bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biochemical responses, growth and reproduction of earthworm in low density polyethylene (LDPE)
Authors: Angmo Deachen , Dutta Rahil , Singh Jaswinder , Chowdhary Anu Bala , Quadar Jahangeer , Thakur Babita , Kaur Hardeep , Sharma Manik , Singh Sharanpreet , Vig Adarsh Pal
Published: June 2023

There is an unprecedented production of plastic that is accelerating its disposal while affecting the fitness of the terrestrial as well as the aquatic environment. The term microplastics refers to plastic fragments that are less than 5 mm in size and are widely distributed in the environment. Therefore, the present study intends to explore the biological response of earthworms (Eisenia fetida) toward different concentrations of low‐density polyethylene. E. fetida treated with low‐density polyethylene concentration (Control), 250 mg kg−1, 1000 mg kg−1, 6000 mg kg−1, 12,000 mg kg−1, and 25,000 mg kg−1. The above ratios were thoroughly mixed with 1kg of artificial soil and tested for growth, reproduction (cocoons and hatchling count), and enzymatic activities namely superoxide dismutase, guaiacol peroxidase, glutathione‐S‐transferase, and glutathione reductase and molecular docking studies. No mortality was observed during the exposure period at any concentrations. On the 28th day, when compared to the control the highest decrease in body weight of earthworms was observed in 25,000 mg (28.4%) followed by 12,000 mg (12.2%) and 6000 mg (3.4%). The cocoon and hatchlings significantly declined as the dose of microplastics increases. Enzymatic activity such as SOD and POD showed declined trend as the dose increased, while GST and GR increased with an increase in microplastic concentrations on 28th day. Furthermore, molecular docking showed that LDPE can modulate the activity of all four enzymes significantly.
Offer cohorts for adult learners by balancing institutional mission and finances
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: June 2023

CHICAGO — Studies show that adult learners tend to do better in pursuing higher education when they make personal connections with your campus — and with their peers. At George Fox University in Portland, Oregon, cohorts have facilitated successful connections between adult learners and the institution and helped boost retention and completion rates.
‘Bowls are boring’: Investigating enrichment feeding for pet dogs and the perceived benefits and challenges
Authors: Heys Madeline , Lloyd Imogen , Westgarth Carri
Published: June 2023

Background

Canine enrichment feeding (CEF) is recommended by canine professionals, yet research into its use by dog owners is absent. This study is the first to investigate who uses CEF and the perceived benefits and barriers.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey advertised in July and August 2021 received 1750 usable responses about owner and dog demographics, feeding methods used, canine quality of life and behaviour (Mini‐Canine Behavioural Assessment and Research Questionnaire [C‐BARQ]).

Results

Kongs, chews and activity toys were the most popular forms of CEF. CEF was most often used for a treat, delivering meals and keeping dogs busy. Owners not using CEF were more likely to be male and older. Dogs not fed using CEF were more likely to be older, of working type and have lower exercise needs. Furthermore, they were less likely to show meal interest, dog‐directed fear or training difficulties. A common perceived benefit was mental stimulation; however, lack of time was commonly perceived to be a barrier. Certain feeding methods were associated with perceptions of reduced hunger and begging.

Limitations

The survey methodology means there is a risk of selection bias and conclusions cannot be drawn about causation.

Conclusion

CEF was perceived by most owners to benefit behavioural problems and reduce food seeking. Further research using experimental research designs is required to establish causality.
Continuous Gravity Observations at Mt. Somma-Vesuvius with a gPhoneX Gravimeter: In-Depth Instrumental Response Characterization and Tidal Model
Authors: Riccardi U. , Carlino S. , Pivetta T. , Hinderer J. , Rosat S. , Ricciardi G.
Published: June 2023

We report on the results of about 9 months of gravimetric recordings acquired at Mt. Somma-Vesuvius (SV) volcano (Southern Italy) with the new generation relative gravimeter gPhoneX#116 (gPh#116), which is a gravimeter specifically designed for continuous gravity recording. We also present the outcomes of an intercomparison experiment of the gPhone#116 conducted at the J9 gravity observatory in Strasbourg (France). In this intercomparison, we were able to check the scale factor of the meter with a high degree of precision by means of an intercomparison with 2 superconducting gravimeters (SGs) and a FG5-type absolute ballistic gravimeter. Multiple calibration approaches allowed us to validate the manufacturer's original calibration constants to a level of 1% accuracy and 0.1% precision. Moreover, we carried out a comparative study of the noise level of the gPh#116 with respect to the SGs and other spring meters routinely used in both prospecting and time-lapse gravimetry. It turns out that gPh#116 exhibits lower levels at hourly time-scales than other compared spring gravimeters (Graviton, gPhone#054, Scintrex-CG5). It was also possible to carry out a detailed study of the instrumental drift, a crucial topic for reliable monitoring of the long-term gravity variations in active volcanic areas. In fact, a challenge in time-lapse gravimetry is the proper separation of the instrumental variations from real gravity changes eventually attributable to recharge or drainage processes of magma or fluids in the feeding systems of active volcanoes. A negative finding coming out from the intercomparison is that, even when applying the tilt correction, the gravimetric residuals obtained with the gPh#116 are an order of magnitude larger and quite inconsistent with those obtained with co-located superconducting gravimeters. We guess this problem could be overcome by installing the gravimeter on an auto-levelling platform. From the analysis of the gravity records, a reliable tidal gravity model was derived, which we believe will help to improve the accuracy of volcano monitoring, as it will allow appropriate correction of tidal effects for both relative and absolute gravity measurements acquired in the area. Two further interesting elements arose from our study: (1) a peculiar cavity effect of the SV underground laboratory that seems to influence the tilt change; (2) the small residual gravity signals are time correlated with the rainfall peaks and are compatible with gravity decreases induced by increases in soil moisture above the gravimeter.
Analysis of the Epicenter Location Accuracy for the Local Seismic Network Operated in the Mining Area Towards the Automation of Location Procedures
Authors: Kokowski Jakub , Rudziński Łukasz
Published: June 2023

