bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Pyrrole Modified 3,4‐Propylenedioxythiophene Conjugated Polymer as Hole Transport Layer for Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Tang Yuanhao , Ma Ke , Shao Wenhao , Lee Yoon Ho , Abtahi Ashkan , Sun Jiaonan , Yang Hanjun , Coffey Aidan H. , Atapattu Harindi , Ahmed Mustafa , Hu Qixuan , Xu Wenzhan , Dani Raunak , Wang Limei , Zhu Chenhui , Graham Kenneth R. , Mei Jianguo , Dou Letian
Published: October 2024

Despite the outstanding electric properties and cost‐effectiveness of poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) and its derivatives, their performance as hole transport layer (HTL) materials in conventional perovskite solar cells (PSCs) has lagged behind that of widely used spirobifluorene‐based molecules or poly(triaryl amine). This gap is mainly from their poor solubility and energy alignment mismatch. In this work, the design and synthesis of a pyrrole‐modified HTL (PPr) based on 3,4‐propylenedioxythiophene (ProDOT) are presented for efficient and stable PSCs. As a result of the superior defects passivation ability, excellent contact with perovskite, enhanced hole extraction, and high hydrophobicity, the unencapsulated PPr‐based PSCs showed the peak PCE of 21.49% and outstanding moisture stability (over 4000 h). This work highlights the potential application of ProDOT‐based materials as HTL for PSCs and underscores the importance of the rational design of PEDOT and its derivatives.
Inclusion Transfer Phenomenon under Unsteady Multiphase Flow during Rheinstahl–Heraeus Vacuum Treatment Process
Authors: Chen Shifu , Yang Bin , Xiao Yuanyou , Lei Hong
Published: October 2024

Inclusion particles are extremely harmful to the quality of steel products, and Rheinstahl–Heraeus (RH) vacuum treatment is the key process to remove the inclusions from molten steel. By coupling analyzing the unsteady gas–liquid flow and decarbonization reaction, the inclusion mass/population conservation model is developed to explore the inclusion particles transfer phenomenon during RH vacuum treatment process. The coupling mathematical models are validated by the metallurgical experimental data. The results show that the predicted inclusion mass concentration in unsteady CO–Ar–molten steel multiphase system has significantly smaller relative error than that in steady Ar–molten steel flow. CO bubble plays a key role in the inclusion transfer phenomenon, which prompts the inclusion transport, the collision‐aggregation, and the removal process. At the 4th minute of vacuum treatment, the average inclusion volume concentration and the average inclusion number density in CO–Ar–molten steel are 72.75% and 64.62% of those in Ar–molten steel, respectively. The average inclusion characteristic radius in CO–Ar–molten steel is 7.33% larger than that in Ar–molten steel.
Creating a culture of assessment in student affairs to inform practices, priorities, and fiscal decisions utilizing the CAS standards framework at small institutions
Authors: Willis Michaela , Grieve Kimberly , Daynes Gary
Published: October 2024

Doing more with less is a continual dynamic faced by leaders in higher education, particularly within small institutions where resources can be scarce, and professionals often are wearing multiple hats. The ability to prioritize programs and services in student affairs rises to the forefront of our work every day. As a result, leaders often need to make strategic decisions regarding what to continue, what to sunset, and how to invest in new innovations to promote student success. This article will focus on strategies for student affairs professionals at small institutions to make and implement decisions regarding our work by building a culture of assessment within student affairs through the utilization of the Council for Advancement of Standards (CAS) standards to inform the strategic prioritization of limited resources.
Environmental Impact of Automobile Wastes on Surface Water Quality in Ebonyi State, Southeast Nigeria
Authors: Okafor Odera Chukwumaijem , Akwuebu Anselem Nwabuaku , Njoku Chima , Ekwe Okechukwu Okorie
Published: October 2024

The negative impact of operations in informal auto mechanic workshops is a major public health concern, and its effect on surface water pollution cannot be overlooked. This current work evaluates the environmental impact of automobile waste on surface water quality in Ebonyi State, Southeast Nigeria. A total of 108 surface water samples were taken in 2022 and 2023 from Abakaliki, Onueke, and Afikpo streams, and WHO as controls using standard analytical methods. Data sets were analyzed using Fisher's Significance Least Difference (F‐LSD) at the 0.05 probability level. The study showed that surface water appearance was slightly brown, and the observed upstream is acidic in nature, the midstream is alkaline, and the downstream is natural. Water samples from Abakaliki, Onueke, and Afikpo streams were observed to be hard since their concentration levels were above the WHO standard. Furthermore, the high concentrations of heavy metals (Pb and Mn) as well as the oil and grease content indicate that the surface water in the area of study is polluted and its overall quality is degraded. The study therefore concluded that automobile waste had a negative influence on the surface water quality in the study area. Based on these new findings, it is recommended that automobile waste be properly treated and disposed of to avoid their adverse effects on surface water quality. In addition, given the uncontrolled development of these informal auto workshops across the nation in recent years, there is a need for the execution of environmental standards connected to automobile service activities.
Habitat and density effects on the demography of an expanding wolf population in Central Europe
Authors: Planillo Aimara , Reinhardt Ilka , Kluth Gesa , Collet Sebastian , Rolshausen Gregor , Nowak Carsten , Steyer Katharina , Ellwanger Goetz , Kramer‐Schadt Stephanie
Published: October 2024

