bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling the intricacies of Amaranthaceous pollen diversity: Advancing ultra sculpture analysis throughLMandSEM
Authors: Al‐Qahtani Wahidah H.
Published: August 2023

Microscopic techniques can be applied to solve taxonomic problems in the field of plant systematic and are extremely versatile in nature. This study was focused on the new approaches to visualizing the imaging, tool to cover the micro‐structural techniques applied to the pollen study of Amaranthaceae floral biology. In this detailed study, we used light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy to examine the shape and changes in pollen of 16 types of Amaranthaceae plants from the salty arid zone of Riyadh Saudi Arabia. We observed subtle variations among the studied species through meticulous examination of morpho‐palynological features such as symmetry, size, shape, pore ornamentation, and exine characteristics. The pollen grains were round and had rough or prickly outer coverings. They had different numbers of tiny pores; some were slightly sunken. These findings were utilized to develop a pollen taxonomy key, facilitating accurate identification and classification of Amaranthaceous species. Our results shed light on the taxonomic significance of pollen morphology for species differentiation within the Amaranthaceae family. Furthermore, this study provides valuable insights into the influence of geographical and ecological factors on pollen diversity and evolution. This study of pollen imaging visualization of Amaranthaceous species contributes to the opportunity for taxonomic evaluation and fill knowledge gaps in studies of Amaranthaceous flora identification using classical microscopic taxonomic tools for their accurate identification.

Research Highlights

The pollen characters of selected Amaranthaceae species were visualized using scanning electron microscopy to observe sculptural wall pattern.

The comprehensive Amaranthaceous pollen examination approach allowed us to accurately identify their micromorphology.

This high‐resolution imaging technique provided detailed insights into the surface structures and ornamentation of the pollen grains.
Correlation of Structure and Dynamics Behavior in Polyzwitterions: From Concentrated Solution to Gel‐Like State
Authors: Jin Xiaolin , Fan Zhiwei , Liu Yong , Jiang Chuanxia , Zhang Wei , Yin Panchao , Sun Taolin
Published: August 2023

The dynamic behaviors of polyzwitterions, poly(4‐((3‐methacrylamidopropyl) dimethylammonio) butane‐1‐sulfonate) (PSBP), are investigated using dynamic light scattering, small angle X‐ray scattering, and rheology.  The findings reveal two relaxation modes, including a fast and a slow mode, which  are observed in both solution state and gel‐like state, with varying polyzwitterion concentration (CP) and NaCl concentration (CNaCl). As CP and CNaCl increasing, a slower slow mode and a faster fast mode are observed. The fast mode corresponds to the diffusion of chains, while the slow mode arises from chain aggregations. In solutions, the slow mode is dominated by the diffusion of chain aggregations. However, in the gel‐like state, the “cage network” traps aggregations more densely, leading to their dynamic behavior being dominated by enhanced topological entanglements and ionic interactions. This difference highlights the unique nature of the slow relaxation mode between concentrated solution and gel‐like state, arising from changes in the average distance between chain aggregations resulting from increased CP and CNaCl concentrations.
Association of Short‐Chain Fatty Acids with Gut Microbiota and Lipid Metabolism in Mice with Diarrhea Induced by High‐Fat Diet in a Fatigued State
Authors: Qiao Bo , Liu Jing , Peng Xinxin , Cai Ying , Peng Maijiao , Li Xiaoya , Tan Zhoujin , Deng Na
Published: August 2023

Scope

Preliminary research finds that a high‐fat diet (HFD) in a fatigued state triggers diarrhea, but the exact mechanism has not been clarified. To address concerns about the pathogenesis of diarrhea, the study evaluates the composition and metabolomics of the gut microbiota.

Methods and results

The study uses the multiple platform apparatus device to induce fatigue in mice, combined with intragastric administration of lard‐caused diarrhea. Subsequently, the characteristics and interaction relationship of gut microbiota, short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs), inflammatory biomarkers, brain‐gut peptides, and lipid metabolism are analyzed at the end of the experiment. HFD in a fatigued state results in a significant increase in interleukin‐17, interleukin‐6, cholecystokinin, somatostatin, and malondialdehyde content in mice (p < 0.05), along with a substantial decrease in high‐density lipoprotein (p < 0.05). Additionally, an HFD in a fatigued state causes changes in the structure and composition of the gut microbiota, with Lactobacillus murinus as its characteristic bacteria, and reduces the production of SCFAs.

Conclusions

An HFD in a fatigued state triggers diarrhea, possibly associated with gut content microbiota dysbiosis, SCFAs deprivation, increased inflammation, and dysregulated lipid metabolism.
Almonds vs. carbohydrate snacks in an energy‐restricted diet: Weight and cardiometabolic outcomes from a randomized trial
Authors: Carter Sharayah , Hill Alison M. , Mead Lauren C. , Wong Hoi Y. , Yandell Catherine , Buckley Jonathan D. , Tan Sze‐Yen , Rogers Geraint B. , Fraysse Francois , Coates Alison M.
Published: August 2023

Objective

This study evaluated weight and cardiometabolic outcomes after a 3‐month energy‐restricted diet (−30%) containing almonds (almond‐enriched diet [AED]) or containing carbohydrate‐rich snacks (nut‐free control diet [NFD]) (Phase 1), followed by 6 months of weight maintenance (Phase 2).

Methods

Participants (25–65 years old) with overweight or obesity (BMI 27.5–34.9 kg/m2) were randomly allocated to AED (n = 68) or NFD (n = 72).

