bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tunable and high quality factor Fano and toroidal dipole resonances in terahertz superconducting metamaterials
Authors: Duan Siyu , Wu Jingbo , Shen Ze , Guan Yun , Jia Xiaoqing , Zhang Caihong , Jin Biaobing , Kang Lin , Xu Weiwei , Wang Huabing , Chen Jian , Wu Peiheng
Published: April 2020

We experimentally studied a series of terahertz (THz) metamaterials with asymmetric resonator structures made from superconducting niobium nitride or gold films. Fano and toroidal dipole resonances are excited in superconducting metamaterials and their quality factors are higher in comparison with those of gold samples. Superconducting samples possess good tuning behaviors for both Fano and toroidal dipole resonance frequencies due to the change of kinetic inductance under different temperatures. The superconducting samples also exhibit good slow light effect due to the sharp dispersion in transmission spectra. These tunable and low loss metamaterials possess great significance to the development of THz nonlinear and slow light devices.
Optical and biomedical applications of eco-friendly biosynthesized silver nano spheres using zingiber officinale root extract
Authors: Ramya E , Jyothi L , Vivek Vardhan P , Sri Ram Gopal N , Desai Narayana Rao
Published: April 2020

Eco-friendly bio-compatible silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) were successfully synthesized using Zingiber officinale extract in a simple green route at room temperature. The phytoconstituents present in Zingiber officinale (Z. officinale) extract act as reducing and stabilizing agents. The size and crystallinity of spherical Ag NPs were confirmed through transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. The formation of silver nanoparticles was also confirmed from the UV–vis and FTIR spectra. Luminescence properties of europium (Eu) and samarium (Sm) complexes in the presence of silver were studied. The intensity of luminescence from Eu and Sm complexes were found to get enhanced or quenched with their concentrations in Ag NPs. Interesting nonlinear optical properties exhibited by Ag NPs were observed in the Z-scan experiment suggesting that they can be used as optical limiters for the picosecond (ps) time scale green laser. Silver nanoparticles were tested against colon cancer (HCT116) cells in vitro by MTT assay and they exhibited smaller IC50 values with better inhibition efficiency. Ag NPs induced apoptosis through the activation of Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Caspase-3 pathways. Antibacterial activity of Ag NPs was analysed against Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and they were found to be efficient in inhibiting the bacteria. The results indicate that the biosynthesized eco-friendly nanoparticles having high stability can lead to many applications such as good luminescence enhancement, optical limiting characteristics, anticancerous and antibacterial properties in optics and biomedicine.
Simulating the effects of water limitation on plant biomass using a 3D functional–structural plant model of shoot and root driven by soil hydraulics
Authors: Braghiere Renato K , Gérard Frédéric , Evers Jochem B , Pradal Christophe , Pagès Loïc
Published: April 2020

Background and Aims

Improved modelling of carbon assimilation and plant growth to low soil moisture requires evaluation of underlying mechanisms in the soil, roots, and shoots. The feedback between plants and their local environment throughout the whole spectrum soil-root-shoot-environment is crucial to accurately describe and evaluate the impact of environmental changes on plant development. This study presents a 3D functional structural plant model, in which shoot and root growth are driven by radiative transfer, photosynthesis, and soil hydrodynamics through different parameterisation schemes relating soil water deficit and carbon assimilation. The new coupled model is used to evaluate the impact of soil moisture availability on plant productivity for two different groups of flowering plants under different spatial configurations.

Methods

In order to address different aspects of plant development due to limited soil water availability, a 3D FSP model including root, shoot, and soil was constructed by linking three different well-stablished models of airborne plant, root architecture, and reactive transport in the soil. Different parameterisation schemes were used in order to integrate photosynthetic rate with root water uptake within the coupled model. The behaviour of the model was assessed on how the growth of two different types of plants, i.e. monocot and dicot, is impacted by soil water deficit under different competitive conditions: isolated (no competition), intra, and interspecific competition.

Key Results

The model proved to be capable of simulating carbon assimilation and plant development under different growing settings including isolated monocots and dicots, intra, and interspecific competition. The model predicted that (1) soil water availability has a larger impact on photosynthesis than on carbon allocation; (2) soil water deficit has an impact on root and shoot biomass production by up to 90 % for monocots and 50 % for dicots; and (3) the improved dicot biomass production in interspecific competition was highly related to root depth and plant transpiration.

