gas analyser, five gaseous products of combustion were identified, i.e., carbon mono oxide, carbon dioxide, hydrogen cyanide, hydrogen bromide and sulfur dioxide (SO2). Chemical analysis showed that SO2 compounds and hydrogen bromide were present in only two samples. The test results indicate that gas emission concentration limits for all the tested belts were significantly exceeded. A comparative analysis of the concentration limits of V-belts described in the authors' earlier works shows that flat belts demonstrate lower emission levels of harmful compounds than V-belts. In addition, research has shown that compared to traditional rubber-based belts, belts made of modern materials exhibit no emission of hydrogen chloride compounds during thermal decomposition and combustion.
Characterizing unsuccessful animal adoptions: age and breed predict the likelihood of return, reasons for return and post-return outcomes
Authors: Powell Lauren , Reinhard Chelsea , Satriale Donya , Morris Margaret , Serpell James , Watson Brittany
Published: April 2021

A considerable number of adopted animals are returned to animal shelters post-adoption which can be stressful for both the animal and the owner. In this retrospective analysis of 23,932 animal records from a US shelter, we identified animal characteristics associated with the likelihood of return, key return reasons, and outcomes post-return for dogs and cats. Binary logistic regression models were used to describe the likelihood of return, return reason and outcome based on intake age, intake type, sex, breed and return frequency. Behavioral issues and incompatibility with existing pets were the most common return reasons. Age and breed group (dogs only) predicted the likelihood of return, return reason and post-adoption return outcome. Adult dogs had the greatest odds of post-adoption return (OR 3.40, 95% CI 2.88–4.01) and post-return euthanasia (OR 3.94, 95% CI 2.04–7.59). Toy and terrier breeds were 65% and 35% less likely to be returned compared with herding breeds. Pit bull-type breeds were more likely to be returned multiple times (X2 = 18.11,p = 0.01) and euthanized post-return (OR 2.60, 95% CI 1.47–4.61). Our findings highlight the importance of animal behavior in the retention of newly adopted animals and provide useful direction for allocation of resources and future adoption counselling and post-adoption support services.
Transcriptional changes and preservation of bone mass in hibernating black bears
Authors: Goropashnaya Anna V. , Tøien Øivind , Ramaraj Thiruvarangan , Sundararajan Anitha , Schilkey Faye D. , Barnes Brian M. , Donahue Seth W. , Fedorov Vadim B.
Published: April 2021

Physical inactivity leads to losses of bone mass and strength in most mammalian species. In contrast, hibernating bears show no bone loss over the prolonged periods (4–6 months) of immobility during winter, which suggests that they have adaptive mechanisms to preserve bone mass. To identify transcriptional changes that underlie molecular mechanisms preventing disuse osteoporosis, we conducted a large-scale gene expression screening in the trabecular bone and bone marrow, comparing hibernating and summer active bears through sequencing of the transcriptome. Gene set enrichment analysis showed a coordinated down-regulation of genes involved in bone resorption, osteoclast differentiation and signaling, and apoptosis during hibernation. These findings are consistent with previous histological findings and likely contribute to the preservation of bone during the immobility of hibernation. In contrast, no significant enrichment indicating directional changes in gene expression was detected in the gene sets of bone formation and osteoblast signaling in hibernating bears. Additionally, we revealed significant and coordinated transcriptional induction of gene sets involved in aerobic energy production including fatty acid beta oxidation, tricarboxylic acid cycle, oxidative phosphorylation, and mitochondrial metabolism. Mitochondrial oxidation was likely up-regulated by transcriptionally induced AMPK/PGC1α pathway, an upstream stimulator of mitochondrial function.
Author Correction: On the robustness of an eastern boundary upwelling ecosystem exposed to multiple stressors
Authors: Diogoul Ndague , Brehmer Patrice , Demarcq Hervé , El Ayoubi Salaheddine , Thiam Abou , Sarre Abdoulaye , Mouget Anne , Perrot Yannick
Published: April 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Large-scale resculpting of cortical circuits in children after surgical resection
Authors: Maallo Anne Margarette S. , Granovetter Michael C. , Freud Erez , Kastner Sabine , Pinsk Mark A. , Glen Daniel , Patterson Christina , Behrmann Marlene
Published: April 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Artificial neural network, predictor variables and sensitivity threshold for DNA methylation-based age prediction using blood samples
Authors: Thong Zhonghui , Tan Jolena Ying Ying , Loo Eileen Shuzhen , Phua Yu Wei , Chan Xavier Liang Shun , Syn Christopher Kiu-Choong
Published: April 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Detection Strategies for Traditional Illicit Substances
Authors: Conlan X. A. , Theakstone A. G.
Published: April 2021

