bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analytical Methods for Tetracyclic Antidepressants: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Shetty Sharan R. , Rathore Seema S. , Leno Jenita Josephine
Published: August 2024

Depression is a mental illness that affects patients’ behavior, and it impacts approximately 264 million people globally. Tetracyclic antidepressants (TeCAs) are one class of medication that is available for the treatment of depression. These medications work by modifying hormones such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. TeCAs, such as setiptiline, amoxapine, mianserin, maprotiline, and mirtazapine, are four ring‐based compounds that assist in preventing the brain from reabsorbing the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and serotonin. Each of these medications interacts with adrenergic (α1 and α2) and serotonin (5HT1 and 5HT2) receptors independently. Using biological samples (plasma, blood, and urine) and pharmaceutical formulations, this review focuses on providing a complete overview of the various analytical conditions maintained for the medications in the above class and their metabolites. Major analytical methods such as mass spectrometry, gas chromatography, and high‐performance liquid chromatography are used to quantify and determine the drugs. This review provides a thorough understanding of impurity identification, pharmacokinetic and stability evaluations, and structural degradation quantification. It provides valuable and reliable information for research, enhancing their understanding of the subject matter.
Validity Matters: Uncertainty‐Guided Testing of Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Jiang Zhouxian , Li Honghui , Wang Rui , Tian Xuetao , Liang Ci , Yan Fei , Zhang Junwen , Liu Zhen
Published: August 2024

Despite numerous applications of deep learning technologies on critical tasks in various domains, advanced deep neural networks (DNNs) face persistent safety and security challenges, such as the overconfidence in predicting out‐of‐distribution samples and susceptibility to adversarial examples. Thorough testing by exploring the input space serves as a key strategy to ensure their robustness and trustworthiness of these networks. However, existing testing methods focus on disclosing more erroneous model behaviours, overlooking the validity of the generated test inputs. To mitigate this issue, we investigate devising valid test input generation method for DNNs from a predictive uncertainty perspective. Through a large‐scale empirical study across 11 predictive uncertainty metrics for DNNs, we explore the correlation between validity and uncertainty of test inputs. Our findings reveal that the predictive entropy‐based and ensemble‐based uncertainty metrics effectively characterize the input validity demonstration. Building on these insights, we introduce UCTest, an uncertainty‐guided deep learning testing approach, to efficiently generate valid and authentic test inputs. We formulate a joint optimization objective: to uncover the model's misbehaviours by maximizing the loss function and concurrently generate valid test input by minimizing uncertainty. Extensive experiments demonstrate that our approach outperforms the current testing methods in generating valid test inputs. Furthermore, incorporating natural variation through data augmentation techniques into UCTest effectively boosts the diversity of generated test inputs.
The role of nano‐Fe2O3 crystal structure on the thermal stability, flame retardancy, and smoke suppression of intumescent flame‐retarded epoxy resins
Authors: Wei Zheng , Guan Jingjing , Yan Long , Niu Guoqing
Published: August 2024

Nano‐Fe2O3 is well known to has a synergistic effect with intumescent flame retardants in reducing the fire hazard of polymeric materials, but the role of nano‐Fe2O3 geometry on the synergistic effect of the intumescent system has not been thoroughly investigated. In this study, a series of pentaerythritol phosphate melamine salt (PPMS)‐grafted iron oxide with different crystal configurations (PPMS‐α‐Fe2O3 and PPMS‐γ‐Fe2O3) were successfully synthesized. The role of nano‐Fe2O3 geometry on the thermal stability, flame retardancy, and smoke suppression of intumescent flame‐retarded epoxy resins (EP) was investigated by thermogravimetric analysis, cone calorimeter test, and smoke density test. The results showed that PPMS‐α‐Fe2O3 flame retardant substantially improved the thermal stability and char formation of intumescent flame‐retarded EP compared to PPMS‐γ‐Fe2O3 flame retardant. Additionally, α‐Fe2O3 exerts a better role in improving the flame retardancy and smoke suppression properties compared to that of γ‐Fe2O3. It is notable that the incorporation of 5 wt% α‐Fe2O3 as a flame retardant confers a 78.9% reduction in peak heat release rate (PHRR) value and an 81.8% reduction in peak smoke production rate (PSPR) value compared to pure EP. Char residue analysis revealed that α‐Fe2O3 performs positively in enhancing the compactness of the char layer, thereby leading to an improved synergistic flame retardant effect.

Highlights

Successful synthesis of flame retardants (PPMS‐α‐Fe2O3 and PPMS‐γ‐Fe2O3).

α‐Fe2O3 and PPMS have superior synergistic flame retardant effect.

α‐Fe2O3 remarkably enhances thermal stability and char formation of EP.

Compared to γ‐Fe2O3, α‐Fe2O3 contributes more to the smoke suppression of EP.