Conclusions

An integrated model of 3D shoot architecture and biomass development with a 3D root system representation, including light limitation and water uptake considering soil hydraulics, was presented. Plant-plant competition and regulation on stomatal conductance to drought were able to be predicted by the model. In the cases evaluated here, water limitation impacted plant growth almost 10 times more than the light environment.
Superior Identification of Component Odors in a Mixture Is Linked to Autistic Traits in Children and Adults
Authors: Walker Susannah C , Williams Kate , Moore David J
Published: April 2020

Most familiar odors are complex mixtures of volatile molecules, which the olfactory system automatically synthesizes into a perceptual whole. However, odors are rarely encountered in isolation; thus, the brain must also separate distinct odor objects from complex and variable backgrounds. In vision, autistic traits are associated with superior performance in tasks that require focus on the local features of a perceptual scene. The aim of the present study was to determine whether the same advantage was observed in the analysis of olfactory scenes. To do this, we compared the ability of 1) 40 young adults (aged 16–35) with high (n = 20) and low levels of autistic traits and 2) 20 children (aged 7–11), with (n = 10) and without an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis, to identify individual odor objects presented within odor mixtures. First, we used a 4-alternative forced choice task to confirm that both adults and children were able to reliably identify 8 blended fragrances, representing food-related odors, when presented individually. We then used the same forced choice format to test participants’ ability to identify the odors when they were combined in either binary or ternary mixtures. Adults with high levels of autistic traits showed superior performance on binary but not ternary mixture trials, whereas children with an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis outperformed age-matched neurotypical peers, irrespective of mixture complexity. These findings indicate that the local processing advantages associated with high levels of autistic traits in visual tasks are also apparent in a task requiring analytical processing of odor mixtures.
Extended Continuous β-Lactam Infusion With Oral Acetaminophen in Childhood Bacterial Meningitis: A Randomized, Double-blind Clinical Trial
Authors: Savonius Okko , Rugemalira Emilie , Roine Irmeli , Cruzeiro Manuel Leite , Peltola Heikki , Pelkonen Tuula
Published: April 2020

Background

In our previous study in Luanda, Angola, initial continuous β-lactam infusion for 24 hours combined with oral acetaminophen for 48 hours showed promising results as a new treatment for childhood bacterial meningitis. We investigated whether extending this treatment regimen to 4 days would improve the outcomes further.

Methods

We conducted a randomized, double-blind, parallel-group study at the same hospital in Luanda. Children aged 2 months to 15 years presenting to hospital with symptoms and signs of bacterial meningitis were randomized to receive, for the first 4 days, a continuous infusion of cefotaxime (250 mg/kg/day) with simultaneous oral acetaminophen (first dose 30 mg/kg, then 20 mg/kg every 6 hours), or cefotaxime conventionally as boluses (62.5 mg/kg, 4 times per day) with placebo orally. All children received also glycerol orally. The primary outcome was mortality by day 7.

Results

In all, 375 patients were included in the study between 22 January 2012 and 21 January 2017. As 2 children succumbed before treatment initiation, 187 vs 186 participants remained in the intervention and control groups, respectively. On day 7, 61 of 187 (32.6%) children in the intervention group vs 64 of 186 (34.4%) in the control group had died (risk ratio, 0.95 [95% confidence interval {CI}, .71–1.26]; absolute risk difference, 1.8% [95% CI, −7.8 to 11.4]). At discharge from hospital, the corresponding numbers were 71 of 187 (38.0%) and 75 of 186 (40.3%), respectively.

Conclusions

Prolonged continuous β-lactam infusion combined with oral acetaminophen did not improve the gloomy outcomes of childhood bacterial meningitis in Angola.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT01540838.
Long-term validation of the renal risk score for vasculitis in a Southern European population
Authors: Villacorta Javier , Diaz-Crespo Francisco , Guerrero Carmen , Acevedo Mercedes , Cavero Teresa , Fernandez-Juarez Gema
Published: April 2020

Background

Recently, renal risk score on the basis of three clinicopathologic features to predict end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated renal vasculitis has been proposed. The aim of this multi-centre study was to validate this renal risk score in a large cohort of southern European patients.

Methods

Data were retrospectively collected from the time of diagnosis by systematic review of medical records from 147 patients with renal vasculitis recruited from three Spanish centres. The renal risk score was calculated in every patient, and renal and global outcomes were analysed according to the risk group assessment.

Results

ANCA serology was positive in 76.2% of patients: 64.6% showed activity against myeloperoxidase (MPO) and 12.2% against proteinase 3 (PR3). The median (interquartile range) follow-up period was 41 months (9.6–104). Forty-eight patients (32.7%) reached ESRD. Patients were classified into the three groups according to the risk of progression to ESRD: 21.8% of patients were classified into low risk, 52.4% were classified into moderate risk and the remaining 25.9% were classified into high risk. The cumulative proportion of renal survival at 2, 5 and 10 years was 100, 100 and 82% in the low-risk group, 79, 77 and 77% in the medium-risk group and 63, 53 and 40% in the high-risk group (P < 0.001). In regression analysis, the risk score was a good predictor for the development of the ESRD among ANCA positive [hazard ratio (HR) = 2.7, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.4–4.9; P < 0.001] and ANCA negative (HR = 2.7, 95% CI 1.04–7.1, P = 0.04) patients.

