bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cultural adaptations of cognitive behavioural therapy for Latin American patients: unexpected findings from a systematic review
Authors: Hernandez Hernandez Maria Elena , Waller Glenn , Hardy Gillian
Published: December 2020

The current literature extensively recommends making cultural adaptations to psychological therapies, in order to address the differences in values, beliefs and attitudes that patients from different ethnic groups might hold. Although this approach has shown positive outcomes in some settings, it is not well established yet whether such adaptations are needed for all therapies and in all cultures. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to systematically review the literature regarding culturally adapted and ‘conventional’ cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for Latin American patients, within Latin American and non-Latin American countries. Sixty empirical studies regarding the effectiveness of culturally adapted and conventional CBT were included in this review. The included studies were carried out in Latin American and non-Latin American countries. The information from all studies was synthesized and assessed, including intervention effect sizes, patient retention rates, methodological quality of the papers, and the type of cultural adaptation made to the therapy. There were no differences between the sets of studies in terms of effectiveness, retention rates, methodological quality, or proportion of statistically significant interventions. Most of the cultural adaptations were peripheral or unspecified. The evidence to date indicates that both conventional and culturally adapted CBT offer the same benefits for Latin American patients in terms of effectiveness and retention rates. Rather than focusing on cultural adaptations, clinicians are encouraged to improve the way they deliver CBT through training and supervision.

Key learning aims

(1)

Cultural adaptations of CBT do not seem to offer any significant benefits to conventional, non-adapted CBT in Latin American patients.

(2)

Most of the adaptations made to CBT for Latin American patients are either peripheral or not disclosed.

(3)

We discuss the implications of adapting CBT for Latin American patients when there is no apparent need to do so.
Responses of Thermospheric Mass Densities to the October 2016 and September 2017 Geomagnetic Storms Revealed From Multiple Satellite Observations
Authors: Li Ruoxi , Lei Jiuhou
Published: December 2020

In this study, the thermospheric mass densities based on satellite Precise Orbit Determination (POD) data from Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE), Swarm‐A, and Swarm‐B were used to explore the thermospheric variations in response to the October 2016 and September 2017 geomagnetic storms which occurred around the equinox. Two of the three satellites were nearly coplanar and the third one flew at a separated orbital plane. Based on the nearly coplanar observations of GRACE and Swarm, the thermospheric mass densities showed different hemispheric asymmetries depending on altitudes. The observations from different local times (LTs) revealed that the density enhancements were similar between the two hemispheres when the LTs were 8–10/20–22 LTs. However, the enhancements were stronger in the southern hemisphere than those in the northern hemisphere at around 16 LT. Moreover, the density enhancements at low latitudes underwent significant day‐night variation as the daytime densities at low latitudes increased more rapidly and strongly than the nightside. Our results demonstrated that the satellite POD data could be used to retrieve high‐cadence thermospheric density to study the variations of the upper atmosphere.
Low-flux scanning electron diffraction reveals substructures inside the ordered membrane domain
Authors: Kinoshita Masanao , Yamaguchi Shimpei , Matsumori Nobuaki
Published: December 2020

Ordered/disordered phase separation occurring in bio-membranes has piqued researchers’ interest because these ordered domains, called lipid rafts, regulate important biological functions. The structure of the ordered domain has been examined with artificial membranes, which undergo macroscopic ordered/disordered phase separation. However, owing to technical difficulties, the local structure inside ordered domains remains unknown. In this study, we employed electron diffraction to examine the packing structure of the lipid carbon chains in the ordered domain. First, we prepared dehydrated monolayer samples using a rapid-freezing and sublimation protocol, which attenuates the shrinkage of the chain-packing lattice in the dehydration process. Then, we optimised the electron flux to minimise beam damage to the monolayer sample. Finally, we developed low-flux scanning electron diffraction and assessed the chain packing structure inside the ordered domain formed in a distearoylphosphatidylcholine/dioleoylphosphatidylcholine binary monolayer. Consequently, we discovered that the ordered domain contains multiple subdomains with different crystallographic axes. Moreover, the size of the subdomain is larger in the domain centre than that near the phase boundary. To our knowledge, this is the first study to reveal the chain packing structures inside an ordered domain.
Multiple electrochemically accessible colour states in surface-confined metal–organic monolayers: stepwise embedding of individual metal centres
Authors: Laschuk Nadia O. , Ahmad Rana , Ebralidze Iraklii I. , Poisson Jade , Gaspari Franco , Easton E. Bradley , Zenkina Olena V.
Published: December 2020

Sequential embedding of metal complexes of 4′-(pyridin-4-yl)-2,2′:6′,2′′-terpyridine to a surface-enhanced supports pre-functionalized with a templating layer results in hetero-bimetallic (Os–Fe, Co–Fe) and hetero-trimetallic (Co–Os–Fe) monolayer materials.
First synthesis of air-stable NiZn homogeneous alloy nanoparticles through chemical reduction
Authors: Okamoto Shinya , Kusada Kohei , Hashiba Hiroshi , Yotsuhashi Satoshi , Kitagawa Hiroshi
Published: December 2020

