bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interannual sea level variability in the North and Baltic seas and net flux through the Danish straits
Authors: Pham Nam Thanh , Staneva Joanna , Bonaduce Antonio , Stanev Emil V. , Grayek Sebastian
Published: July 2024

The paper presents the reconstruction of sea levels in the North Sea and Baltic Sea using Kalman filter approach. Based on the statistical characteristics of one year of daily maps of sea level from the Geesthacht COAstal model SysTem (GCOAST) and daily data at tide gauges along the coastline of two basins, the method can reconstruct effectively and accurately the multidecadal sea level anomalies. The high accuracy reconstruction data were then used to investigate the interannual variability in both basins and to estimate the difference between outflows and inflows (net flux) through the Danish Straits. The highest mean, standard deviation, and extreme values of sea level anomalies appear in winter and are well reproduced in different regions, such as the German Bight, the Southern North Sea, the Bothnian Bay, the Gulfs of Finland and Riga. The sea level variability is highly correlated with the mean sea level pressure and the zonal wind, particularly in the German Bight and in the winter months. The contributions of river runoff and net precipitation on the net flux are significant in the spring. The local wind has a greater influence on the net flux than the remote drivers.
Early Infant Male Circumcision Decisions in Zambia: Demographic and Familial Influences
Authors: Yudice Kaylin M. , Rodriguez Violeta J. , Jones Deborah L. , Mweemba Oliver , Bowa Kasonde , Zulu Robert , Kamboyi Royd , Kaminsky Chloe J. , Weiss Stephen M.
Published: July 2024

Public health initiatives in Zambia encourage the uptake of early infant male circumcision (EIMC) as an HIV prevention strategy. This study assessed EIMC parental decision-making during perinatal care in Lusaka, Zambia, focusing on the influence of sociodemographic factors, family, and friends. A longitudinal pilot perinatal intervention, Like Father Like Son (LFLS), was implemented among 300 couples attending antenatal clinics in four urban community health centers. Participants were assessed postpartum regarding subsequent EIMC decisions. Partners, religion, and marital status were associated with the EIMC decision-making. Large scale EIMC promotion interventions that target both parents during perinatal care should be explored.
An investigation into dynamic behaviour of reconstituted and undisturbed fine-grained soil during triaxial and simple shear
Authors: Önalp Akın , Özocak Aşkın , Bol Ertan , Sert Sedat , Arslan Eylem , Ural Nazile
Published: July 2024

This study aims to evaluate the factors controlling the sensitivity of fine-grained soils to seismic stresses and revise the criteria previously proposed by the authors to diagnose liquefaction. To this end, dynamic tests have been performed on artificial mixes as well as natural soils from a wide area of an earthquake devastated city (Adapazari) using two types of dynamic testing. Studies have led to findings suggesting that the gray area between susceptible and non-susceptible soils proposed by several investigators in the past can now be dispensed with. Although physical properties of fine-grained soil supply sufficient information for diagnosis, the dynamic simple shear test is found to be a convenient and rapid way to confirm the judgement. However, it has been seen that dynamic testing alone may not be the last word in the determination of liquefaction, and physical properties should also be addressed. Anomalies observed in test results are also discussed. Conclusions show significant differences from existing proposed criteria in the literature.
Like Mother, Like Daughter? Double Standards in Body Evaluation and Their Familial Transmission in Female Adolescents and Their Mothers
Authors: Quittkat Hannah L. , Voges Mona M. , Düsing Rainer , Schöne Benjamin , Vocks Silja
Published: July 2024

Background

Cognitive biases, such as applying stricter body evaluation for oneself than for others, are presumed to promote the development and maintenance of eating disorders. While questionnaire data have demonstrated a familial transmission of body image, these self-deprecating double standards (DS) have not been studied among female adolescents, and a potential familial transmission of DS through feedback/role-modeling is yet to be explored. The present study thus addresses these questions.

Methods

Female adolescents and their mothers viewed pictures of their own and peer bodies presented with their own and another peer’s face, and were asked to rate arousal, valence, body attractiveness, and body fat for each body.

Results

Daughters evaluated their own, an average-weight, and an overweight build as less attractive and with more body fat when presented with their own than with another face, while mothers mainly applied such self-deprecating DS for an overweight build. Regarding familial transmission, higher negative maternal feedback was associated with more self-deprecating DS of body fat and attractiveness in daughters when viewing an overweight build.

Conclusions

Female adolescents and their mothers apply self-deprecating DS, suggesting that DS are widespread. Psychoeducation and training regarding communication, feedback, and body functionality might support the prevention of DS.
Utilizing endophytic plant growth-promoting bacteria and the nematophagous fungus Purpureocillium lilacinum as biocontrol agents against the root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) on tomato plants
Authors: Ali Abdelhadi A. I. , Mahgoub Samir A. , Ahmed Atef F. , Mosa Walid F. A. , El-Saadony Mohamed T. , Mohamed Mazhar D. A. , Alomran Maryam M. , Al-Gheffari Hawazen K. , El-Tarabily Khaled A. , AbuQamar Synan F. , El-Ashry Ramadan M.
Published: July 2024