Legnica-Głogów Copper District (LGCD) is one of the most active seismic regions in Europe. Several thousand seismic events induced by underground copper mines are recorded there each year, with the strongest reaching magnitudes above 4. Seismicity in LGCD is monitored by the LUMINEOS surface seismic network and the mine's underground networks. While the horizontal location uncertainty of the LUMINEOS network is about 300–600 m, the declared epicenter uncertainty of dense mine networks is less than 50 m. It gives us a unique opportunity to test the location accuracy of seismic events recorded by the LUMINEOS network determined with various algorithms and automatic procedure. In our work, we compared the location accuracies of traveltime-based algorithms LocSAT and NonLinLoc as well as waveform-based algorithm BackTrackBB. The iterative, Geiger-type LocSAT algorithm is used in routine daily processing for the LUMINEOS. Its downside is the need to use the S wave onset times, which in the case of the LUMINEOS network are very uncertain. As an alternative, we tested the probabilistic NonLinLoc algorithm, and the waveform based BackTrackBB algorithm. The BackTrackBB algorithm is known to work well with local, high noise seismic networks. We aimed to find out if it could be used routinely with the LUMINEOS data. In addition, we conducted a comparative analysis of the location uncertainty of these algorithms to determine the effectiveness of this parameter in assessing accuracy.
Comparing outcomes of total hip arthroplasty versus hemiarthroplasty in neck of femur fracture patients: an Australian registry study
Authors: Onggo James , Nambiar Mithun , McDougall Catherine , Hau Raphael , Babazadeh Sina
Published: June 2023

Purpose

To determine discharge outcomes of displaced subcapital NOF patients who were from home, with intact pre-operative cognition, ASA 1 or 2 and independent walkers treated with either THA or hemiarthroplasty.

Methods

A retrospective registry study was performed using data from the Australia and New Zealand Hip Fracture Registry (ANZHFR). Institutional ethics approval was obtained prior to commencement. Hip fracture registry records between 1st January 2016 and 31st January 2020 were reviewed.

Results

A total of 930 patients with complete records were identified and included. There were 602 THA and 328 hemiarthroplasty patients. Using multivariate analysis, pre-operative factors associated with THA include younger age (OR = 0.90 for every year older, p < 0.001), females (p = 0.043), private admissions (OR = 1.62, p = 0.028) and receiving pre-operative geriatric assessment (OR = 1.89, p = 0.002). Delay to theatre due to not being fit for surgery was associated with not receiving THA (OR = 0.21, p < 0.001). THA resulted in a shorter total hospital length of stay (MD = 7.24, p < 0.001), higher likelihood of being discharged home (OR = 1.88, p < 0.001) and lower likelihood of being discharged to a residential aged care facility (OR = 0.32, p = 0.019).

Conclusion

Displaced subcapital NOF patients who were admitted from home, had intact pre-operative cognition, ASA 1 or 2, independent walkers and had THAs, had shorter total hospital length of stay, were more likely to be discharged home directly and less likely to end up in residential aged care facilities compared to those undergoing hemiarthroplasty.
Multi-step estimators and shrinkage effect in time series models
Authors: Svetunkov Ivan , Kourentzes Nikolaos , Killick Rebecca
Published: June 2023

Many modern statistical models are used for both insight and prediction when applied to data. When models are used for prediction one should optimise parameters through a prediction error loss function. Estimation methods based on multiple steps ahead forecast errors have been shown to lead to more robust and less biased estimates of parameters. However, a plausible explanation of why this is the case is lacking. In this paper, we provide this explanation, showing that the main benefit of these estimators is in a shrinkage effect, happening in univariate models naturally. However, this can introduce a series of limitations, due to overly aggressive shrinkage. We discuss the predictive likelihoods related to the multistep estimators and demonstrate what their usage implies to time series models. To overcome the limitations of the existing multiple steps estimators, we propose the Geometric Trace Mean Squared Error, demonstrating its advantages. We conduct a simulation experiment showing how the estimators behave with different sample sizes and forecast horizons. Finally, we carry out an empirical evaluation on real data, demonstrating the performance and advantages of the estimators. Given that the underlying process to be modelled is often unknown, we conclude that the shrinkage achieved by the GTMSE is a competitive alternative to conventional ones.
Morphological characterization and in vitro digestibility of seven Lathyrus sativus (grass pea) accessions originating from Eurasia, Africa, and Canada
Authors: Lassoued Siwar , Giosafatto Concetta Valeria Lucia , Mariniello Loredana , Neila Trifi-Farah
Published: June 2023