Air-stable NiZn homogeneous alloy nanoparticles were synthesized by sodium–naphthalenide-driven reduction at the controlled reduction speed of Ni and Zn ions.
Ag(i) and Cu(i) cyclic-triimidazole coordination polymers: revealing different deactivation channels for multiple room temperature phosphorescences
Authors: Malpicci Daniele , Lucenti Elena , Forni Alessandra , Marinotto Daniele , Previtali Andrea , Carlucci Lucia , Mercandelli Pierluigi , Botta Chiara , Righetto Stefania , Cariati Elena
Published: December 2020

The photophysics of isostructural Ag(i) and Cu(i) 1D and 3D coordination polymers based on cyclic triimidazole reveals excitation wavelength-dependent multiple emissions with different radiative paths according to the coordinated metal.
Design of hollow carbon-based materials derived from metal–organic frameworks for electrocatalysis and electrochemical energy storage
Authors: Hu Wenhui , Zheng Mingbo , Xu Bingyan , Wei Ying , Zhu Wei , Li Qing , Pang Huan
Published: December 2020

Hollow carbon-based materials derived from metal–organic frameworks for electrocatalysis and electrochemical energy storage are summarized and evaluated.
Analysis of Long-Term Gravitational and Seismic Measurements in the Pamir - Tien-Shan Region
Authors: Sverdlik Leonid , Lazareva Ekaterina
Published: December 2020

Long-term variations (2003–2015) of the Equivalent Water Height (EWH) above the geoid's contour obtained from GRACE satellite measurements are analyzed to establish the relationship between changes in the gravitational field with the stress-strain state of the geological environment and the seismic process in Central Asia (Pamir and Tien-Shan regions). The earthquakes gravitational effects study, based on the use of various GRACE models allows us to distinguish the component of the gravity field, which may be related to seismic activity. The results of temporal and spatial gravitational anomalies identification, the probable causes of which were tectonic factors associated with the redistribution of masses in the lithosphere as a result of large (M>5.5) regional earthquakes, are presented.
Impact of climate change on agricultural crops yield on the territory of the Republic of Armenia
Authors: Margaryan Varduhi , Tsibulskii Gennady , Fedotova Elena
Published: December 2020

The article assesses the change in air temperature and precipitation, and also examines the impact of climate change on crop yields in the Republic of Armenia. As a source of information, the actual data of agrometeorological observations of the GEO "Center for Hydrometeorology and Monitoring" of the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Armenia and the National Statistical Service are used. As a result of the study, it turned out that there are trends towards an increase in the average annual values of air temperature and heat provision of crops (in total temperatures above 10.0 ° C). In the studied area, there are no regular changes in the amount of atmospheric precipitation over the year. The impact of climate change will only worsen and lead to various problems in water industry, agriculture, energy, health and other sectors. In the republic in 2000-2018 are observed of both the gross harvest and agricultural crops yield increase, with the exception of the tobacco crop. However, this does not mean that agricultural crops are not affected by climate change.
Cataloging system for Russian satellites remote sensing data: main characteristics and operating experience
Authors: Kadochnikov Alexey , Tokarev Alexey
Published: December 2020

A local archive and a system for cataloging satellite data from Russian spacecraft that are received by the FRC KSC SB RAS through the services of the Roscosmos Geoportal have been developed. An automated system for remote sensing data preprocessing has been created, which significantly simplifies access to information, implements search services and web visualization of images registered in the catalog. Practical experience in operating the system has revealed a number of shortcomings of the existing Roscosmos data distribution system. Presented data on the execution of the Roscosmos satellite survey order in 2019 they show that the capabilities of the Russian remote sensing system are very limited, and a significant part of the planned research work has not been implemented due to the lack of ordered satellite data.
Quadrivalent human papillomavirus vaccination successfully reduces the prevalence of vaccine-targeted genotypes in a young, vaccine-eligible-age sample of Australian females
Authors: Subasinghe Asvini K. , Wark John D. , Phillips Samuel , Cornall Alyssa , Brotherton Julia M. L. , Garland Suzanne M.
Published: December 2020

Background
The prevalence of genital tract vaccine-type human papillomavirus (HPV) is on the decline due to high vaccine uptake through the national HPV immunisation program in Australia. The aim of this study was to investigate HPV vaccine coverage and factors associated with HPV in a vaccine-eligible sample of young Australian females. Methods: Females aged 16–25 years were recruited into the Young Female Health Initiative study, a young women’s health study, via Facebook advertising from 2012 to 2017. Sexually active participants were asked to provide a self-collected vaginal swab for the detection of HPV DNA; positive samples were genotyped. Self-reported HPV vaccination status was confirmed by the National HPV Vaccination Program Register. Outcomes of the study were HPV acquisition and genotype, HPV vaccination status and factors associated with HPV. Results: Overall, 22.8% of samples (95% confidence interval (CI) 17.8–27.8%; n = 62/272) were positive for any HPV DNA, of which 19.1% (95% CI 14.4–23.8%; n = 52/272) were oncogenic types. HPV 16 was detected in three samples (1.1%; 95% CI –0.1%, 2.3%; two not HPV vaccinated and one vaccinated after sexual debut). Early sexual debut (<16 years) and multiple sexual partners were independently associated with an increased risk of any HPV. Conclusions: In a community sample of vaccine-eligible-age females with a high vaccine uptake, the prevalence of vaccine-related HPV genotypes is extremely low. Early sexual debut and multiple sexual partners are positively associated with HPV, underscoring the importance of vaccination at the routinely recommended age of 12–13 years for best vaccine impact.
Connectivity-based time centrality in time-varying graphs
Authors: Cludia Ana , de Souza M. , Vieira Alex Borges , Wehmuth Klaus , Ziviani Artur
Published: December 2020

