bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Persistence of humoral response upon SARS‐CoV‐2 infection
Authors: Knies Andrea , Ladage Dennis , Braun Ralf J. , Kimpel Janine , Schneider Miriam
Published: July 2021

SARS‐CoV‐2 continues to leave its toll on global health and the economy. Management of the pandemic will rely heavily on the degree of adaptive immunity persistence following natural SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Along with the progression of the pandemic, more literature on the persistence of the SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific antibody response is becoming available. Here, we summarize findings on the persistence of the humoral, including neutralizing antibody, response at three to eight months post SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in non‐pregnant adults. While the comparability of the literature is limited, findings on the detectability of immunoglobulin G class of antibodies (IgG) were most consistent and were reported in most studies to last for six to eight months. Studies investigating the response of immunoglobins M and A (IgM, IgA) were limited and reported mixed results, in particular, for IgM. The majority of studies observed neutralizing antibodies at all time points tested, which in some studies lasted up to eight months. The presence of neutralizing antibodies has been linked to protection from re‐infection, suggesting long‐term immunity to SARS‐CoV‐2. These neutralizing capacities may be challenged by emerging virus variants, but mucosal antibodies as well as memory B and T cells may optimize future immune responses. Thus, further longitudinal investigation of PCR‐confirmed seropositive individuals using sensitive assays is warranted to elucidate the nature and duration of a more long‐term humoral response.
Improved results on stability analysis of sampled‐data systems
Authors: Wang Xin , Sun Jian , Dou Lihua
Published: July 2021

This article is concerned with the stability analysis of sampled‐data systems. Two new functionals are introduced to reduce the conservatism of stability conditions based on the looped‐functional approach. The first one is called a zero integral functional (ZIF) that is added to the derivative of a common Lyapunov functional. The second is a general looped‐functional (GLF), which is traditionally not well defined at sampling instants but redefined as its limits. Single‐ and double‐integral‐based ZIFs and GLFs are tailored for stability analysis. By virtue of the ZIFs and GLFs, less conservative stability criteria are derived and presented in terms of linear matrix inequalities. Finally, several numerical examples are given to demonstrate the effectiveness of proposed method.
Design of high‐order sliding mode controller under asymmetric output constraints
Authors: Mei Keqi , Ma Li , Ding Shihong
Published: July 2021

This article is devoted to the design issue of high‐order sliding mode (HOSM) controller subject to asymmetric output constraints. A barrier Lyapunov function (BLF) is first developed to deal with the constraints. Subsequently, by implanting the BLF into the modified adding a power integrator technique, a HOSM control algorithm, which is able to handle the closed‐loop system simultaneously with and without asymmetric output constraints, has been presented. It has been shown on the basis of the rigorous mathematical proof that under the proposed control strategy, the finite‐time stability of the considered system with the asymmetric output constraints is ensured. Meanwhile, the proposed algorithm also satisfies the requirement of the preset asymmetric output constraint. At last, an illustrative example is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the presented algorithm.
The Janus face of artificial intelligence feedback: Deployment versus disclosure effects on employee performance
Authors: Tong Siliang , Jia Nan , Luo Xueming , Fang Zheng
Published: July 2021

Companies are increasingly using artificial intelligence (AI) to provide performance feedback to employees, by tracking employee behavior at work, automating performance evaluations, and recommending job improvements. However, this application of AI has provoked much debate. On the one hand, powerful AI data analytics increase the quality of feedback, which may enhance employee productivity (“deployment effect”). On the other hand, employees may develop a negative perception of AI feedback once it is disclosed to them, thus harming their productivity (“disclosure effect”). We examine these two effects theoretically and test them empirically using data from a field experiment. We find strong evidence that both effects coexist, and that the adverse disclosure effect is mitigated by employees' tenure in the firm. These findings offer pivotal implications for management theory, practice, and public policies.

Managerial abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are bound to transform how companies manage employees. We examine the use of AI to generate performance feedback for employees. We demonstrate that AI significantly increases the accuracy and consistency of the analyses of information collected, and the relevance of feedback to each employee. These advantages of AI help employees achieve greater job performance at scale, and thus create value for companies. However, our study also alerts companies to the negative effect of disclosing using AI to employee that results from employees' negative perceptions about the deployment of AI, which offsets the business value created by AI. To alleviate value‐destroying disclosure effect, we suggest that companies be more proactive in communicating with their employees about the objectives, benefits, and scope of AI applications in order to assuage their concerns. Moreover, the result of the allayed negative AI disclosure effect among employees with a longer tenure in the company suggests that companies may consider deploying AI in a tiered instead of a uniform fashion, that is, using AI to provide performance feedback to veteran employees but using human managers to provide performance feedback to novices.
Realization of 11.5% Efficiency Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 Thin‐Film Solar Cells by Manipulating the Phase Structure of Precursor Films
Authors: Xu Bin , Qin Xiatong , Lu Xiaoshuang , Liu Yulin , Chen Ye , Peng Hui , Yang Pingxiong , Chu Junhao , Sun Lin
Published: July 2021

Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 has been widely regarded as a promising thin‐film solar cell material. In recent years, the development of Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 solar cells has encountered a bottleneck, and the higher open‐circuit voltage deficit mainly caused by the secondary phase, CZTSSe/CdS interface recombination, deep‐level defects, and band‐tailing effects has been an outstanding issue. Herein, the influence of the composition and phase distribution of the precursor thin film on the defect and performance of Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 solar cells is studied. By modifying the distribution of composition and phase for precursor films, a Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 absorber layer without secondary phase and with fewer detrimental defects can be obtained from the pure‐phase precursor film. Thanks to the reduction of the band‐tailing effects, the increase in the depletion width for heterojunction, and the decrease in CZTSSe/CdS interface recombination, the photovoltaic performance of CZTSSe thin‐film solar cells is significantly improved. Finally, based on the excellent kesterite absorber layer, a Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 solar cell with 11.51% power conversion efficiency (the active area efficiency is 12.4%) is prepared.
Nonlinear inelastic simulation of high‐rise buildings with innovative composite coupling shear walls and CFST columns
Authors: Tran Hau , Thai Huu‐Tai , Ngo Tuan , Uy Brian , Li Dongxu , Mo Jun
Published: July 2021

This paper investigates the behavior of high‐rise composite buildings with composite shear walls and concrete‐filled steel tubular (CFST) columns using a numerical model in OpenSees. In the model, the geometric and material nonlinearity of structural elements are captured by utilizing a fiber force‐based beam‐column elements with rigorously modified material stress–strain relationships. Besides, the confining effect of the concrete core, the semi‐rigid connections, and the coupling effect of composite shear walls is carefully taken into consideration. Finally, the case study of a 42‐storey composite building is conducted using the proposed model to provide a thorough understanding about the behavior of this kind of building. It shows that this innovative building has high loading capacity and significantly reduces the dimension of structural members (up to 50%) compared with the conventional RC building at the same loading capacity. Through the validation with test data, the suggested constitutive laws have shown the simplicity and high accuracy since the value of model error is only around 7%. In addition, the simulation results also indicate that the model can capture well the nonlinear behavior of tested specimens, especially, the failure and the formation of plastic hinges of coupling composite shear walls implicitly.
Low‐Current Sensing Analog‐to‐Digital Converter with Tuneable Resolution for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Singhal Navin , Santosh M. , Bose S. C. , Karmakar Abhijit
Published: July 2021

A novel low‐power, tuneable resolution and low‐current sensing analog‐to‐digital converter is proposed in this paper. The proposed architecture consists of silicon neurons along with digital circuits. The architecture is tuned for input signal ranging from 100 nA to 3.3 μA with power supply of 1 V/3.3 V for digital blocks and silicon neurons respectively. The design is simulated using 0.18 μm CMOS 1P4M triple well process of Tower Jazz Semiconductor's technology. Total power consumption of the circuit is 98.8 μW and achieves FoM of 14.74 pJ/Conv for 8‐bits of operation. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
COVID‐19 in gastroenterology: Where are we now? Current evidence on the impact of COVID‐19 in gastroenterology
Authors: Magro Fernando , Nuzzo Alexandre , Abreu Cândida , Libânio Diogo , Rodriguez‐Lago Iago , Pawlak Katarzyna , Hollenbach Marcus , Brouwer Willem P. , Siau Keith
Published: July 2021

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges in all fields of society with social, economic, and health‐related consequences worldwide.

In this context, gastroenterology patients and healthcare systems and professionals have seen their routines changed and were forced to adapt, adopting measures to minimize the risk of infection while guaranteeing continuous medical care to chronic patients.

Objective

At this point, it is important to evaluate the impact of the pandemic on this field to further improve the quality of the services provided in this context.

Methods/Results/Conclusion

We performed a literature review that summarizes the main aspects to consider in gastroenterology, during the pandemic crisis, and includes a deep discussion on the main changes affecting gastroenterology patients and healthcare systems, anticipating the pandemic recovery scenario with future practices and policies.
Basisphenoid bone fracture in two juvenile horses with different clinical presentation
Authors: Vitale Valentina , Gascón Eduard , Corradini Ignacio , Armengou Lara , Jose‐Cunilleras Eduard
Published: July 2021

Basilar skull fractures in horses can occur at any age, although young horses are particularly prone to this type of injury. This manuscript describes two foals with a basisphenoid bone fracture, with clinical presentations ranging from mild neurological signs up to severe neurological compromise. The absence of neurological signs does not exclude a fracture of this bone, as lethargy and retropharyngeal swelling may be the only clinical signs. Radiography can help define skeletal trauma involving the basilar region of the head, but superimposition of complex skull anatomy limits its use. Endoscopy of the guttural pouches region can be also helpful, but it does not provide enough evidence for a diagnosis. Thus, computed tomography is the optimal imaging technique for a rapid and straightforward diagnosis, as it is superior to radiography defining the type of fracture and the location of the fragments as well as the soft tissue involvement.
Medial patellar luxation in a chondrodysplastic Alaskan Malamute
Authors: Chong Wye Li , Michelsen Jacob
Published: July 2021