Lathyrus sativus is considered as an important economical source of high-quality proteins and adaptability to global climate change. To detect accessions useful for future breeding strategies, the genetic variability among and within seven Lathyrus sativus accessions was assessed by morphological characters and the in vitro digestibility study. An important genetic diversity was found using various morphological traits. The significant heterogeneity revealed by variance analysis (ANOVA) and correlation test could be elucidated by the different geographical origins of the studied accessions and the natural selection of grass pea. The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) exhibited the accumulation of several genotypes in the same cluster which confirm that these genotypes are not dispersed according to their origin. Whereas, the individuals of grass pea from Ethiopia were collected in distinct group indicating that these samples are close each other’s and are different from the other accessions. In the same aim, the in vitro digestion model showed that most of the proteins were digested after 60-min incubation except the β-lathyrin protein. The different digestion kinetics found could be used as a method to distinguish different crop accessions. In fact, the densitometry analysis of β-lathyrin protein band showed that grass pea from Ethiopia, Germany, Bangladesh, and Morocco were more digested than grass pea from Canada, Afghanistan, and Greece in gastric phase, and Grass pea from Afghanistan and Germany were more digested than the rest of the samples in duodenal phase.
Mutation ∆K281 in MAPT causes Pick’s disease
Authors: Schweighauser Manuel , Garringer Holly J. , Klingstedt Therése , Nilsson K. Peter R. , Masuda-Suzukake Masami , Murrell Jill R. , Risacher Shannon L. , Vidal Ruben , Scheres Sjors H. W. , Goedert Michel , Ghetti Bernardino , Newell Kathy L.
Published: June 2023

Two siblings with deletion mutation ∆K281 in MAPT developed frontotemporal dementia. At autopsy, numerous inclusions of hyperphosphorylated 3R Tau were present in neurons and glial cells of neocortex and some subcortical regions, including hippocampus, caudate/putamen and globus pallidus. The inclusions were argyrophilic with Bodian silver, but not with Gallyas–Braak silver. They were not labelled by an antibody specific for tau phosphorylated at S262 and/or S356. The inclusions were stained by luminescent conjugated oligothiophene HS-84, but not by bTVBT4. Electron cryo-microscopy revealed that the core of tau filaments was made of residues K254-F378 of 3R Tau and was indistinguishable from that of Pick’s disease. We conclude that MAPT mutation ∆K281 causes Pick’s disease.
Patient-reported outcomes with hypoglossal nerve stimulation for treatment of obstructive sleep apnea: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Braun Marcel , Stoerzel Manuel , Wollny Mathias , Schoebel Christoph , Ulrich Sommer J. , Heiser Clemens
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HNS) has recently been introduced as an alternative treatment for patients with OSA. A large number of studies have demonstrated substantial changes in OSA with this therapy by reducing respiratory events and improving symptoms such as daytime sleepiness and quality of life. The objective of this review was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate patient-reported outcomes and experience with HNS therapy.

Methods

A systematic literature search of MEDLINE, Cochrane, and Web of Science was performed to identify randomized controlled and observational studies reporting subjective outcomes with different HNS systems in patients with OSA. Abstracts of 406 articles were screened and a subset of 55 articles were reviewed for eligibility. Risk of bias was assessed using the ROBINS-I tool. Meta-analysis using RevMan was performed when > 2 studies were identified that reported data on a specific outcome.

Results

Thirty-four publications reporting data on 3785 patients with a mean follow-up of 11.8 ± 12.2 months were identified and included in the meta-analysis. The analysis revealed a pooled effect of 4.59 points improvement in daytime sleepiness as measured by the ESS questionnaire (Z = 42.82, p < .001), 2.84 points improvement in daytime functioning as measured by the FOSQ score (Z = 28.38, p < .001), and 1.77 points improvement in sleep quality as measured by the PSQI questionnaire (Z = 2.53, p = .010). Patient-reported experience was consistently positive and revealed additional relevant aspects from this perspective.

Conclusion

HNS therapy significantly improves quality of life in patients with OSA and reliably produces clinically meaningful effects on daytime sleepiness, daytime functioning, and sleep quality. Treatment regularly meets or exceeds the minimum clinically important differences defined for the respective instruments. Additional research is needed to further investigate effects on quality of life beyond improvements in daytime sleepiness and daytime functioning.
Patient reported experiences of Swedish patients being investigated for cancer during the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Tufvesson Stiller Helena , Schmitt-Egenolf Marcus , Fohlin Helena , Uppugunduri Srinivas
Published: June 2023

Background

Patient reported experiences in individuals being investigated for cancer have been recorded in a nationwide survey in Sweden, providing an opportunity to assess the impact of the Covid-19-pandemic.

Material and Methods

Questionnaires from 45920 patients were analyzed to assess the experience of being investigated for cancer. Data from before the Covid-19-pandemic (2018–2019) was compared to data acquired during the pandemic (2020–2021), using chi-square and Wilcoxon rank sum tests. Both, patients who were cleared from suspicion of cancer and those who were diagnosed with cancer were included.