Demographic parameters are key to understanding population dynamics. Here, we analyse the survival and reproduction of the German wolf population in the 20 years following recolonization. Specifically, we analysed the effects of environmental, ecological and individual characteristics on 1) survival probability of the population; 2) annual survival rates of age classes; 3) reproduction probability; and 4) reproductive output, measured as the number of detected pups/juveniles. Using Cox proportional hazards model, we estimated a median survival time of circa three years for wolves. Annual survival probabilities were found to be 0.75 for juveniles, 0.75 for subadults and 0.88 for adults. Survival was lower for juveniles in winter and for subadult males in summer, probably associated with dispersal events. Low habitat suitability was clearly associated with lower survival in juveniles and subadults, but not in adults. Local territory density was related to increased survival. Reproduction probability within a territory was 0.88, but explanatory variables had no effect. Reproductive output was four pups/juveniles on average, positively related to habitat suitability and female experience, but negatively related to territory density. Survival values were very high for the species when compared to other regions. We hypothesize that carrying capacity has not been reached in the study area, thus the survival may decrease in the future if the landscape becomes saturated. Furthermore, our results highlight a spatial pattern in survival and reproduction, with area of better habitat suitability favouring faster population growth. Thus, targeting conservation measures to low habitat suitability areas will have a strong population effect on the short term by boosting survival and reproduction of the individuals, while long‐term viability should be carefully planned with high suitability areas in mind, as those contain the territories with higher survival and reproduction potential.
Cougar spatiotemporal response to human activities in a multi‐use forest landscape on southern Vancouver Island
Authors: Arthurs Emerald , Fisher Jason T. , Bell Elicia , Bone Christopher
Published: October 2024

Recreational activities have been shown to induce fear responses in carnivores, causing both spatial and temporal displacement that can have cascading effects on the wider ecological community. Cougars Puma concolor are one species that are particularly sensitive to human disturbances as they have been found to be impacted by various forms of recreational activities. This research aimed to quantify the spatial and temporal responses of cougars to human activities on southern Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. Fifty camera traps were deployed in a systematic probabilistic sampling design and data from the summer season of 2022 was used for analyses. We modeled cougar weekly occurrence frequency in relation to human (hikers and bikers) occurrence frequency, vehicle occurrence frequency, and landscape features, using generalized linear mixed models. Temporal responses of cougars were investigated using activity pattern analysis to compare activity patterns within a recreation area and a restricted public access reserve. Cougars avoid occurring at sites where recreationalists frequently visited, but not sites frequented by vehicles on unpaved roads. We observed minimal influence of habitat features or prey availability on cougar occurrence frequency, as measured by information loss (AICc scores). Activity pattern analysis did not demonstrate significant differences in cougar daily activity patterns between the recreation area and no‐entry reserve, suggesting a lack of temporal response. These results suggest recreational activities on southern Vancouver Island are impacting cougar spatial – but not temporal – behavioral dynamics. Insights on how cougars respond to recreational activities can help inform landscape management and policies by providing information that can be used to mitigate negative impacts and thus ensure that recreational activities are remaining compatible with conservation efforts.
The R&D Cost of Climate Mitigation in Agriculture
Authors: Fuglie Keith , Ray Srabashi , Baldos Uris Lantz C. , Hertel Thomas W.
Published: October 2024

Agriculture is responsible for about one-quarter of global emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs). Supply-side approaches for reducing emissions from agriculture rely on emissions-saving technological change and the environmental protection of carbon-rich areas. We investigate how productivity policies, in the form of agricultural research and development (R&D) spending, might affect GHG emissions from agriculture compared to environmental policies that restrict agricultural land use or production practices that may cause environmental harm. Using a global economic model, we project outcomes from policy scenarios involving R&D, environmental policies, and combinations of both. At the global level, more R&D spending to accelerate productivity growth reduces GHG emissions from land-use change less effectively than targeted environmental policies. However, accelerated productivity growth reduces emissions intensity of agricultural production and reduces the cost of the environmental policy. Moreover, higher levels of productivity permanently lower agricultural GHG emissions and generally improve global food security. Policies that restrict agricultural factor inputs in order to reduce local environmental costs may increase global agricultural GHG emissions and worsen food insecurity. These consequences could be avoided by increasing R&D spending to accelerate agricultural productivity growth that is either factor neutral or biased toward saving production factors associated with negative environmental externalities.
Local Groundwater Sustainability Policies and Global Spillovers
Authors: Haqiqi Iman , Bowling Laura , Jame Sadia , Baldos Uris Lantz C. , Liu Jing , Hertel Thomas W.
Published: October 2024