A 14‐month‐old Alaskan Malamute with chondrodysplasia (dwarfism) presented for progressive bilateral hindlimb lameness. A diagnosis of bilateral medially luxating patellae was made based on clinical and radiographic findings. The chondrodysplasia in this case was atypical in its hindlimb skeletal deformity along with atypical osteopaenia. The case was successfully managed with trochlear sulcoplasty and tibial tuberosity transposition; due to reduced bone quality, the tibial tuberosity was secured with a locking plate (ALPS; Kyon, Inc, Zurich, Switzerland). To the authors’ knowledge, treatment of patellar luxation in chondrodysplastic Alaskan Malamutes has not been previously reported.
Seismic signatures reveal persistence of soil compaction
Authors: Romero‐Ruiz Alejandro , Linde Niklas , Baron Ludovic , Solazzi Santiago Gabriel , Keller Thomas , Or Dani
Published: July 2021

A well‐developed soil structure is a key attribute of a productive and functioning soil. Evidence shows that subtle changes in the spatial arrangement and binding of soil constituents impart large changes in soil mechanical and hydraulic properties and associated ecological services. However, these features remain difficult to quantify at spatial scales relevant for agricultural management. In this work, we propose a pedophysical model to interpret macroscopic seismic properties in terms of soil structure. The model captures subtle soil mechanical traits accounting for soil plastic deformation due to compaction. In order to evaluate the model, we use data from field monitoring at an experimental site that revealed elevated seismic velocities in plots that were compacted 5 yr prior to our measurements. Our results show that P‐wave velocities carry a strong imprint of soil compaction and are well predicted by the proposed model. The model infers contact areas between aggregates that are nearly threefold larger for compacted than for non‐compacted soils, indicating that soils have not recovered from compaction. The study illustrates the potential of seismic methods to identify chronic compaction at field scale.
Dynamic groundwater recharge simulations based on cosmic‐ray neutron sensing in a tropical wet experimental basin
Authors: Barbosa Luís Romero , Coelho Victor Hugo R. , Scheiffele Lena M. , Baroni Gabriele , Ramos Filho Geraldo M. , Montenegro Suzana M. G. L. , Almeida Cristiano das N. , Oswald Sascha E.
Published: July 2021

Although cosmic‐ray neutron sensing (CRNS) is probably the most promising noninvasive proximal soil moisture measurement technique at the field scale, its application for hydrological simulations remains underexplored in the literature so far. This study assessed the use of CRNS to inversely calibrate soil hydraulic parameters at the intermediate field scale to simulate the groundwater recharge rates at a daily timescale. The study was conducted for two contrasting hydrological years at the Guaraíra experimental basin, Brazil, a 5.84‐km², a tropical wet and rather flat landscape covered by secondary Atlantic forest. As a consequence of the low altitude and proximity to the equator low neutron count rates could be expected, reducing the precision of CRNS while constituting unexplored and challenging conditions for CRNS applications. Inverse calibration for groundwater recharge rates was used based on CRNS or point‐scale soil moisture data. The CRNS‐derived retention curve and saturated hydraulic conductivity were consistent with the literature and locally performed slug tests. Simulated groundwater recharge rates ranged from 60 to 470 mm yr–1, corresponding to 5 and 29% of rainfall, and correlated well with estimates based on water table fluctuations. In contrast, the estimated results based on inversive point‐scale datasets were not in alignment with measured water table fluctuations. The better performance of CRNS‐based estimations of field‐scale hydrological variables, especially groundwater recharge, demonstrated its clear advantages over traditional invasive point‐scale techniques. Finally, the study proved the ability of CRNS as practicable in low altitude, tropical wet areas, thus encouraging its adoption for water resources monitoring and management.
Factorization and transverse phase-space parton distributions
Authors: Wu Bin
Published: July 2021

Abstract

We first revisit impact-parameter dependent collisions of ultra-relativistic particles in quantum field theory. Two conditions sufficient for defining an impact-parameter dependent cross section are given, which could be violated in proton-proton collisions. By imposing these conditions, a general formula for the impact-parameter dependent cross section is derived. Then, using soft-collinear effective theory, we derive a factorization formula for the impact-parameter dependent cross section for inclusive hard processes with only colorless final-state products in hadron and nuclear collisions. It entails defining thickness beam functions, which are Fourier transforms of transverse phase-space parton distribution functions. By modelling non-perturbative modes in thickness beam functions of large nuclei in heavy-ion collisions, the factorization formula confirms the cross section in the Glauber model for hard processes. Besides, the factorization formula is verified up to one loop in perturbative QCD for the inclusive Drell-Yan process in quark-antiquark collisions at a finite impact parameter.
Pharmakotherapie und intensivmedizinische Aspekte des Status epilepticus: Update 2020/2021
Authors: Saitov Gabrielė , Müller Annekatrin , Bastian Börge , Michalski Dominik
Published: July 2021