Results

Both groups lost weight during Phase 1 (p < 0.001) (mean [SE], −7.0 [0.5] kg AED vs. −7.0 [0.5] kg NFD, p = 0.858) and Phase 2 (p = 0.009) (−1.1 [0.5] kg AED vs. −1.3 [0.6] NFD, p = 0.756), with improvements in percentage lean mass after Phase 2 (4.8% [0.3%], p < 0.001). Reductions occurred in fasting glucose (−0.2 [0.07] mmol/L, p = 0.003), insulin (−8.1 [4.0] pmol/L, p = 0.036), blood pressure (−4.9 [0.8] mm Hg systolic, −5.0 [0.5] mm Hg diastolic, p < 0.001), total cholesterol (−0.3 [0.1] mmol/L), low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) (−0.2 [0.1] mmol/L), very low‐density lipoprotein (−0.1 [0.03] mmol/L), and triglycerides (−0.3 [0.06] mmol/L) (all p < 0.001), and high‐density lipoprotein increased (0.1 [0.02] mmol/L, p = 0.011) by the end of Phase 2 in both groups. There were group by time interactions for lipoprotein particle concentrations: very small triglyceride‐rich (−31.0 [7.7] nmol/L AED vs. −4.8 [7.9] nmol/L NFD, p = 0.007), small LDL (−109.3 [40.5] nmol/L AED vs. −20.7 [41.6] nmol/L NFD, p = 0.017), and medium LDL (−24.4 [43.4] nmol/L AED vs. −130.5 [44.4] nmol/L NFD, p = 0.045).

Conclusions

An energy‐restricted AED resulted in weight loss and weight loss maintenance comparable to an energy‐restricted NFD, and both diets supported cardiometabolic health. The AED resulted in greater improvements in some lipoprotein subfractions, which may enhance reductions in cardiovascular risk.
BPPV Information on Google Versus AI (ChatGPT)
Authors: Bellinger Jeffrey R. , De La Chapa Julian S. , Kwak Minhie W. , Ramos Gabriel A. , Morrison Daniel , Kesser Bradley W.
Published: August 2023

Objective

To quantitatively compare online patient education materials found using traditional search engines (Google) versus conversational Artificial Intelligence (AI) models (ChatGPT) for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).

Study Design

The top 30 Google search results for “benign paroxysmal positional vertigo” were compared to the OpenAI conversational AI language model, ChatGPT, responses for 5 common patient questions posed about BPPV in February 2023. Metrics included readability, quality, understandability, and actionability.

Setting

Online information.

Methods

Validated online information metrics including Flesch‐Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL), Flesch Reading Ease (FRE), DISCERN instrument score, and Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for Printed Materials were analyzed and scored by reviewers.

Results

Mean readability scores, FKGL and FRE, for the Google webpages were 10.7 ± 2.6 and 46.5 ± 14.3, respectively. ChatGPT responses had a higher FKGL score of 13.9 ± 2.5 (P < .001) and a lower FRE score of 34.9 ± 11.2 (P = .005), both corresponding to lower readability. The Google webpages had a DISCERN part 2 score of 25.4 ± 7.5 compared to the individual ChatGPT responses with a score of 17.5 ± 3.9 (P = .001), and the combined ChatGPT responses with a score of 25.0 ± 0.9 (P = .928). The average scores of the reviewers for all ChatGPT responses for accuracy were 4.19 ± 0.82 and 4.31 ± 0.67 for currency.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest that the information on ChatGPT is more difficult to read, of lower quality, and more difficult to comprehend compared to information on Google searches.
Construction of carboxymethyl chitosan @ sodium oxide alginate aerogel for efficient adsorption of malachite green
Authors: Li Kun , Zhang Zhao , Guo Zhiyuan , Zhou Jing , Wang Kun , Wang Jikui
Published: August 2023

Water pollution has emerged as a formidable issue of utmost concern in the world, and the design of three‐dimensional porous, high adsorption performance, and sustainable adsorbent materials is of great significance for wastewater purification. Naturally abundant sodium alginate was used to prepare oxidized sodium alginate (OSA), a biomass macromolecule containing an aldehyde group. A double network interpenetrating structure based on carboxymethyl chitosan (CMS) and OSA was constructed without any small molecule cross‐linking agent throughout, and a Schiff base reaction occurred at room temperature to prepare chemically stable CMS@OSA aerogels, which contain a continuous and dense porous structure inside the aerogel. CMS and OSA both contain an anionic reactive group, carboxyl, which makes them both matrix and functional materials, enabling selective adsorption of malachite green (MG) dyes. The prepared aerogel adsorbent showed a high adsorption capacity (302 mg/g) for MG at room temperature. The adsorption mechanism between the aerogel adsorbent and the adsorbent mass was investigated, and the effect of different factors on the adsorption performance was analyzed. The fitting coefficients of both the adsorption kinetic model and the isotherm model reached 0.99. The ingenious preparation method and excellent adsorption performance offer great prospects for chitosan biomass aerogels to play a role in environmental protection and economy.

Highlights

An interpenetrating structure based on the Schiff base reaction.

Construction of three‐dimensional porous structures.

Pure ecological raw materials without toxic crosslinkers.