The complex nature of illicit substances makes for one of the most challenging sample matrices for forensic analytical chemists and this is coupled with the need to deal with the overlay of legal and health policies. This chapter looks at the key fundamental concepts that are the foundation for successful detection strategies towards traditional illicit substances. The analyst needs to consider a range of challenges associated with sampling regimens and how industry standards influence these across a range of jurisdictions. Significant technological advancement has occurred in this space in recent years and this chapter highlights the current forensic analyst's toolbox while aligning this with the policy considerations.
Cesium and iodine release from fluoride-based molten salt reactor fuel
Authors: Beneš O. , Capelli E. , Morelová N. , Colle J.-Y. , Tosolin A. , Wiss T. , Cremer B. , Konings R. J. M.
Published: April 2021

CsF dissolves in fluoride based MSR fuel, which significantly decreases its volatility. CsI has very low solubility in the fuel. Exchange between iodides and fluorides occurs in the MSR fuel, stabilizing the Cs cations in the fuel mixture.
Determination of the efficiency of filtration of cultures from microalgae and bacteria using hollow fiber filters
Authors: Robla J. , García-Hierrro J. , Alguacil F. J. , Dittami S. M. , Marie D. , Villa E. , Deragon E. , Guillebault D. , Mengs G. , Medlin L. K.
Published: April 2021

Sampling with hollow fiber filters can revolutionize sampling routines. Larger volumes, more representative of the population, can be taken and concentrated for downstream analysis to provide a better estimation of the populations being sampled.
Levitation conditions for condensing droplets over heated liquid surfaces
Authors: Zaitsev Dmitry V. , Kirichenko Dmitry P. , Kabov Oleg A. , Ajaev Vladimir S.
Published: April 2021

We report experimental studies of levitation of microdroplets over evaporating liquid layer and show that all data for levitation height as a function of droplet size represented in nondimensional form collapses onto a single curve obtained from mathematical modeling.
A novel electrochemiluminescence aptasensor for sensitive detection of kanamycin based on the synergistic enhancement effects between black phosphorus quantum dots and silver-decorated high-luminescence polydopamine nanospheres
Authors: Wen Jing , Jiang Ding , Shan Xueling , Wang Wenchang , Xu Fangmin , Chen Zhidong
Published: April 2021

Using BPQDs loaded on silver-modified high-luminescence polydopamine nanospheres (HLPNs@Ag/BP) as a luminescent material, the fabricated ECL sensor, which is based on the synergistic enhancement effects, may detect KAN sensitively and selectively.
Broadband cavity-enhanced ultrafast spectroscopy
Authors: Silfies Myles C. , Kowzan Grzegorz , Lewis Neomi , Allison Thomas K.
Published: April 2021

We present an ultrasensitive ultrafast transient absorption spectrometer which allows for all-optical ultrafast measurements in gas-phase systems. We discuss the design of the instrument, show first results, and compare to other techniques.
The effect of defect interactions on the reduction of doped ceria
Authors: Grieshammer Steffen
Published: April 2021

Multi-stage Monte Carlo simulations are applied to predict the non-ideal reduction behavior of doped ceria based on first-principles energies.
Dual carbon-confined Sb2Se3 nanoparticles with pseudocapacitive properties for high-performance lithium-ion half/full batteries
Authors: Han Xu , Ang Edison Huixiang , Zhou Chengyan , Zhu Fengyaun , Zhang Xiaoli , Geng Hongbo , Cao Xueqin , Zheng Junwei , Gu Hongwei
Published: April 2021

