bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ovarian ectopic pregnancy: clinical characteristics, ultrasound diagnosis and management
Authors: Solangon S. A. , Naftalin J. , Jurkovic D.
Published: November 2023

Objective

To compare the clinical, ultrasound and biochemical characteristics of ovarian ectopic pregnancy (OEP) with those of tubal ectopic pregnancy (TEP).

Methods

This was a retrospective case–control study of women with OEP and those with TEP seen at a single center between December 2010 and February 2021. OEP was defined as a pregnancy located completely or partially within the ovarian parenchyma, seen separately to a corpus luteum, if a corpus luteum was present within the ipsilateral ovary. We compared demographic features, risk factors, clinical presentation, ultrasound findings and outcomes, such as blood loss at surgery, need for blood transfusion, length of hospital stay, follow‐up and future pregnancy outcome, between cases of OEP and TEP.

Results

Overall, 20 women with OEP were identified and compared to 100 women with TEP. A total of 15/20 (75%) OEPs were diagnosed correctly on the first ultrasound scan. There was no difference between the groups in terms of maternal age, gestational age, gravidity, parity or risk factors. Compared with TEP, OEP was more likely to present with abdominal pain without vaginal bleeding (12/20 (60%) vs 13/100 (13%); odds ratio (OR), 10.0 (95% CI, 3.45–29.20); P < 0.01), contain an embryo with cardiac activity (3/20 (15%) vs 2/100 (2%); OR, 8.7 (95% CI, 1.34–55.65); P = 0.02) and have severe hemoperitoneum on ultrasound (9/20 (45%) vs 8/100 (8%); OR, 9.4 (95% CI, 3.01–29.40); P < 0.01), and had a higher volume of blood loss at surgery (median, 700 mL vs 100 mL; P < 0.01). All surgically managed OEPs had successful laparoscopic treatment (18 excisions, one wedge resection) with preservation of the ovary. Only one (5%) case of OEP required a blood transfusion.

Conclusions

OEP is more likely than TEP to contain an embryo and to present with severe hemoperitoneum. In a dedicated early pregnancy setting, the majority of OEPs were detected on an ultrasound scan at the initial visit, facilitating optimal minimally invasive surgical management, reducing the risk of blood transfusion and oophorectomy. Our findings can be used as a reference for clinicians who may not otherwise encounter this rare condition. © 2023 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Infant outcome at 3 years of age of monochorionic twins with Type‐II or ‐III selective fetal growth restriction and isolated oligohydramnios that underwent fetoscopic laser photocoagulation
Authors: Yamamoto R. , Ozawa K. , Wada S. , Sago H. , Nagasaki S. , Takano M. , Nakata M. , Nozaki M. , Ishii K. ,   Collaborators
Published: November 2023

Objective

To examine infant outcomes at 3 years of age in monochorionic twin pregnancies with Type‐II or ‐III selective fetal growth restriction (sFGR) and isolated oligohydramnios who underwent fetoscopic laser photocoagulation (FLP).

Methods

This multicenter prospective cohort study included monochorionic diamniotic twins that underwent FLP for sFGR between 16 and 25 weeks' gestation. The indication for performing FLP was Type‐II or ‐III sFGR with oligohydramnios of the growth‐restricted (FGR) twin in which the maximum vertical pocket of amniotic fluid was ≤ 2 cm. This was done in the absence of a typical diagnosis of twin–twin transfusion syndrome. The primary outcome was intact survival rate of both infants at the corrected gestational age of 40 weeks and at 3 years of age. Intact survival at the corrected age of 40 weeks was defined as survival without Grade‐III or ‐IV intraventricular hemorrhage or cystic periventricular leukomalacia. Intact survival at 3 years of age was defined as survival without neurodevelopmental morbidity, which included cerebral palsy, neurodevelopmental impairment with a total developmental quotient of < 70, bilateral deafness or bilateral blindness.

Results

Among 45 patients with sFGR, 30 (66.7%) were classified as having Type‐II and 15 (33.3%) as Type‐III sFGR. The prevalence of intact survival at the corrected age of 40 weeks was 51.1% (n = 23) in FGR twins and 95.5% (n = 42) in larger twins. The prevalence of intact survival at 3 years of age was 46.7% (n = 21) in FGR twins and 86.4% (n = 38) in larger twins. There was one case of miscarriage. Among the 24 FGR twins who were not classified as having intact survival at 3 years of age, 22 (91.7%) cases suffered fetal or infant demise (other than miscarriage), and there was one case of neurodevelopmental impairment. All larger twins who were not diagnosed with intact survival at 3 years of age (n = 6 (13.6%)) had neurological morbidity.

