bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adult Mosquito and Butterfly Exposure to Permethrin and Relative Risk Following ULV Sprays from a Truck-Mounted Sprayer
Authors: Bargar Timothy A. , Jiang Yongxing
Published: December 2023

Ground applications of adulticides via a specialized truck-mounted sprayer are one of the most common practices for control of flying adult mosquitoes. Aerosols released to drift through a targeted area persist in the air column to contact and kill flying mosquitoes, but may also drift into adjacent areas not targeted by the applications where it may affect nontarget insects such as imperiled butterflies. This study compared the risk of permethrin to adult mosquitoes and adult butterflies to assess the likelihood that the butterflies would be affected following such sprays. Permethrin toxicity values were determined for Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus (LD50s of 81.1 and 166.3 ng/g dw, respectively) and then combined with published toxicity data in a species sensitivity distribution for comparison with published permethrin toxicity data for adult butterflies. The sensitivity distributions indicated adult butterflies and mosquitoes are similarly sensitive, meaning relative risk would be a function of exposure. Exposure of adult butterflies and adult mosquitoes to permethrin was measured following their exposure to ULV sprays in an open field. Average permethrin concentrations on adult mosquitoes (912–38,061 ng/g dw) were typically an order of magnitude greater than on adult butterflies (110–11,004 ng/g dw) following each spray, indicating lower risk for butterflies relative to mosquitoes. Despite lower estimated risk, 100% mortality of adult butterflies occurred following some of the sprays. Additional studies could help understand exposure and risk for butterflies in densely vegetated habitats typical near areas treated by ULV sprays.
Time-domain modeling of interband transitions in plasmonic systems
Authors: Pfeifer Max , Huynh Dan-Nha , Wegner Gino , Intravaia Francesco , Peschel Ulf , Busch Kurt
Published: December 2023

Efficient modeling of dispersive materials via time-domain simulations of the Maxwell equations relies on the technique of auxiliary differential equations. In this approach, a material’s frequency-dependent permittivity is represented via a sum of rational functions, e.g., Lorentz poles, and the associated free parameters are determined by fitting to experimental data. In the present work, we present a modified approach for plasmonic materials that requires considerably fewer fit parameters than traditional approaches. Specifically, we consider the underlying microscopic theory and, in the frequency domain, separate the hydrodynamic contributions of the quasi-free electrons in partially filled bands from the interband transitions. As an illustration, we apply our approach to gold and demonstrate how to treat the interband transitions within the effective model via connecting to the underlying electronic band structure, thereby assigning physical meaning to the remaining fit parameters. Finally, we show how to utilize this approach within the technique of auxiliary differential equations. Our approach can be extended to other plasmonic materials and leads to efficient time-domain simulations of plasmonic structures for frequency ranges where interband transitions have to be considered.
Areal bone mineral density is not associated with femoral stem subsidence in patients younger than 70 years undergoing total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Rolvien Tim , Thiessen Maximilian Lenard , Boese Christoph Kolja , Bechler Ulrich , Strahl André , Beil Frank Timo , Ries Christian
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Femoral stem subsidence is a known complication after uncemented total hip arthroplasty (THA). The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency of osteoporosis and to investigate the relationship between areal bone mineral density (aBMD) and subsidence in a cohort of patients younger than 70 years.

Methods

One hundred consecutive patients (age 60 ± 6 years; 52 female, 48 male) undergoing uncemented THA using a collarless press fit femoral stem were retrospectively reviewed. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was performed preoperatively at the proximal femur and lumbar spine, and if not feasible at these sites, at the distal radius. DXA results were compared to a cohort of 100 patients ≥ 70 years scheduled for cemented THA. Age, sex, and body mass index (BMI), canal flare index (CFI), and canal fill ratio (CFR) were assessed. Analysis of stem subsidence and migration was performed on standardized, calibrated radiographs obtained postoperatively and at follow-up.