The rapid depletion of US groundwater resources brings attention to the significance of groundwater governance. However, any such restrictions on groundwater withdrawals are likely to generate spillover effects, causing further environmental stresses in other locations and adding to the complexity of sustainability challenges. The goal of this study is to improve our understanding of the implications of growing global food demand for local sustainability stresses and the implications of local sustainability policies for local, regional, and global food production, land use, and prices. We employ Simplified International Model of agricultural Prices, Land use, and the Environment- Gridded version (SIMPLE-G) to disentangle the significance of remote changes in population and income for irrigation and water resources in the United States. Then, we examine the local-to-global impacts of potential US groundwater sustainability policies. We find that developments in international markets are significant, as more than half of US sustainability stresses by 2050 are caused by increased commodity demand from abroad. Furthermore, a US sustainable groundwater policy can cause overseas spillovers, thereby potentially contributing to environmental stresses elsewhere, even as groundwater stress in the United States is alleviated. These unintended consequences could include deforestation due to cropland expansion as well as degradation in water quality due to intensification of production in nontargeted areas.
Interplay Between the Pandemic and Environmental Stressors
Authors: Haqiqi Iman , Grogan Danielle S. , Bahalou Marziyeh , Liu Jing , Baldos Uris Lantz C. , Lammers Richard , Hertel Thomas W.
Published: October 2024

Global food security can be threatened by short-term extreme events—including pandemics like COVID-19 and widespread droughts like those experienced in 2015—that negatively impact food production, food purchasing power, and agricultural economic activity. At the same time, environmental pollutants like greenhouse gases (GHGs) can be reduced by the same short-term extreme stressors. Here we consider what would have happened if COVID-19 had co-occurred with a 2015-like drought year. Using a coupled biophysical-economic modeling framework, we evaluate how this compound stress would alter both agricultural sector GHG emissions and change the number of undernourished people worldwide. We further consider three interdependent adaptation options: local water use for crop production, regional shifts in cropland area, and global trade of agricultural products. We find that GHG emissions decline due to reduced economic activity in the agricultural sector, but this decline is paired with large increases in undernourished populations in developing nations. Local and regional adaptations that make use of natural resources enable global-scale reductions in impacted populations via increased global trade.
SIMPLE Economic Theory
Authors: Hertel Thomas W.
Published: October 2024

This chapter introduces the economic theory behind the SIMPLE (non-gridded) model. This theory forms the basis for global economic analysis of a wide range of land-based sustainability challenges and solutions. We start with a framework in which the world food system is viewed as one, global entity. Then we introduce trade between regions. Finally, we discuss the implications of more elaborate trade geographies. The gridded model, SIMPLE-G, which is the subject of this book, can be viewed as a spatial disaggregation of one or more regions within the SIMPLE framework. The theory behind the gridded analysis will be covered in Chap. 3.
Benchmark Data: Integrating Biophysical and Economic Information in a Consistent Geospatial Dataset
Authors: Haqiqi Iman , Baldos Uris Lantz C.
Published: October 2024

A multiscale economic analysis requires global, regional, and local data and parameters. This chapter introduces the benchmark data required to describe the current status of human and environmental systems. The behavioral parameters that describe how the system responds to changes and shocks are described in Chap. 7. The benchmark data include geospatial information on input usage and agricultural production as well as regional information about exports, imports, and food consumption in the reference year. After running a SIMPLE-G simulation, these values are expected to change in response to new economic conditions. We obtain these data from a variety of sources (e.g., international databases, satellite imagery, climate and hydrological simulations, and national censuses). These data are then processed and made consistent to produce gridded data that can be used within the model. This consistent, multiscale dataset allows researchers to better understand and predict the impact of certain changes on the human and environmental systems.
Computation and Baseline: Efficient Methods for Solving a Large System of Equations for Projection and Scenario Analysis
Authors: Haqiqi Iman , Baldos Uris Lantz C.
Published: October 2024

The human system’s responses to climate change and conservation policies are often spatially heterogeneous. However, traditional large-scale environmental models often lack the market linkages and spatial granularity necessary to effectively capture these vital linkages. Understanding these responses requires quantitative geospatial modeling that integrates economic and biophysical variables. However, solving these large-scale models is difficult due to high interconnectivity through markets. To address this computational challenge, this chapter explores the promising potential of SIMPLE-G as an example of gridded quantitative models that connect local decisions about land, water, and agricultural production to regional and global markets.
Energy Transition as Space Making: Rescaling of Accelerated Transformations in the Context of Estonia
Authors: Pikner Tarmo
Published: October 2024

Energy can be seen as an important mediator of relations between humans and natural environments. This chapter focuses on the spatialities of shifting oil shale-dependent energy regimes that bring together territorialisation dynamics and anticipated landscapes in rescaling processes. This study analyses the encounters and narratives within the two main spheres of energy transition in Estonia—negotiating fossil fuel dependencies and territorialising offshore wind resources. By examining these carbon-lowering spheres together, we connect rescaling processes simultaneously to legacies and to emergent characters of energy landscapes. The shift towards more space-dependent energy production is discussed through three sets of relational processes: politicisation of the existing regime; ways of engagements and knowledge exchange; hybridisation along co-constituting of human and non-human agencies.
Numerical Simulation of the Laser Ablation Process of PTFE Propellant
Authors: Wu Jianjun , Li Jian , Zhao Yuanzheng , Zhang Yu
Published: October 2024