Conclusions

FGR twins and their larger cotwins, when subjected to FLP owing to sFGR coupled with umbilical artery Doppler abnormalities and isolated oligohydramnios, exhibit low rates of neurological morbidity and low mortality, respectively. Therefore, FLP for Type‐II or ‐III sFGR with oligohydramnios may be a feasible management option and one that is preferable to expectant management. © 2023 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Universality and Interdependence in Transnational Education Governance
Authors: Grek Sotiria
Published: November 2023

This chapter will discuss the apparent move away from the specificity of the context of application to the universality and interdependence of global education metrics: instead of the production of contextual knowledge, quantification in transnational governance has led to the production of expertise that is thoroughly standardised, de-contextualised, interdependent and even, as we shall see—at times—universal. The chapter will focus on two empirical examples of international organisations that saw their status as knowledge producers and expert brokers rise over the last 20 years: these are the OECD, and its collaboration with the European Commission, as well as the UNESCO Institute of Statistics with its coordination of the SDG4. Through an analytical account of these organisations’ key measurement exercises, the chapter will chart two key developments towards the production of decontextualised governing knowledge: these are the rise of interdependence of IOs in the production of expertise; secondly, the production of universal narratives of education progress and unity. Through concrete empirical examples, the chapter will show how the production of new global expert knowledge does not only contribute to performance measurement; rather, through discourse analysis of a range of policy documents as well as interviews with key policy actors, the chapter will show that monitoring frameworks, such as the Sustainable Development Goals, have the ambition and scope to construct universal knowledge to guide governance globally.
Constructing Consensus by Data
Authors: Grek Sotiria
Published: November 2023

Through a sociological analysis of the actors that have become central to transnational governance over the last 50 years, the chapter focuses on the processes that influence and steer the production of expert knowledge. The chapter adopts the position that its construction is not ‘organic’—the product of traditional knowledge-making as it became dominant from the Enlightenment onwards—but rather the outcome of complex undertakings that often imbricate a wide variety of actors—both national and international, including decision-makers—and different fields. The chapter builds on the shift from Mode 1 to Mode 2 knowledge production (Gibbons et al. in The new production of knowledge: The dynamics of science and research in contemporary societies. Sage, 1994) in order to document further changes to how expert knowledge is produced today: it argues that, at least in the field of global public policy, we see concerted efforts to produce expert knowledge that focuses equally on technocratic and political accountability and that sees brokerage and consensus-making as the ultimate goals in an increasingly polarised and uncertain post-pandemic world.
Präklinisches Loading bei Patienten mit akutem Thoraxschmerz und akutem Koronarsyndrom – PRELOAD-Umfrage
Authors: Macherey-Meyer Sascha , Braumann Simon , Heyne Sebastian , Meertens Max Maria , Tichelbäcker Tobias , Baldus Stephan , Lee Samuel , Adler Christoph
Published: November 2023

Hintergrund

Leitlinien zum Myokardinfarkt (MI) empfehlen eine blutverdünnende Therapie zum Diagnosezeitpunkt. Während der MI mit ST-Streckenhebung (STEMI) präklinisch sicher detektiert werden kann, ist das akute Koronarsyndrom ohne ST-Streckenhebung (NSTE-ACS) eine Arbeitsdiagnose.

Zielsetzung

Erfassung von präklinischem Loading mit Acetylsalicylsäure (ASS) und Heparin stratifiziert nach ACS-Entität und in Abhängigkeit von oraler Antikoagulation.

Methoden

Die PRELOAD-Studie wurde als deutschlandweite Online-Umfrage durchgeführt. STEMI/NSTE-ACS-Szenarien wurden mit folgender Variation präsentiert: I) ohne Vorbehandlung, II) Vorbehandlung mit neuem oralem Antikoagulan (NOAK), Vorbehandlung mit Vitamin-K-Antagonist (VKA). Loading-Strategien wurden erhoben und umfassten: a) ASS, b) unfraktioniertes Heparin (UFH), c) ASS + UFH, d) kein Loading.

Ergebnisse

In die Studie wurden 708 Notfallmediziner*innen eingeschlossen. Beim NSTE-ACS ohne Vorbehandlung entschieden sich 79 % für ein Loading (p < 0,001). ASS + UFH (71,4 %) war die häufigste Antwort. Beim STEMI entschlossen sich 100 % zum Loading, wobei 98,6 % ASS + UFH wählten. Beim NSTE-ACS mit NOAK-Vorbehandlung wählten 69,8 % Loading (p < 0,001). Eine VKA-Einnahme führte in 72,3 % der Fälle zum Loading (p < 0,001). ASS gefolgt von ASS + UFH waren die häufigsten Antworten. Beim STEMI war eine NOAK- bzw. VKA-Behandlung in 97,5 bzw. 96,8 % der Fälle mit einer Loading-Entscheidung verbunden (p < 0,001) – vermehrt wurde eine ASS-Monotherapie eingesetzt.

Schlussfolgerungen

Präklinisches Loading ist die präferierte Behandlungsstrategie, obwohl beim NSTE-ACS die Leitlinien eine Antikoagulation erst zum Zeitpunkt der Diagnose empfehlen. Im Fall vorbestehender oraler Antikoagulation wird präklinisches Loading gehäuft in Form einer ASS-Monotherapie durchgeführt. Beim STEMI mit Notwendigkeit der sofortigen invasiven Strategie bedeutet dies eine potenzielle Unterversorgung.
Thermal analysis of a novel solar collector coupled in series and parallel connection based on honey-comb conjecture
Authors: Palacios Angélica , Amaya Darío , Ramos Olga , Vega Adriana
Published: November 2023

A potential solution to environmental problems associated to the use of fossil fuels and the exploitation of natural resources for energy production is the development of renewable energies with greater capacity, adaptability and integration, as well as their use for the improvement of this systems. Researchers turned their attention to biological and natural processes such as honeycombs at a structural level to increase the mechanical properties of various technologies. This investigation shows the results of the thermal analysis of a novel solar collector designed based on a Honey-Comb conjecture studied under different connections. Several structures were proposed considering a serial and parallel connections. Each one was designed and simulated in SolidWorks® software Flow Simulation. The study considers different boundary conditions as mass flow and solar radiation on the surface of the collectors. In the analysis, the maximum temperature was achieved at the highest solar radiation of 1050 $$W/{m}^{2}$$