The present investigation was designed to assess how administering biocontrol agents (BCAs) made from the nematophagous endophytic fungus MR20 (Purpureocillium lilacinum) or a mixture of endophytic plant growth-promoting bacteria MR12 (Pseudomonas fluorescens), and MR25 (Serratia marcescens), could enhance tomato growth and resistance to Meloidogyne incognita under in vivo conditions. The three strains’ cell-free culture filtrates showed a strong nematocidal impact (P < 0.05) on M. incognita infective second-stage juveniles (J2s). The highest mortality rates by the three BCAs were at concentrations of 80%, followed by 60%, 40%, and 20%. The in vitro hatching of free eggs was found to be considerably (P < 0.05) reduced as the concentrations of the endophytic bacteria MR12, and MR25 were increased in the order 1 × 105, 1 × 106, 1 × 107, 0.5 × 108, to 1 × 108 colony forming units (CFU)/mL, and the maximum nematicidal activity in killing M. incognita free eggs occurred at 1 × 108 CFU/mL. A statistically significant (P < 0.05) reduction in the percentage of M. incognita-free eggs retrieved was seen in vitro when various concentrations of the endophytic fungus MR20 were applied compared to the negative control (distilled water). The endophytic fungus MR20 had the highest nematicidal activity against M. incognita free eggs at a concentration of 3 × 106 CFU/mL. The application of P. lilacinum or a combination of P. fluorescens and S. marcescens to tomato plants in the presence of M. incognita under greenhouse conditions resulted in a significant increase (P < 0.05) in root and shoot fresh weight, number of leaves, weight of leaves, and stem diameter when compared to the positive control treatment that contained only M. incognita. Treatment with P. lilacinum was more effective (P < 0.05) than P. fluorescens and S. marcescens in reducing egg masses per root, J2s per 100 g of soil, egg masses per 100 g of soil, J2s + eggs of M. incognita per 100 g of soil, reproduction factor, and reduction percentage after 60 days under greenhouse conditions. Nevertheless, the reduction of M. incognita gall size categorization (> 4 mm, 2–4 mm, and < 2 mm) was more effectively achieved by treatment with P. fluorescens and S. marcescens than by treatment with P. lilacinum. Under in vivo conditions, the tested P. lilacinum or a mixture of P. fluorescens and S. marcescens effectively controlled nematode population densities below the economic threshold.
On Refining the SZZ Algorithm with Bug Discussion Data
Authors: Rani Pooja , Petrulio Fernando , Bacchelli Alberto
Published: July 2024

Context

Researchers testing hypotheses related to factors leading to low-quality software often rely on historical data, specifically on details regarding when defects were introduced into a codebase of interest. The prevailing techniques to determine the introduction of defects revolve around variants of the SZZ algorithm. This algorithm leverages information on the lines modified during a bug-fixing commit and finds when these lines were last modified, thereby identifying bug-introducing commits.

Objectives

Despite several improvements and variants, SZZ struggles with accuracy, especially in cases of unrelated modifications or that touch files not involved in the introduction of the bug in the version control systems (aka tangled commit and ghost commits).

Methods

Our research investigates whether and how incorporating content retrieved from bug discussions can address these issues by identifying the related and external files and thus improve the efficacy of the SZZ algorithm.

Results

To conduct our investigation, we take advantage of the links manually inserted by Mozilla developers in bug reports to signal which commits inserted bugs. Thus, we prepared the dataset, RoTEB, comprised of 12,472 bug reports. We first manually inspect a sample of 369 bug reports related to these bug-fixing or bug-introducing commits and investigate whether the files mentioned in these reports could be useful for SZZ. After we found evidence that the mentioned files are relevant, we augment SZZ with this information, using different strategies, and evaluate the resulting approach against multiple SZZ variations.

Conclusion

We define a taxonomy outlining the rationale behind developers’ references to diverse files in their discussions. We observe that bug discussions often mention files relevant to enhancing the SZZ algorithm’s efficacy. Then, we verify that integrating these file references augments the precision of SZZ in pinpointing bug-introducing commits. Yet, it does not markedly influence recall. These results deepen our comprehension of the usefulness of bug discussions for SZZ. Future work can leverage our dataset and explore other techniques to further address the problem of tangled commits and ghost commits. Data & material: https://zenodo.org/records/11484723.
Evaluation of the stability of quantitative traits of winter oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) by AMMI analysis
Authors: Liersch Alina , Bocianowski Jan , Spasibionek Stanisław , Wielebski Franciszek , Szała Laurencja , Cegielska-Taras Teresa , Sosnowska Katarzyna , Matuszczak Marcin , Nowakowska Joanna , Bartkowiak-Broda Iwona , Mikołajczyk Katarzyna
Published: July 2024

