bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How humans alter dissolved organic matter composition in freshwater: relevance for the Earth’s biogeochemistry
Authors: Xenopoulos Marguerite A. , Barnes Rebecca T. , Boodoo Kyle S. , Butman David , Catalán Núria , D’Amario Sarah C. , Fasching Christina , Kothawala Dolly N. , Pisani Oliva , Solomon Christopher T. , Spencer Robert G. M. , Williams Clayton J. , Wilson Henry F.
Published: January 2021

Dissolved organic matter (DOM) is recognized for its importance in freshwater ecosystems, but historical reliance on DOM quantity rather than indicators of DOM composition has led to an incomplete understanding of DOM and an underestimation of its role and importance in biogeochemical processes. A single sample of DOM can be composed of tens of thousands of distinct molecules. Each of these unique DOM molecules has their own chemical properties and reactivity or role in the environment. Human activities can modify DOM composition and recent research has uncovered distinct DOM pools laced with human markers and footprints. Here we review how land use change, climate change, nutrient pollution, browning, wildfires, and dams can change DOM composition which in turn will affect internal processing of freshwater DOM. We then describe how human-modified DOM can affect biogeochemical processes. Drought, wildfires, cultivated land use, eutrophication, climate change driven permafrost thaw, and other human stressors can shift the composition of DOM in freshwater ecosystems increasing the relative contribution of microbial-like and aliphatic components. In contrast, increases in precipitation may shift DOM towards more relatively humic-rich, allochthonous forms of DOM. These shifts in DOM pools will likely have highly contrasting effects on carbon outgassing and burial, nutrient cycles, ecosystem metabolism, metal toxicity, and the treatments needed to produce clean drinking water. A deeper understanding of the links between the chemical properties of DOM and biogeochemical dynamics can help to address important future environmental issues, such as the transfer of organic contaminants through food webs, alterations to nitrogen cycling, impacts on drinking water quality, and biogeochemical effects of global climate change.
Long-term litter type treatments alter soil carbon composition but not microbial carbon utilization in a mixed pine-oak forest
Authors: Guo Xiaowei , Luo Zhongkui , Sun Osbert Jianxin
Published: January 2021

Changes in litter and nutrient inputs into soil could have significant consequences on forest carbon (C) dynamics via controls on the structure and microbial utilization of soil organic C (SOC). In this study, we assessed changes in physical fractions (250–2000 μm, 53–250 μm, and < 53 μm soil aggregates) and chemical fractions (labile, intermediate and recalcitrant pools) of SOC in the top 20 cm mineral soil layer and their influences on microbial substrate utilization after eight years of experiment in a mixed pine-oak forest. The litter treatments included: control (Lcon), litter removal (Lnil), fine woody litter addition (Lwoody), leaf litter addition (Lleaf) and a mix of leaf and fine woody litter (Lmix). Nitrogen (N) addition (application rates of 0, 5 and 10 g N m−2 year−1, respectively) was also applied. We found that complete removal of forest-floor litter (Lnil) significantly reduced the pool sizes of all SOC fractions in both the physical and chemical fractions compared with treatments that retained either leaf litter (Lleaf) or mixture of leaves and fine woody materials (Lmix). The type of litter was more important in affecting SOC fractions than the quantity of inputs; neither the level of N addition rate nor its interaction with litter treatment had significant effects on both physical and chemical SOC fractions. Microbial respiration differed significantly among the treatments of varying litter types. However, the effectiveness of microbial C utilization inferred by microbial C use efficiency and biomass-specific respiration was not affected by either the litter treatments or N addition. These results suggest that despite significant changes in SOC composition due to long-term treatments of forest-floor litter and N addition in this mixed pine-oak forest of temperate climate, microbial C utilization strategies remain unaffected.
Exploring (1$$\overline{1}$$2)-related ordered structure in oxidation-synthesized α-Fe2O3 nanowhiskers
Authors: Lai Ming-Wei , Kurata Hiroki
Published: January 2021

Hematite (α-Fe2O3) nanowhiskers (NWs) synthesized via oxidation of iron-based substrates are a promising photoanode material for photoelectrochemical water splitting. Such synthesized α-Fe2O3 NWs have been found to contain ordered axial structures. Herein, we reveal that the known (1$$\overline{1}$$

1
¯

2)-related ordered structure actually exists in bicrystalline α-Fe2O3 NWs instead of single-crystalline α-Fe2O3 NWs and that it is associated with another known (3$$\overline{3}$$

3
¯

0)-related ordered structure. Through a spherical aberration (CS)-corrected high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) investigation, the microstructural characteristic of the (1$$\overline{1}$$

1
¯

2)-related ordered structure is verified to be periodic atomic column displacements serving as tensile strain accommodation. The HR-TEM observation are also supported by a monochromated O K-edge EELS analysis, which indicates that α-Fe2O3 NWs hosting the (1$$\overline{1}$$

1
¯

2)-related ordered structure are indeed associated with lattice expansion. In sum, our microstructural study elucidates the root cause of the long-asserted relationship between the (1$$\overline{1}$$