To avoid the ablation lag problem of pulsed plasma thrusters (PPTs), researchers have used laser ablation as a replacement for spark plug ignition and proposed a new laser-sustained PPT (LS-PPT) (Arai in AIAA J 17:634–640, 1979; Zhang in Theoretical, experimental, and simulation study of laser-sustained pulsed plasma thrusters. Graduate School of National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, 2014) Arai et al. (ISAS Rept 544, 1976; AIAA J 15(11):1656–1657, 1977), Arai and Karashimat (Aiaa J 2(2):572–579, 1979) studied the transient ablation problem of the PTFE ablative thermal protection layer on a blunt-body spacecraft during reentry under intense radiative and convective environments. They also elucidated the surface recession of the PTFE layer and the internal temperature and time evolution pattern of the molten layer. Finally, they constructed a phase change ablation model of a one-dimensional (1D) bilayer PTFE (Clark in J Heat Trans T ASME 94: 347–354, 1972), considering the transmittance of the crystalline and molten layers as well as the bulk absorption of radiant energy by the bilayer structure. Stechmann (Numerical analysis of transient Teflon ablation in pulsed plasma thrusters. Worcester Polytechnic Insitute, p 354, 2007) slightly modified the ablation model proposed by Arai et al. and used a volume fraction method to capture the phase change interface between the crystalline and molten layers and obtained the ablation pattern along the surface of the PTFE propellant in the PPT.
Numerical Simulation of the PPT Discharge Process Based on Electromechanical Models
Authors: Wu Jianjun , Li Jian , Zhao Yuanzheng , Zhang Yu
Published: October 2024

Zero-dimensional (0D) and one-dimensional (1D) models have low computational complexity and short computation time. In addition, these models can predict the macroscopic performance parameters of a pulsed plasma thruster (PPT), such as the specific impulse, impulse bit, and thrust efficiency. However, these models depend highly on experimental data and empirical parameters. Therefore, it is essential to establish a numerical model that can quickly and accurately predict the performance parameters of a PPT without relying on experimental results. In an electromechanical model, a PPT is equivalent to an electromechanical device in which dynamic and circuit elements interact. It is believed that all the ablated mass of a propellant is concentrated in a very thin current sheet and accelerated and ejected in the form of a slug under the Lorentz force, thereby generating thrust. This type of model can objectively reflect the multiphysical field coupling discharge characteristics of the PPT operation process.
Numerical Simulation of the PPT Discharge Process Based on Magnetohydrodynamic Models
Authors: Wu Jianjun , Li Jian , Zhao Yuanzheng , Zhang Yu
Published: October 2024

The pulsed plasma thruster (PPT) discharge process involves complex physical phenomena such as electromagnetism, flow, heat transfer, ionization, and recombination, and there is strong nonlinear coupling between the dynamic behaviors at different spatiotemporal scales. Although electromechanical models can clearly describe the change characteristics of the discharge parameters and the propulsion performance characteristics of the thruster, they fail to reflect the spatiotemporal characteristics of the plasma and its interaction with the electromagnetic field. To gain a deeper understanding of the physical process of PPT discharge plasma acceleration and fully elucidate the internal operating mechanism and energy conversion pattern of the thruster, it is necessary to carry out a detailed and comprehensive study on the PPT discharge process by means of microscopic dynamic theoretical analysis and numerical simulation.
The annual trend of suicide rates from 2010 to 2021 in patients with cannabis use disorder – a national registry study
Authors: Myhre Martin Ø. , Rognli Eline Borger , Walby Fredrik A. , Bramness Jørgen G. , Mehlum Lars
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The temporal trend of suicide in patients with cannabis use disorder (CUD) is important to investigate, considering the recent increases in THC concentration in cannabis products. This study describes the annual suicide rates in patients with CUD from 2010 to 2021. To investigate if any change in suicide rate was specific to CUD, we compared these suicide rates with corresponding data for patients with alcohol use disorders (AUD) and other substance use disorders (SUDs).

Method

The study used a time series design. We used a national registry linkage between the Norwegian Cause of Death Registry and the Norwegian Patient Registry from 2010 to 2021, including patients with CUD (ICD-10 code F12), AUD (F10), or other SUDs (F11; F13-F16; F18-F19) who died by suicide, supplemented with the total number of patients treated with specific disorders to estimate the suicide rates. The trend was analyzed by comparing the annual suicide rate to 2010 and using Poisson regression, adjusting for gender, age, and mental disorders.

Results

We found increased annual incidence rate ratios for patients with CUD in 2018 (IRR = 2.14 (95% CI 1.14–3.99)) and onwards and an increasing time trend over the study period (IRR = 1.08 (1.05–1.12)). No increases in trends were found for AUD or other SUDs. The time trend for CUD was attenuated when adjusting for depressive or anxiety disorders (aIRR = 1.00 (0.92–1.08)) or other SUDs (aIRR = 0.96 (0.87–1.06)).