Results

The frequency of osteoporosis was considerably lower in the study cohort compared to patients ≥ 70 years (7% vs. 19%, p = 0.02). Illustrated by the high CFR (mean 96 ± 4%) in the mid-stem region, a sufficient press fit was achieved. After a mean follow-up of 7.4 months, the mean stem subsidence was 0.9 ± 0.9 mm. Only two patients had subsidence greater than 3 mm, one of whom was morbidly obese and the other diagnosed with severe osteoporosis. There were no correlations between any of the parameters (CFI, CFR, age, sex, BMI) and femoral stem subsidence. In addition, aBMD T-scores showed no correlations with subsidence.

Conclusion

aBMD by DXA does not appear to be associated with stem subsidence in patients younger than 70 years and with adequate press fit.
Myocardial function using two dimension speckle-tracking echocardiography in children with celiac disease
Authors: El Amrousy Doaa , Elshehaby Walid , Elsharaby Radwa , Badr Shaimaa , Hamza Mohamed , Elbarky Amany
Published: December 2023

The prevalence of cardiac complications linked to celiac disease (CD) is on expanding. This study aimed to evaluate the cardiac function in children with CD using two dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE) to detect early myocardial dysfunction, if any. This cross-sectional study included 40 children with CD as the patient group and 40 healthy age- and sex-matched children served as the control group. High sensitive troponin T (Hs-troponin T), anti-tissue transglutaminase immunoglobulin A (tTG-IgA), hemoglobin, ferritin, albumin, and vitamin D levels were measured in all participants. Conventional, tissue Doppler imaging (TDI), and 2D-STE were performed for all included children. Conventional echocardiographic parameters showed no significant difference between the two groups. Left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LV GLS) obtained by 2D-STE was substantially lower in children with CD than the control group; however, myocardial performance index (MPI) obtained by TDI was significantly higher in children with CD. Hs-troponin T levels were comparable in both groups. LV GLS was positively correlated with hemoglobin, ferritin, and albumin level, but it was inversely correlated with the duration of the disease and anti tTG-IgA.

    Conclusion: 2D-STE can detect subclinical early cardiac dysfunction in children with CD and this cardiac injury correlated to the duration and severity of the disease and some nutritional deficiency in these children.What is Known:• The prevalence of cardiac complications linked to celiac disease (CD) is on expanding.• Only one study evaluated cardiac function in children with CD using two dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE).What is New:• Our study found that 2D-STE can detect early subclinical cardiac dysfunction in children with CD. Cardiac injury in theses children correlated to the duration and severity of the disease, hemglobin, ferritin, and albumin levels.
Advanced optimization models for the location of charging stations in e-mobility
Authors: Staněk Rostislav , Greistorfer Peter , Kastner Anna Elisabeth
Published: December 2023

For a reduction in environmental pollution and dependency on petroleum, electric vehicles (EV) present an advantageous alternative to traditionally fossil-fuel powered automobiles. Rapid growth in the number of EVs requires an urgent need to develop an adequate charging station infrastructure to stimulate and facilitate their usage. Due to restricted investments in the development of a sufficient infrastructure, locations have to be chosen deliberately. In this paper, two extensions considering different objectives and further constraints to the deterministic flow refuelling location problem (DFRLP), described by Vries and Duijzer (Omega 69:102–114, 2017), are introduced. First, our research shows that location-dependent construction costs significantly influence the charging infrastructure obtained. Tests for different cost scenarios are carried out and policy implications are discussed. The original DFRLP assumes an unlimited capacity, meaning it is always possible to refuel all EVs at all charging stations, where they stop. Hence, for a more realistic modelling, we assume a limited capacity of charging stations in our second extension. Finally, both extensions are evaluated using benchmark instances based on test instances from the literature.
Product Sustainability and Consumer Environmental Awareness in Differentiated Markets
Authors: Hamoudi Hamid , Avilés-Palacios Carmen
Published: December 2023