1
¯

2)-related ordered structure and oxygen vacancy ordering.
Periodic Perturbations of a Class of Functional Differential Equations
Authors: Spadini Marco
Published: January 2021

We study the existence of a connected “branch” of periodic solutions of T-periodic perturbations of a particular class of functional differential equations on differentiable manifolds. Our result is obtained by a combination of degree-theoretic methods and a technique that allows to associate the bounded solutions of the functional equation to bounded solutions of a suitable ordinary differential equation.
Beliefs About Return to Work Among Women During/After Long-Term Sick Leave for Common Mental Disorders: A Qualitative Study Based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour
Authors: Hedlund Åsa , Boman Eva , Kristofferzon Marja-Leena , Nilsson Annika
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Long-term sick leave due to common mental disorders (CMDs) is an increasing problem, especially among women. To help these women return to work (RTW) sustainably, we need to know more about their own beliefs about RTW. One applicable theory is the theory of planned behaviour (TPB). Thus, the present study aimed to describe, based on the TPB, women's beliefs about RTW during or after long-term sick leave for a CMD.

Methods

A qualitative approach was used. Twenty women were included during a long-term sick leave period due to a CMD. A deductive content analysis was conducted using predetermined factors from the TPB: behavioural beliefs (advantages–disadvantages of RTW), normative beliefs (supporters and non-supporters of RTW), and control beliefs (facilitators of—barriers to RTW).

Results

The women believed that RTW would give them meaning and balance in life, but also that it would be challenging to maintain balance after RTW. They believed they had several supporters of RTW, but that the support was sometimes perceived as stressful rather than encouraging. Furthermore, individual adaptation and high demands were the most mentioned facilitator and barrier, respectively. Workplace conditions and personal strategies were thought to be important aspects.

Conclusions

By using the TPB, the present study was able to offer new findings on women’s beliefs about RTW after long-term sick leave for a CMD. Based on the findings, we suggest that various RTW stakeholders should focus on striving to provide the tasks and work pace women need so they can maintain their professional competence and sense of meaning.
Immunomodulatory Potential of Cannabidiol in Multiple Sclerosis: a Systematic Review
Authors: Furgiuele Alessia , Cosentino Marco , Ferrari Marco , Marino Franca
Published: January 2021

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common chronic autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. Efficacy of treatments for MS is associated with risk of adverse effects, and effective and well-tolerated drugs remain a major unmet need. Cannabis (Cannabis sativaL., fam. Cannabaceae) and cannabinoids are popular among MS patients to treat spasticity and pain. Cannabinoids are endowed with remarkable immunomodulating properties, and in particular the non-psychotropic cannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) is increasingly recognized as anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive, nevertheless with excellent tolerability even at high doses. In this systematic review, we retrieved and critically evaluated available evidence regarding the immune and disease-modifying effects of CBD in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) and in MS. Evidence in rodent models of EAE strongly supports CBD as effective, while clinical evidence is still limited and usually negative, due to paucity of studies and possibly to the use of suboptimal dosing regimens. Better characterization of targets acted upon by CBD in MS should be obtained in ex vivo/in vitro studies in human immune cells, and higher doses should be tested in well-designed clinical trials with clinically relevant efficacy endpoints.
Vision as oculomotor reward: cognitive contributions to the dynamic control of saccadic eye movements
Authors: Wolf Christian , Lappe Markus
Published: January 2021

Humans and other primates are equipped with a foveated visual system. As a consequence, we reorient our fovea to objects and targets in the visual field that are conspicuous or that we consider relevant or worth looking at. These reorientations are achieved by means of saccadic eye movements. Where we saccade to depends on various low-level factors such as a targets’ luminance but also crucially on high-level factors like the expected reward or a targets’ relevance for perception and subsequent behavior. Here, we review recent findings how the control of saccadic eye movements is influenced by higher-level cognitive processes. We first describe the pathways by which cognitive contributions can influence the neural oculomotor circuit. Second, we summarize what saccade parameters reveal about cognitive mechanisms, particularly saccade latencies, saccade kinematics and changes in saccade gain. Finally, we review findings on what renders a saccade target valuable, as reflected in oculomotor behavior. We emphasize that foveal vision of the target after the saccade can constitute an internal reward for the visual system and that this is reflected in oculomotor dynamics that serve to quickly and accurately provide detailed foveal vision of relevant targets in the visual field.
Integrated magnetotelluric and seismic investigation of Cenozoic graben structure near Obrzycko, Poland
Authors: Cygal Adam , Stefaniuk Michał , Kret Anna
Published: January 2021