Conclusions

The renal risk score constitutes an accurate tool to predict renal outcome among patients with renal vasculitis. This study contributes to validate the risk scoring system in a MPO-predominant population, but also among ANCA-negative vasculitis patients.
Potential False-Negative Nucleic Acid Testing Results for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 from Thermal Inactivation of Samples with Low Viral Loads
Authors: Pan Yang , Long Luyao , Zhang Daitao , Yuan Tingting , Cui Shujuan , Yang Peng , Wang Quanyi , Ren Simei
Published: April 2020

Background

Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) has spread widely throughout the world since the end of 2019. Nucleic acid testing (NAT) has played an important role in patient diagnosis and management of COVID-19. In some circumstances, thermal inactivation at 56°C has been recommended to inactivate severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) before NAT. However, this procedure could theoretically disrupt nucleic acid integrity of this single-stranded RNA virus and cause false negatives in real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) tests.

Methods

We investigated whether thermal inactivation could affect the results of viral NAT. We examined the effects of thermal inactivation on the quantitative RT-PCR results of SARS-CoV-2, particularly with regard to the rates of false-negative results for specimens carrying low viral loads. We additionally investigated the effects of different specimen types, sample preservation times, and a chemical inactivation approach on NAT.

Results

Our study showed increased Ct values in specimens from diagnosed COVID-19 patients in RT-PCR tests after thermal incubation. Moreover, about half of the weak-positive samples (7 of 15 samples, 46.7%) were RT-PCR negative after heat inactivation in at least one parallel testing. The use of guanidinium-based lysis for preservation of these specimens had a smaller impact on RT-PCR results with fewer false negatives (2 of 15 samples, 13.3%) and significantly less increase in Ct values than heat inactivation.

Conclusion

Thermal inactivation adversely affected the efficiency of RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2 detection. Given the limited applicability associated with chemical inactivators, other approaches to ensure the overall protection of laboratory personnel need consideration.
8. Deducing and investigating title
Authors: Abbey Robert , Richards Mark
Published: April 2020

Deducing title is the process by which the seller demonstrates to the buyer that the seller owns the property and can convey it. In a modern conveyancing transaction the parties will deduce and investigate title before contracts are exchanged. This chapter explains the process of deducing title; investigating title; and some special title situations.
16. Leaseholds
Authors: Abbey Robert , Richards Mark
Published: April 2020

This chapter first examines some of the more commonly encountered elements or clauses in most leases. Essentially, it sets out what one might expect to see in a lease of either residential or commercial property. The discussions then turn to the Council of Mortgage Lenders’ Handbook for Solicitors and Licensed Conveyancers England and Wales; defective leases; liability on covenants in leases: enforcement; granting new leases; existing leases; and enfranchisement.
19. Landlord and Tenant Act 1954, Part II
Authors: Abbey Robert , Richards Mark
Published: April 2020

This chapter considers the provisions of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954, Part II, which provides security of tenure for the majority of business tenants by giving them a statutory right to renew their lease or tenancy. It explains the need for ‘tenancy’; need for ‘occupation’; need for ‘the purposes of a business’; key methods of termination under the Act; section 40 notices; interim rent applications; landlord’s statutory grounds of opposition; tenant’s right to compensation; and the terms of the new tenancy.
Criminal Litigation 2019-2020
Authors: Hannibal Martin , Mountford Lisa
Published: April 2020

Criminal Litigation offers a guide to the areas of criminal litigation covered in the Legal Practice Course. Making use of realistic case studies backed up by online documentation, the text combines theory with practical considerations and encourages a focus on putting knowledge into a practical context. The volume covers all procedural and evidential issues that arise in criminal cases. The more complex areas of criminal litigation are examined using diagrams, flowcharts, and examples, while potential changes in the law are highlighted. This edition has been fully revised to reflect the most recent law and practice in all aspects of criminal litigation.
14. Trial Before the Crown Court
Authors: Hannibal Martin , Mountford Lisa
Published: April 2020

This chapter considers the procedural and practical steps at a trial on indictment. It examines the rules dealing with the indictment; supporting counsel at trial; empanelling the jury; the presentation of the prosecution and defence cases; the judge’s summing-up; and the jury’s verdict.
17. Corroboration, the ‘Turnbull Guidelines’ and Opinion Evidence
Authors: Hannibal Martin , Mountford Lisa
Published: April 2020

This chapter considers the nature of corroborative evidence; the situations where corroborative evidence is required as a matter of law; the situations where a corroboration warning might be given as a matter of judicial discretion; and the application of the ‘Turnbull guidelines’ in cases where eye-witness identification is disputed. It also explains the rules relating to opinion evidence and to expert opinion evidence in particular.
23. Appeals
Authors: Hannibal Martin , Mountford Lisa
Published: April 2020

This chapter explains the practice and procedure involved in appealing against a decision of the magistrates’ court or the Crown Court. The discussions include the reopening of a case; appeal to the Crown Court; appeal by way of case stated; judicial review; appeal against sentence from the Crown Court; appeal to the Supreme Court; the Criminal Cases Review Commission; and whether the prosecution enjoys a right to appeal.
26. Sentencing Young Offenders
Authors: Hannibal Martin , Mountford Lisa
Published: April 2020

