bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
8‐Hydroxyquinoline Fluorophore for Sensing of Metal Ions and Anions
Authors: Rohini  , Paul Kamaldeep , Luxami Vijay
Published: November 2020

Among various known hydroxyquinolines, 8‐hydroxyquinoline (8‐HQ) is the most prevalent moiety due to excellent property for the formation of the complex with different metal ions and anions, and utilized in a wide variety of applications in pharmacological and medicinal fields. 8‐Hydroxyquinoline moiety and its analogues acts as fluorophoric ligands on complex formation with alkali and alkaline as well as transition metal ions and anions, thus, considered as an ideal building block in metallo‐supramolecular chemistry for recognition, separation, and quantitative investigation of cations. 8‐Hydroxyquinoline moiety is also used in various applications for the advancement of novel fluorescent chemosensors in a wide variety of areas viz., material chemistry, bioorganic chemistry, molecular imaging, analytical chemistry, molecular recognition, medical and biological science communities. The present review emphasises on the progress of sensing properties of 8‐HQ centred small‐molecule fluorescent chemosensors towards several metal ions viz., Fe3+, Al3+, Ag+, Hg2+, Cu2+, Pd2+, Zn2+, Cr3+, Cd2+, Mn2+, Ca2+, and K+ and anions such as F−, CN− and PPi, from 2008 to 2020, because of their sensitivity and selectivity in terms of diverse colour changes for different species. This critical and comprehensive review might facilitate the improvement of more prevailing chemosensors for future exciting and broad applications.
Dynamic Optimization of SVR Control Parameters for Improving Tap Operation Efficiency of Voltage Control in Distribution Networks
Authors: Murakami Kohei , Yoshizawa Shinya , Ishii Hideo , Hayashi Yasuhiro , Kondo Hiroshi , Kanazawa Yuki , Nomura Hideo , Kajikawa Takuya
Published: November 2020

In this study, we propose a new optimization method to determine the control parameters of a step voltage regulator (SVR) to maximize its voltage control characteristic in distribution networks (DNs) with photovoltaic systems. Considering the service life of an SVR, the proposed method evaluates the expected number of tap operations and the voltage control performance based on the past voltage measurements obtained with sensors in the DN. Subsequently, the time series of two control parameters, that is, the reference voltage and the dead bandwidth, are determined for the most improved voltage control characteristic of the SVR, maintaining the number of tap operations within the upper limit. Voltage control simulation using a realistic 6.6‐kV DN model is conducted to show that the proposed method significantly reduces the voltage violation compared with the conventional SVR control using fixed parameters, as well as the alternative SVR operation developed in our previous study, in which the reference voltage was temporally updated. In addition, the simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method realizes efficient tap operations to mitigate the voltage violation, whereas the conventional method requires a much larger number of tap operations to mitigate the voltage violation to the same degree. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Navigating the urban space: Assessment of residents’ experience and satisfaction with the legibility of Ibadan municipality, Nigeria
Authors: Olowoporoku Oluwaseun , Daramola Oluwole , Odeyemi Gbenga , Olaniyi Kamilu
Published: November 2020

Using urban legibility elements, this paper examined residents’ experience and satisfaction with navigation in Ibadan metropolis. This was with a view to suggesting policy response to enhance the livability and sustainability of the city and others with similar background. Five local government areas make up Ibadan municipality and comprise three residential areas (core, transition, and suburban). One ward was randomly selected in each residential zone of the city. A total of 14,269 residential buildings were identified in the selected areas. Using systematic sampling, every 50th building in each of the wards was selected for questionnaire administration culminating into 285 household heads. The study established that variation existed in the availability of urban legibility elements in different residential districts in the city. Also, residents experience varying difficulties with giving/receiving description in the city. Furthermore, variation existed in the effectiveness and satisfaction residents derived from the use of available urban legibility elements. It established that residents’ experience of urban legibility in the study area is determined by age, monthly income, number of years spent in the city, and educational attainment. The study recommended the integration of urban legibility elements in the preparation and implementation of layouts in order to aid navigation and delivery of urban services.
Working and Learning Through the Local Community: Four Case Studies from Higher Education That Promote Civic Engagement
Authors: Morley Dawn A. , Gleeson Tracey , Mey Kerstin , Warren-Perkinson Anne , Bourne Tracey , King Amy E. , Cooper Linda , Reavey Duncan
Published: November 2020

This chapter acts as a companion to Chapter 4 which discusses the rise of the civic engagement movement in higher education and the mutual benefits of connecting universities with their local communities. The case studies, taken from three universities in the UK and Ireland, illuminate different aspects of civic engagement with international students, through sport and health initiatives and as an extension of a teaching degree. Each case study demonstrates best practice recognised by their sustainability, growing reputation and ongoing positive impact on students’ alternative real world learning experiences.
Real World Learning and the Internationalisation of Higher Education: Approaches to Making Learning Real for Global Communities
Authors: Jamil Md Golam , Alam Nazmul , Radclyffe-Thomas Natascha , Islam Mohammad Aminul , Moniruzzaman Mollah A. K. M. , Rasel Annajiat Alim
Published: November 2020