This article presents the results of an integrated interpretation of measurements made using Audio-Magnetotellurics and Seismic Reflection geophysical methods. The obtained results were used to build an integrated geophysical model of shallow subsurface cover consisting of Cenozoic deposits, which then formed the basis for a detailed lithological and tectonic interpretation of deeper Mesozoic sediments. Such shallow covers, consisting mainly of glacial Pleistocene deposits, are typical for central and northern Poland. This investigation concentrated on delineating the accurate geometry of Obrzycko Cenozoic graben structure filled with loose deposits, as it was of great importance to the acquisition, processing and interpretation of seismic data that was to reveal the tectonic structure of the Cretaceous and Jurassic sediments which underly the study area. Previously, some problems with estimation of seismic static corrections over similar grabens filled with more recent, low-velocity deposits were encountered. Therefore, a novel approach to estimating the exact thickness of such shallow cover consisting of low-velocity deposits was applied in the presented investigation. The study shows that some alternative geophysical data sets (such as magnetotellurics) can be used to significantly improve the imaging of geological structure in areas where seismic data are very distorted or too noisy to be used alone
The use of carbon nanomaterials in membrane distillation membranes: a review
Authors: Leaper Sebastian , Abdel-Karim Ahmed , Gorgojo Patricia
Published: January 2021

Membrane distillation (MD) is a thermal-based separation technique with the potential to treat a wide range of water types for various applications and industries. Certain challenges remain however, which prevent it from becoming commercially widespread including moderate permeate flux, decline in separation performance over time due to pore wetting and high thermal energy requirements. Nevertheless, its attractive characteristics such as high rejection (ca. 100%) of nonvolatile species, its ability to treat highly saline solutions under low operating pressures (typically atmospheric) as well as its ability to operate at low temperatures, enabling waste-heat integration, continue to drive research interests globally. Of particular interest is the class of carbon-based nanomaterials which includes graphene and carbon nanotubes, whose wide range of properties have been exploited in an attempt to overcome the technical challenges that MD faces. These low dimensional materials exhibit properties such as high specific surface area, high strength, tuneable hydrophobicity, enhanced vapour transport, high thermal and electrical conductivity and others. Their use in MD has resulted in improved membrane performance characteristics like increased permeability and reduced fouling propensity. They have also enabled novel membrane capabilities such as in-situ fouling detection and localised heat generation. In this review we provide a brief introduction to MD and describe key membrane characteristics and fabrication methods. We then give an account of the various uses of carbon nanomaterials for MD applications, focussing on polymeric membrane systems. Future research directions based on the findings are also suggested.
Role of Inferior Vena Cava Filter Retrieval in Patients on Chronic Anticoagulation Therapy
Authors: Fletcher Savannah , Plotnik Adam , Srinivasa Ravi N. , Chick Jeffrey Forris Beecham , Moriarty John M.
Published: January 2021

Purpose of review

Describe the role of inferior vena cava filter (IVCF) retrieval in patients on chronic anticoagulation given the overlap of these treatment options in the management of patients with venous thromboembolic disease.

Recent findings

Despite the increase in IVCF retrievals since the Food and Drug Administration safety communications in 2010 and 2014, retrieval rates remain low. Previous studies have shown that longer filter dwell times are associated with greater risk for filter complications and more difficulty with filter retrievals. Recent findings suggest that complications are more frequent in the first 30 days after placement.

The decision to retrieve an optional IVCF is individualized and requires diligent follow-up with consistent re-evaluation of the need for the indwelling IVCF, particularly in those on long-term anticoagulation therapy.
Acid Suppressant Therapy: a Step Forward with Potassium-Competitive Acid Blockers
Authors: Scarpignato Carmelo , Hunt Richard H.
Published: January 2021

Purpose of the review

The introduction of H2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs) and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) into clinical practice has been a real breakthrough in the treatment of acid-related diseases. PPIs are now the standard of care for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease (PUD),Helicobacter pyloriinfection, NSAID-associated gastroduodenal lesions, and upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB). However, despite their effectiveness, PPIs display some intrinsic limitations, which underlie the unmet clinical needs that have been identified over the past decades.

Recent findings

To address these needs, new long-acting compounds (such as tenatoprazole and AGN 201904-Z) and new PPI formulations, including instant release omeprazole (IR-omeprazole) and dexlansoprazole modified release (MR), have been developed. However, a major advance has been the development of the potassium-competitive acid blockers (P-CABs), which block the K+,H+-ATPase potassium channel, are food independent, are reversible, have a rapid onset of action, and maintain a prolonged and consistent elevation of intragastric pH. Vonoprazan and tegoprazan are the two marketed P-CABs while two other compounds (namely fexuprazan and X842) are under active development. Available for almost 6 years now, a considerable experience has been accumulated with vonoprazan, the efficacy and safety of which are detailed in this paper, together with the preliminary results of the other members of this new pharmacologic class.