Agronomical traits of crop plants exhibit quantitative variation that is controlled by multiple genes and is dependent on environmental conditions. The main objective of this study was to decipher the genotype-by-environment interaction (GEI) for six yield-related traits of 25 winter oilseed rape (WOSR) genotypes using the additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) model. The genotypes chosen included canola cultivars, our newly developed WOSR breeding lines, yellow-seeded, semi-resynthesized and mutant genotypes, together with ogu-INRA F1 hybrids and their parental lines. These were tested in field trials at two locations over three growing seasons. Field experiments were conducted in a randomized block design with four replicates. We recorded the beginning of flowering, seed yield (SY) and SY components, the number of siliques per plant, the length of siliques, the number of seeds per silique, and the weight of 1000 seeds. The average SY in six environments varied from 16.55 to 41.64 dt·ha−1. The AMMI analysis showed significant effects of both G and E, as well as GEI, for the above traits. In this study, we observed that the climate condition, especially precipitation in addition to the soil type were the most influential factors on the SY and SY-trait value. Seed yield was positively correlated with: the number of siliques per plant, the length of siliques, the number of seeds per silique and the weight of 1000 seeds. We also found that our new ogu-INRA F1 hybrids, as well as cultivars Monolit, Mendel, Starter and Sherlock, showed stability for the analyzed traits.
Domains of discontinuity of Lorentzian affine group actions
Authors: Kapovich Michael , Leeb Bernhard
Published: July 2024

We prove nonemptyness of domains of proper discontinuity of Anosov groups of affine Lorentzian transformations of $${\mathbb R}^n$$

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Experimental Assessment of a Vision-Based Obstacle Avoidance Strategy for Robot Manipulators: Off-line Trajectory Planning and On-line Motion Control
Authors: Scoccia Cecilia , Ubezio Barnaba , Palmieri Giacomo , Rathmair Michael , Hofbaur Michael
Published: July 2024

Human-Robot Interaction is an increasingly important topic in both research and industry fields. Since human safety must be always guaranteed and accidental contact with the operator avoided, it is necessary to investigate real-time obstacle avoidance strategies. The transfer from simulation environments, where algorithms are tested, to the real world is challenging from different points of view, e.g., the continuous tracking of the obstacle and the configuration of different manipulators. In this paper, the authors describe the implementation of a collision avoidance strategy based on the potential field method for off-line trajectory planning and on-line motion control, paired with the Motion Capture system Optitrack PrimeX 22 for obstacle tracking. Several experiments show the performance of the proposed strategy in the case of a fixed and dynamic obstacle, disturbing the robot’s trajectory from multiple directions. Two different avoidance modalities are adapted and tested for both standard and redundant robot manipulators. The results show the possibility of safely implementing the proposed avoidance strategy on real systems.
Empagliflozin and dapagliflozin decreased atrial monoamine oxidase expression and alleviated oxidative stress in overweight non-diabetic cardiac patients
Authors: Ionică Loredana N. , Buriman Darius G. , Lința Adina V. , Șoșdean Raluca , Lascu Ana , Streian Caius G. , Feier Horea B. , Petrescu Lucian , Mozoș Ioana M. , Sturza Adrian , Muntean Danina M.
Published: July 2024

The sodium-glucose-cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) are the blockbuster antidiabetic drugs that exert cardiovascular protection via pleiotropic effects. We have previously demonstrated that empagliflozin decreased monoamine oxidase (MAO) expression and oxidative stress in human mammary arteries. The present study performed in overweight, non-diabetic cardiac patients was aimed to assess whether the two widely prescribed SGLT2i decrease atrial MAO expression and alleviate oxidative stress elicited by exposure to angiotensin 2 (ANG2) and high glucose (GLUC). Right atrial appendages isolated during cardiac surgery were incubated ex vivo with either empagliflozin or dapagliflozin (1, 10 µm, 12 h) in the presence or absence of ANG2 (100 nm) and GLUC (400 mg/dL) and used for the evaluation of MAO-A and MAO-B expression and ROS production. Stimulation with ANG2 and GLUC increased atrial expression of both MAOs and oxidative stress; the effects were significantly decreased by the SGLT2i. Atrial oxidative stress positively correlated with the echocardiographic size of heart chambers and negatively with the left ventricular ejection fraction. In overweight patients, MAO contributes to cardiac oxidative stress in basal conditions and those that mimicked the renin–angiotensin system activation and hyperglycemia and can be targeted with empagliflozin and dapagliflozin, as novel off-target class effect of the SGLT2i.
Iron Reduces the Trafficking of Fatty Acids from Human Immortalised Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells Through Modulation of Fatty Acid Transport Protein 1 (FATP1/SLC27A1)
Authors: Supti Showmika T. , Koehn Liam M. , Newman Stephanie A. , Pan Yijun , Nicolazzo Joseph A.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is associated with brain accumulation of amyloid-beta (Aβ) and neurofibrillary tangle formation, in addition to reduced brain docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and increased brain iron levels. DHA requires access across the blood–brain barrier (BBB) to enter the brain, and iron has been shown to affect the expression and function of a number of BBB transporters. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effect of iron on the expression and function of fatty acid binding protein 5 (FABP5) and fatty acid transport protein 1 (FATP1), both which mediate brain endothelial cell trafficking of DHA.

Methods

The mRNA and protein levels of FABP5 and FATP1 in human cerebral microvascular endothelial (hCMEC/D3) cells was assessed by RT-qPCR and Western blot, respectively following ferric ammonium citrate (FAC) treatment (up to 750 µM, 72 h). The function of FABP5 and FATP1 was assessed via uptake and efflux of radiolabelled 3H-oleic acid and 14C-DHA.