Results

Fewer patients in total visited health services during the pandemic. However, patients that did seek help did so to a similar extent during as prior to the pandemic. Patient waiting time was perceived to be shorter during the pandemic and judged as neither too long nor too short by most patients. The emotional support to patients improved during the pandemic, whereas the support to next of kin declined. A majority of patients received the results from the investigation in a meeting with the physician. Although there was a preference for receiving results in a meeting with the physician, the pandemic has brought an increasing interest in receiving results by phone.

Conclusion

Swedish cancer healthcare has shown resilience during the Covid-19-pandemic, maintaining high patient satisfaction while working under conditions of extraordinary pressure. Patients became more open to alternatives to physical “in person” health care visits which could lead to more digital visits in the future. However, support to significant others demands special attention.
3D-printed electrochemical glucose device with integrated Fe(II)-MOF nanozyme
Authors: Koukouviti Eleni , Plessas Alexios K. , Pagkali Varvara , Economou Anastasios , Papaefstathiou Giannis S. , Kokkinos Christos
Published: June 2023

Estimation of glucose (GLU) levels in the human organism is very important in the diagnosis and monitoring of diabetes. Scientific advances in nanomaterials have led to the construction of new generations of enzymatic-free GLU sensors. In this work, an innovative 3D-printed device modified with a water-stable and non-toxic metal–organic framework of iron (Fe(II)-MOF), which serves as a nanozyme, has been developed for the voltammetric determination of GLU in artificial sweat. In contrast to existing MOF-based GLU sensors which exhibit electrocatalytic activity for the oxidation of GLU in alkaline media, the nanozyme Fe(II)-MOF/3D-printed device can operate in the acidic epidermal sweat environment. The enzymatic-free GLU sensor is composed of a 3-electrode 3D-printed device with the MOF nanozyme immobilized on the surface of the working electrode. GLU sensing is conducted by differential pulse voltammetry without interference from other co-existing metabolites in artificial sweat. The response is based on the oxidation of glucose to gluconolactone, induced by the redox activity of the Fe-centers of the MOF. GLU gives rise to an easily detectable and well-defined voltammetric peak at about − 1.2 V and the limit of detection is 17.6 μmol L-1. The synergy of a nanozyme with 3D printing technology results in an advanced, sensitive, and low-cost sensor, paving the way for on-skin applications.

Graphical abstract
Feasibility of multimodal intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring for extramedullary spinal cord tumor surgery in elderly patients
Authors: Siller Sebastian , Sixta Akela , Tonn Joerg-Christian , Szelenyi Andrea
Published: June 2023

Background/purpose

Extramedullary spinal cord tumors (EMSCTs) are mostly benign tumors which are increasingly diagnosed and operatively treated in the elderly. While there are hints that multimodal intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) could be influenced by age and age-related comorbidities, no study has ever systematically evaluated its feasibility and value for EMSCT surgery in elderly patients.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated all patients with microsurgical EMSCT resection under continuous multimodal IONM with SSEPs, MEPs and electromyography between 2016 and 2020. Epidemiological, clinical, imaging and operative/IONM records as well as detailed individual outcomes were analyzed and compared for the cohort < / ≥ 65 years.

Results

Mean age was 45 years in cohort < 65 years (n = 109) and 76 years in cohort ≥ 65 years (n = 64), while baseline/operative characteristics did not significantly differ. Mean baseline SSEPs’ latencies (left–right average) were significantly higher in the cohort ≥ 65 years for both median (20.9 ms vs. 22.1 ms; p < 0.01) and tibial nerve (42.9 ms vs. 46.1 ms; p < 0.01) without significant differences for SSEPs’ amplitudes. Stimulation intensity to elicit intraoperative MEPs was significantly higher in the cohort ≥ 65 years (surrogate-marker: left–right-averaged quotient ID1-muscle/abductor-hallucis-muscle; 1.6 vs. 2.1; p < 0.001). Intraoperatively, SSEP and MEP monitoring were feasible in 99%/100% and 99%/98% for the cohort < / ≥ 65 years without significant differences in rates for significant IONM changes during surgery or postoperatively new sensorimotor deficits. Sensitivity of IONM was 29%/43%, specificity 99%/98%, positive and negative predictive values 67%/75% and 95%/93% for the cohort < / ≥ 65 years. Overall, age was no risk factor for IONM feasibility or rate of significant IONM changes.