Based on the available evidence, erosive reflux disease,H. pyloriinfection, and secondary prevention of NSAID gastropathy can be considered established indications for vonoprazan and are being explored for tegoprazan and fexuprazan. In the treatment of severe (LA C & D) reflux esophagitis andH. pylorieradication, vonoprazan proved to be superior to PPIs. Other uses of P-CABs are being evaluated, but clinical data are not yet sufficient to allow a definitive answer on its efficacy and possible superiority over the current standard of care (i.e., PPIs). The most notable indication of upper GI (non-variceal) bleeding, where vonoprazan would prove superior to PPIs, has not yet been explored. The safety of P-CABs in the short-term overlaps that of PPIs, but data from long-term treatment are needed.
Single Scans of Ti-6Al-4V by Directed Energy Deposition: A Cost and Time Effective Methodology to Assess the Proper Process Window
Authors: Carrozza Alessandro , Mazzucato Federico , Aversa Alberta , Lombardi Mariangela , Bondioli Federica , Biamino Sara , Valente Anna , Fino Paolo
Published: January 2021

Directed energy deposition is an additive manufacturing technology which usually relies on prototype machines or hybrid systems, assembled with parts from different producers. Because of this lack of standardization, the optimization of the process parameters is often a mandatory step in order to develop an efficient building process. Although, this preliminary phase is usually expensive both in terms of time and cost. The single scan approach allows to drastically reduce deposition time and material usage, as in fact only a stripe per parameters combination is deposited. These specimens can then be investigated, for example in terms of geometrical features (e.g. growth, width) and microstructure to assess the most suitable process window. In this work, Ti-6Al-4V single scans, produced by means of directed energy deposition, corresponding to a total of 50 different parameters combinations, were analyzed, focusing on several geometrical features and relative parameters correlations. Moreover, considering the susceptibility of the material to oxygen pick-up, the necessity of an additional shielding gas system was also evaluated, by comparing the specimens obtained with and without using a supplementary argon flow. A process window, which varies according to the user needs, was found together with a relationship between microstructure and process parameters, in both shielding scenarios.

Graphic Abstract
Large scale land investments and food security in agropastoral areas of Ethiopia
Authors: Bekele Adugna Eneyew , Dries Liesbeth , Heijman Wim , Drabik Dusan
Published: January 2021

In Ethiopia, large scale land investments have been expanding into pastoral regions. However, little is known about the consequences of these investments on the food security of the pastoral community. Using Living Standard Measurement Survey data of the World Bank, we find that, on average, about 32% of the respondents from the (agro-)pastoral regions are food insecure. After controlling for confounders, proximity to large scale land investments is associated with additional food intake of up to 745 kcal per day per adult compared to the households located farther away from a large scale land investment. Proximity to large scale land investment has no significant effect on the coping strategies based food security. For households located in proximity to a large scale land investment, food intake significantly increases with access to roads and markets. Proximity to a large scale land investment has a positive effect on household food consumption not necessarily because of direct benefits from large scale land investments, but due to land and soil quality near the large scale land investments.
Intranasal drug delivery: opportunities and toxicologic challenges during drug development
Authors: Keller Lea-Adriana , Merkel Olivia , Popp Andreas
Published: January 2021

Over the past 10 years, the interest in intranasal drug delivery in pharmaceutical R&D has increased. This review article summarises information on intranasal administration for local and systemic delivery, as well as for CNS indications. Nasal delivery offers many advantages over standard systemic delivery systems, such as its non-invasive character, a fast onset of action and in many cases reduced side effects due to a more targeted delivery. There are still formulation limitations and toxicological aspects to be optimised. Intranasal drug delivery in the field of drug development is an interesting delivery route for the treatment of neurological disorders. Systemic approaches often fail to efficiently supply the CNS with drugs. This review paper describes the anatomical, histological and physiological basis and summarises currently approved drugs for administration via intranasal delivery. Further, the review focuses on toxicological considerations of intranasally applied compounds and discusses formulation aspects that need to be considered for drug development.

Graphical abstract
Organoid technology for personalized pancreatic cancer therapy
Authors: Bengtsson Axel , Andersson Roland , Rahm Jonas , Ganganna Karthik , Andersson Bodil , Ansari Daniel
Published: January 2021

Background

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma has the lowest survival rate among all major cancers and is the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality. The stagnant survival statistics and dismal response rates to current therapeutics highlight the need for more efficient preclinical models. Patient-derived organoids (PDOs) offer new possibilities as powerful preclinical models able to account for interpatient variability. Organoid development can be divided into four different key phases: establishment, propagation, drug screening and response prediction. Establishment entails tailored tissue extraction and growth protocols, propagation requires consistent multiplication and passaging, while drug screening and response prediction will benefit from shorter and more precise assays, and clear decision-making tools.

Conclusions

This review attempts to outline the most important challenges that remain in exploiting organoid platforms for drug discovery and clinical applications. Some of these challenges may be overcome by novel methods that are under investigation, such as 3D bioprinting systems, microfluidic systems, optical metabolic imaging and liquid handling robotics. We also propose an optimized organoid workflow inspired by all technical solutions we have presented.
A collective case study of supervision and competence judgments on the inpatient internal medicine ward
Authors: Gilchrist Tristen , Hatala Rose , Gingerich Andrea
Published: January 2021