W
/

m

2

and the lowest flow mass of 0.052 kg/s. On the other hand, the peak performance of the heat thermal parameter in the whole study was achieved at solar radiation of 1050 $$W/{m}^{2}$$

W
/

m

2

and the maximum mass flow of 0.17 kg/s. A honey-comb structure conformed by three collectors (AC1) shows an increase of around 187%, against a single collector (A0), comparing the other structures two collectors in series (AS1) and two collectors in parallel (AP1) connections the total increase in the useful heat obtained with AC1 was 52% and 49% respectively.
The role of partially consumed acorn remains in scatter hoards and their implications in oak colonization
Authors: Del Arco Sergio , Del Arco Jose María
Published: November 2023

Past studies have revealed the benefits of rodent participation in the colonization process of oak species. Certain rodent species (Apodemus sylvaticus and Mus spretus) partially consume acorns, beginning at the basal part and preserving the embryo. Perea et al. (2011) and Yang and Yi (2012) found that during periods of abundance, the remains left after partial consumption continue to be present on the surface and are not transported to caches, given that they are perceived as leftovers. These remains, produced after several visits by the cache owner or by thieving conspecifics, also appear in the caches. If they are perceived as offal, they will not be attacked and may remain in these stores for longer periods, serving as resources for the cache builder. Our objective is to determine whether these remnants are perceived as offal by the rodent generating them or if the remains left by other rodents are considered offal. This is relevant in cases of theft, a common behavior of this species, if the thieving animals reject the remains. The results suggest that foreign remains and the rodents’ own remains are not rejected, but rather, they are consumed in preference to intact acorns. The intact acorns remain in the cache for longer periods and have a greater opportunity to germinate and emerge. Rodents prefer to consume foreign remains first. This may be due to the fact that, in case of shortage, it is considered advantageous to finish the reserves of a potential competitor before depleting one’s own reserves.

Significance statement

Rodents participate in the acorn dissemination process by constructing surface stores (caches). The rodent species studied here partially consumes acorns, beginning with the basal part and preserving the embryo located at the apical end. These partially consumed acorn remains are considered offal and remain in the caches for longer periods, serving as reserves for the rodent. Our objective is to examine whether these acorn remains are viewed as offal by the rodents. We have found that, to the contrary, they are consumed before intact acorns. Intact acorns remain in the caches for longer periods, assuming the role of reserves and taking on a greater capacity to germinate. This species of rodent differentiates between its own remains and those of others, first consuming the foreign offal. Therefore, their own offal remains in the stores for longer periods and may potentially germinate if the embryo is preserved. This behavior has been demonstrated by this rodent species.
Low serum iPTH at the end of surgery is the earliest predictor of postoperative hypocalcemia after total thyroidectomy
Authors: Lalos Alexandros , Wilhelm Alexander , Linke Katja , Taha-Mehlitz Stephanie , Müller Beat , Posabella Alberto , Kern Beatrice
Published: November 2023

Background

The most frequent complication of total thyroidectomy remains hypocalcemia due to low postoperative levels of serum intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH). The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of decreased iPTH at the end of surgery in predicting hypocalcemia. In addition, we examined the percentage decrease of iPTH as potential indicator of hypocalcemia.

Methods

We retrospectively collected the data of patients who underwent total thyroidectomy for benign and malignant diseases at our institution between 2010 and 2022. The iPTH level was measured before and at the end of surgery, and serum calcium levels on the first postoperative day. Demographic, clinical, and biochemical characteristics of patients with low iPTH were compared with patients with normal iPTH levels using ANOVA for continuous variables and χ2-tests for categorical variables. Multivariable logistic regression analysis evaluated the association of iPTH at the end of surgery and the relative reduction of iPTH with postoperative hypocalcemia.

Results

The mean age of the 607 patients in this study was 55.6 years, and the female-to-male ratio was 5:1. Goiter was the most common indication for surgery (N = 382, 62.9%), followed by Graves’ disease (N = 135, 22.2%). The mean preoperative iPTH was 49.0 pg/ml, while the mean postoperative iPTH was 29.3 pg/ml. A total of 197 patients (32.5%) had an iPTH level below normal, 77 patients (39%), had iPTH levels of 10–15.0 pg/ml and 120 patients (61%) of < 10.0 pg/ml at the end of surgery. Among all patients, 124 (20.4%) developed hypocalcemia on the first postoperative day. The mean percentage of decrease of iPTH was highest among patients with iPTH < 10 pg/ml (76.9%, p < 0.01); this group of patients had also the highest rate of postoperative hypocalcemia on day one (45.0% vs. 26.0% vs 12.2%, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Measurement of iPTH at the end of total thyroidectomy predicts patients who are at risk for postoperative hypocalcemia. The combination of low serum iPTH with a decrease in iPTH level of ≥ 50% may improve prediction of hypocalcemia compared to iPTH levels alone allowing for early calcium substitution in these patients at high risk of developing postoperative hypocalcemia.
Heterogeneity of endothelial VE-PTP downstream polarization, Tie2 activation, junctional claudin-5, and permeability in the aorta and vena cava
Authors: Baluk Peter , Shirakura Keisuke , Vestweber Dietmar , McDonald Donald M.
Published: November 2023