Designing improved EP fire performance based on the role of nano‐Fe2O3.
Molecular dynamics simulations of nucleosomes are coming of age
Authors: Fedulova Anastasiia S. , Armeev Grigoriy A. , Romanova Tatiana A. , Singh‐Palchevskaia Lovepreet , Kosarim Nikita A. , Motorin Nikita A. , Komarova Galina A. , Shaytan Alexey K.
Published: August 2024

Understanding the function of eukaryotic genomes, including the human genome, is undoubtedly one of the major scientific challenges of the 21st century. The cornerstone of eukaryotic genome organization is nucleosomes—elementary building blocks of chromatin about 10 nm in size that wrap DNA around an octamer of histone proteins. Nucleosomes are integral players in all genomic processes, including transcription, DNA replication and repair. They mediate genome regulation at the epigenetic level, bridging the discrete nature of the genetic information encoded in DNA with the analog physical nature of the intermolecular interactions required to access that information. Due to their relatively large size and dynamic nature, nucleosomes are difficult objects for experimental characterization. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations have emerged over the years as a useful tool to complement experimental studies. Particularly in recent years, advances in computing power, refinement of MD force fields and codes have opened up new frontiers in terms of simulation timescales and quality for nucleosomes and related systems. It has become possible to elucidate in atomistic detail their functional dynamics modes such as DNA unwrapping and sliding, to characterize the effects of epigenetic modifications, DNA and protein sequence variation on nucleosome structure and stability, to describe the mechanisms governing nucleosome interactions with chromatin‐associated proteins and the formation of supranucleosome structures. In this review, we systematically analyzed all‐atom MD simulation studies of nucleosomes and related structures published since 2018 and discussed their relevance in the context of older studies, experimental data, and related coarse‐grained and multiscale studies.

This article is categorized under:

Software > Molecular Modeling

Molecular and Statistical Mechanics > Molecular Dynamics and Monte‐Carlo Methods

Structure and Mechanism > Computational Biochemistry and Biophysics
Wildfire influences species assemblage and habitat utilisation of boreal wildlife after more than a decade in northern Sweden
Authors: Fredriksson Emelie , Cromsigt Joris P. G. M. , Hofmeester Tim R.
Published: August 2024

Fires can strongly change the vegetation structure and the availability of resources for wildlife, but fire suppression has long affected the natural role of fire in shaping boreal ecosystems in northern Europe. Recently, wildfires have increased in frequency, possibly due to global warming. In contrast to the boreal systems in North America, there have been few studies on responses of wildlife to wildfires in northern Europe. Based on the findings from North America, we predict that responses of wildlife to wildfire vary among wildlife species: where mammalian herbivores, such as moose Alces alces and mountain hare Lepus timidus, will be attracted to burnt areas following an increase in food availability, other species, such as reindeer Rangifer tarandus, are negatively impacted due to fire reducing their preferred food. We then tested our predictions by contrasting wildlife utilization of sites that burnt by wildfire in 2006 with nearby unburnt control sites in three areas in northern Sweden. To measure wildlife utilization, we used 72 camera traps, equally divided between the burnt and control sites, with two placement strategies: random and on wildlife trails. The cameras recorded 27 mammal and bird species during summer 2018. Species assemblage differed between burnt and control sites. Fieldfare Turdus pilaris used burnt sites more than control sites, while pine marten Martes martes and western capercaillie Tetrao urogallus used control sites more than burnt sites. We however did not find support for a positive effect of past forest fires on any of the observed wild mammals. We discuss how, due to the impact of forestry, forage‐rich habitat may not be as limiting in Scandinavia as in the North‐American context, potentially leading to recently burnt sites being less attractive to herbivores such as moose.
Host species and age‐specific variation on Hepatozoon prevalence and its effect on body condition in two Neotropical crocodiles
Authors: Marzal Alfonso , Flores‐Saavedra Wendy , Magallanes Sergio , Muriel Jaime , Lezama‐Briceño Jefferson , García‐Ayachi Luis Alberto , Fong Esteban , Mora‐Rubio Carlos , Mendoza Carlos , Saldaña Blanca , Díez‐Fernández Alazne , Martin José , Perea‐Sicchar Carlos Marcial , González‐Blázquez Manuel
Published: August 2024

Many populations of species belonging to the order Crocodilia are threatened due to illegal trafficking, indiscriminate hunting, and habitat loss and degradation affecting crocodilian health and parasitic load. Although several studies have revealed that crocodiles, caimans, and alligators are frequently infected by Hepatozoon spp., the results from studies exploring the costs of these apicomplexan parasites on the health of their reptilian hosts are still scarce and with inconclusive results. Here, we molecularly assessed the prevalence and genetic diversity of Hepatozoon spp. to explore their possible influence on body condition in captive individuals of two species of Neotropical crocodilians with conservation threats, the spectacled caiman Caiman crocodilus and the American crocodile Crocodylus acutus. Fourteen percent of spectacled caimans were infected by H. caimani, whereas no American crocodiles showed infection. The prevalence of Hepatozoon in spectacled alligators varied along age, where subadult individuals were the most frequently parasitized. Surprisingly, the body condition of infected individuals was significantly higher than body condition of uninfected spectacled caimans, which suggests greater negative effects of the infection in individuals of poor quality. Also, the body condition of subadult individuals was significantly higher than body condition of juveniles of both alligator species, likely reflecting differences in the occupancy of habitats with higher resource abundance, or variations in the nutritional values of the diet between these age classes. These outcomes provide valuable information on disease ecology for developing conservation strategies and the management conservation of wildlife populations of these species.
Nest quality predicts the probability of egg loss in the critically endangered ʻAlalā (Corvus hawaiiensis)
Authors: Mason Lisa L. K. , Masuda Bryce , Swaisgood Ronald R. , Flanagan Alison M.
Published: August 2024