Introduction Workplace-based assessment in competency-based medical education employs entrustment-supervision scales to suggest trainee competence. However, clinical supervision involves many factors and entrustment decision-making likely reflects more than trainee competence. We do not fully understand how a supervisor’s impression of trainee competence is reflected in their provision of clinical support. We must better understand this relationship to know whether documenting level of supervision truly reflects trainee competence.
Methods We undertook a collective case study of supervisor-trainee dyads consisting of attending internal medicine physicians and senior residents working on clinical teaching unit inpatient wards. We conducted field observations of typical daily activities and semi-structured interviews. Data was analysed within each dyad and compared across dyads to identify supervisory behaviours, what triggered the behaviours, and how they related to judgments of trainee competence.
Results Ten attending physician-senior resident dyads participated in the study. We identified eight distinct supervisory behaviours. The behaviours were enacted in response to trainee and non-trainee factors. Supervisory behaviours corresponded with varying assessments of trainee competence, even within a dyad. A change in the attending’s judgment of the resident’s competence did not always correspond with a change in subsequent observable supervisory behaviours.
Discussion There was no consistent relationship between a trigger for supervision, the judgment of trainee competence, and subsequent supervisory behaviour. This has direct implications for entrustment assessments tying competence to supervisory behaviours, because supervision is complex. Workplace-based assessments that capture narrative data including the rationale for supervisory behaviours may lead to deeper insights than numeric entrustment ratings.
Contribution of root respiration to total soil respiration during non-growing season in mine reclaimed soil with different covering-soil thicknesses
Authors: Chen Min , Chen Xiaoyang , Hu Zhiyong , Fan Tingyu , Zhang Shiwen , Liu Ying
Published: January 2021

An accurate assessment of root respiration in mine reclaimed soil is important for effectively evaluating mining area ecosystems. This study investigated dynamic changes in root respiration and the contribution of root respiration to total soil respiration (Rr/Rt ratio) during the non-growing season in mine reclaimed soil, with different covering-soil thicknesses. According to the covering-soil thicknesses, the study area was divided into four sites: 10–25 cm (site A), 25–45 cm (site B), 45–55 cm (site C), and 55–65 cm (site D). From November 2017 to April 2018 (except February in 2018), the soil respiration, root respiration, temperature at 5 cm, water content, and root biomass were measured. The results show that soil temperature and root respiration exhibited similar diurnal and monthly variations. The root respiration is strongly influenced by soil temperature during the non-growing season, with an exponential and positive relationship (P < 0.001). Root respiration varies with the covering-soil thickness and is greatest with a covering-soil thickness of 25–45 cm. The Rr/Rt ratio also exhibits monthly variations. During the non-growing season, the mean value of the Rr/Rt ratio is 51.15% in mine reclaimed soil. The study indicates that root respiration is the primary source of soil respiration and is an important factor for estimating the potential emission of soil CO2 from mine reclaimed soil at the regional scale.
Lead-Free Perovskite Materials for Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Minghao , Wang Wei , Ma Ben , Shen Wei , Liu Lihui , Cao Kun , Chen Shufen , Huang Wei
Published: January 2021

The toxicity issue of lead hinders large-scale commercial production and photovoltaic field application of lead halide perovskites. Some novel non- or low-toxic perovskite materials have been explored for development of environmentally friendly lead-free perovskite solar cells (PSCs). This review studies the substitution of equivalent/heterovalent metals for Pb based on first-principles calculation, summarizes the theoretical basis of lead-free perovskites, and screens out some promising lead-free candidates with suitable bandgap, optical, and electrical properties. Then, it reports notable achievements for the experimental studies of lead-free perovskites to date, including the crystal structure and material bandgap for all of lead-free materials and photovoltaic performance and stability for corresponding devices. The review finally discusses challenges facing the successful development and commercialization of lead-free PSCs and predicts the prospect of lead-free PSCs in the future.
Inhibition of the filamentation of Candida albicans by Borojoa patinoi silver nanoparticles
Authors: Gómez-Garzón Marcela , Gutiérrez-Castañeda Luz D. , Gil Camilo , Escobar Carlos H. , Rozo Ana P. , González María E. , Sierra Edgar V.
Published: January 2021

Candida albicansis fungus capable of changing from yeast to filamentous form when it’s transformed from a normal commensal to an opportunistic pathogen. The development of alternatives that interfere with this transition could be an effective way to reduce candidiasis. In this regard, evaluate the inhibitory effect of twoBorojoa patinoisilver nanoparticles (AgNPs) produced by green synthesis at 5 °C and 25 °C on the process of filamentation ofCandida albicans. The percentage of inhibition of filamentous forms ofC. albicansATCC10231 andC. albicansSC5314 with AgNPs was determined. Results showed that temperature of synthesis affected both the shape and size of silver nanoparticles synthesized usingBorojoa patinoiextracts. The inhibition percentage of filamentous forms ofCandida albicansATCC10231 when treated with silver nanoparticles synthesized at 5 °C was 85.9% and at 25 °C it was 40%.C. albicansSC5314 when treated with AgNP synthesized at 5 °C was 97.2% and at 25 °C it was 64%. Cell toxicity assay showed that at 100ng/ml, AgNPs synthesized at 25 °C were safe in MES-OV CRL-3272 cell line. Our results showed that the silver nanoparticles obtained fromBorojoa patinoiare inhibitors of the filamentous process ofC. albicans.
DGS based monopole circular-shaped patch antenna for UWB applications
Authors: Gopi Dattatreya , Vadaboyina Appala Raju , Dabbakuti J. R. K. Kumar
Published: January 2021