Conclusions

Increasing suicide rates were found in patients with CUD. Comorbid anxiety and depression or other SUDs, but not other mental disorders, could partly explain these results.
Degrees of relations on canonically ordered natural numbers and integers
Authors: Bazhenov Nikolay , Kalociński Dariusz , Wrocławski Michał
Published: October 2024

We investigate the degree spectra of computable relations on canonically ordered natural numbers

$$(\omega ,<)$$

(
ω
,
<
)

and integers

$$(\zeta ,<)$$

(
ζ
,
<
)

. As for

$$(\omega ,<)$$

(
ω
,
<
)

, we provide several criteria that fix the degree spectrum of a computable relation to all c.e. or to all

$$\Delta _2$$

Δ
2

degrees; this includes the complete characterization of the degree spectra of so-called computable block functions that have only finitely many types of blocks. Compared to Bazhenov et al. (in: LIPIcs, vol 219, pp 8:1–8:20, 2022), we obtain a more general solution to the problem regarding possible degree spectra on

$$(\omega ,<)$$

(
ω
,
<
)

, answering the question whether there are infinitely many such spectra. As for

$$(\zeta ,<)$$

(
ζ
,
<
)

, we prove the following dichotomy result: given an arbitrary computable relation R on

$$(\zeta ,<)$$

(
ζ
,
<
)

, its degree spectrum is either trivial or it contains all c.e. degrees. This result, and the proof techniques required to solve it, extend the analogous theorem for

$$(\omega ,<)$$

(
ω
,
<
)

obtained by Wright (Computability 7:349–365, 2018), and provide initial insight to Wright’s question whether such a dichotomy holds on computable ill-founded linear orders. This article is an extended version of Bazhenov et al. (in: LIPIcs, vol 219, pp 8:1–8:20, 2022).
The spatial dimension of ageing and growth in European regions
Authors: Nicolini Rosella , Roig José Luis
Published: October 2024

This study aims to tackle the potential effects of population ageing on regional growth dynamics in the EU. We collected information at a NUTS2 level for EU countries from the years 2000 to 2020 to understand the extent to which the ageing of EU society might impact the EU convergence process. Our results emphasize that the ageing of EU society does not seem to harm the possibility of regional economic growth if we think that immigrants can fill openings in local labour markets (left by retired persons), as well as new jobs stemming from new services needed by retired persons (mostly in health and daily care). Our outcomes also stress the relevance of considering the spatial dimension of the analysis to detect the place-based dimension of this dynamic and, hence, the need for tailored policies.
The impact of voluntary wheel-running exercise on hippocampal neurogenesis and behaviours in response to nicotine cessation in rats
Authors: Zaniewska Magdalena , Brygider Sabina , Majcher-Maślanka Iwona , Gawliński Dawid , Głowacka Urszula , Glińska Sława , Balcerzak Łucja
Published: October 2024

Rationale

The literature indicates that nicotine exposure or its discontinuation impair adult hippocampal neurogenesis in rats, though the impact of exercise on this process remains unclear. We have previously shown that disturbances in the number of doublecortin (DCX, a marker of immature neurons)-positive (DCX+) cells in the dentate gyrus (DG) of the hippocampus during nicotine deprivation may contribute to a depression-like state in rats.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the effect of running on hippocampal neurogenesis, depression-like symptoms, and drug-seeking behaviour during nicotine deprivation.

Methods

The rats were subjected to nicotine (0.03 mg/kg/inf) self-administration via an increasing schedule of reinforcement. After 21 sessions, the animals entered a 14-day abstinence phase during which they were housed in either standard home cages without wheels, cages equipped with running wheels, or cages with locked wheels.

Results

Wheel running increased the number of Ki-67+ and DCX+ cells in the DG of both nicotine-deprived and nicotine-naive rats. Wheel-running exercise evoked an antidepressant effect on abstinence Day 14 but had no effect on nicotine-seeking behaviour on abstinence Day 15 compared to rats with locked-wheel access.

Conclusions

In summary, long-term wheel running positively affected the number of immature neurons in the hippocampus, which corresponded with an antidepressant response in nicotine-weaned rats. One possible mechanism underlying the positive effect of running on the affective state during nicotine cessation may be the reduction in deficits in DCX+ cells in the hippocampus.
Non-target screening reveals 124 PFAS at an AFFF-impacted field site in Germany specified by novel systematic terminology
Authors: Schüßler Melanie , Capitain Catharina , Bugsel Boris , Zweigle Jonathan , Zwiener Christian
Published: October 2024

The uncontrolled release of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) ingredients during a major fire incident in Reilingen, Germany, in 2008 led to significant soil and groundwater contamination. As the identity of fluorochemical surfactants in AFFF are often veiled due to company secrets, it is important to characterize AFFF contaminations and their impact on the environment comprehensively. In this study, we adapted a systematic approach combining a suitable extraction method with liquid chromatography high-resolution quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS) for an extensive non-targeted analysis. Our analysis identified 124 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from 42 subclasses in the contaminated soil (confidence levels of identification between 1 and 3). Typical for AFFF-impacted field sites, these included anionic, cationic, and zwitterionic substances with perfluoroalkyl chains spanning from 3 to 14 carbon atoms. Furthermore, we identified 1 previously unreported substance, and detected 9 PFAS subclasses for the first time in soil. AFFFs have long been employed to extinguish large hydrocarbon fires, yet their environmental consequences remain a concern. This study sheds light on the complex composition of AFFFs at this particularly contaminated area, emphasizing the necessity for extensive contaminant characterization as sound basis for informed management strategies to mitigate their adverse effects. AFFF PFAS are often named differently in the literature, leading to inconsistency in terminology. To address this issue, we introduced partially new terminology for AFFF-related PFAS to establish consistent terminology, to facilitate communication of identified compounds, and to ensure that the chemical structure can be directly derived from acronyms.