Sustainable management of natural stock resources can be promoted through state intervention. This study investigates optimal regulatory strategies to mitigate the negative environmental effects of human activities within a duopolistic, differentiated linear market à la Hotelling framework. The analysis is conducted from both a business and a social perspective, aiming to elucidate the role of regulatory interventions, awareness campaigns, and sustainable production characteristics in shaping firm behavior and market outcomes. Under the business perspective, a game-theoretical approach is employed, involving the regulator and two competing firms. The equilibrium in prices and production characteristics is derived, revealing how firms respond to sustainable characteristics and awareness campaigns. In the social perspective, where the regulator has complete control, optimal strategies are determined to maximize social welfare, resulting in reduced differentiation and enhanced sustainability. This study identifies the optimal level of awareness campaign and sustainable characteristic proposed by the regulator. The findings highlight the significance of coordinated regulatory policies and awareness campaigns to induce firms toward more sustainable practices, ultimately contributing to a more ecologically balanced market. The study offers insights for policymakers and practitioners seeking effective strategies to address environmental concerns in differentiated markets, thereby promoting sustainable economic growth and reducing ecological impacts.
The Semmelweis Study: a longitudinal occupational cohort study within the framework of the Semmelweis Caring University Model Program for supporting healthy aging
Authors: Ungvari Zoltan , Tabák Adam G. , Adany Roza , Purebl György , Kaposvári Csilla , Fazekas-Pongor Vince , Csípő Tamás , Szarvas Zsófia , Horváth Krisztián , Mukli Peter , Balog Piroska , Bodizs Robert , Ujma Peter , Stauder Adrienne , Belsky Daniel W. , Kovács Illés , Yabluchanskiy Andriy , Maier Andrea B. , Moizs Mariann , Östlin Piroska , Yon Yongjie , Varga Péter , Vokó Zoltán , Papp Magor , Takács István , Vásárhelyi Barna , Torzsa Péter , Ferdinandy Péter , Csiszar Anna , Benyó Zoltán , Szabó Attila J. , Dörnyei Gabriella , Kivimäki Mika , Kellermayer Miklos , Merkely Bela
Published: December 2023

The Semmelweis Study is a prospective occupational cohort study that seeks to enroll all employees of Semmelweis University (Budapest, Hungary) aged 25 years and older, with a population of 8866 people, 70.5% of whom are women. The study builds on the successful experiences of the Whitehall II study and aims to investigate the complex relationships between lifestyle, environmental, and occupational risk factors, and the development and progression of chronic age-associated diseases. An important goal of the Semmelweis Study is to identify groups of people who are aging unsuccessfully and therefore have an increased risk of developing age-associated diseases. To achieve this, the study takes a multidisciplinary approach, collecting economic, social, psychological, cognitive, health, and biological data. The Semmelweis Study comprises a baseline data collection with open healthcare data linkage, followed by repeated data collection waves every 5 years. Data are collected through computer-assisted self-completed questionnaires, followed by a physical health examination, physiological measurements, and the assessment of biomarkers. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Semmelweis Study, including its origin, context, objectives, design, relevance, and expected contributions.
Influence of standard culture conditions and effect of oleoresin from the microalga Haematococcus pluvialis on splenic cells from healthy Balb/c mice — a pilot study
Authors: Jurčacková Zuzana , Ciglanová Denisa , Mudroňová Dagmar , Bárcenas-Pérez Daniela , Cheel José , Hrčková Gabriela
Published: December 2023