Time-varying graphs (TVGs) enable the study and understanding of the dynamics of many real-world networked systems. The notion of centrality in TVG scenarios generally refers to metrics that assess the relative importance of nodes over time in the evolution of a complex dynamic network. In contrast, the notion of Time Centrality, which evaluates the relative importance of time instants in dynamic complex networks, is still little explored. Indeed, the few works on Time Centrality base their findings on the study of diffusion processes, for example, identifying the best time instant to start the dissemination of a message envisaging a more efficient diffusion given the expected network dynamics. In contrast, in this work, we study Time Centrality from a network connectivity perspective. In this context, we propose two connectivity-based metrics to identify the most important time instants in the network. The first metric is the Time Degree Centrality that, analogously to node degree centrality, computes the number of connections that each time instant has. The second metric, Time PageRank Centrality, searches for the time instants that receive the largest number of accumulated connections since they are considered weights at each time instant. To validate the metrics, we model a public multimodal transport network considering time as an aspect of each node. We then apply the proposed metrics and analyse the results from a connectivity-based time centrality perspective. Our results show that the two metrics can identify the most important time instants in different scenarios of complex network dynamics.
On the (In)consistency of RE modeling
Authors: Heymann Daniel , Pascuini Paulo
Published: December 2020

The notion of rational expectations (RE) as usually understood seeks to encompass two different propositions: (i) perceived law of motion equals actual law of motion: an equivalence between the probability distributions of future outcomes which inform the decisions of agents and the objective distributions which generate those outcomes; (ii) perceived law of motion equals model law of motion: a correspondence of the subjective distributions underlying the choices of agents and the distributions generated by professionally validated models (particularly that which the analyst proposes contemporaneously). Both definitions are quite different unless absolute validity is counterfactually attributed to the provisional and fallible models constructed by economists. A further ambiguity arises with the model-consistent notion since the constructs built by economists have certainly evolved and will continue to change. If an economist imputes current-model-consistent expectations to agents in the past when trying to validate that model, she attributes to those individuals different beliefs from those that the analyst held at the time. These issues condition the logic and significance of large segments of macroeconomic theory. They seem particularly relevant for the study of phenomena like the processes leading to financial crises, where unsustainable patterns of behavior may have once found support in influential bodies of macroanalysis.
Compensation and Moral Luck
Authors: Heinzelmann Nora
Published: December 2020

In some vicarious cases of compensation, an agent seems obligated to compensate for a harm they did not inflict. This raises the problem that obligations for compensation may arise out of circumstantial luck. That is, an agent may owe compensation for a harm that was outside their control. Addressing this issue, I identify five conditions for compensation from the literature: causal engagement, proxy, ill-gotten gains, constitution, and affiliation. I argue that only two of them specify genuine and irreducible grounds for compensation, and that factors determining the agent’s obligations may be beyond their control. However, I suggest that this is unproblematic. There is thus no problem of circumstantial moral luck for compensation.
Acquisition and Long-term Carriage of Multidrug-Resistant Organisms in US International Travelers
Authors: Worby Colin J , Earl Ashlee M , Turbett Sarah E , Becker Margaret , Rao Sowmya R , Oliver Elizabeth , Taylor Walker Allison , Walters Maroya , Kelly Paul , Leung Daniel T , Knouse Mark , Hagmann Stefan H F , Ryan Edward T , LaRocque Regina C
Published: December 2020

We performed prospective screening of stool for multidrug-resistant organisms from 608 US international travelers and identified an acquisition rate of 38% following travel. Carriage rates remained significantly elevated for at least 6 months post-travel. Travel-related diarrhea was a risk factor for acquisition, as well as for long-term carriage upon return.
Prevalence of Co-infection at the Time of Hospital Admission in COVID-19 Patients, A Multicenter Study
Authors: Karaba Sara M , Jones George , Helsel Taylor , Smith L Leigh , Avery Robin , Dzintars Kathryn , Salinas Alejandra B , Keller Sara C , Townsend Jennifer L , Klein Eili , Amoah Joe , Garibaldi Brian T , Cosgrove Sara E , Fabre Valeria
Published: December 2020

Background

Bacterial infections may complicate viral pneumonias. Recent reports suggest that bacterial co-infection at time of presentation is uncommon in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19); however, estimates were based on microbiology tests alone. We sought to develop and apply consensus definitions, incorporating clinical criteria to better understand the rate of co-infections and antibiotic use in COVID-19.