Real world learning and the internationalisation of curricula are relatively new considerations in contemporary higher education discourses. Inquiry and application lie at the heart of real world learning, and the internationalisation of academic programmes is expected to equip learners with diverse learning styles and global citizenship skills. However, combining these two sets of educational objectives for pedagogic success is challenging, mainly because of learners’ academic, social and cultural differences. The chapter addresses this problem theoretically and with the help of three real cases drawn from the UK and Bangladesh. The cases convey the ethos and procedures for accommodating diversity, inquiry, application of learning, and cross-cultural collaboration in international educational settings. The findings suggest several practical guidelines on creating authentic and long-term learning opportunities in higher education.
Fully and semi-automated shape differentiation in NGSolve
Authors: Gangl Peter , Sturm Kevin , Neunteufel Michael , Schöberl Joachim
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we present a framework for automated shape differentiation in the finite element software . Our approach combines the mathematical Lagrangian approach for differentiating PDE-constrained shape functions with the automated differentiation capabilities of . The user can decide which degree of automatisation is required, thus allowing for either a more custom-like or black-box–like behaviour of the software. We discuss the automatic generation of first- and second-order shape derivatives for unconstrained model problems as well as for more realistic problems that are constrained by different types of partial differential equations. We consider linear as well as nonlinear problems and also problems which are posed on surfaces. In numerical experiments, we verify the accuracy of the computed derivatives via a Taylor test. Finally, we present first- and second-order shape optimisation algorithms and illustrate them for several numerical optimisation examples ranging from nonlinear elasticity to Maxwell’s equations.
On analytical and experimental aspects of soap bubble stream charging
Authors: Pelesz Adam , Zylka Pawel
Published: November 2020

The paper discusses the applicability and advantages of using electrically charged soap bubbles as a route to produce fine sprays composed of highly charged particles, commonly named as electroaerosols. It is indicated that such low in energy demand process may produce very fine droplets or particulates charged to a level higher than that obtained using classical spray charging techniques, involving no bubbles. A process of a soap bubble electrical charging is thus initially studied on a simple analytical basis pointing out to a possibility of producing air bubbles with charge-to-mass (Q/m) ratio up to 60 mC/kg (constrained by the Rayleigh limit) while just 2 mC/kg is commonly considered as a threshold value for an effective particle charging process. Finite element 3D electrostatic simulation method (3D FEM) is then applied to assess a single bubble charging level achievable in a laboratory setup using a DC high-voltage biased bubble machine producing soap bubbles 23 mm in diameter on average. The 3D FEM simulation results postulate a single bubble maximum charging level approaching 25 nC at 41.5 kV charging voltage (constrained by the Rayleigh limit), corresponding to (Q/m) = 17.6 mC/kg. Finally, a stream of bubbles characterized by (Q/m) = 10.4 mC/kg was produced experimentally in the laboratory setup using a contact charging method at 40 kV DC supply. A discrepancy between 3D FEM-simulated results and experimental data was discussed on a shielding effect basis.

Graphic abstract
Closure of Petersen’s defect in gastrectomy for gastric cancer: an interrupted time series analysis from a high-volume institution in China
Authors: Pan Tao , Wang Hui , Liu Kai , Chen Xin-zu , Zhang Wei-han , Chen Xiao-long , Yang Kun , Zhang Bo , Zhou Zong-guang , Hu Jian-kun
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Petersen’s hernia (PH) is a serious complication after gastrectomy for gastric cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate whether closure of Petersen’s defect (PD) can decrease the rates of PH and suspected Petersen’s hernia (SPH).

Methods

Patients who underwent gastrectomy with PD were enrolled. From January 2014 to January 2017, we performed gastrectomy without PD closure (non-closure group). From February 2017 to June 2018, we closed PDs during gastrectomy (closure group). The rates of PH and SPH were compared between the two groups. The last follow-up was updated in August 2020.

Results

Among a total of 1213 patients, 12 patients (1.0%) developed PH, and 23 patients (1.9%) developed SPH. The rate of PH in the closure group was significantly lower than that in the non-closure group (1/385, 0.3% versus 11/828, 1.3%, p = 0.042, log-rank test). The rate of SPH in the closure group was significantly lower than that in the non-closure group (1/385, 0.3% versus 22/828, 2.7%, p = 0.008, log-rank test). Non-closure of PD was a risk factor for PH and SPH (odds ratio (OR) 7.72, 95% CI 1.84–32.35, p = 0.006).