This chapter considers the range of disposals available where a young offender admits the offence(s) or a finding of guilt is recorded against him. It discusses the principles which guide the sentencing of youths; the youth court’s sentencing powers; the adult magistrates’ court sentencing powers; the Crown Court’s sentencing powers; and sentencing a ‘dangerous’ young offender.
11. Drafting Statements of Case
Authors: Cunningham-Hill Susan , Elder Karen
Published: April 2020

Legal representatives will draft many statements of case in order to produce accurate, relevant, and compelling formal court documents. This chapter provides key formulae to help those new to practice produce competent statements of case. It explains the purpose of a statement of case and the standard requirements of a statement of case. It also discusses the particulars of claim; the defence; additional claims; the reply; the Part 18 request for further information; and amendments to statements of case.
18. Experts and Expert Evidence
Authors: Cunningham-Hill Susan , Elder Karen
Published: April 2020

This chapter focuses on the role of experts in civil actions. It considers when expert support is needed—whether as part of the evidence submitted in the action or as part of the advice sought to prepare the client’s case or perhaps for both situations. It discusses the role that the expert will take in both of the situations identified; when permission of the court is needed to engage and submit expert evidence in the action; the need to provide a cost estimate of using an expert and the costs consequences for the client in engaging expert evidence; the management and suitable direction of steps taken in advising clients and proceeding with an action to meet the court’s overall discretion to control the evidence; and the important matters to consider in engaging an expert and in managing several experts in a case.
10. Taxation of sole proprietors and partnerships
Authors: Wright Kathryn , Firth Clare , Crompton Lucy , Fox Helen , Seabridge Frances , Wigglesworth Susan , Smart Elizabeth
Published: April 2020

Sole traders and partners are liable to pay income tax on their income in accordance with the Income Tax (Trading and Other Income) Act 2005 (ITTOIA). This chapter discusses income tax liability of sole traders and partners; calculating the trading profits; capital gains and capital losses; trading losses; basis of assessment; capital allowances; and changes in a partnership.
16. Human rights
Authors: Wright Kathryn , Firth Clare , Crompton Lucy , Fox Helen , Seabridge Frances , Wigglesworth Susan , Smart Elizabeth
Published: April 2020

This chapter provides an introduction to the European Convention on Human Rights and the Human Rights Act 1998, taking into account the origins of the Convention and the Human Rights Act 1998 and their incorporation into UK legislation; the general principles of European jurisprudence; the Articles and the Protocols themselves; and areas where potential breaches may occur.
Business Law 2019-2020
Authors: Slorach J. Scott , Ellis Jason
Published: April 2020

Business Law provides practical, up-to-date coverage of company, partnership, taxation, and insolvency law, plus all relevant aspects of EU law. The title provides all of the relevant material needed to understand the latest legal developments affecting business law transactions. Coverage of the Companies Act 2006 is fully integrated and given prominence, mirroring the emphasis that business law courses place on this central piece of legislation. Additional emphasis has been placed on taxation and business accounts. Examples are used throughout the volume which helps readers to contextualise their learning effectively. Updated statutory references allow for the cross-referencing to appropriate primary sources, and the interpretation of such sources. The volume looks at partnerships, companies, taxation, insolvency, and other topics such as choice of business medium, limited liability partnerships, sale of a business, and shareholder agreements.
13. Company meetings and resolutions
Authors: Slorach J. Scott , Ellis Jason
Published: April 2020

This chapter describes the meetings of shareholders and the resolutions passed during such meetings. It covers the types of general meeting; resolutions; calling a general meeting; notice of meetings; proceedings at meetings; minutes and returns; and written resolutions.
14. The articles of a private company
Authors: Slorach J. Scott , Ellis Jason
Published: April 2020

This chapter considers some of the major issues which the articles of association of a private company are likely to address and the way in which the articles of a company can be altered and any restrictions thereto. It covers provisions concerning shares and membership; provisions concerning meetings of shareholders; provisions concerning directors; single member companies; and alteration of articles.
17. Income tax: sole traders and partnerships
Authors: Slorach J. Scott , Ellis Jason
Published: April 2020

This chapter considers the taxation of income earned from a trade or profession. It covers the basic system of taxation; taxable profits for business; the basis of assessment; losses under the income tax system; and income tax liability of partnerships.
20. Taxation of distributions and debenture interest
Authors: Slorach J. Scott , Ellis Jason
Published: April 2020

This chapter deals with the taxation of distributions by way of dividend and of debenture interest. Both dividends and debenture interest are income returns on investments made in companies and, therefore, subject to income tax.
25. Company insolvency proceedings
Authors: Slorach J. Scott , Ellis Jason
Published: April 2020

This chapter deals with the procedures available when a company is insolvent or facing financial difficulties. It also considers the ways in which insolvent partnerships can be subject to the same procedures as companies. The law relating to these matters is principally contained in the Insolvency Act 1986 (IA 1986) together with the Insolvency Rules 1986, as amended by the Insolvency Act 2000 and the Enterprise Act 2002. The insolvency legislation provides four procedures for companies in financial difficulties: administration, voluntary arrangement, receivership, and liquidation.
28. Limited liability partnerships
Authors: Slorach J. Scott , Ellis Jason
Published: April 2020