Die gezielte Therapie epileptischer Ereignisse und im Speziellen des Status epilepticus (SE) setzt das sichere Erkennen der Krankheitsbilder voraus, wofür gerade bei Formen mit vorwiegend nichtmotorischen Symptomen klinische und elektroenzephalographische Expertise notwendig ist. Die im Jahr 2020 erfolgte Fortschreibung der deutschen Leitlinie zur Behandlung des SE hält an der streng stufengerechten Therapie fest, die eskalierend die Anwendung von Benzodiazepinen, spezifischen Antiepileptika und Anästhetika vorsieht. Bisher ist die Eingrenzung eines in den allermeisten Fällen wirksamen sowie zugleich sicheren und interaktionsfreien Antiepileptikums nicht gelungen. Individuelle Vorerkrankungen und aktuelle Begleitumstände gehen daher genauso wie Erfahrungen des Behandlerteams in die differenzierte Behandlung des SE ein. Insbesondere bei therapierefraktären Formen des SE erweist sich die Therapie als durchaus kompliziert und hat regelhaft intensivmedizinische Implikationen. Mithin ergeben sich im Zuge der modernen SE-Behandlung zahlreiche interdisziplinäre Schnittstellen. Zukünftige wissenschaftliche Fragstellungen werden sich u. a. mit der optimalen Therapie des nonkonvulsiven SE und hier v. a. dem Ausmaß und dem Zeitpunkt von adäquaten Therapieschritten sowie mit assoziierten ethischen Fragen einer Therapieeskalation beschäftigen.
Microstructure, hardness, and wear resistance of AZ91 magnesium alloy produced by friction stir processing with air-cooling
Authors: Iwaszko Józef , Kudła Krzysztof
Published: July 2021

Friction stir processing (FSP) was used to modify the surface layer of the AZ91 magnesium alloy. The treatment was carried out using a jet cooling nozzle, generating a stream of cold air and enabling intensive cooling of the friction stir processed (FSPed) zone. Single-pass FSP was carried out using a tool rotational speed of 500 rpm and travel speed of 30 mm/min. The treatment was conducted using a truncated cone-shaped tool with a threaded side surface. Strong grain refinement and microstructural changes typical for FSP were found in all the samples. Very fine, equiaxed recrystallized grains dominated in the stirring zone. In the samples modified with the jet cooling nozzle, greater grain refinement was obtained than in the case of naturally cooled material. The average grain size in the surface part of the stirring zone was 1.4 μm and 9 μm in the samples with air-cooling and with natural cooling, respectively. Both the naturally cooled specimen and air-cooled specimen were characterized by a distinctly higher hardness than the base material. The average Vickers hardness in the stirring zone was 91 HV0.1 in the FSPed sample with the air-cooling system and 85.5 HV0.1 with natural cooling, respectively. The average Vickers hardness of the as-cast alloy was 64 HV0.1. Slightly higher wear resistance of the FSPed samples using a jet cooling nozzle was found in relation to the naturally cooled sample. Based on the conducted research, high efficiency of the jet cooling nozzle in cooling the modified zone during friction stir processing was found.
Leaching Rate of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) from Marine Paint Chips
Authors: Uhler Allen D. , Hardenstine Jeffery H. , Edwards Deborah A. , Lotufo Guilherme R.
Published: July 2021

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were added to certain marine vessel bottom paints as a plasticizer to improve the adhesion and durability of the paint. The most common PCB formulation used to amend such paints was Aroclor 1254. Fugitive Aroclor-containing paint chips generated from vessel maintenance and repair operations represent a potential source of PCB contamination to sediments. Limited published studies indicate that Aroclor-containing paint is largely inert and exhibits low PCB leaching into water; however, the rate and degree of leaching of PCBs from paint chips have not been directly studied. This laboratory-based study evaluated the rate and extent of leaching of PCBs from paint chips into freshwater. The results of this investigation demonstrate that the rate of PCB dissolution from paint chips decreased rapidly and exponentially over time. Based on this study, it is estimated that the rate of leaching of PCBs from paint chips would cease after approximately 3 years of exposure to water. When all leachable PCBs were exhausted, it is estimated that less than 1% of the mass of PCBs in the paint chips was amenable to dissolution. The results of this experiment suggest that Aroclor-containing paint chips found in sediments are likely short-term sources of dissolved-phase PCB to pore or surface waters and that the majority of the PCBs in paint chips remain in the paint matrix and unavailable for partitioning into water.

Graphic Abstract
Sclerochronology in the Southern Ocean
Authors: Roman Gonzalez Alejandro
Published: July 2021

This manuscript aims to provide a comprehensive review of the work done by Antarctic sclerochronology research across different taxa (arthropods, bivalves, brachiopods, bryozoans, cephalopods, hard and soft corals, gastropods, echinoderms and teleost fish), provide an analysis of current challenges in the discipline and start a discussion of what sclerochronology can offer for Antarctic research in future. The Southern Ocean ecosystem remains largely unstudied in part for its remoteness, extreme climate and strong seasonality. This lack of knowledge, some of it even on basic biological information, it is especially worrying due to ongoing climate-driven changes that the Southern Ocean ecosystem is experiencing. Lack of long-term in situ instrumental series has also being a detriment to understand long-term feedbacks between the physical environment and the ecosystem. Sclerochronology, the study of periodic accretional patterns in the hard body structures of living organisms, has contributed to a wide range of Antarctic research disciplines (e.g. paleoclimate reconstructions, population structure analysis, environmental proxies). This review highlights a disparity in research focus by taxa with some groups (e.g. bivalves, teleost fish) attracting most of the research attention, whereas other groups (e.g. gastropod) have attracted much little research attention or in some cases it is almost non-existent (e.g. echinoderms). Some of the long-lived species considered in this review have the potential to provide the much-needed high-resolution eco-environmental proxy data and play an important role in blue carbon storage in the Sothern Ocean. Another issue identified was the lack of cross-validation between analytical techniques.