Graphical Abstract
Colorimetric aptasensing of microcystin-LR using DNA-conjugated polydiacetylene
Authors: Zhang Man , Zhang Qicheng , Ye Lei
Published: October 2024

Polydiacetylene (PDA) holds promise as a versatile material for biosensing applications due to its unique optical properties and self-assembly capabilities. In this study, we developed a colorimetric detection biosensor system utilizing PDA and aptamer for the detection of microcystin-LR (MC-LR), a potent hepatotoxin found in cyanobacteria-contaminated environments. The biosensor was constructed by immobilizing MC-LR-specific aptamer on magnetic beads, where the aptamer was hybridized with a urease-labelled complementary DNA (cDNA-urease). Upon binding MC-LR, the aptamer undergoes a conformational change to release cDNA-urease. The released cDNA-urease is subsequently captured by PDA bearing a single-stranded DNA (ssDNA). The enzymatic reaction triggers a distinctive color transition of PDA from blue to red. The results demonstrate exceptional sensitivity, with a linear detection range of 5–100 ng/mL and a limit of detection as low as 1 ng/mL. The practicability of the colorimetric method was demonstrated by detecting different levels of MC-LR in spiked water samples. The recoveries ranged from 77.3 to 102% and the color change, visible to the naked eye, underscores the practical utility for on-site applications. Selectivity for MC-LR over other microcystin variants (MC-RR and MC-YR) was confirmed. The colorimetric detection platform capitalizes on the properties of PDA and nucleic acid, offering a robust method for detecting small molecules with potential applications in environmental monitoring and public health.

Graphical Abstract
Microfibrillar-associated protein 4 as a predictive biomarker of treatment response in patients with chronic inflammatory diseases initiating biologics: secondary analyses based on the prospective BELIEVE cohort study
Authors: Sofíudóttir Bjørk K. , Munk Heidi L. , Christensen Robin , Möller Sören , Overgaard Silja H. , Sorensen Grith L. , Møllegaard Karen M. , Pingel Jessica , Nexøe Anders B. , Glerup Henning , Guldmann Tanja , Pedersen Natalia , Dahlerup Jens Frederik , Hvas Christian L. , Andersen Karina W. , Jawhara Mohamad , Nielsen Ole Haagen , Bergenheim Fredrik Olof , Bygum Anette , Davidsen Jesper R. , Sørensen Signe Bek , Brodersen Jacob B. , Kjeldsen Jens , Andersen Vibeke , Ellingsen Torkell
Published: October 2024

Background

Currently, there are no reliable biomarkers for predicting treatment response in chronic inflammatory diseases (CIDs).

Objective

To determine whether serum microfibrillar-associated protein 4 (MFAP4) levels can predict the treatment response to biological therapy in patients with CIDs.

Methods

The BELIEVE study was originally designed as a prospective, multi-center cohort study of 233 patients with either rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, psoriasis, axial spondyloarthritis, Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis, initiating treatment with a biologic agent (or switching to another). Clinical assessment and blood sample collection were performed at baseline and 14–16 weeks after treatment initiation. The primary analyses included participants with available blood samples at baseline; missing data were handled as non-responders. The patients were stratified into the upper tertile of serum MFAP4 (High MFAP4) versus a combined category of middle and lower tertiles (Other MFAP4). The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with clinical response to biologic therapy after 14–16 weeks.

Results

211 patients were included in the primary analysis population. The mean age was 43.7 (SD: 14.8) years, and 120 (59%) were female. Positive treatment response was observed in 41 (59%) and 69 (49%) for High MFAP4 and Other MFAP4, respectively. When adjusting for pre-specified variables (CID, age, sex, smoking status, and BMI), the adjusted OR was 2.28 (95% CI: 1.07 to 4.85) for a positive treatment outcome in the High MFAP4 group.