A simple low profile defected ground structure based monopole circular-shaped patch antenna is proposing for ultrawide-band applications. The design allows for a simple and compact structure on the FR-4 substrate material. The proposed design initially has a meager antenna gain and bandwidth. To increase the antenna bandwidth and gain, the defective ground structure is implemented with four dumble-shaped slots. Parametric analysis is considered to find the radius of circular patch for tuning of UWB frequency applications. The proposed MCP antenna resonates at 2.9 GHz, 9.1 GHz frequencies with a S11 of − 34.84 dB, − 33.74 dB, respectively, and achieves 8.1 GHz (2.5–10.6 GHz) impedance bandwidth concerning the − 10 dB reference line of the reflection coefficient. The gains are 8.4 dBi, 8.2 dBi for the two resonant frequencies, and the radiation patterns are semi-omnidirectional, omnidirectional. The proposed antenna has-been validated by observing good agreement between the simulation and the measured results.
Reassessment of the flexural behavior of high-strength reinforced concrete beams under short-term loads
Authors: Tamayo Jorge Luis Palomino , Garcia Gabriel Orso
Published: January 2021

This work aims at describing the behavior of high-strength reinforced concrete (HSRC) beams under short-term ultimate loads with concrete compressive strengths higher than 50 MPa. A plastic approach besides a cross sectional analysis is employed to primarily trace the nonlinear response of nineteen HSRC simply supported beams for which experimental results are available. This proposed theoretical approach is able to acceptably match the experimental data with minor overestimation of flexural moments. Closed-form expressions to evaluate ductility indexes regarding deflections and curvatures as well as plastic rotation capacities are also proposed herein. Predictions of the National Brazilian Regulation for design of concrete structures NBR6118 in terms of ultimate flexural moments are also computed for comparison. A complete assessment of ductility in which plastic rotation capacities are computed for the studied beams is also given. It is found that the flexural ductility of a member could be increased with the use of high strength concrete. The use of a maximum tension steel ratio to guarantee a minimum flexural of ductility is highlighted.
Needle and Biopsy Robots: a Review
Authors: Siepel Françoise J. , Maris Bogdan , Welleweerd Marcel K. , Groenhuis Vincent , Fiorini Paolo , Stramigioli Stefano
Published: January 2021

Purpose of the review

Robotics is a rapidly advancing field, and its introduction in healthcare can have a multitude of benefits for clinical practice. Especially, applications depending on the radiologist’s accuracy and precision, such as percutaneous interventions, may profit. This paper provides an overview of recent robot-assisted percutaneous solutions.

Recent findings

Percutaneous interventions are relatively simple and the quality of the procedure increases a lot by introducing robotics due to the improved accuracy and precision. The success of the procedure is heavily dependent on the ability to merge pre- and intraoperative images, as an accurate estimation of the current target location allows to exploit the robot’s capabilities.

Despite much research, the application of robotics in some branches of healthcare is not commonplace yet. Recent advances in percutaneous robotic solutions and imaging are highlighted, as they will pave the way to more widespread implementation of robotics in clinical practice.
City of Darkness, City of Light
Authors: Phillips Alastair
Published: January 2021

The volume is the first-ever book-length study of the cinematic representation of Paris in the films of German èmigrè filmmakers.
Child Labour
Authors: Lieten G. K.
Published: January 2021

It is often said that children have always been working. With the onset of the industrial revolution in the nineteenth century, however, children became to be exploited under miserable circumstances in factories. That was the beginning of the movement against child labour. A worldwide awareness campaign has brought international organizations and governments to the position that child labour should urgently be replaced by child education. The objectives seem simple and laudable but the issues involved are very complex. What actually is child labour, and what is childhood? How many child labourers are there in the world? Is child labour restricted to developing countries or is it frequently used in order to stigmatize the non-Western world? Is regulation of labour conditions the solution or should governments and civil society one opt for a radical ban? Is there a role for corporate social responsibility? These questions have been addressed in the professorial address on Child Labour Studies. It is argued that much more research is needed and that particular care should be taken to learn from children on how they view the world and what they think of work, labour and education.
Quantifying the Non-Use Value of Biodiversity in Cost–Benefit Analysis: The Dutch Biodiversity Points
Authors: Bos Frits , Ruijs Arjan
Published: January 2021

Biodiversity points are a quantitative measure for biodiversity. For over a decade, biodiversity points are being applied in the Netherlands for measuring the impact of roads, enclosure dams, and other water management projects on the non-use value of biodiversity. Biodiversity points are quite similar to the quality-adjusted life years used for cost-effectiveness analysis of healthcare treatments. Biodiversity points can be calculated by multiplying the size of the ecotope (e.g., number of hectare), the ecological quality of the ecotope (0–100 %), and the ecological scarcity of each type of ecotope. For many infrastructure projects, the impact on the non-use value of biodiversity can be a principal purpose or a major co-benefit or trade-off, for example, for a park, a fish sluice, a road, an ecoduct, an enclosure dam, or a marine protected area. Biodiversity points are a simple, transparent, and standardized way to aggregate and quantify the qualitative or ordinal assessments by ecological experts. For measuring the non-use value of biodiversity, they are also more informative than valuation by revealed or stated preferences methods. This paper provides the first overview of the application of this method in the Dutch practice of cost–benefit analysis. It also discusses its merits and limitations. The calculation and use of biodiversity points are illustrated by four case studies.
Modifying laboratory testing via home brew during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Moran Jeffery H. , Kessler Larry , Moylan Jennifer , Forrest Craig , Boehme Karl , Kennedy Josh , Greninger Alex , Baird Geoff , Olgaard Ericka , James Laura
Published: January 2021