Conclusions

PD closure is recommended after gastrectomy for gastric cancer, as the rates of PH and SPH were significantly decreased.
Alltagsmobilität in Kommunen zwischen Niederrhein und Ruhrgebiet. Aus welchen Gründen wird der ÖPNV nicht häufiger genutzt?
Authors: Suder Eric , Pfaffenbach Carmella
Published: November 2020

Die Alltagsmobilität ist in Deutschland stark mit der Nutzung des Pkw verbunden. Nachhaltigkeitsdebatten seit den 1980er-Jahren kritisieren jedoch die Dominanz des Pkw mit Verbrennungsmotor als Verkehrsmittel. Deshalb fordert die Wissenschaft verstärkt eine Verkehrswende zu klimaneutralen Antrieben sowie eine Verlagerung des Verkehrs auf öffentliche Verkehrsmittel, das Fahrrad und das Zufußgehen. In dieser Studie liegt der Fokus auf der Frage, welche Gründe aus Sicht der befragten Haushalte gegen die Nutzung des öffentlichen Personennahverkehrs (ÖPNV), der eine zentrale Säule dieser Transformation bildet, sprechen. Mit einem Fragebogen wurde die Alltagsmobilität von mehr als 1000 Bürgerinnen und Bürgern aus 4 Kommunen der westlichen Metropole Ruhr an der Schnittstelle zum Niederrhein untersucht. Die Analysen zeigen, dass zeitliche und infrastrukturelle Argumente am häufigsten vorgebracht werden, jedoch Unterschiede zwischen den Untersuchungsgemeinden und den befragten Haushalten bestehen. Um eine von Experten geforderte Verkehrsverlagerung vom Pkw auf andere Verkehrsmittel zu erreichen, müssen der nötige Zeitaufwand, die Zuverlässigkeit, die Flexibilität und auch das Preis-Leistungs-Verhältnis im öffentlichen Verkehr verbessert werden.
Application of micro-dried droplets for quantitative analysis of particulate inorganic samples with LA-ICP-MS demonstrated on surface-modified nanoparticle TiO2 catalyst materials
Authors: Horak Felix , Nagl Andreas , Föttinger Karin , Limbeck Andreas
Published: November 2020

A quick, flexible and reliable method was developed, based on laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), for accurate assessment of nanomaterial composition with sample amounts in the picogram to nanogram range. We demonstrate its capabilities for the analysis of surface-modified TiO2 nanoparticulate (NP) catalyst materials. For sampling, suspensions of NP were deposited on a substrate material, ablated with a pulsed laser and then analysed using quadrupole ICP-MS. The calibration and quantification approach is based on the use of so-called micro-dried droplets (μDD) as the standard material. To overcome some of the major drawbacks of conventional dried droplet approaches, self-aliquoting wells were used in this work. By mimicking the ablation conditions for the sample and standard, it was possible to create a pseudo-matrix-matched calibration, not only for this specific NP composition but also for a larger variety of samples. A commercially available reference material (AUROlite™, Strem Chemicals) was used to compare the method against established methods such as slurry analysis and microwave-assisted digestion in combination with subsequent liquid sample measurement. The results obtained with the proposed procedure (0.74%wt ± 0.13%wt) are in good agreement to a certified value (0.8%wt) and added an additional layer of information. Due to the significantly reduced sampling size in comparison with the investigated liquid measurement approaches, it was possible to obtain information about the homogeneity of the catalyst material. The results indicate that the AUROlite™ reference material has a heterogeneous loading which requires more than 300 pg of material to be used to cancel out. This was not observed for the custom materials discussed in this work.
Nanobiosensors as new diagnostic tools for SARS, MERS and COVID-19: from past to perspectives
Authors: Antiochia Riccarda
Published: November 2020

The severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) and novel coronavirus 19 (COVID-19) epidemics represent the biggest global health threats in the last two decades. These infections manifest as bronchitis, pneumonia or severe, sometimes fatal, respiratory illness. The novel coronavirus seems to be associated with milder infections but it has spread globally more rapidly becoming a pandemic. This review summarises the state of the art of nanotechnology-based affinity biosensors for SARS, MERS and COVID-19 detection. The nanobiosensors are antibody- or DNA-based biosensors with electrochemical, optical or FET-based transduction. Various kinds of nanomaterials, such as metal nanoparticles, nanowires and graphene, have been merged to the affinity biosensors to enhance their analytical performances. The advantages of the use of the nanomaterials are highlighted, and the results compared with those obtained using non-nanostructured biosensors. A critical comparison with conventional methods, such as RT-PCR and ELISA, is also reported. It is hoped that this review will provide interesting information for the future development of new reliable nano-based platforms for point-of-care diagnostic devices for COVID-19 prevention and control.
Redo ventral rectopexy: is it worthwhile?
Authors: Laitakari K. E. , Mäkelä-Kaikkonen J. K. , Kairaluoma M. , Junttila A. , Kössi J. , Ohtonen P. , Rautio T. T.
Published: November 2020

Background

Minimally invasive ventral mesh rectopexy (VMR) is a widely used surgical treatment for posterior pelvic organ prolapse; however, evidence of the utility of revisional surgery is lacking. Our aim was to assess the technical details, safety and outcomes of redo minimally invasive VMR for patients with external rectal prolapse (ERP) recurrence or relapsed symptoms of internal rectal prolapse (IRP).

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study of patients with recurrent ERP or symptomatic IRP who underwent redo minimally invasive VMR between 2011 and 2016. The study was conducted at three hospitals in Finland. Data collected retrospectively included patient demographics, in addition to perioperative and short-term postoperative findings. At follow-up, all living patients were sent a questionnaire concerning postoperative disease-related symptoms and quality of life.