Discussion

Multimodal IONM is feasible/reliable for EMSCT surgery in elderly patients. An age-related prolongation of SSEPs’ latencies and demand for higher stimulation intensities for MEPs’ elicitation has to be considered.
What is the economically and socially optimised child support?
Authors: Varga Erzsébet Teréz
Published: June 2023

The study is based on the principle that children with divorced parents should have the same standard of living as their parents, both parents. Access to education, nourishment and extracurricular activities should be supported at the same level after divorce as before to ensure undisrupted development of the children. This study approaches the sensitive topic of child support payment objectively, adopting well-known techniques from operations research, with the goal to provide a guide to determine “optimised child support payment”. The proposed guide for decision makers aims to mitigate the probability of rising inequality in the separated family and through it in the society as well as reducing the risk of single-parent units slipping into poverty. Using simulations based on German child support data, a dynamic, globally applicable child support payment model is proposed. The objective function is to minimize the differences in the equivalised income of the separated family units, thereby, reducing risk of poverty and the financial stress for the custodial partner. The proposed child support payment scheme is well-defined and child focused and it potentially could address a serious real-world problem, the increasing risk of poverty after divorce for the child and the custodial parent.
Symbolic knowledge injection meets intelligent agents: QoS metrics and experiments
Authors: Agiollo Andrea , Rafanelli Andrea , Magnini Matteo , Ciatto Giovanni , Omicini Andrea
Published: June 2023

Bridging intelligent symbolic agents and sub-symbolic predictors is a long-standing research goal in AI. Among the recent integration efforts, symbolic knowledge injection (SKI) proposes algorithms aimed at steering sub-symbolic predictors’ learning towards compliance w.r.t. pre-existing symbolic knowledge bases. However, state-of-the-art contributions about SKI mostly tackle injection from a foundational perspective, often focussing solely on improving the predictive performance of the sub-symbolic predictors undergoing injection. Technical contributions, in turn, are tailored on individual methods/experiments and therefore poorly interoperable with agent technologies as well as among each others. Intelligent agents may exploit SKI to serve many purposes other than predictive performance alone—provided that, of course, adequate technological support exists: for instance, SKI may allow agents to tune computational, energetic, or data requirements of sub-symbolic predictors. Given that different algorithms may exist to serve all those many purposes, some criteria for algorithm selection as well as a suitable technology should be available to let agents dynamically select and exploit the most suitable algorithm for the problem at hand. Along this line, in this work we design a set of quality-of-service (QoS) metrics for SKI, and a general-purpose software API to enable their application to various SKI algorithms—namely, platform for symbolic knowledge injection (PSyKI). We provide an abstract formulation of four QoS metrics for SKI, and describe the design of PSyKI according to a software engineering perspective. Then we discuss how our QoS metrics are supported by PSyKI. Finally, we demonstrate the effectiveness of both our QoS metrics and PSyKI via a number of experiments, where SKI is both applied and assessed via our proposed API. Our empirical analysis demonstrates both the soundness of our proposed metrics and the versatility of PSyKI as the first software tool supporting the application, interchange, and numerical assessment of SKI techniques. To the best of our knowledge, our proposals represent the first attempt to introduce QoS metrics for SKI, and the software tools enabling their practical exploitation for both human and computational agents. In particular, our contributions could be exploited to automate and/or compare the manifold SKI algorithms from the state of the art. Hence moving a concrete step forward the engineering of efficient, robust, and trustworthy software applications that integrate symbolic agents and sub-symbolic predictors.
Using the Infant Sibling-Design to Explore Associations Between Autism and ADHD Traits in Probands and Temperament in the Younger Siblings
Authors: Andersson Konke Linn , Falck-Ytter Terje , Jones Emily J. H. , Goodwin Amy , Brocki Karin
Published: June 2023

The purpose of the current study was to use the infant sibling design to explore whether proband traits of autism and ADHD could provide information about their infant sibling’s temperament. This could help us to gain information about the extent to which infant temperament traits are differentially associated with autism and ADHD traits. We used parent-ratings of autistic traits and ADHD traits (CRS-3) in older siblings diagnosed with autism (age range 4 to 19 years), and their infant siblings’ temperament traits (IBQ) at 9 months of age in 216 sibling pairs from two sites (BASIS, UK, and EASE, Sweden) to examine associations across siblings. We found specific, but modest, associations across siblings after controlling for sex, age, developmental level and site. Proband autistic traits were specifically related to low levels of approach in the infant siblings, with infant developmental level explaining part of the variance in infant approach. Proband ADHD traits were specifically related to high levels of infant activity even after controlling for covariates. Our findings suggest that proband traits of autism and ADHD carry information for infant sibling’s temperament, indicating that inherited liability may influence early emerging behaviours in infant siblings. The impact of sex, age, developmental level and site are discussed.
Temperature Range of Heating Rate Dependent Reactions Leading to Spinel Formation on a Ni-Based Superalloy
Authors: Taylor M. P. , Calderwood D. , Reynolds T. D. , Warnken N. , Mignanelli P. M. , Hardy M. C. , Collins D. M.
Published: June 2023

Improved oxidation kinetics for a polycrystalline Ni-based superalloy used in turbine disc applications has been shown to be possible by controlling the heating rate of the first thermal exposure to 5 °C min−1. The beneficial effect arises from the formation of a protective layer of NiCr2O4, instead of the more usually formed doped Cr2O3. This study shows that it was possible to form the NiCr2O4 at temperatures up to 725 °C, within the operational conditions for this alloy, and that at higher temperatures Cr2O3 formed. The improvements in alloy performance extended to the internal oxidation processes where reduced depths of degradation were observed. It is demonstrated here that Al2O3 formation is less thermodynamically stable when the highly protective NiCr2O4 oxide is present at the alloy surface compared to the doped Cr2O3. Synchrotron XRD was performed on samples removed during the heating stage and provided evidence of the oxidation sequence occurring, enabling refinement in the thermodynamic calculations and suggesting an additional route to the formation of the NiCr2O4.
Cosmopsychism and the Problem of Evil
Authors: Cawdron Harvey
Published: June 2023