Rapid development and deployment of diagnostic testing for COVID-19 have been a key component of the public health response to the pandemic. Out of necessity, academic and other clinical laboratories developed laboratory testing innovations for COVID-19 to meet clinical testing demands. In addition to constraints on local testing supplies and equipment, a rapidly changing regulatory framework created challenges for translational scientists. Illustrative examples of approaches used to develop laboratory tests during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrate effective team science approaches to this challenging clinical care and public health emergency. These experiences and the associated lessons learned are relevant to the development of public health response plans for future pandemics.
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) research agenda for healthcare epidemiology
Authors: Mody Lona , Akinboyo Ibukunoluwa C. , Babcock Hilary M. , Bischoff Werner E. , Cheng Vincent Chi-Chung , Chiotos Kathleen , Claeys Kimberly C. , Coffey K. C. , Diekema Daniel J. , Donskey Curtis J. , Ellingson Katherine D. , Gilmartin Heather M. , Gohil Shruti K. , Harris Anthony D. , Keller Sara C. , Klein Eili Y. , Krein Sarah L. , Kwon Jennie H , Lauring Adam S. , Livorsi Daniel J. , Lofgren Eric T. , Merrill Katreena , Milstone Aaron M. , Monsees Elizabeth A. , Morgan Daniel J. , Perri Luci P. , Pfeiffer Christopher D. , Rock Clare , Saint Sanjay , Sickbert-Bennett Emily , Skelton Felicia , Suda Katie J. , Talbot Thomas R. , Vaughn Valerie M. , Weber David J. , Wiemken Timothy L. , Yassin Mohamed H. , Ziegler Matthew J. , Anderson Deverick J.
Published: January 2021

This SHEA white paper identifies knowledge gaps and challenges in healthcare epidemiology research related to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) with a focus on core principles of healthcare epidemiology. These gaps, revealed during the worst phases of the COVID-19 pandemic, are described in 10 sections: epidemiology, outbreak investigation, surveillance, isolation precaution practices, personal protective equipment (PPE), environmental contamination and disinfection, drug and supply shortages, antimicrobial stewardship, healthcare personnel (HCP) occupational safety, and return to work policies. Each section highlights three critical healthcare epidemiology research questions with detailed description provided in supplementary materials. This research agenda calls for translational studies from laboratory-based basic science research to well-designed, large-scale studies and health outcomes research. Research gaps and challenges related to nursing homes and social disparities are included. Collaborations across various disciplines, expertise and across diverse geographic locations will be critical.
Three new cribrimorph bryozoans (order Cheilostomatida) from the early Miocene of Argentina, with a discussion on spinocystal shield morphologies
Authors: López-Gappa Juan , Pérez Leandro M. , Almeida Ana C.S. , Iturra Débora , Gordon Dennis P. , Vieira Leandro M.
Published: January 2021

Bryozoans with calcified frontal shields formed by the fusion of costae, collectively constituting a spinocyst, are traditionally assigned to the family Cribrilinidae. Today, this family is regarded as nonmonophyletic. In the Argentine Cenozoic, cribrilinids were until recently represented by only two fossil species from the Paleocene of Patagonia. This study describes the first fossil representatives ofJolietinaandParafigularia:J. victorian. sp. andP. pigafettain. sp., respectively. A fossil species ofFigularia,F. elcanoin. sp., is also described. The material comes from the early Miocene of the Monte León and Chenque formations (Patagonia, Argentina). For comparison, we also provide redescriptions of the remaining extant species ofJolietina:J. latimarginata(Busk, 1884) andJ. pulchraCanu and Bassler, 1928a. The systematic position of some species previously assigned toFigulariais here discussed.Costafigularian. gen. is erected, withFigularia pulcherrimaTilbrook, Hayward, and Gordon, 2001 as type species. Two species previously assigned toFigulariaare here transferred toCostafigularia, resulting inC. jucundan. comb. andC. tahitiensisn. comb. One species ofFigulariais reassigned toVitrimurella, resulting inV. amplan. comb. The family Vitrimurellidae is here reassigned to the superfamily Cribrilinoidea. The subgenusJuxtacribrilinais elevated to genus rank.Inferusiais regarded as a subjective synonym ofParafigularia.Parafigularia darwiniMoyano, 2011 is synonymized withI. tayloriKuklinski and Barnes, 2009, resulting inParafigularia taylorin. comb. Morphological data suggest that these genera comprise different lineages, and a discussion on the disparities among cribrilinid (sensu lato) spinocysts is provided.