Conservation breeding programs for endangered species face challenges, notably in the development of husbandry techniques, complicated by the impracticality of conducting controlled experiments. To reduce uncertainty regarding what works in conservation breeding programs, it is essential to capture data. In avian breeding programs, the construction of quality nests and appropriate incubation and handling of eggs by the parents are essential prerequisites to the successful production of offspring. Here, we study factors influencing nest‐building and parental incubation outcomes in ʻalalā (Corvus hawaiiensis), which is extinct in the wild and numbers fewer than 130 individuals in human care. Using parent‐incubated egg data from 2018 to 2021 (171 clutches, 55 pairs), we evaluated the role of husbandry factors in determining the quality of nests constructed by ʻalalā and the likelihood of nest quality and other social and environmental factors to predict egg loss (breaking, cannibalization, or ejection of an egg from the nest). More than half of all eggs laid failed to reach the hatch date. Nest quality was the most influential predictor of egg loss, with eggs in higher quality nests more likely to reach the hatch date. Male age also influenced egg loss, with very young (3 years old) and older males (⪞12 years old) experiencing more egg loss. Furthermore, the two facilities and two aviary types also differed in the quality of nests ʻalalā constructed, indicating that nest‐building behavior can be influenced by husbandry practices. These findings reduce uncertainty and provide insights for recommended management interventions to facilitate successful reproduction in human care.
Normal Matrix Models
Authors: Byun Sung-Soo , Forrester Peter J.
Published: August 2024

Normal matrix models, characterised by the requirement that the matrices commute with their adjoint so that their eigenvectors form a unitary matrix, permit an explicit Coulomb gas Boltzmann factor type eigenvalue PDF with $$\beta =2$$

β
=
2

, so determinantal structures hold. They permit a simplified global scaling in which the one-body potential is taken as being strictly proportional to N. The support of the corresponding large N equilibrium measure is referred to as a droplet. Perturbing the GinUE one-body potential by the real part of a polynomial leads to a relation between the moments of the droplet and the coefficients of the polynomial. Generally, the main question of interest is the dependence on the potential in characterising quantities.
Expansion by regions meets angular integrals
Authors: Smirnov Vladimir A. , Wunder Fabian
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We study the small-mass asymptotic behavior of so-called angular integrals, appearing in phase-space calculations in perturbative quantum field theory. For this purpose we utilize the strategy of expansion by regions, which is a universal method both for multiloop Feynman integrals and various parametric integrals. To apply the technique to angular integrals, we convert them into suitable parametric integral representations, which are accessible to existing automation tools. We use the code asy.m to reveal regions contributing to the asymptotic expansion of angular integrals. To evaluate the contributions of these regions in an epsilon expansion we apply the method of Mellin-Barnes representation. Our approach is checked against existing results on angular integrals revealing a connection between contributing regions and angular integrals constructed from an algebraic decomposition. We explicitly calculate the previously unknown asymptotics for angular integrals with three and four denominators and formulate a conjecture for the leading asymptotics and the pole part for a general number of denominators and masses.
Holography in flat spacetimes: the case for Carroll
Authors: Bagchi Arjun , Dhivakar Prateksh , Dutta Sudipta
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We compare and contrast the two approaches of holography in asymptotically flat spacetimes, viz. the co-dimension two Celestial approach based on the Mellin transformation and the co-dimension one Carrollian approach based on the modified Mellin and elucidate how some of the problems of the Celestial approach can be rectified by the Carrollian one. Considering flat holography as a limit from AdS/CFT makes a co-dimension one dual more plausible, and our previous construction of Carrollian correlations from AdS Witten diagrams is testimony to this. In this paper, we show how to generalize our earlier analysis for operators with spin. We work out a large number of explicit non-trivial examples (twelve) and show matching between the limit of AdS4 Witten diagrams and 3d boundary symmetry considerations, thus making the case for the Carrollian dual even stronger.
Advancing fracture management: the role of minimally invasive osteosynthesis in orthopedic trauma care
Authors: Wichlas Florian , Haybäck Gerwin , Hofmann Valeska , Deluca Amelie , Traweger Andreas , Deininger Christian
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Minimally Invasive Osteosynthesis (MIO) developed to be a key technique in orthopedic trauma surgery, offering a less invasive alternative for managing fractures in various anatomical regions. However, standardized guidelines for its application are lacking. This study aims to establish comprehensive principles for MIO to guide surgeons in treating different types of fractures and its locations.

Methods

A retrospective analysis including 57 fractures in 53 patients was conducted. All patients were treated with MIO. Study range - March 2017 to January 2022 at a Level-I trauma university hospital. The analysis covered various fracture types, focusing on surgical approaches, reduction techniques, plate insertion methods, and its outcomes. The efficacy and safety of MIO was evaluated by analyzing complications, fracture healing time, and necessary revision surgeries.

Results

MIO is a versatile and effective fracture treatment that minimized soft tissue damage and ensured stable osteosynthetic results. Articular fractures typically used a “one way up” plate insertion technique, while non-articular fractures applied an “inside-up-and-down” approach. Low complication rates confirmed the safety and efficiency of MIO.

Conclusion

This research established generalized principles for MIO, offering a systematic approach that can be applied for various fracture types and its locations, by overall enhancing the surgical efficiency as well as patient recovery, without compromising outcomes.