Results

FAC (500 µM, 72 h) had no impact on the expression of FABP5 at the protein and mRNA level in hCMEC/D3 cells, which was associated with a lack of effect on the uptake of 14C-DHA. FAC led to a 19.7% reduction in FATP1 protein abundance in hCMEC/D3 cells with no impact on mRNA levels, and this was associated with up to a 32.6% reduction in efflux of 14C-DHA.

Conclusions

These studies demonstrate a role of iron in down-regulating FATP1 protein abundance and function at the BBB, which may have implications on fatty acid access to the brain.

Graphical Abstract
Mathematical Structures Within Simple Type Theory
Authors: González-Castillo Samuel
Published: July 2024

We present an extension of simple type theory that incorporates types for any kind of mathematical structure (of any order). We further extend this system allowing isomorphic structures to be identified within these types thanks to some syntactical restrictions; for this purpose, we formally define what it means for two structures to be isomorphic. We model both extensions in NFU set theory in order to prove their relative consistency.
Using novel data and ensemble models to improve automated labeling of Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Wulff Dirk U. , Meier Dominik S. , Mata Rui
Published: July 2024

A number of labeling systems based on text have been proposed to help monitor work on the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Here, we present a systematic comparison of prominent SDG labeling systems using a variety of text sources and show that these differ considerably in their sensitivity (i.e., true-positive rate) and specificity (i.e., true-negative rate), have systematic biases (e.g., are more sensitive to specific SDGs relative to others), and are susceptible to the type and amount of text analyzed. We then show that an ensemble model that pools SDG labeling systems alleviates some of these limitations, exceeding the performance of the individual SDG labeling systems considered. We conclude that researchers and policymakers should care about the choice of the SDG labeling system and that ensemble methods should be favored when drawing conclusions about the absolute and relative prevalence of work on the SDGs based on automated methods.
A taxonomic revision of the genus Hydnora (Hydnoraceae)
Authors: Hatt Sebastian A. , Thorogood Chris J. , Bolin Jay F. , Musselman Lytton J. , Cameron Duncan D. , Grace Olwen M.
Published: July 2024

A systematic monograph is presented for Hydnora (Hydnoraceae), a poorly known genus of holoparasitic plants distributed across Africa, Madagascar and southern Arabia. Species of Hydnora are characterised by their underground habit, unusual fleshy flowers and complete absence of leaves or photosynthetic tissue. This is the first detailed monograph of the genus Hydnora since 1935 and is informed by a comprehensive survey of herbarium specimens and literature. Detailed descriptions, full synonymy, distribution maps and discussion concerning confusable taxa are provided for each species, along with notes on ethnobotany, ecology and conservation. We place particular emphasis on the taxonomic value of osmophore geometry and positioning in living and dried material, which are highly consistent within species. We also provide the first detailed assessment of host range across the genus. Hydnora hanningtonii Rendle and H. solmsiana Dinter are reinstated from synonymy, and H. bolinii S.Hatt is newly described here. The infrageneric classification is reviewed and a key is provided for both living and dried material. Species are accompanied by both illustrations and photographs of living and dried material where possible.
Inhibition of Hsp90 K284 Acetylation Aalleviates Cardiac Injury After Ischemia–Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Zhan Dongyu , Zhang Na , Zhao Li , Sun Zhirui , Cang Chunyang
Published: July 2024

Our objective was to determine the role of acetyl-Hsp90 and its relationship with the NF-κB p65 signaling pathway in CVDs. We investigated the effect of acetyl-Hsp90 on cardiac inflammation and apoptosis after ischemia–reperfusion injury (I/RI). The results showed that the induction of acetyl-Hsp90 occurred in the heart during I/R and in primary cardiomyocytes during oxygen–glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R). Moreover, the nonacetylated mutant of Hsp90 (Hsp90-K284R), through the regulation of ATPase activities within its N-terminal domain (NTD), indirectly or directly increases its interaction with NF-κB p65. This led to a reduction in the activation of the NF-κB p65 pathway, thereby attenuating inflammation, apoptosis, and fibrosis, ultimately leading to an improvement in cardiac function. Furthermore, we demonstrated that recombinant human interleukin-37 (rIL-37) exerts a similar cardioprotective effect by reducing acetylation at K284 of Hsp90 after inhibiting the expression of KAT2A.

Graphic Abstract

Hsp90 is acetylated by KAT and can be deacetylated by KDAC, which is in balance in the steady state. Moreover, Hsp90 interacts with NF-κB p65 in the cytosol and inhibits p65 translocation into the nucleus. However, Hsp90-K284 can be acetylated by KAT2A after ischemia–reperfusion treatment. Subsequently, the protein–protein interaction between Hsp90 and NF-κB p65 was disturbed, which induced NF-κB p65 to translocate into the nucleus. However, rIL-37 disturbs this phenotype by inhibiting KAT2A activity.
Sustained clinical and histopathological remission in a patient with eosinophilic esophagitis and type-2 comorbidities at 18 months after discontinuation of dupilumab
Authors: González-Uribe Víctor , Rodríguez-Bueno Carlos Patricio Acosta , Mojica-González Zaira Selene , Malagón-Liceaga Andrea , Basile-Alvarez Martín Roberto
Published: July 2024