Results

A total of 43 redo minimally invasive VMR were performed during the study period. The indication for reoperation was recurrent ERP in 22 patients and relapsed symptoms of IRP in 21 patients. In most operations (62.8%), the previously used mesh was left in situ and a new one was placed. Ten (23.3%) patients experienced complications, including 2 (4.7%) mesh-related complications. The recurrence rate was 4.5% for ERP. Three patients out of 43 were reoperated on for various reasons. One patient required postoperative laparoscopic hematoma evacuation. Patients operated on for recurrent ERP seemed to benefit more from the reoperation.

Conclusions

Minimally invasive redo VMR appears to be a safe and effective procedure for treating posterior pelvic floor dysfunction with acceptable recurrence and reoperation rates.
Chronic wasting associated with Chlamydia pneumoniae in three ex situ breeding facilities for tropical frogs
Authors: Eisenberg Tobias , Fawzy Ahmad , Kaim Ute , Nesseler Anne , Riße Karin , Völker Iris , Hechinger Silke , Schauerte Nicole , Geiger Christina , Knauf-Witzens Tobias , Schwabe Ingo , Schnee Christiane , Liebler-Tenorio Elisabeth , Imirzalioglu Can , Sting Reinhard
Published: November 2020

A number of different Chlamydia spp. have been detected in the class Amphibia with C. pneumoniae being the predominant species involved. Chlamydiae have been linked to mass mortality events, thereby representing significant pathogens that deserve attention with respect to worldwide amphibian decline. We here present six cases of chlamydiosis and asymptomatic chlamydial infections in different frog species from three ex situ amphibian conservation facilities. Clinical signs predominantly characterised by regurgitation, chronic wasting, lethargy and suspended breeding were associated with C. pneumoniae infection. Despite various treatment regimens, it was not possible to clear infections. However, intra vitam diagnostics succeeded from skin, faeces and urine for the first time.
The Prisoner’s Dilemma: An Adequate Concept for Ethical Analysis in Healthcare? A Systematic Search and Critical Review
Authors: Rogowski Wolf , Lange Oliver
Published: November 2020

Schools of economic ethics inspired by Buchanan propose viewing ethical conflicts as prisoners’ dilemmas (PDs) to facilitate solutions based on Pareto-improving institutional changes. Given that healthcare is determined by complex institutional arrangements, it has been claimed that this approach is also suitable for business ethics in healthcare. To scrutinize this claim, this research systematically searched for studies reporting PD structures in healthcare. PubMed, EconLit, and EconBiz were searched to find articles in German and English. Study type, characteristics of the game, and the proposed means to overcome the dilemma (if mentioned) were extracted and analyzed for aspects supporting or challenging the claim. Across 53 studies, 68 descriptions of various dilemmas in healthcare and public health were identified. Many authors successfully developed proposals for institutional change to overcome these dilemmas. However, many of these analyses exhibited limitations such as oversimplifications or inconsistencies. Also, the quality of evidence on both the characteristics of dilemmas and the effectiveness of proposed solutions was very poor. The subsamples of studies that explicitly cited the ethical approach were disjunct from those that applied empirical methods to analyze the dilemmas (frequently applying empirically richer frameworks than rational choice only). The large number of identified PDs indicates that economic ethics is relevant to healthcare. However, there is a need for further evidence to substantiate both the descriptive and prescriptive claims of this ethical theory. It should thus be seen as a complement that needs justification, rather than a substitute superior to other ethical frameworks.
Freshwater fish functional and taxonomic diversity above and below Niagara Falls
Authors: Lamothe Karl A. , Hubbard Justin A. G. , Drake D. Andrew R.
Published: November 2020

The Niagara River, which connects two Great Lakes (Erie and Ontario) and forms a border between Canada and the United States, has experienced decades of abiotic and biotic disturbance as well as long-term restoration efforts. Given the iconic riverscape and importance as a binational fisheries resource, a biodiversity assessment of the mainstem Niagara River fish assemblage is overdue. Here, fish assemblage and habitat data from a standardized boat electrofishing program of the Niagara River were combined with species trait data related to substrate associations, diet preferences, reproductive strategies, and body size to quantify biodiversity patterns among river sections (sites above and below Niagara Falls), seasons (spring, summer, fall), and years (2015–2017). Sixty-five species were captured representing a variety of trait combinations. Significant differences in functional dispersion and divergence (i.e., functional diversity) were observed between river sections, seasons, and (or) years. The fish community captured in the lower river in spring 2015 had both the highest average functional dispersion (2.08 ± 0.32 SD) and divergence (0.88 ± 0.04 SD) compared to the other seasonal sampling efforts, but relatively few fishes were captured (n = 686). Although non-native fishes represented a small portion of the catch over the 3 years (8.6% of catch), the seasonal presence (spring and fall) of mostly introduced large-bodied salmonids expanded functional trait space in the lower river during these periods. The importance of rare species on functional diversity metrics suggests further insight on local species detection probabilities is needed to understand if differences in functional diversity reflect ecological patterns or are driven by sampling design.
Time To Go? Head Coach Quits and Dismissals in Professional Football
Authors: Bryson Alex , Buraimo Babatunde , Farnell Alex , Simmons Rob
Published: November 2020