This chapter first discusses the key elements of limited liability partnerships (LLPs). It then considers the factors influencing choice of LLP. There are two instances where the question of choosing an LLP arises: as part of a business start-up or existing partnerships considering conversion. When considering LLPs, it should always be remembered that their resemblance to traditional partnerships is an exception rather than a rule, and that it is better to think of them as corporate structures.
1. Introduction
Authors: Abbey Robert M. , Richards Mark B.
Published: April 2020

This introductory chapter begins with an overview of conveyancing, which is the process by which legal title to property is transferred. It then discusses the conveyancing of registered land; defensive lawyering and the conveyancing process; conveyancing and information technology; and the future of conveyancing.
8. Pre-completion procedures and completion
Authors: Abbey Robert M. , Richards Mark B.
Published: April 2020

This chapter begins with a discussion of pre-completion procedures, covering pre-completion when acting for the seller; pre-completion when acting for the buyer; pre-completion searches; and completion statements. It then focuses on completion, covering date, time, and place for completion; when the client is both selling and buying; and the mechanics of completion.
11. New properties
Authors: Abbey Robert M. , Richards Mark B.
Published: April 2020

This chapter deals with the special areas of concern for practitioners who are required to deal with the sale or purchase of new residential properties, either recently constructed or in the course of construction. It looks at the roles of the practitioners acting for the developer and prospective buyer respectively. It also considers the arrangements for roads and sewers on a new estate and the importance of insurance against structural defects in new properties.
A Practical Approach to Civil Procedure
Authors: Sime Stuart
Published: April 2020

A Practical Approach to Civil Procedure guides the reader through the procedural requirements employed in the civil courts. The volume provides an overview of the key statutory provisions, rules, practice directions, and case law which govern the various stages of a civil litigation claim. Providing practical guidance, the text charts the progress of a typical civil litigation claim, from funding litigation and issuing and serving proceedings, through to trial, enforcement, and appeal. Full coverage of alternative dispute resolution is also included. Relevant sample documentation is featured throughout and introduces the forms and documents which will be encountered in practice, while key points summaries featured at the end of chapters highlight the essential points covered. This edition has been revised to incorporate rule changes up to the Civil Procedure (Amendment) Rules 2019 and the 105th Update. Changes incorporated into the new edition include the pilot scheme for disclosure of documents in the Business and Property Courts. Among the many recent cases incorporated into the text are MacDonald v D & F Contracts Ltd which marks a departure from the traditional approach on whether it is possible to enter a default judgment after late filing of the defence; a number of cases on enforcing the undertakings in damages given in interim injunction applications, costs management and qualified one-way costs shifting, and Supreme Court decision on service against unnamed defendants in Cameron v Liverpool Insurance.
5. Pre-Action Protocols
Authors: Sime Stuart
Published: April 2020

This chapter discusses the pre-action protocols, which provide guidance on the exchange of information and evidence before proceedings are commenced. It covers the 14 pre-action protocols established by the Ministry of Justice; cases not covered by pre-action protocols; professional negligence pre-action protocol; personal injury protocol; different approaches to the appointment of experts; sanctions for non-compliance with protocols; the Road Traffic Act 1988; agreements with the Motor Insurers’ Bureau; and pre-action Part 36 offers.
35. Experts
Authors: Sime Stuart
Published: April 2020

This chapter discusses the principles governing the use of expert evidence in civil claims. It covers the admissibility of expert evidence; control of evidence; choice of expert; privileged nature of experts’ reports; disclosure of experts’ reports; written questions to experts; examinations by experts; experts’ immunity from suit; and use of experts’ reports after trial.
38. Listing and Pre-Trial Reviews
Authors: Sime Stuart
Published: April 2020

Claims that are not compromised and which do not end through striking out or summary or default judgment, have to be determined by the court at trial. Listing is the process whereby the court gives a date for the trial. This chapter discusses listing for trial; pre-trial reviews; listing in the Royal Courts of Justice; and adjournments.
47. Qualified One-Way Costs Shifting
Authors: Sime Stuart
Published: April 2020

Qualified one-way costs shifting (QOCS) provides costs protection to claimants in personal injuries claims. If the claimant wins, the defendant should be ordered to pay the claimant’s costs in the usual way. However, if the claimant loses, under QOCS while the claimant remains liable to pay its own lawyers’ costs, and may be ordered to pay the successful defendant’s costs, the claimant will be protected against actually having to pay those costs to the defendant. This chapter discusses cases where QOCS applies; the effects of QOCS; and loss of QOCS protection.
7. Negotiation
Authors: Webb Julian , Maughan Caroline , Maughan Mike , Keppel-Palmer Marcus , Boon Andrew
Published: April 2020

This chapter discusses legal negotiating skills. It covers the characteristics of effective negotiators; negotiating styles and strategies; common negotiating mistakes; and negotiation and alternative dispute resolution.
8. Advocacy and the solicitor
Authors: Webb Julian , Maughan Caroline , Maughan Mike , Keppel-Palmer Marcus , Boon Andrew
Published: April 2020