In this work, we used splenocytes from healthy mice to study the effects of the two most commonly used cell culture media (A, B) with different compositions of redox reagents. The incubation of cells for 24 h resulted in a significant decrease in viability and metabolic activity of splenocytes, and the negative effects of incubation in medium B were more pronounced. In standard conditions, oxidative stress in cells was manifested by reduced mitochondrial potential, and this effect correlated with the transition of 58.3% of cells to the early stage of apoptosis under reducing conditions of medium A and up to 66.1% of cells under super-reducing conditions in medium B, suggesting altered cell physiology. High levels of ROS/RNS activated transcription factor Nrf2, superoxide dismutase 1, and catalase. The higher mRNA levels of these genes were under the conditions of medium B, whose super-reducing environment in combination with the environment of conventional incubators proved to be less suitable for the cells compared to medium A. Treatment of the cells with a lower concentration (10 µg/ml) of oleoresin obtained from the microalga H. pluvialis partially eliminated the negative effects of cultivation. Higher concentration of oleoresin (40 µg/ml) was slightly cytotoxic, due to the significant antioxidant effect of astaxanthin, the main bioactive component of the extract, which eliminated most of the ROS/RNS acting as signalling molecules. This study shows that the standard culture conditions do not reflect the physiological in vivo cell conditions; therefore, they are not generally suitable for incubation of all cell types.
Evaluation of an application for the self-assessment of lifestyle behaviour in cardiac patients
Authors: Goevaerts Wilhelmina F. , Tenbült—van Limpt Nicole C. C. W. , Lu Yuan , Kop Willem J. , Kemps Hareld M. C. , Brouwers Rutger W. M.
Published: December 2023

Background

Currently, no uniform, well-validated and comprehensive lifestyle behaviour self-assessment instrument exists for patients with cardiovascular disease.

Purpose

To evaluate the usability of a novel mobile application (LifeStyleScore) based on validated instruments for the assessment of cardiovascular risk behaviours. Secondly, the application’s acceptance by healthcare professionals (HCPs) and its association with improved patient activation and lifestyle behaviour was evaluated.

Methods

In this single-centre, non-randomised observational pilot study, patients with coronary artery disease or atrial fibrillation entering cardiac rehabilitation (CR) completed the LifeStyleScore application, the Patient Activation Measure (PAM-13®), and the System Usability Scale (SUS) during the CR intake and after CR completion. A focus group interview was performed with the HCPs involved.

Results

We analysed 20 participants, 3 of whom were women, with a mean age of 61.9 ± 6.7 years. The LifeStyleScore application was rated with a SUS score above average (> 68) before (69.6 ± 13.4) and after CR (68.6 ± 15.1). All HCPs (n = 8) found the application usable. Patient activation did not increase significantly after CR compared with baseline (62.0 ± 8.6 versus 59.2 ± 9.5, respectively, p = 0.28) and only physical activity levels improved significantly (2.4 ± 0.7 (standardised score) at baseline, 2.8 ± 0.4 after CR, p = 0.04).

Conclusion

The LifeStyleScore application was found to be usable for patients receiving CR. Its use did not result in increased patient activation, and of the lifestyle behaviours only physical activity levels improved. Further research is needed to evaluate how such applications can be optimally incorporated in CR programmes.
The Impact of Foreign Trade in the Graduation Process of Asian Least-Developed Countries (LDCs)
Authors: Navarro-Pabsdorf Margarita , Cuenca-Garcia Eduardo , Quiros-Gonzalez Estela
Published: December 2023

The importance of development studies comes from the need to assess and solve economic problems. Graduation from LDC status represents an important milestone in their development path. This research tries to deepen on the relationship between the fulfillment of the “graduation criteria” established by the United Nations and the evolution of the foreign trade indices of a group of Asian LDCs about to graduate (Bangladesh, Bhutan, Laos, Timor-Leste, Nepal, and Myanmar), checking how trade, one of its engines for economic development, has involved during the last years and, specifically, on their way to graduation. First, the characteristics of the LDCs and the criteria to exclude them from the list are analyzed. Second, a set of indices are presented to find out the trade flows throughout the period observed. Finally, conclusions and future lines of research are proposed. The results show that all the countries studied have succeeded in expanding their share in world trade. The high participation of Bangladesh is justified by the size of its economy and its weight within the textile trade. Regarding diversification, all of countries present a highly concentrated pattern of exports and their exchanges are carried out with few countries. This lack of trade diversification places them in a vulnerable position. The relative trade balance index indicates that all of them are competitive with their trading partners in the products analyzed and the six have comparative advantage. To conclude, the analysis confirms that the trade structure of the LDCs considered has improved, but with differences due to their characteristics.
Cox rings of blow-ups of multiprojective spaces
Authors: Bolognesi Michele , Massarenti Alex , Poma Elena
Published: December 2023