Cosmopsychism, the idea that the universe is conscious, is experiencing something of a revival as an explanation of consciousness in philosophy of mind and is also making inroads into philosophy of religion. In the latter field, it has been used to formulate models of certain forms of theism, such as pantheism and panentheism, and has also been proposed as a rival to the classical theism of the Abrahamic faiths. It has been claimed by Philip Goff that a certain form of cosmopsychism, namely agentive cosmopsychism, poses a threat to classical theism because it can explain features of the universe like fine-tuning without having to deal with the problem of evil. This is because, unlike the classical theist, the cosmopsychist can deny at least one of the divine attributes motivating the problem of evil, namely omniscience, omnipotence, and omnibenevolence. In this paper, I shall consider which of the divine attributes the cosmopsychist should focus on when responding to the problem of evil and shall conclude that the rejection of omnibenevolence is the most satisfactory option.
Analyses of Sequence Features and Expression Patterns of DOF Transcription Factor Genes in Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.)
Authors: Qu Yingwei , Gupta Shashi Kumar , Dudhate Ambika , Shinde Harshraj Subhash , Liu Shenkui , Takano Tetsuo , Tsugama Daisuke
Published: June 2023

Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) is a cereal crop that is tolerant to drought, high-temperature and poor-nutrient stresses throughout its life cycle. The DOF (DNA binding with One Finger) family genes encode plant-specific zinc finger transcription factors. These transcription factors have a variety of functions and can be involved in regulating the stress tolerance of pearl millet. In this study, we identified 12 DOF family genes (PgDOFs) in pearl millet. Ten of them were distributed on four chromosomes and the other two were on scaffolds (i.e., non-chromosomal sequences). Protein sequence analysis showed that PgDOFs have the DOF domain in their N-terminal regions and that other conserved motifs are also present in them. PgDOFs and DOF proteins from five other plant species were divided into seven groups, and the 12 PgDOFs could be classified into six of those seven groups. In gene expression analysis, most PgDOFs were upregulated by cold, heat, dehydration and salinity stress. These data can be useful for further characterization of the PgDOFs.
Using flexible energy system interactions amongst industry, district heating, and the power sector to increase renewable energy penetration
Authors: Cruz Igor , Ilić Danica Djurić , Johansson Maria T.
Published: June 2023

Sweden’s goal of 100% renewable electricity generation by 2040 requires investments in intermittent electricity production (e.g. wind power). However, increasing the share of intermittent electricity production presents challenges, including reduced flexibility of electricity production. A strategy for overcoming this issue is developing flexibility in electricity consumption. This study analyses the potential for using flexible industrial processes, heat pumps (HP), and combined heat and power (CHP) plants in Swedish district heating systems to increase the share of wind power capacity without compromising grid stability. The simulation tool EnergyPLAN was used to assess the potential contribution of these strategies. The analysis includes a range of annual wind power production between 45 and 60 TWh. The required electricity imports and critical excess electricity (that can neither be used nor exported due to transmission line limitations) were used to evaluate the system’s stability. Managing the operation of CHP plants, HPs, and industrial processes in a flexible way is challenging, but these strategies may still play a decisive role in increasing the share of renewable electricity production and reducing demand peaks in cities. Whilst HP regulation is better at reducing excess electricity production at lower wind power capacities (from 32 to 15% for the analysed interval of wind power production), CHP regulation becomes more relevant when wind power capacity increases (from 14 to 39%). Like HP regulation, flexibility in electricity demand in industrial processes had a greater percentage contribution at lower wind power capacities. Combining HP, CHP regulation, and flexible electricity demands in industry can reduce excess electricity production by 68–80% and electricity imports by 14–26%. Wind power contributing to grid stabilisation reduces excess electricity production but does not reduce electricity imports.
Epidemiology and Prognostic Factors of Malignant Melanoma Among 200 Asian Patients from a Single Medical Center
Authors: Park Sang Min , Jeong Ho Yoon , Kim Hoon-Soo , Kwak Min-Jin , Yi Changryul Claud , Bae Yong Chan
Published: June 2023