That football Head Coaches will be dismissed for poor performance and will quit when they have better outside options seems obvious. But owners may find it hard to distinguish poor performance from bad luck and may find it difficult to identify and attract talented Head Coaches from other clubs even if their current Head Coach is performing below expectations. Equally, Head Coaches may have few options to move to better clubs even when they are performing well. Using rich data on Head Coach characteristics we identify determinants of quits and dismissals across four professional football leagues over the period 2002–2015. We find that Head Coaches’ probabilities of dismissal are significantly lower when the team is performing above expectations, with the effect strongest for recent games. However, in contrast to earlier studies, we find that performing above expectations also reduces the probability of Head Coach quits. Head Coach success in the past, as well as Head Coach experience, reduce the probability of being dismissed, even when conditioning on team performance, suggesting Head Coach human capital has some ‘protective’ effect in managerial careers. Past experience has little effect on quit probabilities—with the exception of tenure at the current employer, which is associated with lower quit rates. We test the robustness of our results by confining estimates to first exits, within-season departures and by dealing with unobserved Head Coach heterogeneity.
The utility of cardiovascular imaging in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: diagnosis, biological classification and risk stratification
Authors: Lewis Gavin A. , Pearce Keith , Williams Simon G. , Schelbert Erik B. , Macnab Anita , Miller Christopher A.
Published: November 2020

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) does not exist as a singular clinical or pathological entity but as a syndrome encompassing a wide range of clinical and biological phenotypes. There is an urgent need to progress from the unsuccessful ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to more precise disease classification, in order to develop targeted therapies, personalise risk stratification and guide future research. In this regard, this review discusses the current and emerging roles of cardiovascular imaging for the diagnosis of HFpEF, for distilling HFpEF into distinct disease entities according to underlying pathobiology and for risk stratification.
Bumetanide Oral Liquid Formulation for the Treatment of Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Design of Two Phase III Studies (SIGN Trials)
Authors: Crutel Véronique , Lambert Estelle , Penelaud Pierre-François , Albarrán Severo Cristina , Fuentes Joaquin , Rosier Antoine , Hervás Amaia , Marret Stéphane , Oliveira Guiomar , Parellada Mara , Kyaga Simon , Gouttefangeas Sylvie , Bertrand Marianne , Ravel Denis , Falissard Bruno
Published: November 2020

There are currently no approved pharmacological treatments to improve social reciprocity and limit repetitive and rigid behaviors in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We describe the design of two Phase III studies evaluating the efficacy/safety of bumetanide oral liquid formulation in ASD. These are international, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies in children and adolescents with ASD aged 7 to 17 years (n = 200; study 1), or younger children with ASD aged 2 to 6 years (n = 200; study 2). The primary endpoint of each is change in Childhood Autism Rating Scale 2 total raw score after 6 months. These studies could contribute to the first pharmacological treatment to improve social reciprocity and limit repetitive and rigid behaviors in children and adolescents with ASD.
School testing culture and teacher satisfaction
Authors: Smith William C. , Holloway Jessica
Published: November 2020

Teachers, as frontline providers of education, are increasingly targets of accountability reforms. Such reforms often narrowly define ‘teacher quality’ around performative terms. Past research suggests holding teachers to account for student performance measures (i.e. test scores) damages their job satisfaction, including increasing stress and burnout. This article examines whether the relationship between test-based accountability and teacher satisfaction can be, in part, explained by the emphasis of student test scores in teacher appraisals. Although historically used for formative purposes, recent research demonstrates that across a large range of countries, nearly all teachers work in a system where their appraisal is based, in part, on students’ test scores. Using data from the 2013 Teaching and Learning International Survey, we pool data from 33 countries to evaluate the direct and indirect effect of school testing culture on teacher satisfaction. Results suggest that there is a direct relationship between the intensity of the testing culture and the satisfaction of teachers, as well as an indirect relationship with test score emphasis in teacher appraisals suppressing potential positive effects of appraisals on teacher satisfaction.
Correction to: Imaging plant responses to water deficit using electrical resistivity tomography
Authors: Rao Sathyanarayan , Lesparre Nolwenn , Flores-Orozco Adrián , Wagner Florian , Kemna Andreas , Javaux Mathieu
Published: November 2020

The article “Imaging plant responses to water deficit using electrical resistivity tomography”, written by Sathyanarayan Rao, Nolwenn Lesparre, Adrián Flores-Orozco, Florian Wagner, Andreas Kemna and Mathieu Javaux, was originally published Online First without Open Access.
Solar Wind Plasma Particles Organized by the Flow Speed
Authors: Pierrard Viviane , Lazar Marian , Štverák Stepan
Published: November 2020

Recent reports of the first data from Parker Solar Probe (PSP) have pointed to a series of links, correlations or anti-correlations between the solar wind bulk speed ($V_{\mathrm{SW}}$

V
SW

) and physical properties of plasma particles from less than 0.25 AU in the corona. In the present paper, we describe corresponding and additional links of solar wind properties, at 0.4 AU and 1.0 AU, in an attempt to complement the PSP data and understand their evolution. A detailed analysis is carried out for the main electron populations, comparing the low-energy (thermal) core and the collisionless suprathermal halo. We show that the anti-correlation observed at 0.4 AU between $V_{\mathrm{SW}}$