Let $$X^{1,n}_r$$

X
r

1
,
n

be the blow-up of $$\mathbb {P}^1\times \mathbb {P}^n$$

P

1

×

P

n

in r general points. We describe the Mori cone of $$X^{1,n}_r$$

X
r

1
,
n

for $$r\le n+2$$

r
≤
n
+
2

and for $$r = n+3$$

r
=
n
+
3

when $$n\le 4$$

n
≤
4

. Furthermore, we prove that $$X^{1,n}_{n+1}$$

X

n
+
1

1
,
n

is log Fano and give an explicit presentation for its Cox ring.
RSV vaccination strategies for high-risk patients 2023: a collaborative position paper by leading German medical societies and organizations
Authors: Addo Marylyn , Cornely Oliver , Denkinger Michael , Ertl Georg , Herold Susanne , Pletz Mathias , Rohde Gernot , Welte Tobias , Windisch Wolfram , Witzenrath Martin
Published: December 2023

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) inflicts severe illness and courses of infections not only in neonates, infants, and young children, but also causes significant morbidity and mortality in older adults and in people with immunosuppression, hemato-oncologic disease, chronic lung disease, or cardiovascular disease. In June and August 2023, effective vaccines against RSV were approved for the first time by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for the EU. The respective pivotal studies showed a very high efficacy of the vaccine in preventing severe RSV-associated respiratory infections. At this point, use of the respective vaccines is restricted to persons aged 60 years or older, according to the registration studies. We therefore recommend use of the vaccination in persons aged 60 years or older. In addition, we recommend use of the vaccination in adults of any age with severe pulmonary or cardiovascular pre-existing conditions, as well as in adults with significant immune compromise, after individual consultation with the treating physician. Cost coverage can be applied for individually with the responsible health insurance company.
A note on the inhomogeneous fractional nonlinear Schrödinger equation
Authors: Saanouni Tarek , Shi Qihong
Published: December 2023

This paper investigates some well-posedness issues of the fractional inhomogeneous Schrödinger equation $$\begin{aligned} i\dot{u}-(-\Delta )^\gamma u=\pm |x|^\rho |u|^{p-1}u, \end{aligned}$$

i

u
˙

-

(
-
Δ
)

γ

u
=
±

|
x
|

ρ

|
u
|

p
-
1

u
,

where $$0<\gamma <1$$

0
<
γ
<
1

and $$\rho <0$$

ρ
<
0

. Here, one considers the inter-critical regime $$0<s_c:=\frac{N}{2}-\frac{2\gamma +\rho }{p-1}<\gamma $$

0
<

s
c

:
=

N
2

-

2
γ
+
ρ

p
-
1

<
γ

, where $$s_c$$

s
c

is the energy critical exponent, which is the only one real number satisfying $$\Vert \kappa ^\frac{2\gamma +\rho }{p-1}u_0(\kappa \cdot )\Vert _{\dot{H}^{s_c}}=\Vert u_0\Vert _{\dot{H}^{s_c}}$$

‖

κ

2
γ
+
ρ

p
-
1

u
0

(
κ
·
)

‖

H
˙

s
c

=

‖

u
0

‖

H
˙

s
c

. In order to avoid a loss of regularity in Strichartz estimates, one assumes that the datum is spherically symmetric. First, using a sharp Gagliardo–Nirenberg-type estimate, one develops a local theory in the space $$\dot{H}^\gamma \cap \dot{H}^{s_c}$$

H
˙

γ

∩

H
˙

s
c

. Then, one investigates the $$L^{\frac{N(p-1)}{\rho +2\gamma }}$$

L

N
(
p
-
1
)

ρ
+
2
γ

concentration of finite-time blow-up solutions bounded in $$\dot{H}^{s_c}$$

H
˙

s
c

. Finally, one proves the existence of non-global solutions with negative energy. Since one considers the homogeneous Sobolev space $$\dot{H}^{s_c}$$