High adsorption capacity at 302 mg/g for malachite green.
Extended melt‐conveying models for single‐screw extruders: Integrating domain knowledge into symbolic regression
Authors: Marschik Christian , Roland Wolfgang , Kommenda Michael
Published: August 2023

The literature provides several analytical approximation methods for predicting the flow of non‐Newtonian fluids in single‐screw extruders. While these are based on various flow conditions, they were developed mostly for extruder screws with standard geometries. We present novel analytical melt‐conveying models for predicting the flow and dissipation rates of fully developed flows of power‐law fluids within three‐dimensional screw channels. To accommodate a broad range of industrial screw designs, including both standard and high‐performance screws, the main intention of this work was to significantly extend the scope of existing theories. The flow equations were first rewritten in a dimensionless form to reduce the mathematical problem to its dimensionless influencing parameters. These were varied within wide ranges to create a set of physically independent modeling setups, the flow and dissipation rates of which were evaluated by means of a finite‐volume solver. The numerical results were then approximated analytically using symbolic regression based on genetic programming. To support the regression analysis in finding accurate solutions, we integrated domain‐specific process knowledge in the preprocessing of the dataset. We obtained three regression models for predicting the flow and dissipation rates in melt‐conveying zones and tested their accuracy successfully against an independent set of numerical solutions.

Highlights

Flow of power‐law fluids in three‐dimensional screw channels

Identification of independent influencing parameters by dimensional analysis

Numerical parametric design study for a broad range of industrial applications

Integration of domain knowledge in symbolic regression

Surrogate models derived from numerical simulation results
A dynamic model of the intestinal epithelium integrates multiple sources of preclinical data and enables clinical translation of drug‐induced toxicity
Authors: Gall Louis , Jardi Ferran , Lammens Lieve , Piñero Janet , Souza Terezinha M. , Rodrigues Daniela , Jennen Danyel G. J. , de Kok Theo M. , Coyle Luke , Chung Seung‐Wook , Ferreira Sofia , Jo Heeseung , Beattie Kylie A. , Kelly Colette , Duckworth Carrie A. , Pritchard D. Mark , Pin Carmen
Published: August 2023

We have built a quantitative systems toxicology modeling framework focused on the early prediction of oncotherapeutic‐induced clinical intestinal adverse effects. The model describes stem and progenitor cell dynamics in the small intestinal epithelium and integrates heterogeneous epithelial‐related processes, such as transcriptional profiles, citrulline kinetics, and probability of diarrhea. We fitted a mouse‐specific version of the model to quantify doxorubicin and 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU)‐induced toxicity, which included pharmacokinetics and 5‐FU metabolism and assumed that both drugs led to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in stem cells and proliferative progenitors. The model successfully recapitulated observations in mice regarding dose‐dependent disruption of proliferation which could lead to villus shortening, decrease of circulating citrulline, increased diarrhea risk, and transcriptional induction of the p53 pathway. Using a human‐specific epithelial model, we translated the cytotoxic activity of doxorubicin and 5‐FU quantified in mice into human intestinal injury and predicted with accuracy clinical diarrhea incidence. However, for gefitinib, a specific‐molecularly targeted therapy, the mice failed to reproduce epithelial toxicity at exposures much higher than those associated with clinical diarrhea. This indicates that, regardless of the translational modeling approach, preclinical experimental settings have to be suitable to quantify drug‐induced clinical toxicity with precision at the structural scale of the model. Our work demonstrates the usefulness of translational models at early stages of the drug development pipeline to predict clinical toxicity and highlights the importance of understanding cross‐settings differences in toxicity when building these approaches.
CsSn0.5Ge0.5I3‐Based Lead‐Free Highly Stable Perovskite Solar Cell: Numerical Modeling for Estimating Performance Ceiling
Authors: Sujith M. , Prabu R. Thandaiah , R. Ramachandran , Kumar Atul
Published: August 2023

CsSn0.5Ge0.5I3 perovskite is reportedly highly stable in ambient open air, lead free, and has excellent optoelectrical properties. An inverted p–i–n solar cell device based on this mixed SnGe perovskite utilizing the reported optical and electrical characteristics of the CsSn0.5Ge0.5I3 is simulated. This theoretical device under various recombination regimes to explore the performance ceiling of CsSn0.5Ge0.5I3 is put. An optimized configuration of CsSn0.5Ge0.5I3‐based perovskite solar cell shows an efficiency of 29% under the impact of only intrinsic recombination losses such as radiative (with radiative recombination coefficient of 10−11) and Auger recombination (recombination coefficient of 10−27). When extrinsic factors are considered, such as resistance losses (series resistance as high as 2 Ω cm2 and shunt resistance as low as 1000 Ω cm2), efficiency decreases to 27.5%. The efficiency is 20% when trap‐assisted Shockley–Read–Hall recombination is considered with voltage loss (V
Loss) of 0.5 V. Similarly, V
Loss = 0.6 V in V
OC restricts device efficiency to 15%. Finally, an efficiency waterfall chart summarizes the CsSn0.5Ge0.5I3, efficiency under different extrinsic losses, and the performance loss analysis, providing an optimal design. The results summarized here are expected to be helpful and prompt experimentalists to fabricate this stable lead‐free perovskite solar cell.
Doping Modification of Cs3Bi2I9 Single Crystals for High‐Performance X‐Ray Detectors
Authors: Li Anfeng , Yang Manman , He Aoxi , Tang Peng , Hao Xia , Wu Lili , Tian Wenbo , Yang Dingyu , Zhang Jingquan
Published: August 2023