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic, allergen-mediated, type-2 inflammatory disease with the potential to significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Conventional treatments often result in varied responses, prompting the need for novel therapeutic approaches. We present the case of a 19-year-old male with a medical history marked by eosinophilic esophagitis, severe atopic dermatitis (AD), asthma, and allergic rhinitis. Despite undergoing diverse topical and systemic interventions to address his AD and EoE, the patient’s symptoms persisted. However, following the initiation of dupilumab therapy—a dual IL-4 and IL-13 receptor antagonist—the patient experienced a substantial reduction in his Eczema Area and Severity Index score. Notably, a marked improvement was also seen regarding his symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis. A subsequent esophageal biopsy revealed a significant decrease in eosinophilic inflammation, consistent with established clinical and histologic remission criteria. These findings corroborate the patient’s reported relief from symptoms. This case underscores the potential efficacy of dupilumab as a promising therapeutic agent in managing eosinophilic esophagitis. Dupilumab offers a dual benefit of alleviating symptoms and achieving histologic and clinical remission. This novel approach presents a noteworthy advancement in the treatment of EoE.
The potential of cancer stem cells for personalized risk assessment and therapeutic intervention in individuals with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Jian , Cui Tao , Xu Jiaobang , Wang Peng , Lv Chongqing , Pan Guozheng
Published: July 2024

Background

Accumulating evidence suggests that intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is a stem cell-based disease, but information on the biology of cancer stem cells (CSC) in ICC is very limited.

Methods

ICC RNA-seq cohorts from three different public databases were integrated and the protein-coding genes were divided into different modules using "WGCNA" to screen the most relevant modules with CSC scores. Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression were introduced to construct prognostic classification models. In addition, the extent of immune cell infiltration in patients in different risk groups was assessed based on the ESTIMATE, CIBERSORT, MCP-Counter, and single sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) algorithms. Finally, the correlation between different risk scores and common drugs was analyzed by pRRophetic package and Spearman method.

Results

In the present study, we found that a high CSC score was associated with a poorer prognosis in patients with ICC. The yellow module obtained by WGCNA was significantly positively correlated with the CSCs score, in which 8 genes were served to build a prognostic classification model, and the obtained risk score was negatively correlated with CSCs score and prognosis. The low-risk score was more suitable for immunotherapy, and the high-risk score was more suitable for treatment with 11 antitumor drugs.

Conclusion

This study revealed the regulatory role of CSC-mediated EMT, angiogenesis, and immunomodulatory biological processes in ICC, and applied a prognostic classification model to highlight the great potential of CSC for personalized risk assessment, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy intervention in ICC individuals.
A Qualitative Study Exploring Aging Gay and Bisexual Men’s Needs From Healthcare Services in Israel
Authors: Ifrah Kfir , Kempler Noam , Shenkman Geva
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Older gay and bisexual men are exposed to heightened risks of physical and mental health disorders. Therefore, understanding their unique needs from healthcare services is essential and is set at the focus of the present study.

Methods

The current qualitative study explored aging gay and bisexual men’s unique experiences and needs from healthcare services in Israel. Participants (N = 80, age range 47–82, M = 59.59, SD = 7.40) were interviewed in the years 2018–2020 and queried regarding their needs from and experiences with healthcare services, which were later thematically analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s Thematic Analysis.

Results

Six themes were identified from participants’ responses: Romantic relationships and parenting, sexuality in old age, ageism, loneliness, the need for a unique support framework for the gay and bisexual communities, and perceived factors preventing accessibility to healthcare services.

Conclusions

The results revealed certain barriers for attaining healthcare services as well as the need for distinctive health and psychological services for gay and bisexual men.

Policy Implications

The participants’ unique experiences and needs may aid in offering useful solutions for policy makers, social agents, and clinicians in order to improve healthcare services utilized by aging gay and bisexual men.
Gas component effect on energy loss of reciprocated engine operated by bio-syngas from wood gasifier
Authors: Enomoto Hiroshi
Published: July 2024

To convert woody biomass into electricity with small capacity and high efficiency, it is reasonable to gasify the woody biomass and operate a reciprocating engine. On the other hand, bio-syngas produced from woody biomass have a low calorific value. Therefore, if the concepts of the thermal efficiency and the losses (the cooling loss, the combustion loss, the pumping loss, the exhaust loss, etc.) obtained by conventional fossil fuels are applied as these are, it is not possible to predict the thermal efficiency appropriately. In this paper, the bio-syngas as the reference is produced in a self-made gasification system, and the thermal efficiency and the losses of the reciprocating engine are experimentally examined to evaluate the significant effect of combustible components on these indicators. The combustible components are hydrogen, methane, and carbon monoxide. The nitrogen fraction in the bio-syngas is adjusted to control the low heating value. A commercially available small general-purpose spark-ignition reciprocating engine (GP-SIRE) was modified and used as the experimental engine. The results showed that (1) the operation with the referenced bio-syngas exhibits higher thermal efficiency (more than 10 points) than that with the conventional methane, and that (2) there is a trade-off between the combustion loss and the cooling loss.
Positive, challenging, or impossible self-managing organizations? Exploring radical decentralization at an addiction rehabilitation center
Authors: Jensen Tobias Berggren , Mikkelsen Elisabeth Naima
Published: July 2024