Conclusion

A high MFAP4 status before initiating biological treatment is associated with a positive clinical response, when adjusting for confounding factors.
Proposing adjustments to heat safety thresholds for junior high and high school sports clubs in Japan
Authors: Oyama Takahiro , Honda Yasushi , Fujii Minoru , Nakajima Kenichi , Hijioka Yasuaki
Published: October 2024

With higher temperatures expected in the future due to global climate change, addressing health risks such as heat illness is increasingly important. In Japan, thousands of heat illness cases occur annually during school sports club activities. The risk may vary by sport, location, and region, but how heat safety thresholds (HSTs) should be adjusted to provide effective guidelines remains uncertain. Thus, we conducted a case-crossover study using data of heat illness cases and wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT) throughout Japan to evaluate the heat illness risk for the current HSTs and propose adjustments. A significant relationship was found between heat illness incidence and WBGT at the time of the incident, as well as the average WBGT one and two days prior. The risk significantly varies with factors such as club, region, location, year, month, and the average WBGT in summer. Therefore, we recommend lowering the current HSTs by one category (3 °C) in the following cases: (1) clubs at high risk (baseball, softball, soccer/futsal, tennis, track and field, kyudo, and other with sustained exercise or thick uniforms); (2) from April to June; (3) in cooler regions (Hokkaido, Tohoku, Hokuriku, or where the average WBGT in summer≦18℃); (4) for outdoor activities; (5) when heat rapidly increases without adequate heat acclimatization. These findings may inform educators, students, sports authorities, and policymakers in adjusting HSTs to reduce the incidence of heat illness, thereby ensuring safer environments for school sports activities.
Quantitative analysis of high-frequency radiometric databases. Application to the case of Seville
Authors: Pérez-Aparicio Elena , Moreno-Tejera Sara , Silva-Pérez Manuel A. , Lillo-Bravo Isidoro
Published: October 2024

The short-term variability of solar resource is one of the main challenges faced by the large-scale implementation of photovoltaic (PV) systems today; this will increase as the installed power of solar PV increases. To evaluate its influence on electrical grid operation, it is essential to analyse the variability of solar resource based on high-frequency data, 30 s and shorter. In this study, the high-frequency measurements of Global Horizontal Irradiation (GHI) and Direct Normal Irradiation (DNI) recorded every 5 s at the radiometric station of the University of Seville for 20 years are analysed and characterised. For this purpose, a corrected database for GHI and DNI was obtained from the application of a correction methodology. To understand the reliability of this database it is required to know its uncertainty. This work proposes a methodology to quantify the uncertainty of high-frequency radiometric databases whose wrong data have been corrected. Applying it, the daily uncertainty is 2.69% for GHI and 4.07% for DNI. To characterize the distribution of the database, the distribution of high frequency kt and kb indices are modelled providing the fitting parameters. To characterize the variability of high-frequency measurements, transition matrices are proposed, which allow identifying both the magnitude and frequency of jumps. The results obtained show that jumps of up to 800 W/m2 occur in both GHI and DNI. In the case of GHI, the percentage of jumps equal to or greater than 500 W/m2 is 1.36%, about 43,000 jumps in a year in measurements every 5 s.
Digital workflow to assess gingival recession coverage independently of the cemento-enamel Junction: a prospective clinical study using the modified coronally advanced tunnel technique with porcine dermal matrix
Authors: Iglhaut Gerhard , Fretwurst Tobias , Schulte Larissa , Sculean Anton , Vach Kirstin , Nelson Katja , Landwehr Victoria Constanze
Published: October 2024

Objectives

The limited number of studies using digital workflows to measure soft tissue changes depend on the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ), which has been reported to be unreliable. Our primary objective was to apply an advanced digital assessment method, measuring independent from the CEJ to evaluate the modified coronally advanced tunnel technique (MCAT) with a porcine dermal matrix (PDM) for gingival recession coverage.

Materials and methods

Patients with type RT1 and RT2 gingival recessions were treated with the MCAT and a PDM. Plaster casts (preoperative and 6 months postoperative) were digitalized. Subsequent stereolithography (STL)-files were imported and superimposed in the open-source software GOM Inspect for computer-based analysis. Recession depth, mean root and complete root coverage (mRC and cRC), mean recession reduction (mRR) and gingival thickness were evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using mixed linear models.

Results

A total of 82 teeth (19 patients) were included in the study. Healing was uneventful in all patients. The mean preoperative recession depth was 1.34 ± 0.92 mm. mRC was 65.06 ± 48.26%, cRC was 25.61%, mRR was 0.87 ± 0.83 mm, and gingival thickness gain was 0.33 ± 0.30 mm, with comparable results for RT1 and RT2. Neither tooth type nor type of jaw had any effect on the amount of root coverage.

Conclusions

The digital evaluation workflow employed offers an approach to evaluate gingival recession coverage outcomes independent of the CEJ. The PDM used in combination with the MCAT shows promising results for root coverage.
Nailfold capillaroscopic assessment in pediatric patients with autoimmune uveitis: a case–control study
Authors: Abdelrahman Maha S. I. , Tohamy Dalia , Osman Naglaa S. , Saleh Mohamed G. A.
Published: October 2024