Endothelial cells of mammalian blood vessels have multiple levels of heterogeneity along the vascular tree and among different organs. Further heterogeneity results from blood flow turbulence and variations in shear stress. In the aorta, vascular endothelial protein tyrosine phosphatase (VE-PTP), which dephosphorylates tyrosine kinase receptor Tie2 in the plasma membrane, undergoes downstream polarization and endocytosis in endothelial cells exposed to laminar flow and high shear stress. VE-PTP sequestration promotes Tie2 phosphorylation at tyrosine992 and endothelial barrier tightening. The present study characterized the heterogeneity of VE-PTP polarization, Tie2-pY992 and total Tie2, and claudin-5 in anatomically defined regions of endothelial cells in the mouse descending thoracic aorta, where laminar flow is variable and IgG extravasation is patchy. We discovered that VE-PTP and Tie2-pY992 had mosaic patterns, unlike the uniform distribution of total Tie2. Claudin-5 at tight junctions also had a mosaic pattern, whereas VE-cadherin at adherens junctions bordered all endothelial cells. Importantly, the amounts of Tie2-pY992 and claudin-5 in aortic endothelial cells correlated with downstream polarization of VE-PTP. VE-PTP and Tie2-pY992 also had mosaic patterns in the vena cava, but claudin-5 was nearly absent and extravasated IgG was ubiquitous. Correlation of Tie2-pY992 and claudin-5 with VE-PTP polarization supports their collective interaction in the regulation of endothelial barrier function in the aorta, yet differences between the aorta and vena cava indicate additional flow-related determinants of permeability. Together, the results highlight new levels of endothelial cell functional mosaicism in the aorta and vena cava, where blood flow dynamics are well known to be heterogeneous.
Why don’t we trace? A study on the barriers to software traceability in practice
Authors: Ruiz Marcela , Hu Jin Yang , Dalpiaz Fabiano
Published: November 2023

Researchers have proposed numerous tools, methods, and techniques for establishing and maintaining software traceability. Despite its acknowledged importance, researchers argue that traceability is still “a sought-after, yet often elusive quality in software-intensive systems”. We have little evidence regarding how creating, managing, and using traceability links vary depending on factors such as organizational contexts, software development practices, and project types. We conduct an empirical study where software development practitioners express their perception regarding the value of software traceability. Via an online survey, 55 participants provided information related to their current traceability practices and needs. Furthermore, we interviewed 14 practitioners to gain a more in-depth understanding. Our study investigates the effect of two independent variables: the software development paradigm and the type of developed software system. Among the several identified findings, our analysis reveals that, although the traceability costs are an inhibitor for adopting more mature traceability practices, the respondents believe that the expected benefits still outweigh envisioned costs. Traceability is mainly performed manually: not only are automated trace retrieval tools scarce, but their offered automation is not expected to replace human involvement.
Short-term outcomes after open versus robot-assisted repair of ventral hernias: a nationwide database study
Authors: Henriksen N. A. , Helgstrand F. , Jensen K. K.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The robotic platform is widely implemented; however, evidence evaluating outcomes of robotic ventral hernia repair is still lacking. The aim of the study was to evaluate the short-term outcomes after open and robot-assisted repair of primary ventral and incisional hernias.

Methods

Nationwide register-based cohort study with data from the Danish Ventral Hernia Database and the National Danish Patients Registry was from January 1, 2017 to August 22, 2022. Robot-assisted ventral hernia repairs were propensity score matched 1:3 with open repairs according to the confounding variables defect size, Charlson comorbidity index score, and age. Logistic regression analyses were performed for factors associated with length of stay > 2 days, readmission, and reoperation within 90 days.

Results

A total of 528 and 1521 patients underwent robot-assisted and open repair, respectively. The mean length of hospital stay in days was 0.5 versus 2.1 for robot-assisted and open approach, respectively (P < 0.001) and open approach was correlated with risk of length of stay > 2 days (OR 23.25, CI 13.80–39.17, P < 0.001). The incidence of readmission within 90 days of discharge was significantly lower after robot-assisted repair compared to open approach (6.2% vs. 12.1%, P < 0.001). Open approach was independently associated with increased risk of readmission (OR 21.43, CI 13.28–39.17, P = 0.005, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Robot-assisted ventral hernia repair is safe and feasible and associated with shorter length of stay and decreased risk of readmission compared with open ventral hernia repair.
Occupational dualism and intergenerational educational mobility in the rural economy: evidence from China and India
Authors: Emran M. Shahe , Ferreira Francisco H. G. , Jiang Yajing , Sun Yan
Published: November 2023

We extend the Becker-Tomes model to a rural economy with farm-nonfarm occupational dualism to study intergenerational educational mobility in rural China and India. Using data free of coresidency bias, we find that fathers’ nonfarm occupation and education were complementary in determining sons schooling in India, but separable in China. Sons faced lower mobility in India irrespective of fathers’ occupation. Sensitivity analysis using the Altonji et al. (J. Polit. Econ. 113(1), 151–84, 2005) approach suggests that genetic correlations alone could explain the intergenerational persistence in China, but not in India. Farm-nonfarm differences in returns to education, and geographic mobility are plausible mechanisms behind the contrasting cross-country evidence.
High variability and exceptionally low thermal conductivities in nearshore sediments: a case study from the Eckernförde Bay
Authors: Usbeck Regina , Dillon M. , Kaul N. , Lohrberg A. , Nehring F. , Ploetz A. C.
Published: November 2023