H
˙

s
c

, the main difficulty here is to avoid the mass conservation law.
Robustness evaluation of the damped outrigger structure
Authors: Kavyashree B. G. , Patil Shantharam , Rao Vidya S.
Published: December 2023

Robustness is defined as the insensitivity of the structure to uncertainties like earthquakes, fire, cyclones, explosions, tsunamis, etc. Robustness analysis of Kalman observer with robust controller for damped outrigger structure is studied to analyze its design performance in the presence of various effects like an earthquake. This is a novel innovative study undertaken in evaluating the robustness of the proposed controller to signify its performance in the field of structural control. The damped outrigger structure is modeled using the finite element approach by finding mode shapes, fundamental natural frequency, and period. The Kalman observer is modeled according to the requirement of the structure with the Riccati equation. The robust proportional–integral–derivative controller is designed according to the input disturbance with Ziegler–Nichols ultimate gain approach. The issue of deterioration in the system performance due to saturation was observed during the analytical investigation of the robust proportional–integral–derivative controller with Kalman observer, which has been addressed by the anti-windup approach. The robustness index of the structure is calculated using sensitivity and complementary sensitivity. The maximum amplitude ratio of the sensitivity for viscous damper-controlled structure is 1.4723 and the value decreases for the other controllers, with a minimum value of 1.0 for the proposed anti-windup robust proportional–integral–derivative controller with Kalman observer. Respectively, the percentage overshoot for the uncontrolled case is 23.4% that values decreasing for other controlled cases, with a minimum of 7.8% for proposed anti-windup robust proportional–integral–derivative controller with Kalman observer. This robustness index and performance indices discriminate the significant robust performance of the proposed robust proportional–integral–derivative controller with Kalman observer-based damped outrigger structure in comparison with other controlled and uncontrolled cases.
Short-Answer Grading for German: Addressing the Challenges
Authors: Padó Ulrike , Eryilmaz Yunus , Kirschner Larissa
Published: December 2023

Short-Answer Grading (SAG) is a time-consuming task for teachers that automated SAG models have long promised to make easier. However, there are three challenges for their broad-scale adoption: A technical challenge regarding the need for high-quality models, which is exacerbated for languages with fewer resources than English; a usability challenge in adapting high-quality research prototypes to the needs of non-expert users, and a trust challenge in communicating the abilities and limitations of the tools. We propose to meet the technical challenge for German with a robust Transformer-based SAG model. We address the usability challenge with an easy-to-use graphical user interface for the SAG model, and the trust challenge with a workflow that allows teachers to evaluate the model on their own data, to choose on the basis of this evaluation which model predictions to trust, and in consequence to stay in control of grading their students while saving grading effort.
Formalizing complexity in the life sciences: systems, emergence, and metafluxes
Authors: Wegner Lars H.
Published: December 2023

Current plant sciences (as the life sciences in general) tend to follow an empirical rationale focussing on the molecular scale (genes, proteins), which is supposed to causally dominate processes at higher levels of organization (cellular, organismic). This rather simplistic view on the complexity of living systems calls for a more adequate and elaborate theoretical approach, to which I want to contribute three main cornerstones here. Systems theory is the first one, mostly referring to Mario Bunge’s CESM (Composition, Environment, Structure, Mechanism) approach and its biological application. More than half of this article is dedicated to the philosophical concept of emergence, denoting the fact that systems have specific properties not shared or provided by their parts. Different viewpoints on emergence and definitions are contrasted and their potential suitability for the life sciences is discussed. An interesting historical case study is the genesis of the ‘ecosystem’ concept in plant ecology. Subsequently two widely accepted subtypes, ‘weak’ and ‘strong’ emergence are introduced and their quantitative formalization is briefly outlined referring to recent work on this issue. Finally, the metaflux concept is presented for the first time. Living systems are characterized by a network of coupled fluxes of matter, free energy, and entropy, adequately formalized by the thermodynamics of irreversible processes. Dynamical phenomena in organisms emerging from these flux networks which are, in contrast to process philosophy/metaphysics, defined on a scientific (physicochemical) basis will be called ‘metafluxes’. Metafluxes and weak and strong emergence are non-exclusive concepts to be employed in a dialectic scientific process.
Human-Inspired Non-prehensile Manipulation Strategies: Design, Implementation, and Evaluation
Authors: Bhat Pooja , Nieuwenhuisen Matthias , Schulz Dirk
Published: December 2023