Level of evidence

This study is classified as Level III evidence according to “The Oxford 2011 Levels of Evidence”.
Langzeitverläufe der Alkoholabhängigkeit
Authors: John Ulrich , Rumpf Hans-Jürgen , Hoffmann Sabine , Meyer Christian , Kiefer Falk
Published: August 2024

Hintergrund

Langzeitbetrachtungen der Alkoholabhängigkeit können Aufschluss zu Ätiologie, Prävention und therapeutischer Versorgung bieten.

Ziel

Beschreibung empirischer Befunde zur Entwicklung in eine Alkoholabhängigkeit hinein und Entwicklungen aus ihr heraus.

Methodik

Narrative Literaturrecherche, Analyse von Ergebnissen aus Kohortenstudien in der Bevölkerung.

Ergebnisse

Risikofaktoren lassen eine erhöhte Wahrscheinlichkeit der Ausbildung einer Alkoholabhängigkeit schätzen. Jugendliche zeigten innerhalb von 8 Jahren nach Beginn des Alkoholkonsums Symptome einer Alkoholabhängigkeit. Besteht diese, ist mit einer um 17,6 Jahre verkürzten Lebensdauer zu rechnen. Daten einer Bevölkerungsstichprobe zeigten gegenüber Menschen ohne psychische Störung ein 2,8fach erhöhtes Risiko, vorzeitig zu versterben. Die Schwere der Alkoholabhängigkeit erwies sich als Prädiktor vorzeitigen Versterbens. Nikotinabhängigkeit kann neben der Alkoholabhängigkeit zur verkürzten Lebensdauer beitragen. In einer Bevölkerungsstichprobe hatten 90,2 % der alkoholabhängigen Personen an keiner qualifizierten Entzugsbehandlung und 78,4 % an keiner Entzugsbehandlung in einer psychiatrischen Einrichtung teilgenommen. Remissionen ohne suchtspezifische Hilfe sind nachgewiesen und stellen den überwiegenden Remissionsweg dar.

Diskussion

Zur Reduktion der ungünstigen langfristigen Verläufe sollten Prävention und Suchtkrankenversorgung mehr als bisher auf den Bedarf in der Bevölkerung ausgerichtet werden. In der psychiatrischen und weiteren medizinischen Praxis sollten leitliniengemäß Screenings auf Alkoholgebrauchsstörungen und entsprechende Kurzinterventionen durchgeführt werden.
A bibliometric portrait of a regional science scholar: in memory of professor Börje Johansson
Authors: Karlsson Charlie , Hammarfelt Björn
Published: August 2024

This paper pays homage to Professor Börje Johansson’s scientific contributions in general and to the field of regional science particularly through a bibliometric approach, highlighting his publishing and citation record, co-authors and co-editors, as well as his theoretical inspirators, fellow researchers and often cited researchers.
Mechanisms of damage and therapies for cardiac amyloidosis: a role for inflammation?
Authors: Bellofatto Ilaria Anna , Nikolaou Panagiota Efstathia , Andreadou Ioanna , Canepa Marco , Carbone Federico , Ghigo Alessandra , Heusch Gerd , Kleinbongard Petra , Maack Christoph , Podesser Bruno K. , Stamatelopoulos Kimon , Stellos Konstantinos , Vilahur Gemma , Montecucco Fabrizio , Liberale Luca
Published: August 2024

The term cardiac amyloidosis (CA) refers to the accumulation of extracellular amyloid deposits in the heart because of different conditions often affecting multiple organs including brain, kidney and liver. Notably, cardiac involvement significantly impacts prognosis of amyloidosis, with cardiac biomarkers playing a pivotal role in prognostic stratification. Therapeutic management poses a challenge due to limited response to conventional heart failure therapies, necessitating targeted approaches aimed at preventing, halting or reversing amyloid deposition. Mechanisms underlying organ damage in CA are multifactorial, involving proteotoxicity, oxidative stress, and mechanical interference. While the role of inflammation in CA remains incompletely understood, emerging evidence suggests its potential contribution to disease progression as well as its utility as a therapeutic target. This review reports on the cardiac involvement in systemic amyloidosis, its prognostic role and how to assess it. Current and emerging therapies will be critically discussed underscoring the need for further efforts aiming at elucidating CA pathophysiology. The emerging evidence suggesting the contribution of inflammation to disease progression and its prognostic role will also be reviewed possibly offering insights into novel therapeutic avenues for CA.
Risk factors for residual pelvic obliquity one year after total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Ozawa Yuto , Osawa Yusuke , Takegami Yasuhiko , Iida Hiroki , Takemoto Genta , Imagama Shiro
Published: August 2024

Purpose

It is not uncommon for patients with hip disorders to present with pelvic obliquity (PO), and residual PO after total hip arthroplasty (THA) may not only affect hip joint function but also cause adjacent intervertebral joint disorders. This study aimed to investigate the postoperative PO impact on clinical outcomes and risk factors by comparing patients who had PO after THA to those who did not.

Methods

A single-center, retrospective cohort study was conducted. A total of 103 patients who underwent THA were included in this study from 2018 to 2020. Demographics, functional outcomes, and spinopelvic parameters were compared between post-THA PO of less than 2° (NT group, 55 patients) and PO of 2° or more (O group, 48 patients). Multivariate analysis was performed using factors with significant differences in univariate analysis.