V
SW

and the number density (average value) is maintained also at 1 AU for both the core and halo electrons. On the contrary, only the core electrons manifest a clear anti-correlation of the temperature with $V_{\mathrm{SW}}$

V
SW

, while the halo temperature does not vary much. We also describe the ions, protons and helium, which have a more reduced mobility and their properties exhibit different variations with the solar wind speed. The results are used to shed more light on the mechanisms leading to a differential acceleration of these species and the origin of slow and fast wind modulation.
Rechtsstaatlichkeit in der EU als Schlüsselfaktor für eine resiliente Außenpolitik gegenüber Autokraten
Authors: Stüwe Robert
Published: November 2020

Rechtsstaatsfeindliche Regierungsparteien in der EU buhlen um die Gunst autokratischer Großmächte wie China oder Russland und machen die Union so anfälliger für deren Einflussnahme. Das Zusammenwirken undemokratischer Kräfte von innen und außen untergräbt dabei nicht nur den Rechtsstaat, sondern legt auch zentrale außenpolitische Machthebel der EU gegenüber Drittstaaten – die Erweiterungs- und Außenhandelspolitik – lahm. Zudem verfestigen sich staatskapitalistische Strukturen, welche die Funktionsfähigkeit der gemeinsamen Energiepolitik einschränken. Der Beitrag analysiert diese Entwicklungen und erörtert, was die EU der Autokratisierung entgegensetzen kann.
Nuclear peripheral chromatin-lamin B1 interaction is required for global integrity of chromatin architecture and dynamics in human cells
Authors: Chang Lei , Li Mengfan , Shao Shipeng , Li Chen , Ai Shanshan , Xue Boxin , Hou Yingping , Zhang Yiwen , Li Ruifeng , Fan Xiaoying , He Aibin , Li Cheng , Sun Yujie
Published: November 2020

The eukaryotic genome is folded into higher-order conformation accompanied with constrained dynamics for coordinated genome functions. However, the molecular machinery underlying these hierarchically organized three-dimensional (3D) chromatin architecture and dynamics remains poorly understood. Here by combining imaging and sequencing, we studied the role of lamin B1 in chromatin architecture and dynamics. We found that lamin B1 depletion leads to detachment of lamina-associated domains (LADs) from the nuclear periphery accompanied with global chromatin redistribution and decompaction. Consequently, the inter-chromosomal as well as inter-compartment interactions are increased, but the structure of topologically associating domains (TADs) is not affected. Using live-cell genomic loci tracking, we further proved that depletion of lamin B1 leads to increased chromatin dynamics, owing to chromatin decompaction and redistribution toward nucleoplasm. Taken together, our data suggest that lamin B1 and chromatin interactions at the nuclear periphery promote LAD maintenance, chromatin compaction, genomic compartmentalization into chromosome territories and A/B compartments and confine chromatin dynamics, supporting their crucial roles in chromatin higher-order structure and chromatin dynamics.
Orbit insertion strategy of Hayabusa2’s rover with large release uncertainty around the asteroid Ryugu
Authors: Oki Yusuke , Yoshikawa Kent , Takeuchi Hiroshi , Kikuchi Shota , Ikeda Hitosi , Scheeres Daniel J. , McMahon Jay W. , Kawaguchi Junichiro , Takei Yuto , Mimasu Yuya , Ogawa Naoko , Ono Go , Terui Fuyuto , Yamada Manabu , Kouyama Toru , Kameda Shingo , Yoshida Kazuya , Nagaoka Kenji , Yoshimitsu Tetsuo , Saiki Takanao , Tsuda Yuichi
Published: November 2020

This paper describes the orbit design of the deployable payload Rover 2 of MINERVA-II, installed on the Hayabusa2 spacecraft. Because Rover 2 did not have surface exploration capabilities, the operation team decided to experiment with a new strategy for its deployment to the surface. The rover was ejected at a high altitude and made a semi-hard landing on the surface of the asteroid Ryugu after several orbits. Based on the orbital analysis around Ryugu, the expected collision speed was tolerable for the rover to function post-impact. Because the rover could not control its position, its motion was entirely governed by the initial conditions. Thus, the largest challenge was to insert the rover into a stable orbit (despite its large release uncertainty), and avoid its escape from Ryugu due to an environment strongly perturbed by solar radiation pressure and gravitational irregularities. This study investigates the solution space of the orbit around Ryugu and evaluates the orbit’s robustness by utilizing Monte Carlo simulations to determine the orbit insertion policy. Upon analyzing the flight data of the rover operation, we verified that the rover orbited Ryugu for more than one period and established the possibility of a novel method for estimating the gravity of an asteroid.
Jewish Internationalism and Human Rights after the Holocaust
Authors: Kurz Nathan A.
Published: November 2020