Methods

A total of 1016 adult patients admitted to 5 hospitals in the Johns Hopkins Health System between March 1, 2020, and May 31, 2020, with COVID-19 were evaluated. Adjudication of co-infection using definitions developed by a multidisciplinary team for this study was performed. Both respiratory and common nonrespiratory co-infections were assessed. The definition of bacterial community-acquired pneumonia (bCAP) included proven (clinical, laboratory, and radiographic criteria plus microbiologic diagnosis), probable (clinical, laboratory, and radiographic criteria without microbiologic diagnosis), and possible (not all clinical, laboratory, and radiographic criteria met) categories. Clinical characteristics and antimicrobial use were assessed in the context of the consensus definitions.

Results

Bacterial respiratory co-infections were infrequent (1.2%); 1 patient had proven bCAP, and 11 (1.1%) had probable bCAP. Two patients (0.2%) had viral respiratory co-infections. Although 69% of patients received antibiotics for pneumonia, the majority were stopped within 48 hours in patients with possible or no evidence of bCAP. The most common nonrespiratory infection was urinary tract infection (present in 3% of the cohort).

Conclusions

Using multidisciplinary consensus definitions, proven or probable bCAP was uncommon in adults hospitalized due to COVID-19, as were other nonrespiratory bacterial infections. Empiric antibiotic use was high, highlighting the need to enhance antibiotic stewardship in the treatment of viral pneumonias.
Secondary attack rate in household contacts of COVID-19 Paediatric index cases: a study from Western India
Authors: Shah Komal , Kandre Yogini , Mavalankar Dileep
Published: December 2020

Background

Role of pediatric cases in secondary transmission of COVID-19 is not well understood. We aim to study secondary attack rate (SAR) of COVID-19 in household contacts of pediatric index cases from Gujarat, Western Indian state.

Methods

For this cross-sectional study, details of 2412 paediatric patients were collected from Government records. Through stratified random sampling 10% (n = 242) of the patients were selected for the study and were telephonically contacted for obtaining the details of household secondary infection; 72 pediatric index cases having 287 household contacts were included in the study.

Results

The SAR in household contacts of pediatric index cases was 1.7% (95% CI: 0.74–4%). Majority of the index cases were males (94.4%) with 66% of the patients being admitted at various hospitals and isolation facilities (45%); 37% were home quarantine. Of 72, 50 (74%) cases were aged between 12 and 18 years. The family size of the index cases causing secondary infection was comparatively larger than index cases without secondary household infection (6.75 ± 2.3 versus 4.9 ± 1.9; P = 0.034).

Conclusions

The household SAR from pediatric patients is low and is closely associated with the family size of the index cases. Hence, home quarantine should be advocated in smaller families with appropriate isolation facilities.
Perinatal Epidermal Growth Factor Signal Perturbation Results in the Series of Abnormal Auditory Oscillations and Responses Relevant to Schizophrenia
Authors: Inaba Hiroyoshi , Kai Ryota , Namba Hisaaki , Sotoyama Hidekazu , Jodo Eiichi , Nin Fumiaki , Hibino Hiroshi , Yabe Hirooki , Eifuku Satoshi , Horii Arata , Nawa Hiroyuki
Published: December 2020

Auditory neurophysiological responses, such as steady-state responses, event-related potential P300/P3, and phase-amplitude coupling, are promising translational biomarkers for schizophrenia, but their molecular underpinning is poorly understood. Focusing on ErbB receptor signals that are implicated in both schizophrenia and auditory processing/cognition, we explored the causal biological links between ErbB signals and these auditory traits with an experimental intervention into rats. We peripherally challenged rat pups with one of the amniotic ErbB ligands, epidermal growth factor (EGF), and characterized its consequence on the series of these auditory electrocorticographic measures. Auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) and cortical ON responses were also assessed under anesthesia to estimate the influence of higher brain regions. An auditory steady-state paradigm revealed attenuation of spectral power and phase synchrony to 40-Hz stimuli in EGF-challenged rats. We observed a reduction in duration mismatch negativity-like potentials and a delay of P3a responses, all of which are relevant to the reported auditory pathophysiological traits of patients with schizophrenia. Moreover, the perinatal EGF challenges resulted in enhanced theta-alpha/beta and theta-gamma coupling within the auditory cortex and changes in ABRs. However, the EGF challenges retained the normal ranges of cortical ON responses, potentially ruling out their fundamental auditory deficits. Perinatal exposure of an ErbB ligand to rats strikingly reproduced the whole series of aberrant auditory responses and oscillations previously reported in patients with schizophrenia. Accordingly, these findings suggest that developmental deficits in ErbB/EGF signaling might be involved in the auditory pathophysiology associated with schizophrenia.
Correlation Between Invasive and Noninvasive Technique of Intracranial Pressure Measurement in Children With Traumatic Brain Injury: An Observational Study
Authors: Dhanda Ankur , Singh Gyaninder P. , Bindra Ashish
Published: December 2020

Background:

Direct measurement of intracranial pressure (ICP) is an invasive technique with potential complications, which has prompted the development of alternative, noninvasive, methods of ICP assessment. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between noninvasive ultrasound-based measurement of optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD), transcranial Doppler-derived pulsatility index (PI), and invasive ICP measurements in children with traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Methods:

Children aged 1 to 18 years undergoing invasive ICP monitoring following TBI were included in the study. Noninvasive ONSD and PI measurements were compared with simultaneous invasive ICP.