Heat flow measurements are a standard technique in Geophysics both onshore and offshore. Recently, such measurements became increasingly important in shallow waters. The increasing amount of offshore power installations makes it necessary to have a good knowledge about the subsurface heat flow and the thermal properties of the sediments to optimize the construction of the necessary powerlines. While the thermal properties are well studied for deep ocean sediments, only few published data exist for nearshore sediments. In this study, we investigate the sediment temperatures and thermal conductivities of nearshore sediments in the German part of the Baltic Sea. The shallow sediment temperatures reflect the interplay of the response to the seasonal cycle in connection with the sediments’ thermal conductivity. We find thermal conductivity values ranging from 0.67 to 3.34 W/(m*K) for the sediments down to ~ 4.2 m below seafloor. This variability exceeds that of conservative estimates widely used for coastal sediments and is also much higher than the variability found in the deep oceans. Sandy sediments show thermal conductivities larger than 1 W/(m*K) whereas organic-rich muds have lower values (< 1 W/(m*K)). Furthermore, the thermal conductivities seem to decrease with increasing free gas content in the sediment. The latter needs to be confirmed by further investigations.
An assessment of long-term and large-scale wetlands change dynamics in the Limpopo transboundary river basin using cloud-based Earth observation data
Authors: Gxokwe Siyamthanda , Dube Timothy , Mazvimavi Dominic
Published: November 2023

Significant progress has been made in monitoring and assessing the effects of land use and land cover (LULC) changes on wetland extent. However, our understanding of wetland within the transboundary basins has been limited by the scarcity of available data on their dynamic changes over time. This study aimed to address this gap by analyzing the long-term and large-scale spatio-temporal extent of wetland in the Limpopo transboundary river basin (LTRB) over a 20-year period (2000–2020). To achieve this, we utilized the Google Earth Engine (GEE) cloud-computing platform and various remotely sensed data. The study had two primary objectives; (1) to examine LULC changes over time using machine learning algorithms applied to multisource remotely sensed data in GEE, and (2) to assess the relationship between LULC changes and the extent of wetlands in the basin. A total of nine land cover classes were identified, including shrublands, croplands, bare-surface, wetlands, sparse vegetation, tree cover, built-up areas, and grasslands. Shrublands covered 76–82% of the LTRB. On the other hand, wetlands and sparse vegetation were the least dominant, with proportions ranging from 0.3 to 2%. The overall accuracy of the classification results was within acceptable ranges, ranging from 77 to 78%. The study further revealed a continuing decline in wetlands extent and sparse vegetation, with average rates of 19% and 44%, respectively. Conversely, shrublands, croplands, and tree cover showed an increase, with average rates of 0.4% and 12.4% respectively. A significant finding was the replacement of a substantial portion (40%) of wetland areas with built-up areas, indicating that urban expansion is a major driver of wetland shrinkage in the study area. These results provide valuable insights into the declining extent of wetlands in the LTRB. Such findings are crucial for environmental management efforts, as they provide information on which wetlands should be prioritized when implementing strategies to prevent the negative impacts of LULC changes on wetlands in the area. Therefore, contributing towards achieving sustainable development goals relating to freshwater ecosystems protection and management.
Monitoring microplastics in coastal waters of a biosphere reserve: a case study in Menorca (Spain)
Authors: Alomar Carme , Rios-Fuster Beatriz , Cefalì Maria Elena , Fagiano Valentina , Deudero Salud
Published: November 2023

This study provides with evidence of the presence of sea surface microplastics in a UNESCO marine biosphere reserve: the island of Menorca in the north-western Mediterranean Sea. From a total of 90 samples, in 100% of the samples, microplastics were observed with a mean value of 0.18 ± 0.01 items/m2. According to data, no significant differences were observed for sampling period with very similar values between 2021 (0.17 ± 0.02 items/m2) and 2022 (0.18 ± 0.02 items/m2). However, significant differences were observed regarding sampling area (both site and locality) suggesting that sea surface plastics in the study area might be more dependent of the spatial scale rather than on the temporal scale. Fibre type microplastics predominated over fragments, films, pellets, and foams, but in the commercial Port de Maó, almost 50% of the identified items were foams which could be related to the transportation of packed goods to this port. Results from the model applied to study the relation between waste management indicators and microplastic abundance indicate that when considering all marine litter categories, the explanatory variables are plastic waste generated by residents population (tonnes/year/km2) and waste collection rate (%), whereas if only plastics are considered, the indicator regarding waste per capita (kg/hab/year) is also included. Data in this study is obtained through a harmonized protocol which can be used to define baseline and threshold values to evaluate good environmental status regarding descriptor 10 of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive.
Biogenic ZnO/CuO/Fe2O3 Nanocomposite: A Groundbreaking Approach for Enhanced Degradation Capabilities and Reusability in Dye Removal Applications
Authors: Serouti Abdelghani , Eddine Laouini Salah , Meneceur Souhaila , Hasan Gamil Gamal , Mohammed Hamdi Ali , Salmi Chaima , Iman Kir , Ferhat Mohammed Fouad , Ali Ouarda Ben , Abdullah Johar Amin Ahmed
Published: November 2023