Graphic abstract
The effect of agroecosystem management on the distribution of C functional groups in soil organic matter: A review
Authors: Audette Yuki , Congreves Katelyn A. , Schneider Kimberley , Zaro Geovanna C. , Nunes Amanda L. P. , Zhang Hongjie , Voroney R. Paul
Published: July 2021

To improve soil health and to aid in climate change mitigation, the quantity of soil organic matter (SOM) should be maintained or increased over the long run. In doing so, not only the total quantity of SOC but also the stability of SOC must be considered. Stability of SOC increases as a function of resistance to microbial decomposition or microbial substrate use efficiency through chemical, biological, and physical mechanisms including humification, hydrophobic moieties, molecular diversity, and formation of macroaggregates. One of the mechanisms that enhance stability confers changes in the distribution of C functional groups of SOM. To better understand and quantify how these changes are influenced by agricultural management practices, we collected 670 pairwise data from the body of literature that has evaluated changes in the distribution of C functional groups of SOM measured by solid-state 13C NMR spectroscopy. The types of agricultural managements discussed herein include (1) fertilization, (2) tillage, (3) crop rotation, (4) grazing, and (5) liming practices. Our meta-analyses show that these practices modify the distribution of C functional groups of SOM. Fertilization practices were associated with increased O-alkyl groups. Tillage resulted in increases in the SOC consisted of aromatic and carbonyl groups. Crop rotations, especially legume-based rotations, were found to increase the proportion of aromatic groups. Although there are fewer publications on tillage and crop rotation than on fertilization practices, the distribution of C functional groups may be more influenced by crop rotation and tillage practices than fertilization management—and should be a focus of future research.
Best Fit Bin Packing with Random Order Revisited
Authors: Albers Susanne , Khan Arindam , Ladewig Leon
Published: July 2021

Best Fit is a well known online algorithm for the bin packing problem, where a collection of one-dimensional items has to be packed into a minimum number of unit-sized bins. In a seminal work, Kenyon [SODA 1996] introduced the (asymptotic) random order ratio as an alternative performance measure for online algorithms. Here, an adversary specifies the items, but the order of arrival is drawn uniformly at random. Kenyon’s result establishes lower and upper bounds of 1.08 and 1.5, respectively, for the random order ratio of Best Fit. Although this type of analysis model became increasingly popular in the field of online algorithms, no progress has been made for the Best Fit algorithm after the result of Kenyon. We study the random order ratio of Best Fit and tighten the long-standing gap by establishing an improved lower bound of 1.10. For the case where all items are larger than 1/3, we show that the random order ratio converges quickly to 1.25. It is the existence of such large items that crucially determines the performance of Best Fit in the general case. Moreover, this case is closely related to the classical maximum-cardinality matching problem in the fully online model. As a side product, we show that Best Fit satisfies a monotonicity property on such instances, unlike in the general case. In addition, we initiate the study of the absolute random order ratio for this problem. In contrast to asymptotic ratios, absolute ratios must hold even for instances that can be packed into a small number of bins. We show that the absolute random order ratio of Best Fit is at least 1.3. For the case where all items are larger than 1/3, we derive upper and lower bounds of 21/16 and 1.2, respectively.
The Integration of People Convicted of a Sexual Offence Into the Community and Their (Risk) Management
Authors: McCartan K. F. , Richards K.
Published: July 2021

Purpose of Review

We are reviewing recent research into the community integration of men convicted of a sexual offence and their (risk) management. This is a high-profile political issue that binds together research in psychology, criminology, politics, health, public health, and policy studies. The review will demonstrate that a multi-disciplinary, life course, EpiCrim-oriented approach is the most effective way of reducing re-offending and promoting desistance in this population.

Recent Findings

Research demonstrates that life course development, especially from psychology and criminology, has an impact on whether people sexually offend or not. Therefore, to understand sexual offending behaviour, we need to look at the aetiology of said behaviour from a nature and a nurture perspective. Therefore, we need to use an Epidemiological Criminology (a marriage of Public Health and criminology) approach that works at all four stages of the Socio-Ecological Model (SEM) (individual, interrelationship, community, and societal). The research encourages a person first approach, that we look at Adverse Childhood Experiences and past trauma in the lives of men who sexually offend and use this, in conjunction with strength-based approaches, to inclusively integrate them into society.

The prevention of sexual offending, both first time offending, and relapse prevention require a multi-level, multi-disciplinary approach. Successful desistance from sexual offending is as much about the community and society as it is about the individual.
Mental Health Outcomes of Unaccompanied Refugee Minors: a Rapid Review of Recent Research
Authors: Bamford Jordan , Fletcher Mark , Leavey Gerard
Published: July 2021

Purpose

To examine mental health outcomes of unaccompanied refugee minors during global policy shift. Additionally, to consider mental health service delivery and placement type for this group.