Results:

In all, 406 measurements of ONSD and PI were obtained in 18 patients. ONSD and PI correlated with ICP (r=0.76 and 0.79, respectively), combining ONSD and PI resulted in an even stronger correlation with ICP (r=0.99). Formulas were derived from mixed-effect models that best fitted the data for noninvasive ICP estimation. A combination of ONSD and PI had the highest ability to detect ICP >20 mm Hg (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve=0.99, 95% confidence interval: 0.99-1.00). Optimal cutoff values for the prediction of intracranial hypertension were 5.95 mm for ONSD (sensitivity, 92%; specificity, 76%) and 1.065 for PI (sensitivity, 92%; specificity, 87%).

Conclusions:

In children with TBI, a combination of ONSD and PI strongly correlates with invasive ICP and has potential to screen for intracranial hypertension noninvasively. ONSD and PI may be useful tools for assessing ICP where invasive monitoring is unavailable or contraindicated.
Treating patients across European Union borders
Authors: Adam Elisabeth H. , Flinspach Armin N. , Jankovic Radmilo , De Hert Stefan , Zacharowski Kai
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

In light of the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, how resources are managed and the critically ill are allocated must be reviewed. Although ethical recommendations have been published, strategies for dealing with overcapacity of critical care resources have so far not been addressed.

OBJECTIVES

Assess expert opinion for allocation preferences regarding the growing imbalance between supply and demand for medical resources.

DESIGN

A 10-item questionnaire was developed and sent to the most prominent members of the European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (ESAIC).

SETTING

Survey via a web-based platform.

PATIENTS

Respondents were members of the National Anaesthesiologists Societies Committee and Council Members of the ESAIC; 74 of 80 (92.5%), responded to the survey.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Responses were analysed thematically. The majority of respondents (83.8%), indicated that resources for COVID-19 were available at the time of the survey. Of the representatives of the ESAIC governing bodies, 58.9% favoured an allocation of excess critical care capacity: 69% wished to make them available to supraregional patients, whereas 30.9% preferred to keep the resources available for the local population. Regarding the type of distribution of resources, 35.3% preferred to make critical care available, 32.4% favoured the allocation of medical equipment and 32.4% wished to support both options. The majority (59.5%) supported the implementation of a central European institution to manage such resource allocation.

CONCLUSION

Experts in critical care support the allocation of resources from centres with overcapacity. The results indicate the need for centrally administered allocation mechanisms that are not based on ethically disputable triage systems. It seems, therefore, that there is wide acceptance and solidarity among the European anaesthesiological community that local medical and human pressure should be relieved during a pandemic by implementing national and international re-allocation strategies among healthcare providers and healthcare systems.
A Population Pharmacokinetic Modeling Approach to Determine the Efficacy of Intravenous Amikacin in Children with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Woillard Jean-Baptiste , Bouchet Stéphane , Fayon Michael , Marquet Pierre , Monchaud Caroline , Bui Stéphanie
Published: December 2020

Background:

In children with cystic fibrosis (CF), the currently recommended amikacin dose ranges between 30 and 35 mg/kg/d; however, data supporting this dosing efficacy are lacking. In this article, the objectives were to develop a nonparametric pharmacokinetic population model for amikacin in children with CF and investigate the efficacy and toxicity at different dose rates for distinct minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) clinical breakpoints using Monte Carlo simulations.

Methods:

Data from 94 children with CF (613 serum concentrations) from the Bordeaux University Hospital's CF-centre were analyzed. After determination of nonparametric pharmacokinetic population model parameters and associated influent covariates in Pmetrics, 1000 Monte Carlo simulations were performed for 7 different dose rates between 30 and 60 mg/kg/d, to predict the probability of obtaining peak serum amikacin ≥10 × MIC and trough level ≤2.5 mg/L, for MIC values between 1 and 16 mg/L.

Results:

The median (min–max) age and weight were 10 (0.3–17) years and 29 (6–71) kg, respectively, with only 2 children younger than 1 year of age. Body weight and creatinine clearance significantly impacted the amikacin volume of distribution and clearance. The mean relative bias/root mean squared error between observed and individual predicted concentrations was −0.68%/8.1%. Monte Carlo simulations showed that for sensitive bacteria with MICs ≤ 4, 30 mg/kg/d was most appropriate for a 100% success rate; for bacteria with MICs ≥ 8 [eg, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MICamikacin = 8)], a dose of at least 40 mg/kg/d allowed a high success probability (90%), with a trough level below 2.5 mg/L.