Results

Postoperative Harris Hip Score Activity was significantly lower in the T group than in the NT group (p = 0.031). Preoperative PO was smaller in the NT group than in the T group (p = 0.001). Preoperative lumbar bending range (LBR) was significantly more flexible in the NT group than in the T group. In the logistic regression analysis, Age (odds ratio 0.957, 95% CI 0.923–0.993, p = 0.020), preoperative PO (odds ratio 1.490, 95% CI 1.100–2.020, p = 0.001), and LBR (odds ratio 0.848, 95% CI 0.756–0.951, p = 0.005) were found to be significant factors.

Conclusion

Younger age and large preoperative PO, and poor lumbar spine mobility were identified as risk factors for residual postoperative PO.
Influence of preoperative embolisation on resection of brain arteriovenous malformations: cohort study
Authors: Lee Seong Hoon , Loan James JM. , Downer Jonathan , DuPlessis Johannes , Keston Peter , Wiggins Anthony N. , Fouyas Ioannis , Sokol Drahoslav
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Preoperative endovascular embolisation is a widely used adjunct for the surgical treatment of brain arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). However, whether this improves completeness of AVM resection is unknown, as previous analyses have not adjusted for potential confounding factors. We aimed to determine if preoperative endovascular embolisation was associated with increased rate of complete AVM resection at first surgery, following adjustment for Spetzler-Martin grade items.

Methods

We identified a cohort of all patients undergoing first ever AVM resection in a specialist neurosciences unit in the NHS Lothian Health Board region of Scotland between June 2004 and June 2022. Data was prospectively extracted from medical records. Our primary outcome was completeness of AVM resection. We determined the odds of complete AVM resection using binomial logistic regression with adjustment for Spetzler-Martin grading system items: maximum nidus diameter, eloquence of adjacent brain and the presence of deep venous drainage.

Results

88 patients (median age 40y [IQR 19–53], 55% male) underwent AVM resection. 34/88 (39%) patients underwent preoperative embolisation and complete resection was achieved at first surgery in 74/88 (84%). Preoperative embolisation was associated with increased adjusted odds of complete AVM resection (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 8.6 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.7–67.7]; p = 0.017). The presence of deep venous drainage was associated with reduced chance of complete AVM resection (aOR 0.18 [95% CI 0.04–0.63]; p = 0.009).

Conclusions

Preoperative embolisation is associated with improved chances of complete AVM resection following adjustment for Spetzler-Martin grade, and should therefore be considered when planning surgical resection of AVMs.
Contrast-enhanced ultrasound in renal cystic lesions: an update
Authors: Masino Federica , Eusebi Laura , Bertolotto Michele , Pizzileo Sara Maria , Pizzolorusso Francesco , Sortino Giuseppe , Pitoni Lucia , Santarelli Stefano , Galosi Andrea Benedetto , Guglielmi Giuseppe
Published: August 2024

This narrative review aims to describe the current status of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in characterizing renal cystic lesion. The imaging techniques usually performed for their evaluation are ultrasonography (US), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with different criteria of application based on the individual case and the purpose of the examination. Generally, US, as a non-ionizing examination, is the first imaging modality performed and therefore the one that incidentally detects cystic lesions. CT is the most performed imaging modality for cystic lesion assessment before MRI evaluation. It provides better characterization and management and has been introduced into the Bosniak classification. In this context, CEUS is making its way for its characteristics and represents the emerging technique in this field. With these premises, the authors analyze the role of CEUS in the evaluation of renal cysts, starting with an explanation of the technique, describe its main advantages and limitations, and end with a discussion of its application in the Bosniak classification and management, following the current major guidelines.
Characterization of δ-PuGa (1 at%. Ga) Oxidation Under Dry Oxygen Atmosphere Exposure
Authors: Favart N. , Ravat B. , Jolly L. , Zacharie-Aubrun I. , Martin P. , Menut D. , Popa I. , Oudot B.
Published: August 2024

The oxidation of δ-stabilized plutonium alloy was studied under dry oxygen exposures for temperatures varying from 100 up to 300 °C and oxygen partial pressures varying from 10–4 up to 500 mbar. The coupling of X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy and FIB-SEM has allowed to show that the oxide scale is composed of an outer layer of PuO2 and an inner mixed layer of α + β-Pu2O3 platelets propagating into a metallic zone corresponding to the stable phase of unalloyed Pu. Furthermore, the analysis of Pu oxidation kinetics has displayed first a parabolic growth governed by the diffusion of interstitial oxygen. This step consists of the thickening of the Pu2O3 layer with a decrease in α-Pu2O3 ratio in favor of β-Pu2O3. Then, a second step occurs consisting of a linear growth of the PuO2-layer with the formation of thick nodules which tend to cover the whole oxide surface. Based on the results of this work, a general oxidation mechanism for δ-Pu alloy is provided.
Hesperidin: a flavanone with multifaceted applications in the food, animal feed, and environmental fields
Authors: Pereira Verónica , Figueira Onofre , Castilho Paula C.
Published: August 2024

Hesperidin, a glycosylated flavanone abundant in nature, is an antioxidant widely researched in the pharmaceutical industry for its anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antiviral, anti-aging, cardioprotective and neuroprotective effects. Despite the extensive literature highlighting these therapeutic activities, there remains a significant gap in understanding hesperidin role across other fields. This review aims at demonstrating hesperidin applications beyond pharmaceutical applications, particularly in the food, feed, and environmental fields. For this purpose, a brief description of the biosynthesis pathway of hesperidin in citrus plants is provided as well as its main chemical derivatives. In the food industry, hesperidin and its derivatives are commercialized as dietetic supplements and have been studied as food additives and active ingredients in edible food packaging. Within the feed industry, meat and/or eggs from animals supplemented with hesperidin show higher oxidative stability and prolonged shelf life. Moreover, in the environment research, hesperidin induces plant tolerance against abiotic factors and shows biopesticide activity.