Methods

A rapid systematic search of research published since 2018 which related to mental health outcomes of unaccompanied refugee minors. Data extracted, risk of bias assessed and outcomes reviewed qualitatively.

Research Findings

We found 181 papers, of which 14 met inclusion criteria. This review found consistently high levels of PTSD and PTSS among URMs in various contexts. Exposure to trauma, being unaccompanied (compared to accompanied), being female and being older are associated with poor outcomes. Depression and anxiety were consistently high among URMs and associated with discrimination, limited language attainment and daily hassles.

High rates of mental illness and symptoms among unaccompanied refugee minors were consistent across national and settlement contexts but the quality of the evidence is variable with significant heterogeneity of assessment. We relate persistence of poor mental health outcomes with problems accessing mental health services and discuss the role of key post-migration factors influencing outcomes—in particular placement type and the use of detention centres.
Nimesulide Determination on Carbon Black-Nafion Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode by Means of Adsorptive Stripping Voltammetry
Authors: Łysoń Marcelina , Górska Anna , Paczosa-Bator Beata , Piech Robert
Published: July 2021

Adsorptive Stripping Voltammetric method for Nimesulide (NIM) determination was developed. As a working electrode, glassy carbon electrode (GCE) modified with carbon black and Nafion (CB-Nafion GCE) was used. All measurements were carried out in 0.1 M acetate buffer (pH 4.6). Conducted experiments allowed to optimize differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) instrumental parameters: sampling and waiting time ts = tw = 10 ms, step potential Es = 4 mV, and pulse amplitude ΔE = 50 mV. The best results were obtained for preconcentration potential and time equal to 400 mV and 20 s, respectively. Limit of detection was calculated and was equal to 0.14 µM for 20-s preconcentration time and 0.06 µM for 40-s preconcentration time. In order to prove the applicability of the developed method, concentration of nimesulide in pharmaceutical products was determined. Calculated recoveries were in the range 94–99%, which indicates that the method might be assumed as accurate. Coefficient of variation was equal to 5.0% (n = 7, NIM concentration 1 µM) Obtained results of NIM determination were in good agreement with the content declared by producers.
PRIMED2 Preclinical Evidence Scoring Tool to Assess Readiness for Translation of Neuroprotection Therapies
Authors: Bahr-Hosseini Mersedeh , Bikson Marom , Iacoboni Marco , Liebeskind David S. , Hinman Jason D. , Carmichael S Thomas , Saver Jeffrey L.
Published: July 2021

Many neuroprotective and other therapies for treatment of acute ischemic stroke have failed in translation to human studies, indicating a need for more rigorous, multidimensional quality assessment of the totality of preclinical evidence supporting a therapy prior to conducting human trials. A consensus panel of stroke preclinical model and human clinical trial experts assessed candidate items for the translational readiness scale, compiled from prior instruments (STAIR, ARRIVE, CAMARADES, RoB 2) based on importance, reliability, and feasibility. Once constructed, the tool was applied by two independent raters to four current candidate acute stroke therapies, including two pharmacologic agents [nerinetide and trans-sodium crocetinate] and two device interventions [cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation and fastigial nucleus stimulation]. The Preclinical evidence of Readiness In stroke Models Evaluating Drugs and Devices (PRIMED2) assessment tool rates the totality of evidence available from all reported preclinical animal stroke model studies in 11 domains related to diversity of tested animals, time windows, feasibility of agent route of delivery, and robustness of effect magnitude. Within each content domain, clearly operationalized rules assign strength of evidence ratings of 0–2. When applied to the four assessed candidate agents, inter-rater reliability was high (kappa = 0.88), and each agent showed a unique profile of evidentiary strengths and weaknesses. The PRIMED2 assessment tool provides a multidimensional assessment of the cumulative preclinical evidence for a candidate acute stroke therapy on factors judged important for successful basic-to-clinical translation. Further evaluation and refinement of this tool is desirable to improve successful translation of therapies for acute stroke.
Lockdown effects on Parkinson’s disease during COVID-19 pandemic: a pilot study
Authors: Falla Marika , Dodich Alessandra , Papagno Costanza , Gober Alessandro , Narduzzi Pamela , Pierotti Enrica , Falk Markus , Zappini Francesca , Colosimo Carlo , Turella Luca
Published: July 2021

The coronavirus-disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak precipitated prolonged lock-down measures. The subsequent social distancing, isolation, and reduction in mobility increased psychological stress, which may worsen Parkinson’s disease (PD). Therefore, telemedicine has been proposed to provide care to PD patients. To evaluate the effects of lock-down on motor and nonmotor symptoms in PD patients during the COVID-19 pandemic and the feasibility of telemedicine. Motor and nonmotor aspects were longitudinally assessed using structured questionnaires at baseline (in-person, February 2020) and at follow-up (remote web-based video, lock-down) evaluation. Of the seventeen PD patients evaluated at baseline, fourteen agreed to participate in, and completed follow-up evaluations. There was an impairment of nonmotor aspects measured with the MDS-UPDRS part I (p < 0.001) during lock-down. Nine patients participated independently in the telemedicine evaluation while five needed help from relatives. Our preliminary findings suggest an impairment of nonmotor symptoms in PD patients and support the feasibility and need for telemedicine in monitoring PD patients during the COVID-19 pandemic, to guarantee optimal assistance with reducing the burden of infection. Our findings also suggest that movement disorder clinics should be carefully considering socio-demographics and clinical features when developing telemedicine programs.
Prenatal Diagnosis for a Novel Missense Mutation in X-Linked Intellectual Disability Gene Followed by Favorable Pregnancy Outcome
Authors: Khatter Sangeeta , Bajaj Ritika , Sharma Nidhi , Jindal Sheetal , Jindal Umesh
Published: July 2021