We present the successful synthesis of a biogenic ZnO/CuO/Fe2O3 nanocomposite using an aqueous leaf extract of Ocimum Basilicum L. The confirmation of biosynthesis was achieved through UV–Visible spectrophotometry (UV–Vis), which provided evidence of ZnO/CuO/Fe2O3 NC formation. Scanning Electron Microscopy further confirmed the nanoscale size of the NC, measuring at 65 nm. X-Ray Diffraction analysis revealed a hexagonal structure for ZnO and a monoclinic structure for CuO. The successful synthesis of the environmentally friendly ZnO/CuO/Fe2O3 NC was further verified using Fourier transformed infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, which identified the functional groups present in the composite. Notably, the ZnO/CuO/Fe2O3 NC demonstrated exceptional degradation capabilities for toluidine blue (TB), p-toluidine (PT), and m-Toluidine (MT), with degradation rates of 99%, 99.1%, and 99.7%, respectively, within a reaction time of 120 min. The reaction kinetics followed a pseudo-first order model, with rate constant (k) values of 0.0314 min−1 and 0.0189 min−1 for TB and PT, respectively. This high rate of dye degradation can be attributed to the low band gap of the NC, which was determined to be 1.44 eV for the indirect bandgap. Furthermore, the nanocomposite exhibited excellent degradation reusability, maintaining a high degradation rate in each cycle.
A multi-disciplinary approach for trap identification in the Southern Meleiha Area, North Western Desert, Egypt: integrating seismic, well log, and fault seal analysis
Authors: El-Qalamoshy Taha Rabea , Abdel-Fattah Mohamed I. , Reda Mohamed , Abdelhafeez Tharwat H. , Azzam Salah Shebl Saleh , Mosaad Mohamed
Published: November 2023

The southern Meleiha concession, situated within the development encouragement areas of the Agiba Petroleum Company between Matrouh Basin and Shushan basin, spans approximately 700 km2. This study examined late Cretaceous strata to improve trap identification in the Bahariya, Alamein Dolomite, and Alam El Bueib Members. This required a thorough study of 33 seismic lines and five well log records. Our investigations revealed the presence of hydrocarbons in the deep, mid, and shallow target zones, underscoring the significant potential of the Khatatba-Ras Qattara and Bahariya layers. The net pay thicknesses observed ranged from 12 to 43 feet, while effective porosity values fluctuated between 10 and 18%. Water saturation varied from 10 to 98%, while hydrocarbon saturation varied from 48 to 90%. Seismic interpretation revealed abundant normal faults in the study area, and our maps showed structural closures, including three-way and four-way dip closures, influenced by these faults. The shallowness of the Bahariya layer, coupled with Shally Sand facies intercalations in the upper target, makes it particularly susceptible to fault leakage, necessitating careful consideration when selecting drilling locations. Notably, the western half of our investigation area exhibited more Alam El Bueib Member net pay zones compared to the eastern and south-eastern regions. The geological structure of the deep-target Khatatba-Ras Qattara is of particular interest, revealing a total of 37 potential leads across all levels. These leads encompass destinations like Bahariya, Alam El-Bueib, and Khatatba formations, some of which may have dual targets, while others may focus on a single objective.
Inclusion Properties of the Triangular Ratio Metric Balls
Authors: Rainio Oona
Published: November 2023

Inclusion properties are studied for balls of the triangular ratio metric, the hyperbolic metric, the $$j^*$$

j
∗

-metric, and the distance ratio metric defined in the unit ball domain. Several sharp results are proven and a conjecture about the relation between triangular ratio metric balls and hyperbolic balls is given. An algorithm is also built for drawing triangular ratio circles or three-dimensional spheres.
Life Cycle Assessment as a Decision Tool in Material Development—Experiences from a Multi-year Carbon Fibre Composite Development Project
Authors: Hermansson Frida , Janssen Matty , Svanström Magdalena
Published: November 2023

This paper describes what type of advice life cycle assessment can provide in different parts of a material development project. Based on experiences from a multi-year research project aiming to decrease the environmental impacts of carbon fibre composites, we aim to show and discuss what type of input we could provide the material developers at different times. The goal is to guide life cycle assessment practitioners and material developers on what role life cycle assessment can play in various project parts. Cradle-to-gate data collected at different points in time throughout the project are compiled and recalculated to the same functional unit. Assessment results from all stages clearly show that even if the carbon fibres constitute a minor share of the composite, they are the environmental hotspot with considerable potential for improvements. Depending on the timing of the project, advice ranges from being careful with the source of nitrogen in the production process to using microwave heating in carbon fibre production. We recommend material developers to include life cycle assessment as early as possible in the project. We also recommend life cycle assessment practitioners continuously work with material developers in updating the models and inventory. Additionally, we recommend that life cycle assessment practitioners add more details to the assessment and expand the study’s foreground system as the project progresses. This could be done in combination with assessing the technology readiness level of the routes. By doing so, the life cycle assessment practitioner can provide material developers insight into potential routes worth developing. It also identifies the lowest-hanging fruits for reducing the materials’ environmental impact.