Self-management has been explored in research for more than half a century and is said to be linked to several positive effects ranging from a more egalitarian and democratic structure to enhanced productivity, improved quality of work and greater adaptability. More recently, the self-managing organization (SMO) has emerged as a novel organizational structure that departs from managerial hierarchy through radical decentralization. However, only a few empirical scientific studies have explored how radically decentralized structures of SMOs create new dynamics for organizations and the people in them. In this paper, we present the case of a public sector addiction rehabilitation center that had developed into an SMO through radical decentralization of managerial authority to staff. We use narrative theory as an enriching theoretical perspective to examine critically staff and managers’ subjective experiences of working in the SMO, finding that work was experienced as not only positive and challenging but also impossible. While positive experiences included increased collective responsibility, well-being, and efficiency within teams, conflict and disidentification emerged between teams, challenging the decentralized structure and, in some instances, making work within that context impossible. By drawing on these findings, we extend our understanding of SMOs.
Microstructural analysis and densification of ordinary Portland cement mortars incorporated with minimal nano-TiO2: intermixing and surface coating on both fresh and hardened surfaces
Authors: Reddy N. Avinash , Chandana P. Sri
Published: July 2024

The present study investigated the microstructural properties of ordinary Portland cement (OPC)-modified with minimum dosage of nano TiO2 on fresh and hardened cement mortar surfaces and intermixed samples. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) were used to analyze the morphology and hydration products of the OPC specimens doped with nanotitanium (NT).Additionally, XRD coupled with Rietveld refinement was employed to quantify the crystal phases and refine the crystal structure model through the comparison of the calculated diffraction pattern to the measured pattern. Subsequently, crystallographic analysis was conducted to evaluate the crystallographic structure and to confirm the existence of specific atoms and bonds within the crystal structure altered with NT. The findings revealed that the addition of minimal NT resulted in a more compact and denser microstructure, characterized by increased formation of calcium silicate hydrate (CSH) gel and a reduction in calcium hydroxide (CH) crystals.This led to a reduction in the porosity of the hardened coating surface, with similar improvements observed for the fresh coating and intermixed samples compared to those of the control mortar. A decrease in the lattice parameters, accompanied by an increase in the number of atoms, bonds and polyhedra in the crystal structure, led to alterations in the interatomic spacing and contributed to the densification of the cementitious matrix.The findings also showed that NT integration led to a more compact structure with shorter bond distances and smaller polyhedral volumes for the Ti samples than for the control sample. Moreover, compared with the freshly cast and hardened coating samples, the NT-intermixed samples exhibited the shortest Ti–O bond distances and the smallest polyhedral volume. Overall, the analysis presented in this study significantly contributes to the development of novel and environmentally friendly photocatalytic cementitious materials at minimal dosages.
Landslide hazard zonation (LHZ) mapping of Doon Valley using multi-criteria analysis method based on remote sensing and GIS techniques
Authors: Mani Ashish , Kumari Maya , Badola Ruchi
Published: July 2024

The occurrence of landslides is a costly and cataclysmic natural hazard that mainly occurs in hilly areas due to factors like earthquakes, cloud burst, extreme rainfall, human pressure, etc. leading to loss of biodiversity, property, and life. Effective and comprehensive landslide risk management is crucial to address landslide susceptibility. Utilizing remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques, this work focuses on the landslide hazard zonation (LHZ) mapping. The study is specifically conducted in the Doon Valley. These advanced technologies help in identifying and categorizing the areas prone to landslides. The Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) Digital Elevation Model (DEM) data at 30 m resolution and Sentinel-2B data at 10 m resolution were used to perform the remote sensing and GIS operations in ArcGIS Software. Thematic layers such as Land Use/Land Cover (LULC), Slope, Geology, Soil Type, Elevation, Drainage Density, Vegetation, and Aspect were produced utilizing remote sensing and GIS data. The weighted overlay, a multi-criteria analysis method, was applied to assign attribute values to each thematic layer based on their importance, which was then combined to calculate the landslide hazard zone. The findings of this study demonstrate that landslides are more likely to occur near and above the Main Boundary Thrust/Fault (MBT). The high to very high hazard zone covers 16.64% of the total area, making landslides occurring more frequently. Additionally, the study found that the Doon Valley rivers’ upper segments are more susceptible to landslides than their lower segments. By integrating Remote Sensing and GIS techniques, it is possible to obtain extensive knowledge of regions prone to landslides. This information will be helpful for decision-makers and planners to reduce the impact of landslides in the near future.
Clinical evolution of patients with lower extremity peripheral artery	disease during the COVID-19 pandemic (the COVID-PAD study)
Authors: Buso Giacomo , Lanzi Stefano , Berchtold André , Deglise Sébastien , Alatri Adriano , Calanca Luca , Mazzolai Lucia
Published: July 2024