Intellectual disability (ID) is still unexplained in 60% of cases and prenatal diagnosis is very challenging for this condition. A second gravida presented to us at 6 weeks of gestation for counseling. Her previous child had been diagnosed with ID and autism. Detailed family history showed that her brother also had ID. Screening investigations were normal for the affected child. Exome sequencing report revealed variation of unknown significance (VOUS) on SIN3A gene and UPF3B gene. The variation in X-linked UPF3B gene was reclassified as novel pathogenic variation after segregation studies with parents and affected maternal uncle for both the genes variations. An amniocentesis was done at 18 weeks gestation for the novel mutation in the UPF3B gene and the fetus was found unaffected. The patient delivered a healthy male child who is doing well at two years of age. To conclude, we should not disregard VOUS on exome sequencing. Identification of VOUS requires careful genotype-phenotype correlation and segregation studies to counsel parents regarding the risk of having another affected child.
Sleep disturbance among frontline nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Al Maqbali Mohammed
Published: July 2021

The main objective of this study is to assess the prevalence of sleep disturbance and related psychological factors (stress, anxiety and depression) among frontline nurses in Oman during the COVID-19 pandemic. A cross-sectional and descriptive correlational design using Qualtrics® software was used in this research. Data were collected using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with poor sleep quality. Of the 987 frontline nurses who participated, 58.8% (n = 580) reported poor sleep quality. In an examination of PSQI components the mean sleep duration was 7.04 (SD = 1.59) hours per night, and the sleep latency mean was 38.18 min (SD = 31.81). Poor sleep (p < .05) was significantly associated with age, marital status, years of experience, comorbidity, and whether family members or relatives were suspected or confirmed with having COVID-19. Logistic regression showed that poor quality of sleep was significantly associated with stress, anxiety and depression symptoms. Sleep disturbance is a significant problem for frontline nurses working in Oman during the COVID-19 pandemic. Appropriate interventions to maintain the health conditions and reduce sleep disturbance among frontline nurses are needed in order to help support nurses’ work during contagious disease outbreaks. These can be implemented through online workshops and training to enhance nurses’ responses to the pandemic or to any further disease outbreaks.
One-dimensional system arising in stochastic gradient descent
Authors: Karatapanis Konstantinos
Published: July 2021

We consider stochastic differential equations of the form $dX_t = |f(X_t)|/t^{\gamma} dt+1/t^{\gamma} dB_t$, where f(x) behaves comparably to $|x|^k$ in a neighborhood of the origin, for $k\in [1,\infty)$. We show that there exists a threshold value $ \,{:}\,{\raise-1.5pt{=}}\, \tilde{\gamma}$ for $\gamma$, depending on k, such that if $\gamma \in (1/2, \tilde{\gamma})$, then $\mathbb{P}(X_t\rightarrow 0) = 0$, and for the rest of the permissible values of $\gamma$, $\mathbb{P}(X_t\rightarrow 0)>0$. These results extend to discrete processes that satisfy $X_{n+1}-X_n = f(X_n)/n^\gamma +Y_n/n^\gamma$. Here, $Y_{n+1}$ are martingale differences that are almost surely bounded.

This result shows that for a function F whose second derivative at degenerate saddle points is of polynomial order, it is always possible to escape saddle points via the iteration $X_{n+1}-X_n =F'(X_n)/n^\gamma +Y_n/n^\gamma$ for a suitable choice of $\gamma$.
Continuum line-of-sight percolation on Poisson–Voronoi tessellations
Authors: Le Gall Quentin , Błaszczyszyn Bartłomiej , Cali Élie , En-Najjary Taoufik
Published: July 2021

In this work, we study a new model for continuum line-of-sight percolation in a random environment driven by the Poisson–Voronoi tessellation in the d-dimensional Euclidean space. The edges (one-dimensional facets, or simply 1-facets) of this tessellation are the support of a Cox point process, while the vertices (zero-dimensional facets or simply 0-facets) are the support of a Bernoulli point process. Taking the superposition Z of these two processes, two points of Z are linked by an edge if and only if they are sufficiently close and located on the same edge (1-facet) of the supporting tessellation. We study the percolation of the random graph arising from this construction and prove that a 0–1 law, a subcritical phase, and a supercritical phase exist under general assumptions. Our proofs are based on a coarse-graining argument with some notion of stabilization and asymptotic essential connectedness to investigate continuum percolation for Cox point processes. We also give numerical estimates of the critical parameters of the model in the planar case, where our model is intended to represent telecommunications networks in a random environment with obstructive conditions for signal propagation.
Online news media reporting of ketamine as a treatment for depression from 2000 to 2017
Authors: Gallagher Bronagh , Neiman Aaron , Slattery Marie-Claire , McLoughlin Declan M.
Published: July 2021

Objectives:

Since the first reporting of ketamine’s antidepressant effects in 2000, there has been growing public interest in this novel rapid-acting treatment for depression despite its abuse potential. Online media is an increasingly popular way for the general public to source information. Our objective was to examine how online news outlets have portrayed ketamine as an antidepressant by ascertaining the volume and content of relevant articles and trends over time.