Graphical Abstract
Allene oxide synthase 1 contributes to limiting grain arsenic accumulation and seedling detoxification in rice
Authors: Fan Xin , Tang Haiyang , Chen Xuan , Zeng Fanrong , Chen Guang , Chen Zhong-Hua , Qin Yuan , Deng Fenglin
Published: November 2023

Arsenic (As) is a cancerogenic metalloid ubiquitously distributed in the environment, which can be easily accumulated in food crops like rice. Jasmonic acid (JA) and its derivatives play critical roles in plant growth and stress response. However, the role of endogenous JA in As accumulation and detoxification is still poorly understood. In this study, we found that JA biosynthesis enzymes Allene Oxide Synthases, OsAOS1 and OsAOS2, regulate As accumulation and As tolerance in rice. Evolutionary bioinformatic analysis indicated that AOS1 and AOS2 have evolved from streptophyte algae (e.g. the basal lineage Klebsormidium flaccidum) – sister clade of land plants. Compared to other two AOSs, OsAOS1 and OsAOS2 were highly expressed in all examined rice tissues and their transcripts were highly induced by As in root and shoot. Loss-of-function of OsAOS1 (osaos1–1) showed elevated As concentration in grains, which was likely attributed to the increased As translocation from root to shoot when the plants were subjected to arsenate [As(V)] but not arsenite [As (III)]. However, the mutation of OsAOS2 (osaos2–1) showed no such effect. Moreover, osaos1–1 and osaos2–1 increased the sensitivity of rice plants to both As(V) and As(III). Disrupted expression of genes involved in As accumulation and detoxification, such as OsPT4, OsNIP3;2, and OsOASTL-A1, was observed in both osaos1–1 and osaos2–1 mutant lines. In addition, a As(V)-induced significant decrease in Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) production was observed in the root of osaos1–1 but not in osaos2–1. Taken together, our results indicate OsAOS1 modulates both As allocation and detoxification, which could be partially attributed to the altered gene expression profiling and ROS homeostasis in rice while OsAOS2 is important for As tolerance.
Combinatorial Alloy Design and Microstructure Evolution in Laser-cladded Al–Co–Cr–Fe–Ni–Ti Compositionally Complex Alloys
Authors: Kaspar J. , Hilhorst A. , Gerdt L. , Müller M. , Heidowitzsch M. , Kuczyk M. , Bettanini A. M. , Jacques P. J. , Zimmermann M. , Leyens C.
Published: November 2023

In this work, we propose a strategy for high-throughput design and development of compositionally complex alloys combining theoretical and experimental alloy screening. This methodology was applied for the exploration of the (Co2CrFeNi2)1-x-yTixAly subsystem of so-called high entropy superalloys in the Al–Co–Cr–Fe–Ni–Ti alloy system. Alloy design was guided by thermodynamic calculations based on the CALPHAD approach. The evolution of the microstructure with increasing Al and Ti content was analyzed in the as-built, homogenized and age-hardened conditions by means of scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and electron backscattered diffraction. Additionally, the evolution of the sample hardness with increasing Al and Ti contents was determined for all conditions. Based on the experimental results, the reliability of the CALPHAD calculations was assessed. Generally, a good agreement between calculations and experiments is achieved in the homogenized state. In the aged conditions, the CALPHAD predictions of the precipitation processes are partly inaccurate and need improvement. Optimal Al and Ti concentrations are derived for age hardening through L12 and combined L12 + B2 precipitations.
Genome-wide characterization of the tomato UDP-glycosyltransferase gene family and functional identification of SlUDPGT52 in drought tolerance
Authors: Qiu Ling , Chen Xingyu , Hou Huifang , Fan Yuxuan , Wang Lulu , Zeng Haiyue , Chen Xueting , Ding Yin , Hu Xiaomeng , Yan Qingxia , Ma Huihui , Li Jinhua
Published: November 2023

Abiotic stresses are major factors constraining the growth, development and productivity of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), the most cultivated vegetable crop worldwide. Uridine diphosphate glycosyltransferases (UDPGTs or UGTs) are essential enzymes that utilize 5-uridine diphosphate as a glycosyl donor molecule to facilitate the catalysis of glycosylation reactions across diverse substrates, thereby playing a pivotal role in conferring abiotic stress tolerance. Currently, there is a limited understanding of the structure and functions of the UDPGT gene family in tomato. In this work, 106 members of the SlUDPGT gene family were identified through in silico analysis, besides, their protein sequence properties, phylogenetic relationships, gene structure, chromosomal distribution, cis-acting elements, tissue expression and hormone- and stress-induced expression were comprehensively investigated. The expression of representative SlUDPGTs under abiotic stress and exogenous hormone treatments, including salt, polyethylene glycol, methyl viologen, gibberellic acid, jasmonic acid, abscisic acid and brassinolide, was investigated through qRT‒PCR analysis. Numerous cis-acting elements linked to stress and hormone signaling were present in the promoter regions of SlUDPGTs. According to microarray data, most SlUDPGT genes were responsive to hormones and abiotic stresses, while certain SlUDPGTs were specifically differentially expressed under Botrytis cinerea and tomato spotted wilt virus infection. Additionally, diverse expression profiles of SlUDPGTs were observed in various tissues and developmental stages. Furthermore, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of SlUDPGT52 led to enhanced drought tolerance due to enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging. These findings lay the foundations for the future functional characterization of specific UDPGT gene family members, assisting the biotechnology-mediated improvement of tomato and other horticultural crops.
Nano-enabled crop resilience against pathogens: potential, mechanisms and strategies
Authors: Noman Muhammad , Ahmed Temoor , Wang Jiaoyu , Ijaz Munazza , Shahid Muhammad , Islam Mohammad Shafiqul , Azizullah  , Manzoor Irfan , Li Dayong , Song Fengming
Published: November 2023