Summary: Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant disruptions in chronic disease care and forced people to stay at home. The effects of such issues on outpatients with lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD) remain unknown. Patients and methods: Single-centre, retrospective-prospective study conducted in a Swiss University Hospital. Patients with PAD were included between May 1 and July 31, 2020, with a follow-up visit at 12 months. Upon both visits, the Leriche-Fontaine PAD stage was recorded, and study participants underwent ankle-brachial index (ABI) calculation to assess limb perfusion. Functional capacities were assessed through the 6-minute walking and treadmill tests. Major adverse cardiovascular (MACE) and limb events (MALE) were recorded. Data collected during the pandemic were compared with the pre-pandemic period (January 1, 2019–April 30, 2020). Results: Overall, 259 patients were included. Mean age was 69 years and male sex was prevalent (69.1%). Odds of experiencing a degradation in PAD stage were lower during the pandemic than before (odds ratio [OR]: 0.43; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.21–0.87; p = 0.018). No significant difference was found between periods in terms of ABI trends. Both pain-free walking time at treadmill test (p = 0.003) and maximal pain intensity at 6-minute walking test (p = 0.001) significantly improved during the pandemic. Compared with the pre-pandemic period, during the pandemic patients were hospitalized less frequently (p = 0.028) and were less likely to undergo elective limb revascularization (p<0.001). No significant difference was found between periods in terms of MALE (p = 0.311), whereas non-fatal strokes were less frequently reported during the pandemic (p = 0.043). Conclusion: In a cohort of outpatients with PAD, we found no evidence of clinical deterioration during the pandemic compared with the pre-pandemic period, though rates of adverse events were nonnegligible in both periods. In case of future pandemics, patients with PAD should be encouraged to maintain an active lifestyle while being closely monitored to avoid clinical worsening.
Hydrologic Versus Biogeochemical Control of Nutrient Dynamics in a Shallow Hypersaline Coastal Lagoon: Insight From a Coupled Hydrodynamic‐Water Quality Model
Authors: Huang Peisheng , Mosley Luke , Brookes Justin D. , Sims Claire , Waycott Michelle , Paraska Daniel , Zhai Sherry Y. , Hipsey Matthew R.
Published: July 2024

Shallow coastal lagoons with restricted connection to the ocean are often productive but can also be sensitive to nutrient enrichment and hydrologic changes. Resolving nutrient dynamics is important for their sustainable management, yet being able to accurately resolve nutrient budgets has remained a challenge due to their complex hydrological regimes and habitat heterogeneity. In this study, we undertake a systematic nutrient budget of a large shallow hypersaline lagoon (Coorong, South Australia), with assistance of a high‐resolution coupled hydrodynamic‐biogeochemical model, to demonstrate the conditions that lead to nutrient retention. Under current conditions, high rates of evapo‐concentration and limited water connectivity have led to a persistent accumulation of nutrients and poor water quality in substantial areas of the lagoon. The interplay between hydrological drivers and biogeochemical processes was quantified using an adjusted Damköhler number, comparing the timescales of nutrient flushing versus processing. This showed a general transition from hydrologic control to biogeochemical control with increasing distance from the main ocean connection, modified by episodes of increased flows and external loads. Whilst water age was a useful indicator of the factors controlling rates of nutrient retention, interannual variability in retention between areas of the lagoon was explained based on river flows and changes in mean sea level. As the system has been affected by reduced flows over past decades, the results provide evidence that increasing river flow to the lagoon would reduce the nutrient retention, and we discuss the potential for net nutrient export to the ocean under sustained high flows.
Quantification of Nocturnal Water Use and Its Composition in a Eucalyptus urophylla × E. grandis Plantation on the Leizhou Peninsula, South China
Authors: Wang Zhichao , Du Apeng , Liu Siru , Xu Yuxing , Zhu Wankuan , Xiang Wenhua
Published: July 2024

Nocturnal water use (Qnight) is an important component of the eucalyptus water budget, but it has always been under‐appreciated and poorly understood. To improve the accuracy of water balance estimates and the understanding of the nocturnal water use process in eucalypts plantations, we conducted a 3‐year study to investigate the characteristics of Qnight and its components in an E. urophylla × E. grandis plantation in southern China. The results showed that the Qnight of E. urophylla × E. grandis was substantial and the ratio of nocturnal to daily water use (Rnight) was on average 12.35%, with higher Rnight (14.97%) in the dry season than in the wet season (9.50%). The Qnight includes two components, nocturnal transpiration (Tn) and nocturnal refilling (Re), which are driven by different factors. Nocturnal Re‐Tn dynamics were controlled by a combination of nocturnal environmental factors that drive Tn and corresponding daytime environmental factors that drive daytime transpiration. Therefore, the compositional ratios of Tn and Re differed between weather conditions and months. We developed a novel method to distinguish between Re and Tn and quantified the dynamics of their ratios. We found that on a 3‐year average, the Qnight of E. urophylla × E. grandis was mainly used for Tn (58.63%). Our results highlight the non‐ignorability of Qnight and the high variability of the compositional ratios of Re and Tn, and suggest that Qnight and its components should be accurately quantified and considered when studying the water balance in eucalyptus stands.
SUPHRE: A Reactive Transport Model With Unsaturated and Density‐Dependent Flow
Authors: Luo Zhaoyang , Kong Jun , Shen Chengji , Barry D. A.
Published: July 2024