Advocacy involves the presentation to a judge of two competing versions of the facts, of the law, or both. This chapter discusses the skills of solicitor advocacy. It focuses on identifying key principles of the ethics of advocacy; understanding the structure of a case presented for trial; developing a case presentation strategy incorporating the client’s goals; making an effective submission; and planning an examination-in-chief and cross-examination using appropriate questions.
9. Managing your workload
Authors: Webb Julian , Maughan Caroline , Maughan Mike , Keppel-Palmer Marcus , Boon Andrew
Published: April 2020

This chapter discusses workload management skills. It focuses on managing time for personal effectiveness; developing a project management approach to legal work; key issues of working with and for others; and managing stress.
Police Violence among Adults Diagnosed with Mental Disorders
Authors: Jun Hyun-Jin , DeVylder Jordan E , Fedina Lisa
Published: April 2020

Police violence is reportedly common among those diagnosed with mental disorders characterized by the presence of psychotic symptoms or pronounced emotional lability. Despite the perception that people with mental illness are disproportionately mistreated by the police, there is relatively little empirical research on this topic. A cross-sectional general population survey was administered online in 2017 to 1,000 adults in two eastern U.S. cities to examine the relationship between police violence exposure, mental disorders, and crime involvement. Results from hierarchical logistic regression and mediation analyses revealed that a range of mental health conditions are broadly associated with elevated risk for police violence exposure. Individuals with severe mental illness are more likely than the general population to be physically victimized by police, regardless of their involvement in criminal activities. Most of the excess risk of police violence exposure related to common psychiatric diagnoses was explained by confounding factors including crime involvement. However, crime involvement may necessitate more police contact, but does not necessarily justify victimization or excessive force (particularly sexual and psychological violence). Findings support the need for adequate training for police officers on how to safely interact with people with mental health conditions, particularly severe mental illness.
Does Assessment Method Matter in Detecting Mental Health Distress among Ashkenazi and Mizrahi Israeli Women with Breast Cancer?
Authors: Nakash Ora , Granek Leeat , Cohen Michal , Bar-Sela Gil , Geffen David , Ben David Merav
Published: April 2020

Authors examined differences in assessment method (structured diagnostic interview versus self-report questionnaire) between ethnic groups in the prevalence of mood and anxiety disorders among women with breast cancer. A convenience sample of 88 Mizrahi (Jews of Middle Eastern/North African descent, n = 42) and Ashkenazi (Jews of European/American descent, n = 46) women with breast cancer from oncology units in three health centers across Israel participated in the study. Participants were within eight months of diagnosis. Participants completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and a structured diagnostic interview, the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI). Approximately one-third (31.8 percent, n = 28) of participants were diagnosed with at least one mood or anxiety disorder based on the MINI. Significantly more Mizrahi participants (42.9 percent) were diagnosed with at least one mood or anxiety disorder, compared with their Ashkenazi counterparts (21.7 percent). Mean score on HADS was below the optimal cutoff score (≥13) among all participants, with no significant difference in mean score for emotional distress based on HADS between the two ethnic groups. The findings highlight the role of measurement variance in assessing mental health distress among women with breast cancer in general and among ethnic and racial minorities in particular.
Cross-sectional and prospective relationship between occupational and leisure-time inactivity and cognitive function in an ageing population: the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition in Norfolk (EPIC-Norfolk) study
Authors: Hayat Shabina A , Luben Robert , Wareham Nick , Khaw Kay-Tee , Brayne Carol
Published: April 2020

Background

The current evidence for higher physical activity and better cognitive function and lower risk of dementia is strong but not conclusive. More robust evidence is needed to inform public-health policy. We provide further insight into discrepancies observed across studies, reporting on habitual inactivity including that during work.

Methods

We examined cross-sectional and prospective relationships of physical inactivity during leisure and occupation time, with cognitive performance using a validated physical-activity index in a cohort of 8585 men and women aged 40–79 years at baseline (1993–1997) for different domains using a range of cognitive measures. Cognitive testing was conducted between 2006 and 2011 (including a pilot phase 2004–2006). Associations were examined using multinomial logistic-regression adjusting for socio-demographic and health variables as well total habitual physical activity.

Results

Inactivity during work was inversely associated with poor cognitive performance (bottom 10th percentile of a composite cognition score): odds ratio (OR) = 0.68 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.54, 0.86], P = 0.001. Results were similar cross-sectionally: OR = 0.65 (95% CI 0.45, 0.93), P = 0.02. Manual workers had increased risk of poor performance compared with those with an occupation classified as inactive. Inactivity during leisure time was associated with increased risk of poor performance in the cross-sectional analyses only.