Cs3Bi2I9 (CBI) is a promising material for direct X‐ray detectors. However, for the solution method, due to the difference in the chemical potential of Cs+, Bi3+, I− ions in the solvent, the composition of CBI single crystals (SCs) prepared by the solution method often deviates from the stoichiometric ratio, resulting in the formation of many defects in the material, which degrades the quality of the SC. Herein, Br− and Cl− are used as dopants to produce CBI SCs by the top seed solution method. It can be speculated that the dopant ions can reduce the VI defects in the CBI by means of density functional theory calculations. The carrier lifetimes of CBI SCs doped with Br− and Cl− have been increased to 41.7 and 13.0 ns, respectively. Meanwhile, the defect densities of the SCs are reduced to 1.02 × 109 and 1.85 × 109 cm−3, respectively. X‐ray detectors based on Br‐doped CBI and Cl‐doped CBI SCs exhibit high X‐ray sensitivity of 23071.3 and 18525.3 μC Gyair−1 cm−2 at an electric field of 40 V mm−1, respectively. In addition, the X‐ray detection limit reaches 1.07 and 1.35 nGyairs−1 at an electric field of 2.5 V mm−1, respectively.
Enhancing risk governance by addressing key risk communication barriers during the prevention and preparedness phase in South Tyrol (Italy)
Authors: Carnelli Fabio , Pedoth Lydia
Published: August 2023

Different European policies emphasise that good risk governance can only be achieved through effective communication between the different risk governance actors. It is well known, that effective risk communication should be set up as part of risk prevention and risk preparedness, long before a potentially hazardous event or process occurs. To address this issue, our paper, as part of the results of the Interreg project RiKoST, presents an exploratory study to identify what types of challenges and barriers can be recognised in risk communication related to risk prevention in South Tyrol, Italy. As a first step we identified a wide range of key actors, who, in different ways, already have or could potentially have a role in risk communication. Subsequently, we undertook 20 semi‐structured interviews with institutional actors, key informants, and practitioners. Our main findings could inform both policy recommendations and academic research to improve risk communication, acting on risk training/education and risk culture as aspects to be addressed to enhance risk governance in the prevention and preparedness phase.
A Novel Hybrid Multifunctional Compound: (CMQ)BiCl5 Showing Enhancement in Physical Properties by Halogen Substitution
Authors: Wan Ming‐Yang , Tan Yu‐Hui , Fan Xiao‐Wei , Tang Yun‐Zhi , Jia Jin‐Feng , Wang Fang‐Xing , Wang li‐Juan , Liao Juan
Published: August 2023

Organic‐inorganic hybrid multifunctional materials have received significant attention due to their potential applications in smart devices such as phase‐change memory (PCM), resistive random‐access memory (ReRAM). Yet, devices application requires achieving a balance between fast switching speeds, long‐term stability, and high cycling endurance in materials still facing difficulties. Herein, we report two hybrid phase transition compounds: (CMQ)BiCl5(CMQ=Chloromethyl Quinuclidin‐3‐one) (1) and (FMQ)2SbBr5(FMQ=Fluoromethyl Quinuclidin‐3‐one) (2), both two compounds exhibit high phase transition temperature, dual‐stable behavior in dielectric during reversible phase transition process. Notably, 1 exhibit small dielectric change after multiple dielectric state switching. Furthermore, investigate the influence of halogen substitution (F to Cl) for compound properties, which show an Increasing transition temperature (9 K) and raising structural dimension (0D to 1D). Additionally, using first principles, analyze the electronic structure of 1 and find that it has a 3.4 eV wide bandgap, closing to GaN semiconductor (3.4 eV). This work provides a new insight into developing the next‐generation phase transition compounds and chemical modification enhances material performance.
Regionalizing Nitrogen Doping of Polysilicon Films Enabling High‐Efficiency Tunnel Oxide Passivating Contact Silicon Solar Cells
Authors: Liu Zunke , Lin Zedong , Liu Wei , Yang Lei , Lin Na , Liao Mingdun , Yu Xuegong , Yang Zhenhai , Zeng Yuheng , Ye Jichun
Published: August 2023

Tunnel oxide passivating contact (TOPCon) solar cells (SCs) as one of the most competitive crystalline silicon (c‐Si) technologies for the TW‐scaled photovoltaic (PV) market require higher passivation performance to further improve their device efficiencies. Here, the successful construction of a double‐layered polycrystalline silicon (poly‐Si) TOPCon structure is reported using an in situ nitrogen (N)‐doped poly‐Si covered by a normal poly‐Si, which achieves excellent passivation and contact properties simultaneously. The new design exhibits the highest implied open‐circuit voltage of 755 mV and the lowest single‐sided recombination current density (J0) of ≈0.7 fA cm⁻2 for a TOPCon structure and a low contact resistivity of less than 5 mΩ·cm2, resulting in a high selectivity factor of ≈16. The mechanisms of passivation improvement are disclosed, which suggest that the introduction of N atoms into poly‐Si restrains H overflow by forming stronger Si‒N and N‒H bonds, reduces interfacial defects, and induces favorable energy bending. Proof‐of‐concept TOPCon SCs with such a design receive a remarkable certified efficiency of 25.53%.
Influence of anchored orbicular rings on the performance of sandwich concrete‐filled double‐skin steel tube columns
Authors: Singh Harpreet , Tiwary Aditya Kumar
Published: August 2023