With the prevalence of malignant melanoma increasing gradually and the progressive westernization of the Asian lifestyle, it is important to analyze and follow up on the characteristics of malignant melanoma at regular intervals. We identified the characteristics of malignant melanoma by analyzing consecutive patients from a single medical center. We also examined the trend of malignant melanoma and prognostic factors in Asian patients. We investigated 200 consecutive patients with malignant melanoma in a single medical center between 2000 and 2022. Each patient’s sex and age, tumor stage, site of the primary lesion, histological subtype, Breslow thickness, Clark level, and period of survival were collected from the historical medical records of the patients and analyzed. Survival analyses were performed using the Kaplan–Meier method to investigate the prognostic factors. The ratio of man-to-woman was 1:1.53; the most common site of the primary tumor was the lower extremity (60%), and acral lentiginous melanoma was the most common histological subtype (61%). Malignant melanoma commonly occurs in the lower extremities, primarily in the form of the lentiginous subtype. In situ melanomas are most prevalent regarding Breslow thickness, while Clark Level 4 is the most common type of malignant melanoma. Sex and Breslow thickness were significantly associated with the survival rate. However, others were not significant prognostic indicators for survival in this cohort. This study confirmed that the epidemiology of malignant melanoma in Asian patients was maintained without significant change. We also confirmed several significant prognostic indicators for survival.
Beyond DNA sensing: expanding the role of cGAS/STING in immunity and diseases
Authors: Seok Jin Kyung , Kim Minhyuk , Kang Han Chang , Cho Yong-Yeon , Lee Hye Suk , Lee Joo Young
Published: June 2023

Cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS) is a DNA sensor that elicits a robust type I interferon response by recognizing ubiquitous danger-associated molecules. The cGAS/stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS/STING) is activated by endogenous DNA, including DNA released from mitochondria and extranuclear chromatin, as well as exogenous DNA derived from pathogenic microorganisms. cGAS/STING is positioned as a key axis of autoimmunity, the inflammatory response, and cancer progression, suggesting that the cGAS/STING signaling pathway represents an efficient therapeutic target. Based on the accumulated evidence, we present insights into the prevention and treatment of cGAS/STING-related chronic immune and inflammatory diseases. This review presents the current state of clinical and nonclinical development of modulators targeting cGAS/STING, providing useful information on the design of therapeutic strategies.
Evolutionary optimization of biogas production from food, fruit, and vegetable (FFV) waste
Authors: Olatunji Obafemi O. , Adedeji Paul A. , Madushele Nkosinathi , Rasmeni Zelda Z. , van Rensburg Nickey Janse
Published: June 2023

The success of anaerobic digestion (AD) process for biogas production is contingent upon complex mix of operating factors, process conditions, and feedstock types, which could be affected by inadequate understanding of microbial, kinetic, and physicochemical processes. To address these limitations, efforts have been directed toward developing mathematical and intelligent models. Although mathematical models provide near-optimal solutions, they are time consuming, highly expensive, and demanding. Intelligent standalone models are also limited by their low predictive capability and inability to guarantee global optimal solution for the prediction of cumulative biogas yield for FFV waste. However, hyperparameter optimization of such models is essential to improve the prediction performance for cumulative biogas yield for FFV waste. Therefore, this study applies a genetic algorithm (GA) to optimize an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) for the prediction of cumulative biogas production. Seven (7) input variables, organic loading rate (OLR), volatile solids (VS), pH, hydraulic retention time (HRT), temperature, retention time, and reaction volume, were considered with cumulative biogas production as the output. The effect of varying clustering techniques was evaluated. The three (3) clustering techniques evaluated are fuzzy c-means and subtractive clustering and grid partitioning. The hybrid model was evaluated based on some verified statistical performance metrics. Optimal root mean squared error (RMSE), mean absolute deviation (MAD), mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), and standard deviation error (error STD) of 0.0529, 0.0326,7.6742, and 0.0474, respectively, were reported at the model testing phase for the subtractive clustering technique being the best-performing model. The results confirm the capacity of hybrid evolutionary (genetic) algorithm based on subtractive clustering technique to predict the biogas yield from FFV and serve as an effective tool for the upscaling of anaerobic digestion units as well as in techno-economic studies toward more efficient energy utilization.

Graphical abstract
Percutaneous balloon compression for trigeminal neuralgia: experience and surgical techniques from a single institution
Authors: Deng Shengze , Luo Jilai , Lai Minfang , Yang Wuyang , Feng Wenping , Ouyang Jinyou , Kuang Jianguo
Published: June 2023

Objective

The treatment experience and the technical skill with percutaneous balloon compression (PBC) for treatment of primary trigeminal neuralgia (TN) were summarised in a single institution.

Methods

This is a retrospective review including consecutive patients with typical symptoms of uni-lateral primary TN who underwent PBC from June 2020 to September 2021 in our institution. We excluded secondary aetiologies of TN. Patient demographics, surgical techniques and outcomes were reviewed. All included patients were initially managed with carbamazepine before PBC.

Results

A total of 70 patients were included. The mean length of follow-up was 10.6 months. Sixty-nine (98.6%) were successfully treated, and only one patient failed due to particularly narrow foramen ovale. Amongst successfully treated patients, 68 (97.1%) had immediate pain relief, with one having delayed relief. Sixty-eight patients (97.1%) had immediate facial numbness post-operatively and one (1.4%) presented delayed numbness 7 days after surgery. In the last follow-up, regarding facial numbness, 22 (31.9%) patients had complete resolution, whilst 46 (67.6%) had different degrees of benefit. Forty-nine (71.0%) patients developed masseter muscle weakness with recovery at 3-month follow-up. No anaesthesia dolorosa, keratitis, intracranial infection or death occurred in this study.