Graphical abstract
Discussion to the article Undrained shear strength prediction of clays using liquidity index, by Q. Wang, S. Qiu, H. Zheng, R. Zhang
Authors: O’Kelly Brendan C. , Haigh Stuart K.
Published: August 2024

This communication presents a critical discussion of the article “Undrained shear strength prediction of clays using liquidity index”, authored by Q. Wang, S. Qiu, H. Zheng, R. Zhang, and recently published in Acta Geotechnica (https://doi.org/10.1007/s11440-023-02107-9). Various inaccurate claims and flaws regarding the Authors’ newly developed three-parameter strength–liquidity index (Su–IL) models/correlations are highlighted and discussed herein. In particular, comparing existing two-parameter and their newly developed three-parameter Su–IL models, contrary to the Authors’ claims, no improvement in prediction accuracy is achieved over the two-parameter model by introducing a third model parameter. Rather, it is shown herein that the existing two-parameter and the Authors’ three-parameter Su–IL models are mathematically identical. Furthermore, two of the Authors’ newly developed Su–IL correlations, i.e., relating the triaxial-compression and shearbox derived strengths to the liquidity index, are shown to be inaccurate, forecasting gross under- and over-predictions of the measured strengths, respectively. This highlights the need for a reassessment of the proposed correlations, and emphasizes the importance of accurate and reliable correlations in geotechnical engineering.
How Government Stereotypes Affect Life Satisfaction: a Good Government Matters More Than a Government That Does Good
Authors: Wang Yiming , Jia Qifan , Zhang Shuwei , Zhou Jie
Published: August 2024

Many studies have noted the close relationship between the government and people’s life satisfaction. However, little literature has paid attention to the role of government stereotypes. This research fills this gap using two large samples of Chinese residents. In the first-phase study, we explored the content and structure of government stereotypes with a data-driven approach. We found that the content of government stereotypes consisted of four clusters: positive evaluations, negative evaluations, things about government duties, and things about the government system. Further, the content of government stereotypes could be distinguished based on two orthogonal dimensions: the valence (negative vs. positive) and the degree of generality (particularized vs. generalized). In the second-phase study, we examined how various dimensions of government stereotypes were related to life satisfaction. We found that people with more positive government stereotypes were more satisfied with life. This association was more potent when government stereotypes were more generalized (i.e., a good government at a higher construal level) than particularized (i.e., a government that does good at a lower construal level). Both studies of this research were repeatable within the two large samples. This research provided a new perspective for the literature on the relationship between government and life satisfaction and the interventions to improve life satisfaction.
Multiprofessionelle Kooperation an inklusiven Ganztagsschulen – Fallstudie zur Vernetzung und Arbeit von Förderschulpädagog:innen an einer Ganztagsgrundschule
Authors: Kielblock Stephan
Published: August 2024

Der flächendeckende Auf- und Ausbau von Ganztagsschulen und die Umsetzung von Inklusion haben in den vergangenen Jahren in Deutschland dazu geführt, dass an Regelschulen zunehmend pädagogisch tätige Personen mit unterschiedlichen beruflichen Hintergründen zusammentreffen. Theoretischen Überlegungen zufolge profitieren Schüler:innen davon, wenn diese unterschiedlichen pädagogisch tätigen Personen miteinander kooperieren. Diese sog. multiprofessionelle Kooperation – mit Fokus auf die Umsetzung von Inklusion an Ganztagsschulen – ist Gegenstand des vorliegenden Beitrags. Die Forschungsfragen lauten, (1.) wie Sonder‑/Förderschulpädagog:innen im Kooperationsnetzwerk an einem Ganztagsschulstandort eingebunden sind und (2.) wie die Einbindung und Arbeit der Sonder‑/Förderschulpädagog:innen im Kooperationsnetzwerk aus Sicht der verschiedenen Beteiligten aussieht. Ein exemplarischer Ganztagsgrundschulstandort wurde als Fallstudie ausgewählt und es wurde versucht, von allen pädagogisch Tätigen (n = 28 Personen; Ausschöpfung 68 %) Daten zu erheben. Für die Datenerhebung wurden Leitfadeninterviews geführt und dabei Ego-zentrierte Netzwerkkarten ausgefüllt. Die Daten wurden netzwerkanalytisch und inhaltsanalytisch ausgewertet. Zusammengenommen zeigen die Ergebnisse, dass die beiden Förderschulpädagoginnen am Fallstudienstandort speziell mit der jeweiligen Klassenlehrer:in, die ein Kind mit identifiziertem sonderpädagogischen Förderbedarf oder ein Kind in sog. vorbeugenden sonderpädagogischen Maßnahmen in der Klasse hat, in einer engeren Kooperationsbeziehung stehen. Weitere enge Kooperationen zu anderen pädagogisch Tätigen – etwa auch zu Kolleg:innen im Ganztagsbetrieb – finden sich eher weniger. Allerdings sind regelmäßige Besprechungen mit der Schulleitung etabliert. Das Aufgabenspektrum und die Zuständigkeiten der Förderschulpädagoginnen werden von den Förderschulpädagoginnen selbst sowie den Lehrkräften teils unterschiedlich wahrgenommen, was Friktionen in der multiprofessionellen Kooperation erzeugt. Die beiden analysierten Förderschulpädagoginnen zeigen zudem, wie unterschiedlich sonderpädagogisch gearbeitet werden kann: Einerseits im Modus der Beratung und andererseits im Modus der Förderung.
Protecting effects of smoking against COVID-19: a community-based retrospective cohort study in middle- and older-aged adults
Authors: Hou Xiaomeng , Zheng Fulin , Lu Likun , Wang Zhenjie , Ni Xuefeng
Published: August 2024