Since recent years, double‐skin tube column sections formed from two parallel, concentrically spaced steel casings, with the sandwiched area between the casings packed with concrete infill, have been employed extensively. The cross‐sectional shapes of the inner and outer casings might be the same or different, such as round, square, octagonal, etc. These concrete‐filled double‐skin steel tubular (CFDST) columns act similarly to concrete‐filled steel tubular (CFST) sections but have less self‐weight and better stiffness. The present study evaluated the response of CFDST column stiffened with orbicular rings under axial compression. It consists of inner and outer steel tubes stiffened by orbicular rings near both ends of columns. The orbicular rings were provided at different locations as L/3, L/4, and L/5, and a series of tests were conducted to obtain the performance of CFDST columns stiffened with orbicular rings with regard to the maximum load‐carrying capacity, load–strain behavior, and load‐deformation behavior. Furthermore, a parametric study was conducted by varying the diameter to thickness ratio, hollowness ratio, the thickness of orbicular rings, yield strength, and location of orbicular rings. The results showed that CFDST column stiffened with orbicular rings have higher ultimate load capacity than unstiffened CFDST. Stiffened CFDST with orbicular rings showed more ductile response than CFDST column and helps to improve the outer steel tube's restraint on sandwiched concrete. In order to estimate the load‐bearing capacity of CFDST columns stiffened with orbicular rings under axial compression, an empirical equation was proposed. The experimental results and findings of the suggested equations were found to be in good agreement.
Bi‐RRT*: An Improved Bidirectional RRT* Path Planner for Robot in Two‐Dimensional Space
Authors: Wang Binpeng , Ju Dianyuan , Xu Fangzhou , Feng Chao
Published: August 2023

Path planning is one of the fundamental issues in the research field of robot. In the last decades, Rapidly‐exploring Random Tree star (RRT*) was one of the chosen path planner for robot with its probabilistically complete. In this paper, an improved bidirectional RRT* path planner for robot is proposed (Bi‐RRT*), which has planned path with safety and smoothly guarantee. The main contributions of this paper include, firstly, combining the backtracking idea of the Quick‐RRT algorithm with the greedy search strategy of the RRT‐Connect algorithm, which can reduce the path cost and improve the operation efficiency of the algorithm. Second, in order to further reduce the running time of the algorithm, a new collision detection algorithm based on cross‐product is proposed to replace the conventional collision detection strategy. To ensure the quality of the path, two post‐processing strategies, path optimization strategy and path smoothing strategy, are proposed. Path optimization strategy is based on triangle inequality, and two optimization methods are proposed to effectively reduce the path cost. The path smoothing strategy based on the Bezier curve improves the continuity of a smooth arc and is better applied to path smoothing. Simulation results for both virtual and real environments show the advantages of combining Quick‐RRT and RRT‐Connect and verify the effectiveness of the proposed collision detection algorithm. Compared with similar algorithms, the proposed Bi‐RRT algorithm has higher operational efficiency, smaller path cost, smoother planned paths, and improved path quality. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Survey of students’ learning experience using a virtual slaughterhouse simulator in three UK veterinary schools during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Garcia‐Ara Amelia , Sandoval‐Barron Elsa , Seguino Alessandro
Published: August 2023

Background

Although visiting an abattoir is mandatory for all UK veterinary students, this was challenging during the COVID‐19 pandemic and virtual simulators were temporarily approved by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. Subsequently, the virtual slaughterhouse simulator (VSS) was used by the University of Nottingham School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, the University of Liverpool School of Veterinary Science and the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh. This study aimed to evaluate the student learning experience using the VSS.

Methods

An online survey containing satisfaction and assessment questions was distributed to all final‐year students who used the VSS from September 2020 to August 2021.

Results

A total of 207 students completed the survey (n = 207/488, 42%). Students were mostly highly satisfied and found the VSS very useful for their learning (n = 164/207,79%); however, anxiety levels to visit a real abattoir lowered for less than half of the students (n = 97/207, 46%). Most students obtained an overall mark over 50% in the assessment questions (n = 197/207, 95%).

Limitations

Although the findings were very positive, extrapolation to other veterinary schools and postgraduate curricula should be done cautiously.

Conclusion

The VSS is a valid tool for training veterinary students. However, more research is advised to compare virtual and real experiences and assess students' long‐term performance.
Effect of Ag/CuS nanoparticles loading to enhance linear/nonlinear spectroscopic and electrical characteristics of PVP/PVA blends for flexible optoelectronics
Authors: Alharthi Sami S. , Badawi Ali
Published: August 2023

Due to the novel physicochemical properties of polymeric nanocomposites (PNCs), a remarkable role of PNCs has been accomplished in plenty of flexible optoelectronic applications. Solution cast procedure has been performed to prepare different contents (0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 5.0, and 10 wt%) of Ag1.6Cu0.2S (ACS) incorporated in PVP/PVA blend. Fourier transforms infrared and scanning electron microscope measurements were carried out to investigate the influence of ACS on PVP/PVA structure and morphology. UV–visible spectrophotometry technique was applied to examine PVP/PVA optical properties modifications. Spectroscopic analysis reveals that direct/indirect optical bandgap of PVP/PVA host shrinks from 5.21/4.95 eV (PVP/PVA0) to 4.87/4.54 eV (PVP/PVA10). Moreover, obvious enrichments in the whole linear/nonlinear optical parameters are achieved by ACS doping. For example, refractive index and dielectric constants of PVP/PVA are increased from 1.69 and 2.87 to 1.91 and 3.63 (PVP/PVA10). While two orders of magnetite enhancement in nonlinear third‐order susceptibility are achieved via 10% ACS doping. The electrical performance of ACS PNCs has been explored, which discloses remarkable enrichments in PVP/PVA DC‐electrical conductivity () and activation energy. The obtained structural, spectroscopic and electrical investigations prove that ACS PNCs could play an efficient role in plenty of optoelectronic applications.

Highlights

Solution casting was used to prepare PVP/PVA loaded with Ag/CuS (ACS) NPs.

FT‐IR analysis reveals successful incorporation of ACS in PVP/PVA structure.

Enrichments in linear/nonlinear optical parameters are achieved by ACS doping.

Electrical performance of ACS PNCs has greatly been enhanced.