Nanoparticles (NPs) have emerged as a revolutionary strategy in the field of agriculture, offering innovative solutions for enhancing plant health, disease management, and sustainable crop production. This review summarizes the multifaceted roles of NPs, synthesized chemically and biologically, in crop disease management, encompassing the NP modulation of plant immunity against pathogens, mechanisms of NP uptake, and potential applications in disease control. The integration of NPs as delivery vehicles for bioactive molecules, enabling targeted delivery of nutrients, hormones, RNA interference molecules, and chemical protectants for growth regulation and disease management, is also discussed in detail. The review also critically examines the safety and environmental considerations associated with the potential application of NPs in the agriculture sector, including environmental toxicity, fate, and risks. Future perspectives encompass precision agriculture, eco-friendly disease management, unraveling intricate plant-NP interactions, and the necessity for responsible innovation. At the nexus of nanotechnology and agriculture, this review underscores the transformative potential of NPs in revolutionizing plant health and crop disease management, while highlighting the importance of responsible application to ensure sustainable and resilient agricultural systems.
Army style, we marched: War and peace in the cross-carrying pilgrimages to Vézelay and Walsingham, 1946-1948
Authors: Hurlock Kathryn
Published: November 2023

This article analyses the cross-carrying pilgrimages to Vézelay and Walsingham, staged between 1946 and 1948. These were aimed at achieving peace, penance, and reconciliation at a time when communism was on the rise, there were fears that war would return, and the nuclear threat was real. Encompassing several contingents (or Stations), these religious post-war Catholic pilgrimages stand in contrast to the ‘secular’ pilgrimages to battlefields and cemeteries after 1918. Yet they retained a strong military element because of the substantial involvement of veterans, and their organisation, leadership and articulation. This article argues that the pilgrimages gave veteran pilgrims a chance to continue their service in the form of direct spiritual action, utilising their wartime experiences in the context of pilgrimage in order to conduct these physically challenging journeys. It will also explore the wider aims of atoning for wartime actions, and the ways in which the pilgrims were received by the communities they passed through. Whilst ultimately unsustainable due to their novelty and complexity, they laid a foundation for military-penitential pilgrimages, provided an outlet for spiritual and worldly concerns, and presented Catholics (especially in Britain) in a positive light in the years immediately after the Second World War.
Interfacial flow around a pusher bacterium
Authors: Deng Jiayi , Molaei Mehdi , Chisholm Nicholas G. , Stebe Kathleen J.
Published: November 2023

Motile bacteria play essential roles in biology that rely on their dynamic behaviours, including their ability to navigate, interact and self-organize. However, bacteria dynamics on fluid interfaces are not well understood. Swimmers adsorbed on fluid interfaces remain highly motile, and fluid interfaces are highly non-ideal domains that alter swimming behaviour. To understand these effects, we study flow fields generated by Pseudomonas aeruginosa PA01 in the pusher mode. Analysis of correlated displacements of tracers and bacteria reveals dipolar flow fields with unexpected asymmetries that differ significantly from their counterparts in bulk fluids. We decompose the flow field into fundamental hydrodynamic modes for swimmers in incompressible fluid interfaces. We find an expected force-doublet mode corresponding to propulsion and drag at the interface plane, and a second dipolar mode, associated with forces exerted by the flagellum on the cell body in the aqueous phase that are countered by Marangoni stresses in the interface. The balance of these modes depends on the bacteria's trapped interfacial configurations. Understanding these flows is broadly important in nature and in the design of biomimetic swimmers.
A longitudinal study of conversational remembering in WhatsApp group messages before, during, and after COVID-19 lockdown
Authors: Bietti Lucas M. , Mayor Eric
Published: November 2023

Conversational remembering entails that people engage in recalling past experiences, which may themselves have been shared. Conversational remembering comes with social benefits for the person telling the narrative and the one receiving it (e.g., developing and strengthening friendships, fostering entertainment, and consolidating group identity). COVID-19 lockdowns have significantly affected social interaction, including face-to-face interactions where conversational remembering occurs. The aim of this study was to explore how WhatsApp group messages supported conversational remembering in a large group of friends living in Buenos Aires where a complete lockdown was established between 19 March 2020 and 6 November 2020. To accomplish such aim, we conducted a mixed-methods longitudinal study. The data consisted of 32,810 WhatsApp group messages collected over a period of 700 consecutive days, from 13 April 2019 to 13 March 2021. Our study shows that WhatsApp group messages enabled group members to keep connected during the COVID-19 lockdown period. This occurred by remembering together situations, events, and actions associated with the group's identity. The use of WhatsApp group messages may have represented an adaptive collective behaviour in response to changes in global social norms.
Partitions with parts separated by parity: conjugation, congruences and the mock theta functions
Authors: Fu Shishuo , Tang Dazhao
Published: November 2023

Noting a curious link between Andrews’ even-odd crank and the Stanley rank, we adopt a combinatorial approach building on the map of conjugation and continue the study of integer partitions with parts separated by parity. Our motivation is twofold. Firstly, we derive results for certain restricted partitions with even parts below odd parts. These include a Franklin-type involution proving a parametrized identity that generalizes Andrews’ bivariate generating function, and two families of Andrews–Beck type congruences. Secondly, we introduce several new subsets of partitions that are stable (i.e. invariant under conjugation) and explore their connections with three third-order mock theta functions$\omega (q)$,$\nu (q)$, and$\psi ^{(3)}(q)$, introduced by Ramanujan and Watson.