Conclusions

The relationship between inactivity and cognition is strongly confounded by education, social class and occupation. Physical activity during leisure may be protective for cognition, but work-related physical activity is not protective. A greater understanding of the mechanisms and confounding underlying these paradoxical findings is needed.
Breakdown of Regularity of Scattering for Mass-Subcritical NLS
Authors: Lee Gyu Eun
Published: April 2020

We study the scattering problem for the nonlinear Schrödinger equation $i\partial _t u + \Delta u = |u|^p u$ on $\mathbb{R}^d$, $d\geq 1$, with a mass-subcritical nonlinearity above the Strauss exponent. For this equation, it is known that asymptotic completeness in $L^2$ with initial data in $\Sigma$ holds and the wave operator is well defined on $\Sigma$. We show that there exists $0<\beta <p$ such that the wave operator and the data-to-scattering-state map do not admit extensions to maps $L^2\to L^2$ of class $C^{1+\beta }$ near the origin. This constitutes a mild form of ill-posedness for the scattering problem in the $L^2$ topology.
Relationships Between Measures of Malaria at Delivery and Adverse Birth Outcomes in a High-Transmission Area of Uganda
Authors: Ategeka John , Kakuru Abel , Kajubi Richard , Wasswa Razack , Ochokoru Harriet , Arinaitwe Emmanuel , Yeka Adoke , Jagannathan Prasanna , Kamya Moses R , Muehlenbachs Atis , Chico R Matthew , Dorsey Grant
Published: April 2020

Background

Clinical trials of interventions for preventing malaria in pregnancy often use measures of malaria at delivery as their primary outcome. Although the objective of these interventions is to improve birth outcomes, data on associations between different measures of malaria at delivery and adverse birth outcomes are limited.

Methods

Data came from 637 Ugandan women enrolled in a randomized controlled trial of intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in pregnancy. Malaria at delivery was detected using peripheral and placental blood microscopy, placental blood loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), and placental histopathology. Multivariate analyses were used to estimate associations between measures of malaria at delivery and risks of low birth weight (LBW), small for gestational age (SGA), and preterm birth (PTB).

Results

Detection of malaria parasites by microscopy or LAMP was not associated with adverse birth outcomes. Presence of malaria pigment detected by histopathology in ≥30% of high-powered fields was strongly associated with LBW (adjusted risk ratio [aRR] = 3.42, P = .02) and SGA (aRR = 4.24, P < .001) but not PTB (aRR = 0.88, P = .87).

Conclusions

A semiquantitative classification system based on histopathologically detected malaria pigment provided the best surrogate measure of adverse birth outcomes in a high-transmission setting and should be considered for use in malaria in pregnancy intervention studies.
Donor-Derived Cell-Free DNA Testing in Solid Organ Transplantation: A Value Proposition
Authors: Oellerich Michael , Christenson Robert H , Beck Julia , Schütz Ekkehard , Sherwood Karen , Price Christopher P , Keown Paul A , Walson Philip D
Published: April 2020

Background

There is a need to improve personalized immunosuppression in organ transplantation to reduce premature graft loss. More efficient biomarkers are needed to better detect rejection, asymptomatic graft injury, and under-immunosuppression. Assessment of minimal necessary exposure to guide tapering and to prevent immune activation is also important. Donor-derived cell-free DNA (dd-cfDNA) has become available for comprehensive monitoring of allograft integrity. A value proposition concept was applied to assess the potential benefits of dd-cfDNA to stakeholders (patient, transplant physician, laboratory medicine specialist, hospital management, insurance companies) involved in solid organ transplantation care.

Content

There is robust clinical evidence from more than 48 published studies supporting the role of dd-cfDNA for monitoring graft integrity and detection or exclusion of rejection. The value proposition framework was used to evaluate published key evidence regarding clinical validity, economic implications, and limitations of this approach. It has been shown that dd-cfDNA testing is essential for guiding earlier transplant injury intervention with potential for improved long-term outcome.

Monitoring dd-cfDNA offers a rapid and reproducible method to detect graft injuries at an early actionable stage without protocol biopsies and allows for more effective personalized immunosuppression. The appropriate use of dd-cfDNA testing can provide both clinical and economic benefits to all transplantation stakeholders.
The impact of mental health disorders on outcomes following hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome: a systematic review
Authors: Dick Alastair G , Smith Christian , Bankes Marcus J K , George Marc
Published: April 2020

Hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAI) has been shown to be beneficial in the short- to medium-term though outcomes vary between individuals. Multiple factors have been suggested to affect outcomes including pre-operative mental health disorders. We undertook a systematic review to assess the evidence relating to the effect of pre-existing mental health disorders on the outcomes following hip arthroscopy for FAI. Following PRISMA guidelines, a multi-database search was undertaken using three key concepts: ‘mental health’, ‘FAI’ and ‘hip arthroscopy’. Results were screened and data extracted from relevant studies. A total of six studies met the inclusion criteria including 2248 hips, all published between 2017 and 2019. All studies were of evidence level III or IV with reasonable methodological quality. One study demonstrated pre-operative depression to be related to altered pain reduction in the short-term following surgery. Three studies reported inferior outcomes in the medium-term (1–2 years) in those with worse mental health. One study demonstrated an increased risk of persistent pain 2 years following surgery and one a reduced chance of returning to active military service following surgery in those with worse mental health. Despite inferior outcomes individuals with mental health disorders did still benefit from surgery in general. In conclusion, the presence of pre-existing poor mental health is associated with inferior outcomes in the medium-term following arthroscopic surgery for FAI. Surgeons should consider screening patients for mental health disorders before surgery and counselling them appropriately as to the potential for less satisfactory surgical outcomes.
Organoid technology for tissue engineering
Authors: He Juan , Zhang Xiaoyu , Xia Xinyi , Han Ming , Li Fei , Li Chunfeng , Li Yunguang , Gao Dong
Published: April 2020