On December 7, 2022, China switched from dynamic zeroing strategy against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) to reopening. A nationwide SARS-CoV-2 epidemic emerged rapidly. The effect of smoking on SARS-CoV-2 infection remains unclear. We aimed to retrospectively investigate the relationship between smoking and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) using a community-based cohort of smokers and non-smokers. We included participants from a pre-pandemic cohort with a prolonged follow-up period. Data on smoking status, body mass index, and history of other diseases were collected from health examination and consultation clinic records. Cox regression analysis was used to identify the relationship between groups and SARS-CoV-2 infection over time. We analysed 218 male patients with varied smoking statuses (46.3% current or ex-smokers; average age 68.63 ± 9.81 years). Two peaks in the epidemic were observed following the December 2022 outbreak. At the end of the second peak, non-smokers, current smokers, and ex-smokers had primary infection rates increase to 88.0%, 65.1%, and 81.0%, respectively, with a significant difference between the groups. Current smoking significantly protected against SARS-CoV-2 infection (HR 0.625, 95% CI 0.402–0.970, p = 0.036). Further analyses showed that the prevalence of pneumonia in the unvaccinated, older, diabetic, and non-smoking groups was significantly higher than that in the other groups (p < 0.05). Our study suggests a potential association between smoking and a reduced risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and pneumonia. This indicates that nicotine and ACE2 play important roles in preventing COVID-19 and its progression. We suggest smokers use nicotine replacement therapy during hospitalization for COVID-19.
Mycological contamination of cabin filters as a potential source of air pollution inside passenger vehicles
Authors: Farian Ewelina , Wójcik-Fatla Angelina
Published: August 2024

Microbiological pollutants of cabin filters may affect the air quality inside vehicles. The main aim of the study was to evaluate cabin filters in terms of their effectiveness in retaining mycological contaminants. The research material consisted of 100 cabin filters obtained during periodic replacement of filters in passenger cars. Mycological contamination of filters was examined using microbiological, biochemical, immunoenzymatic and molecular methods. The average concentration of fungi in cabin filters was 7.2 × 107 CFU/m2, and Cladosporium, Alternaria, Penicillium, and Aspergillus genera were most often isolated. For Aspergillus species, the highest concentration reached 3.3 × 107 CFU/m2, with dominance of A. fumigatus. Among the Aspergillus strains tested, the presence of the aflO gene related to aflatoxin biosynthesis and the polyketide synthase gene related to ochratoxin A biosynthesis was detected. The presence of total aflatoxin (B1, B2, G1, G2) and aflatoxin B1 was detected at levels of 5.37 µg/kg and 1.71 µg/kg for standard filters and 2.43 µg/kg and 0.65 µg/kg for carbon filters. The level of ochratoxin A contamination was 0.96 µg/kg and 0.55 µg/kg for standard and carbon filters, respectively. Aspergillus species showed high enzymatic activity of acid phosphatase, β-glucosidase, naphthol phosphohydrolase and N-acetyl-β-glucosamidase. Based on the test results regarding the concentration of mycotoxins and the effectiveness of capturing fungal conidia, it was found that carbon filters are more effective than standard filters. Recommendations for filter manufacturers and car service policies should include the use of cabin filters with a layer of activated carbon, and their regular replacement after a year of use.
A Conterminous United States–Wide Validation of Relative Tidal Elevation Products
Authors: Neville Justine A. , Guntenspergen Glenn R. , Grace James B. , Osland Michael J. , Chivoiu Bogdan
Published: August 2024

Recent large-scale spatial products have been developed to assess wetland position in the tidal frame, but nationwide comparisons and validations are missing for these products. Wetland position within the tidal frame is a commonly used characteristic to compare wetlands across biogeomorphic gradients and factors heavily into wetland vulnerability models. We utilize a dataset of 365 surface elevation table stations across the conterminous USA containing ground-surveyed tidal datum and elevation data to validate two gridded, conterminous USA–wide relative tidal elevation products. We identified substantial differences between our ground-surveyed dataset and the gridded products, with the Gulf coast exhibiting the greatest error (p < 0.0001, n = 140). Error in relative tidal elevation products varied by coast, tidal range, and latitude. These differences in errors indicate that gridded relative tidal elevation products may be more accurate in coastal wetlands with larger tidal ranges (> 30 cm) and are less accurate in freshwater wetlands near the coast. This paper makes advances in understanding why relative tidal elevation differences occur among national datasets and identifies areas of future work that could support more robust vulnerability models.
A benchmark dataset for community deception algorithms
Authors: Fionda Valeria
Published: August 2024