Although unsaturated and density‐dependent flow affect solute fate in groundwater, they are rarely both included in reactive transport models. Using the operator‐splitting method, a new reactive transport model (SUPHRE) was developed by combining a variable‐saturation and variable‐density multiple‐component solute transport model (SUTRA‐MS) with a geochemical reaction module (PhreeqcRM). In contrast to existing reactive transport models, SUPHRE accounts for both unsaturated and density‐dependent flow. Model setup for SUPHRE is convenient, as only one setup file is required in addition to the usual input files of SUTRA‐MS and PhreeqcRM. By further implementing a time‐variant boundary condition into SUTRA‐MS, SUPHRE can simulate multi‐component reactive transport in tidally influenced coastal unconfined aquifers where unsaturated and density‐dependent flow prevail. Two examples were used to validate the new reactive transport model, including single‐species decay and sorption within a one‐dimensional soil column and a four‐species decay chain in a two‐dimensional aquifer. Following validation, SUPHRE was adopted to reveal unsaturated flow effects on oxygen consumption and nitrate reduction in tidally influenced coastal unconfined aquifers. Whether for simulating oxygen consumption or nitrate reduction, there were visible deviations between numerical results without and with unsaturated flow, highlighting that unsaturated flow can affect reactive solute transport and transformation.
Scientists Find Clues to Atlantic Current’s Future in Ancient Iceberg Debris
Authors: Cutts Elise
Published: July 2024

Modern ice loss from Greenland rivals the most dramatic episodes of ice sheet collapse.
Microbes Likely Form Magnetite in the South China Sea
Authors: Fritts Rachel
Published: July 2024

Researchers sampled sediment cores and found that where magnetite was abundant, methane-producing bacteria were as well.
Alkali Trace Elements Observed by MarSCoDe LIBS at Zhurong Landing Site on Mars: Quantitative Analysis and Its Geological Implications
Authors: Luo Yuxuan , Liu Jianjun , Chen Zhaopeng , Zhang Yizhong , Wang Xing , Ren Xin , Liu Xiangfeng , Zhang Zhenqiang , Xu Weiming , Shu Rong
Published: July 2024

Mars Surface Composition Detector (MarSCoDe) is one of the important payloads carried by the Zhurong rover, China's first Mars exploration mission Tianwen‐1. The laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) instrument of MarSCoDe is mainly used to detect major and trace elements on the surface of Mars. The quantitative analysis of alkali trace elements, namely lithium (Li), strontium (Sr), and rubidium (Rb), holds significance in unraveling the geological evolution of the Zhurong landing site. This study focuses on establishing univariate calibration models using MarSCoDe LIBS spectra from 84 samples tested in the ground laboratory. The accuracy of these models, within a few parts per million (ppm), was subsequently validated through the analysis of 12 onboard MarSCoDe Calibration Targets (MCCTs). With these models, Li, Sr, and Rb concentrations in the surface targets during the initial 300 sols (Martian days) traverse were determined. These concentrations ranged from 6 to 18, 106–628, and 22–87 ppm, respectively. Our results suggest that Li, Sr, and Rb are mainly related to the igneous rock components in the rocks and soils at the Zhurong landing site. The major secondary minerals in MarSCoDe scientific targets are likely small amounts of sulfates, which appear to have formed from the acidic weathering of recent surface brine. Clay minerals are likely either absent or very sparse in the scientific targets. The surface igneous materials at the landing site likely have originated from the most recent lava flow during the Amazonian epoch.
Use of proton pump inhibitors after laparoscopic gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy: a nationwide register-based cohort study
Authors: Gormsen Johanne , Sanberg Jonas , Gögenur Ismail , Helgstrand Frederik
Published: July 2024

Background/Objectives

L-RYGB and L-SG are the dominant bariatric procedures worldwide. While L-RYGB is an effective treatment of coexisting gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), L-SG is associated with an increased risk of de-novo or worsening of GERD. The study aimed to evaluate the long-term use of proton pump inhibitors (PPI) following laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (L-RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (L-SG).

Subjects/Methods

This nationwide register-based study included all patients undergoing L-RYGB or L-SG in Denmark between 2008 and 2018. In total, 17,740 patients were included in the study, with 16,096 and 1671 undergoing L-RYGB and L-SG, respectively. The median follow up was 11 years after L-RYGB and 4 years after L-SG. Data were collected through Danish nationwide health registries. The development in PPI use was assessed through postoperative redeemed prescriptions. GERD development was defined by a relevant diagnosis code associated with gastroscopy, 24 h pH measurement, revisional surgery or anti-reflux surgery. The risk of initiation of PPI treatment or GERD diagnosis was evaluated using Kaplan–Meier plots and COX regression models. The risk of continuous PPI treatment was examined using logistic regression modeling.

Results

The risk of initiating PPI treatment was significantly higher after L-SG compared with L-RYGB (HR 7.06, 95% CI 6.42–7.77, p < 0.0001). The risk of continuous PPI treatment was likewise significantly higher after L-SG (OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.36–1.54, p < 0.0001). The utilization of PPI consistently increased after both procedures. The risk of GERD diagnosis was also significantly higher after L-SG compared with L-RYGB (HR 1.93, 95% CI 1.27–2.93, p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

The risk of initiating and continuing PPI treatment was significantly higher after L-SG compared with L-RYGB, and a continuous increase in the utilization of PPI was observed after both procedures.