For centuries, attempts have been continuously made to artificially reconstitute counterparts of in vivo organs from their tissues or cells. Only in the recent decade has organoid technology as a whole technological field systematically emerged and been shown to play important roles in tissue engineering. Based on their self-organizing capacities, stem cells of versatile organs, both harvested and induced, can form 3D structures that are structurally and functionally similar to their in vivo counterparts. These organoid models provide a powerful platform for elucidating the development mechanisms, modeling diseases, and screening drug candidates. In this review, we will summarize the advances of this technology for generating various organoids of tissues from the three germ layers and discuss their drawbacks and prospects for tissue engineering.
Analytical Shortcuts in EU Competition Enforcement: Proxies, Premises, and Presumptions
Authors: Kalintiri Andriani
Published: April 2020

Analytical shortcuts lie at the heart of competition enforcement and have crucial implications for both substance and procedure. Nevertheless, not all of them are created equal. This point has been rather missed in competition scholarship due to the tendency to use the term ‘presumption’ in an overly expansive and ultimately inaccurate manner. Aspiring to inject some conceptual clarity in the discussion, this work proposes a taxonomy for distinguishing common analytical shortcuts in law enforcement comprising proxies, premises, and presumptions in the technical sense. With this taxonomy in mind, it then takes a closer look at their operation in EU competition enforcement in particular. As the article demonstrates, proxies, premises, and presumptions play an intricate and multilayered role in the interpretation and application of the EU antitrust and merger rules that the generic use of the term ‘presumption’ fails to adequately capture. Given their significance for the effectiveness, efficiency, and accuracy of enforcement, competition authorities and courts should be conscious of their function and of their substantive and procedural implications and should use them appropriately and wisely.
Adverse Events Following Immunization With Combined vs Concurrent Monovalent Hepatitis A and Typhoid Vaccines in Children
Authors: Furuya-Kanamori Luis , Dutton Paul , Leeb Alan , Mills Deborah J , Andrews Ross , Lau Colleen L
Published: April 2020

Combined hepatitis A and typhoid vaccine is available in Australia, but licensed for use from age 16 years; however it is used “off-label” in children. The combined vaccine is well tolerated in children aged 2–16 years and the risk of adverse events is similar to those receiving concurrent monovalent vaccines.
Unexpected Short-Tandem-Repeat Patterns in Posttransplant Chimerism Testing: Investigation of 3 Cases with Help from Forensic Science
Authors: Gvozdjan Kristina , Casey Heather , Mowery Carrie , Kumer Lorie , Fisher Carolyn , Tyler Jennifer , Bayerl Mike G , Malysz Jozef , Naik Seema , Rybka Witold , Ehmann Christopher , Claxton David , Mineishi Shin , Baker Maria , Hong Zheng , Shike Hiroko
Published: April 2020

Chimerism testing by short tandem repeats (STRs) is used to monitor engraftment after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Generally, STR alleles are stable and transferred from parent to child or from donor to recipient. However, 3 cases did not follow this norm. Additional work-up with help from forensic literature solved these mysteries.

In case 1, the patient received HSCT from his son. The son shared STR alleles in 22/23 loci except Penta E, which was explained by repeat expansion in the son.

In case 2, the patient had been in remission for 14 years after HSCT for lymphoma and developed repeat expansion in CSF1PO in granulocytes.

In case 3, a pre-HSCT patient demonstrated 3 alleles, with 2 peaks taller than the third, in the FGA locus (chromosome 4). A combination of a triallelic variant and leukemia-associated trisomy 4 explained the finding. STR number variants are rare and clinically inconsequential but can overlap malignancy-associated, clinically significant changes.
Acting Christ: The Christocentric Exemplarism of Gerard Manley Hopkins
Authors: Beasley Brett
Published: April 2020

Critics and biographers have long expressed misgivings about Gerard Manley Hopkins’ ethical perspective. Characterising him as overly ‘morbid’ or ‘scrupulous’, they present his moral preoccupations as injurious to his imagination. Here I offer a fuller, more sympathetic account of Hopkins’ moral theology, showing three key ways that morality not only harmonises with but actually provides a central, productive focus in his works. Drawing upon the recent work of Linda Zagzebski, I characterise Hopkins as a Christocentric moral exemplarist, one who prioritises persons over principles, finds motivation in the emotion of admiration, and understands all moral acts as acts of emulation.