Uveitis is a major cause of visual impairment. Most uveitis cases have autoimmune etiology. Pediatric autoimmune uveitis may be associated with systemic diseases such as juvenile idiopathic arthritis or may arise as an isolated disorder. It may be accompanied by retinal vasculitis due to retinal microcirculation involvement. Nailfold capillaroscopy, a digital microscope, is a non-invasive tool for systemic microcirculation evaluation. We aimed to evaluate systemic microcirculation abnormalities in pediatric autoimmune uveitis. Twenty-five patients with pediatric autoimmune uveitis and 21 healthy children underwent detailed capillaroscopic evaluation. We assessed capillary density/mm, capillary morphology, capillary dimensions, and the presence or absence of microhemorrhages and avascular areas. The mean age of the study and control groups was 11.24 ± 3.03 and 9.9 ± 4.17 years, respectively. Most included patients had isolated uveitis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (64% and 24%, respectively). The predominant uveitis subtype in the study was anterior uveitis (48%). A significant difference was found between cases and controls regarding mean capillary density (p-value = 0.0003) and the number of subjects having capillary density less than 7 (p-value = 0.002). Other capillaroscopic abnormalities did not show any significant difference between the studied groups. Mean capillary density did not correlate significantly with age, disease duration, or acute phase reactants. Children with autoimmune uveitis, whether isolated or as a part of systemic disease, may have systemic microcirculation involvement.

Key Points• Idiopathic autoimmune uveitis is not always an isolated intraocular condition.• Systemic microcirculation involvement may occur in pediatric autoimmune uveitis, even in cases with isolated uveitis.• Nailfold capillaroscopy showed that capillary density in children with autoimmune uveitis is significantly reduced compared to healthy controls.
Impact of prior knee surgery on change in knee pain, quality of life, and walking speed following supervised education and exercise therapy: an analysis of 30,545 people with knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Grønne Dorte T. , Sari Dilara M. , Skou Søren T. , Roos Ewa M. , Demirbüken Ilksan , Thorlund Jonas B.
Published: October 2024

To investigate the impact of prior knee surgery on changes in outcomes following an 8-week supervised patient education and exercise therapy program in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Patients were classified according to knee surgery in the most affected knee joint (yes/no) prior to enrolment in the Good Life with osteoArthritis in Denmark (GLA:D®) program. Between-group differences in outcome changes from baseline to 3 months follow-up were evaluated using linear regression stratified by sex. Outcomes were knee pain intensity (VAS, 0–100 mm), joint related quality of life (Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score Quality of Life subscale score (KOOS QOL, 0–100)) and walking speed (40-m fast-paced walk test). To evaluate clinically relevant between-group differences, proportions of patients reaching a threshold of minimal important change in the surgery and non-surgery groups were compared. Among 30,545 patients, 27% (n, 8254) had prior surgery in the most affected knee. The prior surgery and the non-surgery group experienced improvements in all outcomes with minor between-group differences in change in pain intensity (males, 0.03 95% CI − 0.9 to 1.0; females, 1.3 95% CI 0.6 to 2.1); KOOS QOL (males, 0.3 95% CI − 0.4 to 0.9; females 0.02 95% CI − 0.5 to 0.5); and walking speed (males, 0.01 95% CI − 0.01 to 0.02; females 0.01 95% CI 0.003 to 0.02). The responder analysis showed no clinically relevant between-group differences in improvements. Previous knee surgery does not seem to modify the clinical outcome following exercise therapy and patient education in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Key Points

• About one in four patients with knee osteoarthritis participating in an 8-week supervised patient education and exercise therapy program had previous knee joint surgery in the most affected knee.• Those with prior knee surgery were more likely to be males, to have prior knee injury, to have a longer symptom duration, and to have a high physical activity level compared to those without previous knee surgery.• Patients with prior knee surgery did not experience clinically relevant less change in knee pain, joint related quality of life, and walking speed after participation in the intervention, compared to those without previous knee surgery.• Patients with previous knee surgery can expect clinical outcomes following exercise therapy and patient education similar to patients without prior knee joint surgery.
Dynamic nuclear polarization solid-state NMR spectroscopy as a tool to rapidly determine degree of modification in dialcohol cellulose
Authors: Karlsson Hampus , Svenningsson Leo , Storm Robin , Chaiyupatham Poppy , Brolin Anders , Larsson Anette , Pinon Arthur C. , Schantz Staffan , Karlson Leif , Larsson Per A. , Evenäs Lars
Published: October 2024

Dialcohol cellulose can be prepared by periodate-mediated oxidation of cellulose followed by reduction with borohydride. The two-step reaction creates a modified cellulose polymer which is ring-opened between the C2 and C3 carbons in the glucose unit. This material has attracted both scientific and commercial interest, due to its potential role in the transition towards a fossil-fuel-free society. In order to become a reliable component in the materials of tomorrow, chemical properties such as degree of modification must be accurately quantified. In this work we describe how solid-state NMR spectroscopy, enhanced by dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP), can be used for this purpose. Our results illustrate that it is possible to obtain high sensitivity enhancements in dialcohol cellulose with the DNP enhanced solid-state NMR technique. Enhancements above a factor of fifty, on a 400 MHz/263 GHz DNP system in the presence of 12 mM AMUPol radical were achieved. This allows us to quantify the degree of modification in dialcohol cellulose samples in time spans as short as 20 min using DNP enhanced multiple-contact cross polarization experiments. We also exemplify how DNP enhanced, 13C-13C dipolar recoupling experiments can be used for the same purpose and for studying chemical shift correlations in dialcohol cellulose.

Graphical abstract