UUID:http://zoobank.org/215957d3-064b-47e2-9090-d0309f6c9cd8
Regulation of universities as charities: one step forward, two steps back
Authors: Synge Mary
Published: January 2021

Most universities (bar profit-making institutions) are charities as a matter of law but, historically, have been exempt from charity law regulation. This paper considers the statutory reforms of 2006, which sought to level the regulatory playing field by appointing ‘Principal Regulators’ of such ‘exempt charities’ to promote compliance with charity law. Focusing on the university sector – where some universities are now registered charities (and regulated by the Charity Commission) whilst others remain exempt – it will note how the reforms have resulted in the application of significantly different degrees of scrutiny and accountability, both between individual universities and between universities and other charities. In part, this is due to the statutory framework itself but, significantly, is also attributable to the radically different approach taken by the Office for Students, which replaced HEFCE as Principal Regulator in 2018. Possible improvements in regulatory practice and statutory reform are offered.
The crisis in legally aided criminal defence in Wales: bringing Wales into discussions of England and Wales
Authors: Dehaghani Roxanna , Newman Daniel
Published: January 2021

This paper explores the impact of cuts and continued fee stagnation on publicly funded criminal defence in England and Wales. In so doing, we take an explicit focus on Wales, which has been neglected in socio-legal scholarship on criminal justice matters. Drawing on 20 interviews with criminal defence lawyers in south Wales, we examine how they have experienced the changes to criminal legal aid in recent years. The lawyers in this study largely considered underfunding as a key political issue, with criminal legal aid identified as an easy target, also highlighting concerns around the impact of underfunding on their practice and how they can work for clients. As such, lawyers queried whether there is a viable future for criminal legal aid. These findings have implications for Wales, and the whole England and Wales jurisdiction, as we will discuss throughout.
Filmske Novosti: Filmed Diplomacy
Authors: Turajlić Mila
Published: January 2021

This article maps out a network of cinematic collaboration established between Yugoslavia and the non-aligned countries in Africa, primarily via the institution of the Yugoslav Newsreels (Filmske novosti). Yugoslav newsreel activities developed to accompany the performative diplomacy of President Tito’s “Voyages of Peace,” playing a role both in cementing his image internationally and his political status at home. By the late 1950s, cinema would become one of the central instruments of Yugoslav information activities abroad, capitalizing on an expanding diplomatic network. In this context, Filmske novosti became the bearers of Yugoslav technical aid in the domain of cinema. Building on a trope of shared revolutionary struggles, they boosted Yugoslavia’s international reputation through the filming of the Algerian Liberation Movement. The unique nature of the cinematic aid provided by Filmske novosti to liberation movements such as the ALN and FRELIMO was continued, with assistance in setting up of national film centers in countries such as Mali and Tanzania. Throughout, Yugoslavia maintained a praxis of non-conditional and non-credited transnational ciné-kinship, which is one of the reasons this remains an unknown chapter in the history of Third Cinema and militant ciné-geographies.
TRIPLET INVARIANCE AND PARALLEL SUMS
Authors: LEE TSIU-KWEN , LIN JHENG-HUEI , QUYNH TRUONG CONG
Published: January 2021

Let R be a semiprime ring with extended centroid C and let

$I(x)$
denote the set of all inner inverses of a regular element x in R. Given two regular elements

$a, b$
in R, we characterise the existence of some

$c\in R$
such that

$I(a)+I(b)=I(c)$
. Precisely, if

$a, b, a+b$
are regular elements of R and a and b are parallel summable with the parallel sum

${\cal P}(a, b)$
, then

$I(a)+I(b)=I({\cal P}(a, b))$
. Conversely, if

$I(a)+I(b)=I(c)$
for some

$c\in R$
, then

$\mathrm {E}[c]a(a+b)^{-}b$
is invariant for all

$(a+b)^{-}\in I(a+b)$
, where

$\mathrm {E}[c]$
is the smallest idempotent in C satisfying

$c=\mathrm {E}[c]c$
. This extends earlier work of Mitra and Odell for matrix rings over a field and Hartwig for prime regular rings with unity and some recent results proved by Alahmadi et al. [‘Invariance and parallel sums’, Bull. Math. Sci.10(1) (2020), 2050001, 8 pages] concerning the parallel summability of unital prime rings and abelian regular rings.
Libertarian Paternalism and the Problem of Preference Architecture
Authors: Kniess Johannes
Published: January 2021

People often fail to make the choices that best satisfy their preferences. The design of the social environment inevitably makes some choices easier than others. According to Libertarian Paternalists, these facts justify governments nudging people towards better choices through changes to the so-called choice architecture. This is a form of means paternalism. However, the social environment affects not only people's choices or means, but also the preferences they adopt in the first place. Call this the problem of ‘preference architecture’. This article argues that preference architecture constitutes a fundamental challenge to the justificatory basis of Libertarian Paternalism. More generally, it explores when, if ever, government paternalism that influences preference formation can be justified. While Libertarian Paternalism cannot provide a satisfactory answer, the author defends a contractualist account of paternalism based on a notion of primary goods and democratic deliberation.