ACS PNCs could play an efficient role in plenty of optoelectronic applications.
Epistaxis associated with Angiostrongylus vasorum infection in a dog
Authors: Henry Perrine M. N. , Liénard Emmanuel , Franc Michel , Bouhsira Emilie
Published: August 2023

A 9‐month‐old, female, entire border collie was presented as an emergency for unilateral epistaxis, rapidly evolving to bilateral, and lethargy of sudden onset. A moderate broncho‐interstitial pattern was present on thoracic radiographs, particularly in the caudo‐dorsal lung lobes. Haematology and coagulation parameters (prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin time, fibrinogen) were within normal range. Multiple larvae (L1) of Angiostrongylus vasorum were identified both on flotation (Ovassay technique) and sedimentation (McKenna technique). The dog was treated with fenbendazole (50 mg/kg) for 15 days. On re‐examination, 4 days after completion of treatment, faecal analysis was negative and thoracic radiographs were improved. This case reports epistaxis as the main clinical finding in a young dog infested with A. vasorum, in the southwest of France, where this parasite is endemic. If bleeding diatheses are increasingly reported in angiostrongylosis, epistaxis is an unusual presentation, especially as the sole clinical sign of bleeding, in a dog with normal coagulation parameters.
Gender identities, water insecurity, and risk: Re‐theorizing the connections for a gender‐inclusive toolkit for water insecurity research
Authors: Brewis Alexandra , DuBois L. Zachary , Wutich Amber , Adams Ellis Adjei , Dickin Sarah , Elliott Susan J. , Empinotti Vanessa Lucena , Harris Leila M. , Ilboudo Nébié Elisabeth , Korzenevica Marina
Published: August 2023

Informed by decades of literature, water interventions increasingly deploy “gender‐sensitive” or even “gender transformative” approaches that seek to redress the disproportionate harms women face from water insecurity. These efforts recognize the role of gendered social norms and unequal power relations but often focus narrowly on the differences and dynamics between cisgender (cis) men and women. This approach renders less visible the ways that living with water insecurity can differentially affect all individuals through the dynamics of gender, sexuality, and linked intersecting identities. Here, we first share a conceptual toolkit that explains gender as fluid, negotiated, and diverse beyond the cis‐binary. Using this as a starting point, we then review what is known and can be theorized from current literature, identifying limited observations from water‐insecure communities to identify examples of contexts where gendered mechanisms (such as social norms) differentiate experiences of water insecurity, such as elevating risks of social stigma, physical harm, or psychological distress. We then apply this approach to consider expanded ways to include transgender, non‐binary, and gender and sexual diversity to deepen, nuance and expand key thematics and approaches for water insecurity research. Reconceptualizing gender in these ways widens theoretical possibilities, changes how we collect data, and imagines new possibilities for effective and just water interventions.

This article is categorized under:

Human Water > Value of Water

Engineering Water > Water, Health, and Sanitation

Human Water > Water as Imagined and Represented

Human Water > Methods
Feasibility of CSAC-Assisted GNSS Receiver Fingerprinting
Authors: Lin Qianwen , Schön Steffen
Published: August 2023

Interference and jamming of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals can induce inaccurate Position, Velocity and Time (PVT) information, resulting in crucial integrity and even security issues. The poor stability and accuracy of the GNSS receivers’ internal clocks, i.e. quartz oscillators, additionally impact the situation by hindering the detection of spoofing signals. High-precision atomic clocks are used to enhance PVT results, however, their bulk, weight and energy consumption constrain their deployment scenarios. Miniature atomic clocks (MAC) present a promising alternative that trades off between frequency stability and size/weight limitations of an atomic clock.

This paper investigates the potential of chip-scale atomic clocks (CSAC) as external clocks of GNSS receivers for fingerprinting the receivers in both static and dynamic environments. Fingerprinting is characterized by the clock’s physical behavior expressed by Allan Deviation (ADEV) or Time Interval Error (TIE), both of which relate to the clocks’ frequency stability. Thus, unique receiver clock features serve as clock fingerprints. The optimal combinations of features are explored by three feature extraction methods. We gathered GNSS data in diverse scenarios, consisting of a four-day static experiment, a car and a flight experiment as well as the corresponding static experiment for comparison. Results indicate that CSAC-aided fingerprinting is feasible in static conditions, achieving an overall accuracy (OA) of 90
$$\%$$

%
across the three methods. One of the three methods is proven effective to handle clock fingerprinting in dynamic conditions, but yielded a comparably lower OA than in static conditions.
Artificial intelligence in foot and ankle surgery: current concepts
Authors: Vaish Abhishek , Migliorini Filippo , Vaishya Raju
Published: August 2023

The twenty-first century has proven that data are the new gold. Artificial intelligence (AI) driven technologies might potentially change the clinical practice in all medical specialities, including orthopedic surgery. AI has a broad spectrum of subcomponents, including machine learning, which consists of a subdivision called deep learning. AI has the potential to increase healthcare delivery, improve indications and interventions, and minimize errors. In orthopedic surgery. AI supports the surgeon in the evaluation of radiological images, training of surgical residents, and excellent performance of machine-assisted surgery. The AI algorithms improve the administrative and management processes of hospitals and clinics, electronic healthcare databases, monitoring the outcomes, and safety controls. AI models are being developed in nearly all orthopedic subspecialties, including arthroscopy, arthroplasty, tumor, spinal and pediatric surgery. The present study discusses current applications, limitations, and future prospective of AI in foot and ankle surgery.
Characterizations of higher rank hyperbolicity
Authors: Goldhirsch Tommaso , Lang Urs
Published: August 2023