Methods:

In this semi-quantitative study, we identified articles regarding ketamine’s use in depression from the 30 most popular English-language online news-generating sources over 18 years (2000–2017). Articles were then blindly assessed by 2 independent raters, who analysed the texts by quantifying the presence/absence of 12 content items.

Results:

We identified 97 articles, the number of which has increased since the first online news report in 2006. Most (69%) came from the USA and nearly all correctly stated the indications for ketamine. About half of the most recent articles mentioned abuse potential and 27% of articles referred to risks of unregulated use of ketamine. Just under 20% of articles referred to the lack of evidence regarding direct comparisons between ketamine and other currently available antidepressants. There was no difference in the overall level of detail within the articles during the study time period.

Conclusions:

Online news media articles have been generally positive about ketamine for treating depression but need to be interpreted with caution as many of them did not discuss negative aspects of ketamine and made unsubstantiated claims about ketamine.
Lubrication analysis of peristaltic motion in non-axisymmetric annular tubes
Authors: Coenen W. , Zhang X. , Sánchez A.L.
Published: July 2021

This paper addresses peristaltic flow induced in a non-axisymmetric annular tube by a periodic small-amplitude wave of arbitrary shape propagating axially along its inner surface, assumed to be a circular cylinder. The study is motivated by recent in vivo experimental observations pertaining to the flow of cerebrospinal fluid along the perivascular spaces of cerebral arteries. The analysis employs the lubrication approximation, describing low-Reynolds-number peristaltic flow in the long-wavelength approximation. Closed-form analytic expressions are derived for the average pumping rate in infinitely long tubes and also in tubes of finite length. Consideration is also given to the transverse motion arising in non-axisymmetric tubes. For small-amplitude waves, the solution is reduced to the integration of a parameter-free Stokes-flow problem, which is solved for relevant cross-sectional shapes, with closed-form analytical results derived for thin canals.
Apologies as ‘shame management’: the politics of remorse in the aftermath of historical institutional abuse
Authors: McAlinden Anne-Marie
Published: July 2021

This paper examines the role of apology as a vehicle for shame management in the aftermath of historical institutional abuse (HIA). It draws on extensive fieldwork in Ireland, North and South, including: archival research on public apologies; focus groups with members of the public and with victims; and semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders. It focuses on the complexities of apology in managing ‘shame’ and ‘self-blame’ for those constituencies affected by HIA – survivors, apologisers, institutions and wider society. Drawing on the notions of ‘shame’ and ‘shame management’, it proposes an interdependent model in order to better understand the function and meaning of apology in such contexts. In addressing the multi-layered relational dimensions of shame surrounding HIA, apology is presented as a potential means of invoking: (a) truth for victims; (b) accountability of offenders; (c) leadership of institutions; and (d) the re-imagination of national identity. The paper concludes by examining the additional performative aspects of shaming and the emotional expression of remorse in establishing proximity to historical wrongdoing.
Wonder of Wonders: Rethinking Religion in Manhattan
Authors: Moore Deborah Dash
Published: July 2021

God in Gotham issues a challenge: if religion can survive, nay thrive, in Sodom by the Sea, then maybe we need to revise our theory of secularization of the modern world. The book's subtitle articulates its subversive claims: “The Miracle of Religion in Modern Manhattan.” Its alliterative argument suggests a measure of wonder, one of those features of pre-modern life supposedly banished by secularization and the disenchantment of the world.
VOICE ONSET TIME IN MULTILINGUAL SPEAKERS: ITALIAN HERITAGE SPEAKERS IN GERMANY WITH L3 ENGLISH
Authors: Geiss Miriam , Gumbsheimer Sonja , Lloyd-Smith Anika , Schmid Svenja , Kupisch Tanja
Published: July 2021

This study brings together two previously largely independent fields of multilingual language acquisition: heritage language and third language (L3) acquisition. We investigate the production of fortis and lenis stops in semi-naturalistic speech in the three languages of 20 heritage speakers (HSs) of Italian with German as a majority language and English as L3. The study aims to identify the extent to which the HSs produce distinct values across all three languages, or whether crosslinguistic influence (CLI) occurs. To this end, we compare the HSs’ voice onset time (VOT) values with those of L2 English speakers from Italy and Germany. The language triad exhibits overlapping and distinct VOT realizations, making VOT a potentially vulnerable category. Results indicate CLI from German into Italian, although a systemic difference is maintained. When speaking English, the HSs show an advantage over the Italian L2 control group, with less prevoicing and longer fortis stops, indicating a specific bilingual advantage.