Nathan A. Kurz charts the fraught relationship between Jewish internationalism and international rights protection in the second half of the twentieth century. For nearly a century, Jewish lawyers and advocacy groups in Western Europe and the United States had pioneered forms of international rights protection, tying the defense of Jews to norms and rules that aspired to curb the worst behavior of rapacious nation-states. In the wake of the Holocaust and the creation of the State of Israel, however, Jewish activists discovered they could no longer promote the same norms, laws and innovations without fear they could soon apply to the Jewish state. Using previously unexamined sources, Nathan Kurz examines the transformation of Jewish internationalism from an effort to constrain the power of nation-states to one focused on cementing Israel's legitimacy and its status as a haven for refugees from across the Jewish diaspora.
Was Welling, Ohio (33-Co-2), a Clovis Basecamp or Lithic Workshop? Employing Experimental Models to Interpret Old Collections
Authors: Diez-Martin Fernando , Buchanan Briggs , Norris James D. , Eren Metin I.
Published: November 2020

Archaeological collections are foundational to the discipline. Yet, researchers who study curated assemblages can face challenges. Here, we show how experimental archaeology can play a vital role in the interpretation of old archaeological collections. The Welling site, in Coshocton County, Ohio, is a multicomponent, stratified site with a substantial Clovis component in its lower levels. Using experimental flaked stone replication, we create an analog model of a “pure” Clovis bifacial debitage assemblage, as might be found at a lithic workshop. We predicted that if the Welling Clovis debitage assemblage was representative of a lithic workshop, then it would be similar to the experimental model. If the debitage assemblage was representative of a base camp, however, then it would be significantly different from the model because Clovis people would have been using, transporting, resharpening, rejuvenating, and recycling the debitage—all activities that would modify a “pure” Clovis bifacial debitage assemblage. Our statistical analyses supported the latter prediction. Overall, our study illustrates how productive the integration of experimental and archaeological data can be, and it emphasizes how important the curation and accessibility of both archaeological and experimental collections are to the discipline.
Hospital Preparedness Challenges in Biological Disasters: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Aminizadeh Mohsen , Farrokhi Mehrdad , Ebadi Abbas , Masoumi Gholamreza , Kolivand Pirhossein , Khankeh Hamidreza
Published: November 2020

Objective:

Identification of hospital preparedness challenges against biological events such as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is essential to improve dynamics, quality, and business continuity confidence in the health system. Accordingly, the purpose of the present study is to evaluate the challenges of hospital preparedness in biological events.

Methods:

This study used a qualitative method using content analysis in which 20 health-care managers and experts who are experienced in biological events were selected through purposeful sampling. The data collection was done through semi-structured interviews, which continued until data saturation. The data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis as well as the Landman and Graneheim Approach.

Results:

Six main concepts (training and practice, resource management, safety and health, patient management, risk communication, and laboratory and surveillance) and 14 subconcepts were extracted on hospital preparedness challenges in biological events through analyzing interviews.

Conclusions:

The present study indicated that the health system of the country faces many challenges in response to biological events and threats. Moreover, study participants indicated that Iranian hospitals were not prepared for biological events. It is recommended to design preparedness plans of hospitals based on preparedness standards for biological events. In addition, comprehensive measures are required to enhance their capacity to respond to biological emergencies.
Association of PPE Availability, Training, and Practices with COVID-19 Sero-Prevalence in Nurses and Paramedics in Tertiary Care Hospitals of Peshawar, Pakistan
Authors: Ahmad Junaid , Anwar Saeed , Latif Abdul , Haq Najib U. , Sharif Muhammad , Nauman Ahmed A.
Published: November 2020

Objective:

Nurses and paramedics by being the frontline workers of the health-care profession need to be equipped with the relevant knowledge, skills, and protective gears against different forms of infection, including coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Although the governments and concerned stakeholders have provided personal protective equipment (PPE), training and information to protect the health-care professionals; however, until now the scientific literature has virtually not reported the impact of PPE availability, training, and practices on the COVID-19 sero-prevalence among the nurses and paramedics. This study aimed to assess the impact of PPE availability, training, and practices on COVID-19 sero-prevalence among nurses and paramedics in teaching hospitals of Peshawar, Pakistan.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey was conducted with a total of 133 nurses and paramedics as subjects of the study.

Results:

A univariate analysis was done for 4 variables. The findings indicate that the health-care professionals (nurses and paramedics) who have received PPE on time at the start of COVID-19 emergence have fewer chances of contracting the COVID-19 infection (odds ratio = 0.96); while the odds for PPE supplies was 0.73, and the odds of hand hygiene training was 0.95.

Conclusions:

The study concluded that the availability of the PPE, COVID-19–related training, and compliance with World Health Organization recommended practices against COVID-19 were instrumental in protection against the infection and its spread.
Ediacaran diversity and paleoecology from central Iran
Authors: Vaziri Seyed Hamid , Majidifard Mahmoud Reza , Darroch Simon A.F. , Laflamme Marc
Published: November 2020

The late Ediacaran (Nama) Fossil Assemblage from the Kushk Series in the Kushk and Chahmir areas of Central Iran highlights a diverse community of globally distributed, soft-bodied (non-skeletonized) Ediacara biota coexisting with skeletonized tubular forms of likely metazoan affinities. Several biostratigraphically and biogeographically important taxa are reported (i.e., erniettomorphs, rangeomorphs, cloudinomorphs, kimberellomorphs, Chuaria, Corumbella), including Convolutubus dargazinensis new genus new species, a new organic-walled tubular organism, allowing for paleoecological studies to be performed. This study highlights the need for continued investigations into the late Ediacaran of Iran, and suggests a biosphere in transition, with a shift in diversity and abundance from large Ediacara biota to organic-walled and skeletonized tubular organisms at the dawn of the Cambrian Explosion.