N-CNTs encapsulated Sb2Se3 nanoparticles on rGO nanosheets with rapid electron/ions transfer kinetics manifest greatly boosted electrochemical performance in terms of high reversible capacity, stable cycling and good rate performances.
Strong circularly polarized luminescence of mixed lanthanide coordination polymers with control of 4f electronic structures
Authors: Islam Md Jahidul , Kitagawa Yuichi , Tsurui Makoto , Hasegawa Yasuchika
Published: April 2021

This paper reports chiral mixed Eu(iii)–Ln(iii) coordination polymers (Ln = Gd and Sm) for the enhancement of the emission quantum yield (Φtot ≥ 50%), achieved via control of 4f electronic structures.
Progress in the preparation and characterization of silylene iron, cobalt and nickel complexes
Authors: Yang Wenjing , Dong Yanhong , Sun Hongjian , Li Xiaoyan
Published: April 2021

The synthesis of silylene Fe, Co and Ni complexes in the past ten years is summarized. The further challenges are to design silylene–phosphine and silylene–carbene ligands and synthesize their transition metal complexes for catalytic applications.
Acetate intercalated Mg–Al layered double hydroxides (LDHs) through modified amide hydrolysis: a new route to synthesize novel mixed metal oxides (MMOs) for CO2capture
Authors: Manohara G. V. , Norris David , Maroto-Valer M. Mercedes , Garcia Susana
Published: April 2021

SEM images of MMOs derived from Mg–Al-acetate intercalated LDHs synthesized by acetamide hydrolysis with (a) Mg/Al = 3, (b) Mg/Al = 4 and their high temperature CO2capture capacityversustemperature (c) were obtained.
Enhancing the magnetic performance of pyrazine-N-oxide bridged dysprosium chains through controlled variation of ligand coordination modes
Authors: Ji Xiao-Qin , Xiong Jin , Sun Rong , Ma Fang , Sun Hao-Ling , Zhang Yi-Quan , Gao Song
Published: April 2021

The variation of ligand coordination modes can enhance the magnetic performance of dysprosium chains as evidenced by a significant increase of the anisotropy barrier and coercive field.
Size modulation of MIL-125 nanocrystals to promote the catalytic performance towards oxidative desulfurization
Authors: Li Na , Zhang Zong-Wen , Zhang Jia-Ni , Ma Yue , Chen Xiao-Yu , Fan Yang
Published: April 2021

MIL-125 with tunable crystalline size in the range of ca. 50 nm to 1500 nm was synthesized by the coordination modulation method, which exhibits significant size-dependent catalytic activity towards the oxidative desulfurization reaction.
The design of dual-switch fluorescence intensity ratio thermometry with high sensitivity and thermochromism based on a combination strategy of intervalence charge transfer and up-conversion fluorescence thermal enhancement
Authors: Wang Qiang , Liao Min , Lin Qiuming , Xiong Mingxiang , Zhang Xin , Dong Huafeng , Lin Zhiping , Wen Minru , Zhu Daoyun , Mu Zhongfei , Wu Fugen
Published: April 2021

A new dual-switch, wide temperature range and high-sensitivity temperature sensing material La2Mo3O12:Yb3+,Pr3+ has been successfully designed and developed based on intervalence charge transfer and up-conversion strategies.
Fast microwave-assisted preparation of nickel–copper–chromium-layered double hydroxide as an excellent electrocatalyst for water oxidation
Authors: Nejati Kamellia , Jafari Foruzin Leila , Rezvani Zolfaghar
Published: April 2021

A well-designed NiCuCr-LDH was prepared using a simple microwave method. According to the OER results, doping optimal amount of Cu2+ into NiCr-LDH displayed superior OER activity, due to decreased bandgap energy and improved charge transfer.
Modularly aromatic-knit graphitizable phenolic network as a tailored platform for electrochemical applications
Authors: Choi Gwan Hyun , Nam Myeong Gyun , Kwak Seung Jae , Kim Sung Hyun , Chang Hyuk , Shin Chang-Su , Lee Won Bo , Yoo Pil J.
Published: April 2021