Conclusion

PBC for treatment of TN has quick and effective result, and could be safely performed under general anaesthesia without discomfort to the patient. The common postoperative complications are facial numbness and masseter muscle weakness, with most being improved or recovered at follow-up.
Outcome of brain metastases from adrenocortical carcinoma: a pooled analysis
Authors: Turla A. , Laganà M. , Cremaschi V. , Zamparini M. , De Maria L. , Consoli F. , Abate A. , Tamburello M. , Alberti A. , Sigala S. , Grisanti S. , Fontanella M. M. , Cosentini D. , Berruti A.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Brain metastases rarely complicate the natural history of patients with adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC). No information is available regarding the life expectancy and efficacy of treatments in ACC patients with brain involvement.

Methods

A pooled analysis was performed by searching on PubMed and using the keywords: “brain metastases in adrenocortical carcinoma”, and “leptomeningeal metastases in adrenocortical carcinoma”. Four patients diagnosed at Spedali Civili Hospital in Brescia were added to the analysis. Data concerning demographic, disease characteristics, adopted treatments and patient prognosis were collected.

Results

A total of 27 patients (18 adults and 9 children) were included in this study, 22 of them had an adequate follow-up. Brain metastases occurred late in the natural history of adult patients but not in that of children. Surgery plus/minus radiation therapy was the treatment of choice. Adult patients with brain metastases had a poor prognosis with a median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) of 2 and 7 months, respectively. Median PFS and OS were not attained in children.

Conclusion

Brain metastases in ACC patients are rare and are associated with poor prognosis, particularly in adults. Surgery plus/minus radiotherapy is the only therapeutic approach that can offer patients a chance to obtain durable local disease control.
Unearthing South Australia’s Oldest Known Shipwreck: The Bark South Australian (1837)
Authors: Hunter James W. , Hosty Kieran , Bullers Rick , Malliaros Irini , Paterson Adam , Wilson Chris , Zapor Tim , Jerbic Katarina , van Duivenvoorde Wendy
Published: June 2023

In early 2018, a collaborative team composed of maritime archaeologists, museum specialists, and volunteers from the South Australian Department for Environment and Water, South Australian Maritime Museum, Silentworld Foundation, Australian National Maritime Museum, MaP Fund, and Flinders University surveyed for and located the shipwreck site of the bark South Australian. Lost at Rosetta Harbor (at the western end of modern-day Encounter Bay) in December 1837, South Australian is South Australia’s oldest documented shipwreck. Its significance also derives from its use as one of the earliest immigration ships to ferry European settlers to the colony of South Australia, as well as careers as a postal packet and “cutting-in” vessel for shore-based whaling activities. South Australian’s historical background is addressed, as are efforts to locate and confirm the identity of its wreck site via archaeological investigation.
The synthesis of calcium doped zinc oxide ceramic nanoparticles via sol–gel effective against the emerging multidrug-resistant Candida auris
Authors: Reda A. E. , Fayed B.
Published: June 2023

This work aimed to prepare calcium-doped zinc oxide (ZC) ceramic nanoparticles in this formula (1-x)ZnO–xCaO with (x = 0, 0.10 and 0.90 mol.%) which are effective against the emerging multidrug-resistant Candida auris for the first time to our knowledge using the sol–gel method. Three different calcination temperatures (Tc) (500, 550 and 600 °C) were employed here. The prepared samples were characterized by XRD, SEM, and Zeta sizer. Also, their antimicrobial activity was assessed. All the prepared samples that were calcined at 600 °C showed particle size at nanometer range. All ZC ceramic samples showed negative zeta potential with higher magnitude indicating the stability of the produced nanoparticles. On increasing, calcium oxide doped in ZC10 and ZC90 ceramic samples, the particle size was decreased with regular hexagonal shape in SEM images. Finally, the prepared ZC ceramic nanoparticles exhibited excellent inhibitory activity against the emerging multidrug-resistant C. auris. Additionally, the prepared nanoparticles were active against both gram-positive Staphylococcus auris (ATCC 25923) and gram-negative E. coli (ATCC 25922). Collectively, ZC ceramic nanoparticles can be used to combat the emerged drug-resistant C. auris instead of applying the current antifungal drugs that exhibited minimum activity.
Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrests during Mass-Participation Endurance Events: A Case Series
Authors: Morton Sarah , Goonetilleke Chaminda , Taylor Mark , Beach Natasha
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Mass-participation endurance events take place throughout the United Kingdom. Although out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCAs) occur during these events, little is known about them. This case series aims to describe the number, type, etiology, and outcome of OHCAs treated by a UK-based specialist sports medicine provider over a period of 8 y.

Methods

The medical records of a UK-based sports medicine provider were reviewed from 2014 to 2022. Anonymized information from OHCAs during this time was recorded. This included type of event, patient demographics, details of OHCA, and patient outcomes.

Results

Ten OHCAs were identified during the course of 110 sporting events. These included the cases of 9 participants and 1 spectator. Return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) was achieved on-site in all patients. Eight survived beyond 24 h and achieved a full neurological recovery. Seventy percent of these patients achieved ROSC within 4 min of cardiopulmonary resuscitation being initiated. The 2 patients who died both presented with a nonshockable rhythm.

Conclusions

OHCAs during mass-participation endurance events are rare. However, medical providers must be prepared to respond promptly. Quick interventions can result in a full neurological recovery.