UUID: http://zoobank.org/350bb98c-5322-488d-a9a5-22c911ab7e53
Substance use in psychiatric crisis: relationship to violence
Authors: Kalk Nicola J. , Robins John E. , Ross Kezia R. , Pritchard Megan , Lynskey Michael T. , Curtis Vivienne A. , Morley Katherine I.
Published: November 2020

Background

Substance use and psychiatric illness, particularly psychotic disorders, contribute to violence in emergency healthcare settings. However, there is limited research regarding the relationship between specific substances, psychotic symptoms and violent behaviour in such settings. We investigated the interaction between recent cannabinoid and stimulant use, and acute psychotic symptoms, in relation to violent behaviour in a British emergency healthcare setting.

Methods

We used electronic medical records from detentions of 1089 individuals under Section 136 of the UK Mental Health Act (1983 amended 2007), an emergency police power used to detain people for 24–36 h for psychiatric assessment. The relationship between recent cannabinoids and/or stimulant use, psychotic symptoms, and violent behaviour, was estimated using logistic regression.

Findings

There was evidence of recent alcohol or drug use in 64.5% of detentions. Violent incidents occurred in 12.6% of detentions. Psychotic symptoms increased the odds of violence by 4.0 [95% confidence intervals (CI) 2.2–7.4; p < 0.0001]. Cannabinoid use combined with psychotic symptoms increased the odds of violence further [odds ratios (OR) 7.1, 95% CI 3.7–13.6; p < 0.0001]. Recent use of cannabinoids with stimulants but without psychotic symptoms was also associated with increased odds of violence (OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.4–7.9; p < 0.0001).

Interpretation

In the emergency setting, patients who have recently used cannabinoids and exhibit psychotic symptoms are at higher risk of violent behaviour. Those who have used both stimulants and cannabinoids without psychotic symptoms may also be at increased risk. De-escalation protocols in emergency healthcare settings should account explicitly for substance use.
Single-molecule studies of amyloid proteins: from biophysical properties to diagnostic perspectives
Authors: Wu Jinming , Cao Chan , Loch Rolf Antonie , Tiiman Ann , Luo Jinghui
Published: November 2020

In neurodegenerative diseases, a wide range of amyloid proteins or peptides such as amyloid-beta and α-synuclein fail to keep native functional conformations, followed by misfolding and self-assembling into a diverse array of aggregates. The aggregates further exert toxicity leading to the dysfunction, degeneration and loss of cells in the affected organs. Due to the disordered structure of the amyloid proteins, endogenous molecules, such as lipids, are prone to interact with amyloid proteins at a low concentration and influence amyloid cytotoxicity. The heterogeneity of amyloid proteinscomplicates the understanding of the amyloid cytotoxicity when relying only on conventional bulk and ensemble techniques. As complementary tools, single-molecule techniques (SMTs) provide novel insights into the different subpopulations of a heterogeneous amyloid mixture as well as the cytotoxicity, in particular as involved in lipid membranes. This review focuses on the recent advances of a series of SMTs, including single-molecule fluorescence imaging, single-molecule force spectroscopy and single-nanopore electrical recording, for the understanding of the amyloid molecular mechanism. The working principles, benefits and limitations of each technique are discussed and compared in amyloid protein related studies.. We also discuss why SMTs show great potential and are worthy of further investigation with feasibility studies as diagnostic tools of neurodegenerative diseases and which limitations are to be addressed.
Demonstrating the influence of HTA: INAHTA member stories of HTA impact
Authors: Werkö Sophie Söderholm , Merlin Tracy , Lambert Laurie Jean , Fennessy Paul , Galán Ana Pérez , Schuller Tara
Published: November 2020

A central function of health technology assessment (HTA) agencies is the production of HTA reports to support evidence-informed policy and decision making. HTA agencies are interested in understanding the mechanisms of HTA impact, which can be understood as the influence or impact of HTA report findings on decision making at various levels of the health system. The members of the International Network of Agencies for HTA (INAHTA) meet at their annual Congress where impact story sharing is one important activity. This paper summarizes four stories of HTA impact that were finalists for theDavid Hailey Award for Best Impact Story.

The methods to measure impact include: document review; claims analysis and review of reimbursement status; citation analysis; qualitative evaluation of stakeholders’ views; and review of media response. HTA agency staff also observed changes in government activities and priorities based on the HTA. Impact assessment can provide information to improve the HTA process, for example, the value of patient and clinician engagement in the HTA process to better define the assessment question and literature reviews in a more holistic and balanced way.

HTA reports produced by publicly funded HTA agencies are valued by health systems around the globe as they support decision making regarding the appropriate use, pricing, reimbursement, and disinvestment of health technologies. HTAs can also have a positive impact on information sharing between different levels of government and across stakeholder groups. These stories show how HTA can have a significant impact, irrespective of the health system and health technology being assessed.