A novel graphitizable phenolic network is implemented through modular knitting of tannic acids. Its hybridized phase with metals can offer on-demand tunability for designing electrochemically active materials for energy storage/conversion systems.
All-solid-state lithium batteries enabled by sulfide electrolytes: from fundamental research to practical engineering design
Authors: Wang Changhong , Liang Jianwen , Zhao Yang , Zheng Matthew , Li Xiaona , Sun Xueliang
Published: April 2021

This review summarizes the latest fundamental research advances on all-solid-state lithium batteries with sulfide electrolytes and provides an energy-density-oriented roadmap for practical solid-state pouch cells.
A critical review on the progress and challenges to a more sustainable, cost competitive synthesis of adipic acid
Authors: Rios Jeovanna , Lebeau Juliana , Yang Tian , Li Shuai , Lynch Michael D.
Published: April 2021

A review of recent developments and remaining challenges to the development of greener, cost competitive processes for adipic acid manufacture. Chemical and biotechnological processes from both petroleum based and renewable feedstocks are reviewed.
Small molecule therapeutics for neuroinflammation-mediated neurodegenerative disorders
Authors: Miller Silke , Blanco Maria-Jesus
Published: April 2021

Recent progress on key microglia targets and discovery of small molecule compounds advancing in clinical trials to minimize neuroinflammation.
BaTi(BO3)2: an excellent birefringent material with highly coplanar isolated [BO3] groups
Authors: Aibibula Mukeremu , Guo Jingyu , Han Jian , Tudi Abudukadi , Yang Zhihua , Pan Shilie
Published: April 2021

The birefringence of BaTi(BO3)2 is equal to or larger than 0.169 at 546 nm (Δn(cal.) = 0.185 at 546 nm), which mainly originates from the high-density and parallel arrangement of the isolated [BO3] triangles in the unit cell.
Chromo-fluorogenic sensing using vitamin B6 cofactors and their derivatives: a review
Authors: Sahoo Suban K
Published: April 2021

A comprehensive review of chromo-fluorogenic sensors developed using vitamin B6 cofactors as the analyte recognition unit.
B(C6F5)3-catalyzed tandem protonation/deuteration and reduction of in situ-formed enamines
Authors: Wu Rongpei , Gao Ke
Published: April 2021

B(C6F5)3 exhibits high efficiency in tandem protonation/deuteration and reduction of in situ-formed enamines.
Reversal of polarity by catalytic SET oxidation: synthesis of azabicyclo[m.n.0]alkanes via chemoselective reduction of amidines
Authors: Devarahosahalli Veeranna Kirana , Kanti Das Kanak , Baskaran Sundarababu
Published: April 2021

An efficient one-pot catalytic method has been developed for the synthesis of bicyclic and novel tricyclic amidines using SET oxidation. A chemoselective reduction of cyclic amidines to 2- and 3-azabicyclo[m.n.0]alkane frameworks has been developed.
I2-DMSO mediated oxidative amidation of methyl ketones with anthranils for the synthesis of α-ketoamides
Authors: Zhuang Shi-Yi , Tang Yong-Xing , Chen Xiang-Long , Wu Yan-Dong , Wu An-Xin
Published: April 2021

An I2-DMSO mediated oxidative amidation of methyl ketones and reductive N–O bond cleavage of anthranils.
N-Glycosylation with sulfoxide donors for the synthesis of peptidonucleosides
Authors: Beretta Margaux , Rouchaud Emilie , Nicolas Lionel , Vors Jean-Pierre , Dröge Thomas , Es-Sayed Mazen , Beau Jean-Marie , Norsikian Stéphanie
Published: April 2021

The activation of sulfoxide donors in the glycosylation of pyrimidine bases led efficiently to glycosylated adducts that were converted into peptidonucleosides, the analogues of gougerotin.