In analogy to the various characterizations of Gromov hyperbolicity, we present a list of six mutually equivalent higher rank conditions for metric spaces satisfying some assumption reminiscent of global non-positive curvature.
Morbus Castleman in der rheumatologischen Praxis
Authors: Schmalzing M. , Sander O. , Seidl M. , Marks R. , Blank N. , Kötter I. , Tiemann M. , Backhaus M. , Manger B. , Hübel K. , Müller-Ladner U. , Henes J.
Published: August 2023

Der Begriff „Morbus Castleman“ umfasst eine Gruppe von seltenen lymphoproliferativen Krankheitsbildern, die histopathologische Gemeinsamkeiten in der Lymphknotenbiopsie aufweisen. Erst seit wenigen Jahren stehen diagnostische Kriterien sowie ein spezifischer ICD-10-Code zur Verfügung. Mit den eingangs aufgeführten Fallbeispielen wird veranschaulicht, dass es für die Diagnosestellung einer engen Zusammenarbeit zwischen Klinikern und Pathologen bedarf. Für eine optimale histopathologische Beurteilung ist der Pathologe zudem auf die Entnahme eines vollständigen Lymphknotens angewiesen. Vor der hinsichtlich der Prognose und Therapie bedeutsamen Abgrenzung eines potenziell fatal verlaufenden, multilokulären idiopathischen Morbus Castleman von der resezierbaren, lokalisierten Form setzt die frühzeitige Diagnose aber voraus, dass das Krankheitsbild differenzialdiagnostisch überhaupt erst in Betracht gezogen wird. Verschiedene Immunphänomene und Überlappungen mit u. a. autoimmun bedingten Erkrankungen können die Wahrscheinlichkeit von Fehldiagnosen oder unerkannten Fällen auch im klinischen Alltag des Rheumatologen erhöhen. Intention der vorliegenden Übersicht war es daher, auch auf die Ähnlichkeiten mit differenzialdiagnostisch relevanten, Autoimmunerkrankungen hinzuweisen und Situationen aufzuzeigen, die eine Überprüfung der bisherigen Diagnose rechtfertigen.
Neuroprotective Effect of Hydrogen Sulfide Subchronic Treatment Against TBI-Induced Ferroptosis and Cognitive Deficits Mediated Through Wnt Signaling Pathway
Authors: Chen Jie , Chen Zhennan , Yu Dongyu , Yan Yufei , Hao Xiuli , Zhang Mingxia , Zhu Tong
Published: August 2023

Emerging evidence shows that targeting ferroptosis may be a potential therapeutic strategy for treating traumatic brain injury (TBI). Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has been proven to play a neuroprotective role in TBI, but little is known about the effects of H2S on TBI-induced ferroptosis. In addition, it is reported that the Wnt signaling pathway can also actively regulate ferroptosis. However, whether H2S inhibits ferroptosis via the Wnt signaling pathway after TBI remains unclear. In this study, we first found that in addition to alleviating neuronal damage and cognitive impairments, H2S remarkably attenuated abnormal iron accumulation, decreased lipid peroxidation, and improved the expression of glutathione peroxidase 4, demonstrating the potent anti-ferroptosis action of H2S after TBI. Moreover, Wnt3a or liproxstatin-1 treatment obtained similar results, suggesting that activation of the Wnt signaling pathway can render the cells less susceptible to ferroptosis post-TBI. More importantly, XAV939, an inhibitor of the Wnt signaling pathway, almost inversed ferroptosis inactivation and reduction of neuronal loss caused by H2S treatment, substantiating the involvement of the Wnt signaling pathway in anti-ferroptosis effects of H2S. In conclusion, the Wnt signaling pathway might be the critical mechanism in realizing the anti-ferroptosis effects of H2S against TBI.

Graphical Abstract

TBI induces ferroptosis-related changes characterized by iron overload, impaired antioxidant system, and lipid peroxidation at the chronic phase after TBI. However, NaHS subchronic treatment reduces the susceptibility to TBI-induced ferroptosis, at least partly by activating the Wnt signaling pathway.
Experts’ perspectives on the sustainability and risks of freely applicable MSWI bottom ash: a Q-methodology study in the Netherlands
Authors: Piltz Gunilla , Annema Jan Anne , Pesch Udo
Published: August 2023

Experts in the Netherlands have lately debated the novel policy idea to freely apply municipal solid waste incineration bottom ash (MSWIBA). In this paper, we map this ambivalent and unforeseeable, subjective, expert debate. This will help policymaking because more knowledge on subjective expert viewpoints and perceptions allows for clustering conflict and consent as well as gaps in common understanding in this complex debate. We applied Q-methodology which resulted in four distinct perspectives in the expert debate that reveal insights into the social licence to operate and into the legitimacy of the novel bottom ash regime. The freely applicable quality of BA itself is accepted in all perspectives. Conflicting views were found about new risks, trust and socio-political acceptance of the novel BA applications. An important practical contribution of this study is that a higher acceptance of the freely applicable MSWI BA quality in the Netherlands within the expert community can be achieved if the new risks of the free application regime are tackled. We are the first to use Q-methodology in this field, and our academic contribution is that we show that this method can be a helpful tool to unravel complex expert debates also related to MSWI BA applications.
On the maximum number of complexes of a given degree containing subvarieties of Grassmannians
Authors: Ciliberto Ciro
Published: August 2023

Let $${\mathbb G}(k,r)$$

G
(
k
,
r
)

be the Grassmannian of k-subspaces in $${\mathbb P}^r$$

P

r

embedded in $${\mathbb P}^{N(k,r)}$$

P

N
(
k
,
r
)