Conclusions:

For intermediate pathogens, a dose of at least 40 mg/kg/d can improve efficacy, with an acceptable calculated residual trough level in cases of normal or hyperfiltration. Because amikacin undergoes renal clearance, which is immature until 1 year of age, dosing recommendations for this age group may be markedly high, warranting cautious interpretation.
A History of the Radiation Warning Sign
Authors: Frame Paul W. , Frame Emily A.
Published: December 2020

This paper provides a history of the radiation warning sign with a focus on the period from 1946 to 1948. It employs previously unpublished material from the University of California Radiation Laboratory’s Health Chemistry Group, the memoirs of John Gifford, and an account by George Warlick. Also considered is an alternative version of the sign’s origin described by Cyrill Orly.
Magnetoacoustic wave energy dissipation in the atmosphere of solar pores
Authors: Gilchrist-Millar Caitlin A. , Jess David B. , Grant Samuel D. T. , Keys Peter H. , Beck Christian , Jafarzadeh Shahin , Riedl Julia M. , Van Doorsselaere Tom , Ruiz Cobo Basilio
Published: December 2020

The suitability of solar pores as magnetic wave guides has been a key topic of discussion in recent years. Here, we present observational evidence of propagating magnetohydrodynamic wave activity in a group of five photospheric solar pores. Employing data obtained by the Facility Infrared Spectropolarimeter at the Dunn Solar Telescope, oscillations with periods of the order of 5 min were detected at varying atmospheric heights by examining Si ɪ 10827 Å line bisector velocities. Spectropolarimetric inversions, coupled with the spatially resolved root mean square bisector velocities, allowed the wave energy fluxes to be estimated as a function of atmospheric height for each pore. We find propagating magnetoacoustic sausage mode waves with energy fluxes on the order of 30 kW m
−2
at an atmospheric height of 100 km, dropping to approximately 2 kW m
−2
at an atmospheric height of around 500 km. The cross-sectional structuring of the energy fluxes reveals the presence of both body- and surface-mode sausage waves. Examination of the energy flux decay with atmospheric height provides an estimate of the damping length, found to have an average value across all five pores of
L

d

 ≈ 268 km, similar to the photospheric density scale height. We find the damping lengths are longer for body mode waves, suggesting that surface mode sausage oscillations are able to more readily dissipate their embedded wave energies. This work verifies the suitability of solar pores to act as efficient conduits when guiding magnetoacoustic wave energy upwards into the outer solar atmosphere.

This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue ‘High-resolution wave dynamics in the lower solar atmosphere’.
Group affiliation and corporate debt maturity: Co-insurance or expropriation
Authors: Sur Jagan Kumar , Chauhan Yogesh
Published: December 2020

Purpose

We examine how business group affiliation affects corporate debt maturity.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs the financial data of all listed Indian companies obtained from the CMIE database for 2011–2018. The ordinary least square, firm-fixed effect and Fama–Macbeth regression methods are used for empirical analysis. We use propensity score matching and difference-in-difference method to address endogeneity issues. Further, two-stage least square (2SLS) regression is performed to mitigate the endogeneity that stems from simultaneity between debt maturity and leverage.

Findings

Using Indian firms, we report that group affiliation is positively associated with corporate debt maturity; group firms use more long-term debt compared to similar standalone firms. We also observe that the positive effect of group affiliation on debt maturity is more pronounced in business group firms associated with a group having more resources and having unrelated diversification. However, information asymmetry and moral hazard problems weaken the impact of group affiliation on debt maturity structure of a firm. Overall, our results are consistent with co-insurance benefits that are an argument for the presence of business groups in emerging markets.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing literature by testing the role of group affiliation on corporate debt maturity decisions in the Indian market context where market imperfections persuade firms to borrow from banks. This is also the first study on determinants of corporate debt maturity that distinguishes between public and private debt.
Aotearoa New Zealand: keeping the virus at bay
Authors: Lilley Spencer
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This paper responds to an invitation from the Editor to write about how the COVID-19 virus has impacted on New Zealand and possible future outcomes, which are presented as three scenarios.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a scenario-based methodology to outline the implications of COVID-19 in New Zealand. Three different scenarios are presented for consideration.

Findings

There is a need for adaptability and flexibility in the way that New Zealand approaches how it recovers from the impact that COVID-19 has had. Specific challenges for libraries are to ensure that they can continue to deliver resources and services to their communities in a fast-changing environment.

Research limitations/implications

There will be a substantial number of research opportunities in the years ahead to identify how libraries were able to contribute to recovery efforts.

Originality/value

This is a thought piece, delivered as scenarios. It only presents the views of the author.
Managing a library service through a crisis
Authors: Cowell Jane
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The study aims to explore public libraries' ability to respond to worst-case scenarios and whether planning and scenario planning is a useful exercise to prepare library staff and library organisations for quick and agile responses to crises in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

Personal viewpoint of crisis management of a library service through the experience of the library service the author manages.

Findings

This paper describes Yarra Plenty Regional Library’s (YPRL’s) response to the pandemic and lockdowns in Metro Melbourne. It offers some opinions on library services readiness to respond to crises and describes the foundations of YPRL's successful response.