This paper introduces the Better Hide Communities (BHC) benchmark dataset aimed at standardizing evaluations in community deception across networks. BHC addresses the need for a common framework to assess the effectiveness of existing and perspective deception strategies by enabling their comparative analyses. BHC serves as a foundation for future work in developing sophisticated algorithms for community deception, enhancing the understanding of algorithmic abilities to employ deceptive measures within communities. Additionally, it offers valuable insights into the varying degrees of resilience that different detection algorithms exhibit against deception strategies.
Experimental and Numerical Study of Taylor Bubble in Counter-Current Turbulent Flow
Authors: Tiselj Iztok , Kren Jan , Mikuž Blaž , Nop Raksmy , Burlot Alan , Hamrit Grégoire
Published: August 2024

The stagnant Taylor bubble in vertical isothermal turbulent counter-current flow was analyzed using 2D shadowgraphy experiments and two distinct high-fidelity numerical simulations. One simulation employed the geometrical VOF interface tracking method within the OpenFOAM code, while the other utilized the explicit front tracking method of the TrioCFD code. Interface recognition algorithms were applied to the photographs and compared with the results of 3D simulations performed with LES and pseudo-DNS accuracy in OpenFOAM and TrioCFD, respectively. The measured Taylor bubbles exhibited an asymmetric bullet-train shape and a specific speed, which were compared with the predictions of both numerical approaches. Reproducing the experiment proved challenging for both otherwise well-established methods frequently used in interface tracking simulations of two-phase flows. Grid resolution and subgrid turbulent models, known for their success in single-phase turbulence, were less accurate near the water–air interface. Additional experimental parameters compared with simulations were related to the dynamics of tiny disturbance waves with amplitudes ranging from 10 to 100 µm along the interface of the Taylor bubbles. The speed and spectra of the surface disturbance waves were reproduced numerically with moderate success despite detailed grid refinement in the relevant region of the computational domain.
Effects of Nb and Mo Alloying Elements on the Corrosion Characteristics of Sintered Cobalt-Chromium Alloys in Hanks Solution for Biomedical Application
Authors: Dada M. O. , Abe J. O. , Popoola A. P. I. , Phasani T. M.
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the influence of molybdenum and niobium on the corrosion characteristics of spark plasma-sintered cobalt–chromium (Co–Cr) in Hank’s solution for their biocompatibility for potential biomedical applications using spark plasma sintering (SPS). The results indicated that the Co–Cr binary alloy was highly susceptible to corrosion in the Hanks solution due to its low corrosion potential and high current density. Compared to Co–Cr–7Mo, the ternary compositions of Co–Cr–5Mo and Co–Cr–6Mo exhibited a somewhat higher susceptibility to corrosion more than 10%, showing a high corrosion potential and current density. While the Co–Cr–3Mo–3Nb composition had a high current density and a negative corrosion potential. The Co–Cr–2.5Mo–2.5Nb composition was only moderately susceptible to passive corrosion. The highest corrosion resistance was found in the Co–Cr–3.5Mo–3.5Nb alloy, indicating that uniform corrosion may occur in this alloy, albeit slowly. This study explores the impact of Nb and Mo on the corrosion resistance of sintered cobalt-chromium alloys in a biologically relevant environment. Hence, it is noteworthy that the development of next-generation biomaterials and medical devices depends on this breakthrough in surface functionalization.
Example-Generation Tasks for Computer-Aided Assessment in University Mathematics Education: Insights From A Study Conducted in Two Educational Contexts
Authors: Fahlgren Maria , Barana Alice , Brunström Mats , Conte Marina Marchisio , Roman Fabio , Sacchet Matteo , Vinerean Mirela , Wondmagegne Yosief
Published: August 2024

In recent decades, there has been rapid development in digital technologies for automated assessment. Through enhanced possibilities in terms of algorithms, grading codes, adaptivity, and feedback, they are suitable for formative assessment. There is a need to develop computer-aided assessment (CAA) tasks that target higher-order mathematical skills to ensure a balanced assessment approach beyond basic procedural skills. To address this issue, research suggests the approach of asking students to generate examples. This study focuses on an example-generation task on polynomial function understanding, proposed to 205 first-year engineering students in Sweden and 111 first-year biotechnology students in Italy. Students were encouraged to collaborate in small groups, but individual elements within the tasks required each group member to provide individual answers. Students' responses kept in the CAA system were qualitatively analyzed to understand the effectiveness of the task in extending the students’ example space in diverse educational contexts. The findings indicate a difference in students’ example spaces when performing the task between the two educational contexts. The results suggest key strengths and possible improvements to the task design.
Integrated volatility estimation: the case of observed noise variables
Authors: Allaj Erindi
Published: August 2024

We propose a new estimator of the integrated volatility in presence of observed noise variables, measured, for example, by the trading volume or the bid-ask-spread. We find that, under specific conditions, the proposed estimator is consistent and the error, adjusted for the noise effects, between the proposed estimator and the integrated volatility has the same asymptotic distribution of the realized volatility estimator under no noise effects. Finally, our results are validated by a simulation and an empirical study.