, with $$N(k,r)={{r+1}\atopwithdelims (){k+1}}-1$$

N

(
k
,
r
)

=

r
+
1

k
+
1

-
1

, via the Plücker embedding. In this paper, extending some classical results by Gallarati (see Gallarati in Rend Accad Naz Lincei Ser VIII 14(2):213–220, 1953, Rend Accad Naz Lincei Ser VIII 14(3):408–412, 1953), we give a sharp upper bound for the number of independent sections of $$H^0({\mathbb G}(k,r), {\mathcal O}_{{\mathbb G}(k,r)}(m))$$

H
0

(
G

(
k
,
r
)

,

O

G
(
k
,
r
)

(
m
)

)

vanishing on a subvariety X of $${\mathbb G}(k,r)$$

G
(
k
,
r
)

such that the union of the k-subspaces corresponding to the points of X spans $${\mathbb P}^r$$

P

r

.
The Late Iron Age in Switzerland: a review of anthropological, funerary, and isotopic studies
Authors: Cooper Christine , Milella Marco , Lösch Sandra
Published: August 2023

The Iron Age in continental Europe is a period of profound cultural and biological importance with heterogeneous trends through space and time. Regional overviews are therefore useful for better understanding the main cultural and biological patterns characterizing this period across the European regions. For the area of modern Switzerland, a rich archeological and anthropological record represents the Late Iron Age. However, no review of the main anthropological and funerary patterns for this period is available to date. Here we assess the available demographic, paleopathological, funerary, and isotopic data for the Late Iron Age in the Swiss territory, and summarize the cultural and biological patterns emerging from the available literature. Finally, we highlight a series of research avenues for future studies.
MDIW-13: a New Multi-Lingual and Multi-Script Database and Benchmark for Script Identification
Authors: Ferrer Miguel A. , Das Abhijit , Diaz Moises , Morales Aythami , Carmona-Duarte Cristina , Pal Umapada
Published: August 2023

Script identification plays a vital role in applications that involve handwriting and document analysis within a multi-script and multi-lingual environment. Moreover, it exhibits a profound connection with human cognition. This paper provides a new database for benchmarking script identification algorithms, which contains both printed and handwritten documents collected from a wide variety of scripts, such as Arabic, Bengali (Bangla), Gujarati, Gurmukhi, Devanagari, Japanese, Kannada, Malayalam, Oriya, Roman, Tamil, Telugu, and Thai. The dataset consists of 1,135 documents scanned from local newspaper and handwritten letters as well as notes from different native writers. Further, these documents are segmented into lines and words, comprising a total of 13,979 and 86,655 lines and words, respectively, in the dataset. Easy-to-go benchmarks are proposed with handcrafted and deep learning methods. The benchmark includes results at the document, line, and word levels with printed and handwritten documents. Results of script identification independent of the document/line/word level and independent of the printed/handwritten letters are also given. The new multi-lingual database is expected to create new script identifiers, present various challenges, including identifying handwritten and printed samples and serve as a foundation for future research in script identification based on the reported results of the three benchmarks.
The Engagement Problem: a Review of Engagement with Digital Mental Health Interventions and Recommendations for a Path Forward
Authors: Lipschitz Jessica M. , Pike Chelsea K. , Hogan Timothy P. , Murphy Susan A. , Burdick Katherine E.
Published: August 2023

Purpose of the review

Digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) are an effective and accessible means of addressing the unprecedented levels of mental illness worldwide. Currently, however, patient engagement with DMHIs in real-world settings is often insufficient to see a clinical benefit. In order to realize the potential of DMHIs, there is a need to better understand what drives patient engagement.

Recent findings

We discuss takeaways from the existing literature related to patient engagement with DMHIs and highlight gaps to be addressed through further research. Findings suggest that engagement is influenced by patient-, intervention-, and system-level factors. At the patient level, variables such as sex, education, personality traits, race, ethnicity, age, and symptom severity appear to be associated with engagement. At the intervention level, integrating human support, gamification, financial incentives, and persuasive technology features may improve engagement. Finally, although system-level factors have not been widely explored, the existing evidence suggests that achieving engagement will require addressing organizational and social barriers and drawing on the field of implementation science.

Future research clarifying the patient-, intervention-, and system-level factors that drive engagement will be essential. Additionally, to facilitate an improved understanding of DMHI engagement, we propose the following: (a) widespread adoption of a minimum necessary 5-element engagement reporting framework, (b) broader application of alternative clinical trial designs, and (c) directed efforts to build upon an initial parsimonious conceptual model of DMHI engagement.
ARTour: an augmented reality collaborative experience for enhancing tourism
Authors: Elshahawy Menna , Magdy Safa , Sharaf Nada
Published: August 2023

Serious games have been recently used for different purposes; a few of them have been developed to support cultural heritage purposes. Pandemics, for instance, change a lot in people’s lives and cause some changes, such as social distancing and lower mobility. Additionally, individuals with physical challenges do not always have the opportunity to experience heritage sites as if they were there. Hence, arises the need for applications that encourage the precautionary measures required without totally isolating the users in similar conditions. The existing serious games in the literature have proven effective for teaching cultural heritage and enhancing tourists’ experiences while at the heritage site. However, less serious games focused on giving the tourists a similar experience, but in the comfort of their homes. Therefore, this study discusses the design, development, and evaluation of ARTour. ARTour is a collaborative serious game that increases players’ engagement and enhances the overall experience, without exposing them to danger during pandemics or similar situations. The player can choose between existing heritage sites, and a timeline, in order to get the full experience.