Originality/value

YPRL is a regional corporation governed by a board of directors and serves three councils. This is one of 10 such corporations in Victoria. The organisation's response and the development as a corporation through this crisis is something that other organisations can learn from.
Multidimensional morphological assessment for middle school students
Authors: Goodwin Amanda , Petscher Yaacov , Tock Jamie
Published: December 2020

Background

Middle school students use the information conveyed by morphemes (i.e., units of meaning such as prefixes, root words and suffixes) in different ways to support their literacy endeavours, suggesting the likelihood that morphological knowledge is multidimensional. This has important implications for assessment.

Methods

The current study investigates the dimensionality of morphological knowledge considering the performance of 3,214 fifth through eighth graders on a range of morphological tasks (N = 14 across the project's development and 10 for dimensionality analyses) and items (N = 491) using multiple‐group item response modelling. It then presents validation evidence related to performance of 1,140 fifth through eighth graders on a gamified, computer‐adaptive, multidimensional assessment of morphological knowledge, which consists of seven morphological tasks and 181 items that make four morphological skills.

Results

Results indicate morphological knowledge is multidimensional and best represented via a bifactor model of four skills as well as task‐related variance. These skills are Skill 1: Morphological Awareness; Skill 2: Morphological‐Syntactic Knowledge; Skill 3: Morphological‐Semantic Knowledge; and Skill 4: Morphological‐Orthographic/Phonological Knowledge. The assessment designed after this model, called Monster, PI, was shown to be both reliable and valid, with each morphological knowledge skill explaining unique variance in standardised reading vocabulary.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that morphological skills play unique roles in language and literacy outcomes. This indicates the importance of conceptualising and assessing morphological knowledge as multidimensional. Implications for theory, research, policy and practice are considered.
Prenatal diagnosis of anomalous connection of the inferior caval vein to the left atrium associated with common arterial trunk
Authors: Houyel Lucile , Cohen Laurence , Burlot Patrick , Heitzmann Anne , Bonnet Damien
Published: December 2020

Anomalous connection of the inferior caval vein to the left atrium is exceedingly rare, and has even been considered by some authors an anatomic and embryologic impossibility. This study demonstrates for the first time the existence of this rare malformation, diagnosed on prenatal echo, and confirmed on post‐mortem examination in a 24 WG fetus, in association with a common arterial trunk.
Family satisfaction in a neuro traumaICU
Authors: Peterson Matthew J. , Woerhle Theo , Harry Melissa , Heger Anna Mae C. , Gerchman‐Smith Mary , Vogel Linda , Hughes Carolyn , McCarty Catherine
Published: December 2020

Objective

The purpose of this quality improvement initiative was to evaluate satisfaction of family members of patients in a neuro trauma ICU (NTICU).

Methods

Adult patients (age 18+) admitted to the NTICU for at least 24 hours between June 2017 and November 2018 were identified. Near or at the time of discharge from the NTICU, the health unit coordinator or registered nurse identified the family member who was either the next‐of‐kin, surrogate decision‐maker, or person who had been most frequently present at the patient's bedside. This person was provided a packet containing a letter of consent and the Critical Care Family Satisfaction Survey (CCFSS).

Results

Surveys were completed by 78 family members, the majority of whom were the wife of the patient (n = 35, 44%), 60 years and older (n = 48, 60.8%). Fifty‐seven percent of patients (n = 45) were in the ICU less than 3 days and 59% (n = 47) of medical events were injury‐related. Total CCFSS scores ranged from 69 to 100 (median 95). The item with the largest number of dissatisfied responses was “Noise level in the critical care unit” (n = 4, 5.3% not satisfied). Open‐ended question comments were primarily positive (n = 60, 66%), with 32% (n = 29) representing areas for improvement.

Conclusions

Results of this satisfaction survey have been disseminated to leadership and have been taken into consideration in the planning of a new hospital building currently being built, including ICU patient rooms that allow for more privacy and reduced noise, and more comfortable family rooms.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Family members are a very useful source of feedback for ICU care. Several concerns identified by family members in this study are likely to be relevant to other sites. These included: communication between health care providers and family about patient status, noise in the ICU, peaceful waiting areas for family, and slow transfers.
O projeto político-pedagógico de ciências contábeis e a pedagogia das competências. Percepções da coordenação e os docentes em uma IES da cidade de São Paulo
Authors: De Souza Dias Ana Lucia , Peleias Ivam Ricardo , Petarnella Leandro , Costa Nunes Simone , Fróis de Carvalho Ronaldo
Published: December 2020

Esta pesquisa tem como objetivo analisar de que maneira é percebida a noção de competências em um curso de Ciências Contábeis, sob a ótica de sua coordenação e seus docentes. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, dedutiva e exploratória, aplicada a uma IES do município de São Paulo/SP. Utilizaram-se técnicas de coleta e análise documental, entrevistas semiestruturadas e análise de conteúdo para avaliar as percepções sobre formação de competências em membros da instituição. Conclui-se que, apesar de antever nos documentos oficiais referências ao Currículo Mundial, as ações cotidianas ainda se centram no desempenho conteudista secularmente instituído. Sugere-se, para pesquisas futuras, replicar os estudos em outras IES, na tentativa de se repertoriar as lacunas existentes ara a implantação do Currículo Mundial nas IES brasileiras.
Coloration of Surfaces With Periodic Microstructures Replicated by Nonisothermal Precision Molding
Authors: Zhong Yong , Du Ruxu , Zhang Lin , Yi Allen Y.
Published: December 2020

Micro/nanoperiodic structures are generally adopted in diffraction gratings. As an important optical component, the diffraction grating has the capability to split and diffract incident white light beams into iridescent beams dispersing to different directions. The appearance of coloration is a form of structural coloration by optical diffraction. In this paper, the nonisothermal precision molding is introduced for rapid and precise replication of periodic micro/nanograting structures, which are employed to render iridescent colors onto surfaces. First, the effect of colorization and periodic grating profiles are theoretically analyzed. Second, different periodic microgratings on silicon wafer, which are generally generated by photolithography, are employed in nonisothermal precision molding process as mold inserts. The molding result indicates that the periodic grating space and depth of grating structures can be precisely replicated from the mold inserts to polymer substrates. Subsequently, the split and iridescent color effects are demonstrated with monochromatic and white incident light beam and compared between samples with different periodic grating spaces. The optical effects of the replicated microstructures confirm the feasibility of this method. The proposed nonisothermal precision molding process provides an alternative manufacturing option for realizing structural colors with large volume and low cost.
Synthesis and interface modification of oxide solid-state electrolyte-based all-solid-state lithium-ion batteries: Advances and perspectives
Authors: He Linchun , Oh Jin An Sam , Chua Jun Jie Jason , Zhou Henghui
Published: December 2020

All-solid-state Li-ion batteries (ASSLiBs) are considered as promising next-generation energy storage devices, and the one that is based on oxide ceramic solid-state electrolyte (SSE) has attracted much attention for its high safety and stability in ambient conduction compared with that of used sulfur and polymer SSEs. However, the undeformable nature of the ceramic SSEs brings new issues such as poor interface bonding, limited contact area and limited cathode utilization for the ASSLiBs. In addition, the interface reaction and resistance are also obstacles for ASSLiBs application. In this review, we focus on the synthesis and electrochemical properties, interface modification and failure mechanism of ASSLiBs. Finally, perspectives of future researches on the ceramic SSEs-based ASSLiBs are discussed.
From the Editor: On Beijing Dragons and Bengal Tigers
Authors: Rajeshwar Krishnan
Published: December 2020

China and India. Rarely has more been written and said about the economic ascent of these two nations, which together account for approximately one-third of the world’s population. The rest of the world is viewing them with a mixture of awe, opportunism, and even trepidation. The postwar era heralded booming economies in Japan and Korea, thanks mainly to the auto and microelectronics sectors. On the other hand, China and India are powering worldwide growth in a whole spectrum of industries ranging from manufacturing to tech services and back-office operations.
From the President - Winter 2007
Authors: MacDougall Barry
Published: December 2020

My second communication as President comes after our successful fall meeting in Washington, DC. I was very pleased to meet with representatives from our Brazilian, South Korean, and Taiwanese Sections during the meeting, and to plan for future ECS Executive Committee visits to our Sections during the next year.
Enzymatic Biofuel Cells
Authors: Atanassov Plamen , Banta Scott , Barton Scott Calabrese , Cooney Michael , Liaw Bor Yann , Mukerjee Sanjeev , Apblett Chris
Published: December 2020

What would it be like if you could recharge your cell phone battery instantly by pouring your soft drink into it? Such applications may be a long way off, but the U.S. Air Force Office of Scientific Research is investing in such a future now.
Nanostructured Semiconductor Composites for Solar Cells
Authors: Subramanian Vaidyanathan (Ravi)
Published: December 2020

This feature is a review of fundamentals, characterization tools, and related composites.
Integrated Theoretical and Experimental Studies of Fuel Cell Electrocatalysts
Authors: Zawodzinski Thomas , Neurock Matthew , Wieckowski Andrzej , Mukerjee Sanjeev
Published: December 2020

Significant progress has taken place over the past decade or so in understanding catalysis in electrochemical systems. Electrocatalysts used in fuel cells are a long-standing example of the application of nanotechnology in electrochemistry.
Electrochemical Synthesis of Nanothermocouples
Authors: Güell Aleix G.
Published: December 2020

The 2007 Edward G. Weston Summer Research Fellowship — Summary Report
Electrochemical Capacitors: Challenges and Opportunities for Real-World Applications
Authors: Miller John R. , Burke Andrew
Published: December 2020

People today are very familiar with different battery technologies, from small zinc-air button cells to AAA alkali cells to spiral wound lithium ion laptop batteries to fifty-pound lead acid batteries found in automobiles. This situation has come about because people rely heavily on battery power. Common battery applications include, for instance, power for cell phones, Sony Walkman, PDAs, laptop computers, Ipod players, digital cameras, and on and on. In sharp contrast, people today are much less familiar with capacitor technologies, although capacitors also store energy.