Grasping of objects is not always feasible for robot manipulators, e.g., due to their geometric properties. Non-prehensile manipulation strategies can enable manipulators to successfully move these objects around. We analyze human-inspired gripper configurations for pushing small or heavy objects and propose closed-loop pushing strategies based on force-torque measurements as well as open-loop strategies to push small objects. In a thorough evaluation on a KUKA LWR4+ manipulator arm and in simulation, we discuss the effects of the different designs and strategies.
Medicinal Plant Identification in Real-Time Using Deep Learning Model
Authors: Kavitha S. , Kumar T. Satish , Naresh E. , Kalmani Vijay H. , Bamane Kalyan Devappa , Pareek Piyush Kumar
Published: December 2023

Medicinal plants have a long tradition of being cultivated and harvested in India. The Indian Forest is the principal repository for many useful medicinal herbs. As a result of their critical role in maintaining people's life, medicinal plants have traditionally been the subject of intensive research and consideration. Yet, correctly identifying plants used in medicine is a laborious process that takes a lot of time and expertise. Because of this, a vision-based approach may aid scientists and regular people in the rapid and precise identification of herb plants. Therefore, this research suggests a vision-based smart method to recognize herb plants by creating a deep learning (DL) model. Although there is a wide variety of useful plants, we limit ourselves to just six from the Kaggle database: betel, curry, tulsi, mint, neem, and Indian beech. For each medicinal plant, we collected 500 images. The data undergo a process of resizing and augmentation to increase the sample size. For the fully automatic identification of medicinal leaves, the MobileNet DL model is selected. To determine the model's effectiveness, it must first be trained, then validated, and ultimately tested. The DL model is evaluated using measures including accuracy, precision, and recall. For this reason, the DL model was able to correctly identify medicinal leaves at an accuracy rate of 98.3%. After being thoroughly investigated, the DL model is uploaded to the cloud, and a mobile app is created for the real-time identification of medicinal leaves. To recognize leaf images, the built mobile app accesses the DL model on the cloud. The automated recognition of plants represents an extremely promising option for filling the taxonomic gap and gaining a lot of interest from the fields of botany and machine vision.
Mining salt stress-related genes in Spartina alterniflora via analyzing co-evolution signal across 365 plant species using phylogenetic profiling
Authors: Gao Shang , Chen Shoukun , Yang Maogeng , Wu Jinran , Chen Shihua , Li Huihui
Published: December 2023

With the increasing number of sequenced species, phylogenetic profiling (PP) has become a powerful method to predict functional genes based on co-evolutionary information. However, its potential in plant genomics has not yet been fully explored. In this context, we combined the power of machine learning and PP to identify salt stress-related genes in a halophytic grass, Spartina alterniflora, using evolutionary information generated from 365 plant species. Our results showed that the genes highly co-evolved with known salt stress-related genes are enriched in biological processes of ion transport, detoxification and metabolic pathways. For ion transport, five identified genes coding two sodium and three potassium transporters were validated to be able to uptake Na+. In addition, we identified two orthologs of trichome-related AtR3-MYB genes, SaCPC1 and SaCPC2, which may be involved in salinity responses. Genes co-evolved with SaCPCs were enriched in functions related to the circadian rhythm and abiotic stress responses. Overall, this work demonstrates the feasibility of mining salt stress-related genes using evolutionary information, highlighting the potential of PP as a valuable tool for plant functional genomics.
Review on green synthesis of silica nanoparticle functionalized graphene oxide acrylic resin for anti-corrosion applications
Authors: Hassan Ibrahim , Baba Nasirudeen M. , Benin Muhammad E. , Labulo Ayomide H.
Published: December 2023

Silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) and graphene oxide (GO) are two promising nanomaterial that have attracted considerable attention for their unique properties and applications. However, the conventional synthesis methods of SiNPs and GO often involve hazardous chemicals and high energy consumption, which pose environmental and economic challenges. Therefore, green and sustainable synthesis methods of SiNPs and GO are highly desirable. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in the green synthesis of SiNPs and GO using various natural sources, such as plants, fungi, bacteria, algae, clay, etc. We also discuss the functionalization of SiNPs and GO with acrylic resin to form hybrid nanocomposites for anti-corrosion applications. The advantages and challenges of these green methods are highlighted, and the future prospects are outlined. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state-of-the-art in the green synthesis of SiNPs and GO-based nanocomposites for anti-corrosion applications, and to inspire further research in this emerging field.

Graphical abstract
Soil pH determines microbial utilization strategy for straw-derived hydrophilic and hydrophobic fractions in a Ferralsol
Authors: Zheng Xiaodong , Gunina Anna , Fang Yunying , Van Zwieten Lukas , Bolan Nanthi , Li Xiang , Wei Lan , Huang Lianxi , Huang Yufen , Lin Qimei , Wang Hailong , Liu Zhongzhen
Published: December 2023

Lime is commonly used to neutralize acidic soil in practical farmland management. This study aimed to examine the effect of soil pH change by liming in acidic soil on the mineralization and microbial assimilation of 13C-labelled maize straw-derived hydrophilic and hydrophobic fractions in a 60-d incubation experiment. Our results showed a higher cumulative mineralization of hydrophilic fraction in acidic (34.5%) than neutralized Ferralsol (22.3%), related to lower microbial substrate use efficiency under low soil pH. The cumulative mineralization of hydrophobic fraction was similar between acidic and neutralized Ferralsol. Soil pH affected substrate (hydrophilic and hydrophobic fractions) utilization by actinomycetes and bacteria, but not fungi. The utilization of hydrophilic fraction followed the order: bacteria (57–68%) > actinomycetes (10–19%) > fungi (4.2–5.5%). In contrast, utilization of hydrophobic fraction was the highest for fungi (24–38%), followed by bacteria (21–29%) and actinomycetes (3.2–15%). Actinomycetes showed a greater preference for hydrophilic fraction in neutralized than acidic Ferralsol; bacteria preferred to utilize hydrophilic fraction in both soils, while fungi favored hydrophobic fraction. Also, various substrate uses were found in specific phospholipid fatty acids, which showed that some individual species harbor particular organic C metabolization strategies. In conclusion, soil pH regulates the mineralization of hydrophilic fraction and variously determines the preferential utilization of hydrophilic and hydrophobic fractions by fungi, bacteria, and actinomycetes.

Graphical Abstract
Trade and the Environment
Authors: Brandi Clara , Morin Jean-Frédéric
Published: December 2023

The mushrooming of trade agreements and their interlinkages with environmental governance calls for new research on the trade and environment interface. The more than 700 existing preferential trade agreements (PTAs) include ever more diverse and far-reaching environmental provisions. While missed opportunities remain and harmful provisions persist, numerous environmental provisions in PTAs entail promising potential. They promote the implementation of environmental treaties and cover numerous environmental issues. New concepts, data, and methods, including detailed content analysis across multiple institutions, are needed to explain these interlinkages and understand whether and how PTAs with environmental provisions can contribute to tackling global environmental challenges. Making use of the most extensive coding of environmental provisions in PTAs to date and combining quantitative data with qualitative analyses, this Element provides a comprehensive yet fine-grained picture of the drivers and effects of environmental provisions in PTAs. This title is also available as Open Access on Cambridge Core.
Challenges Faced by Medical Rescue Teams During Disaster Response: A Systematic Review Study
Authors: Kuday Ahmet Doğan , Özcan Tuğba , Çalışkan Cüneyt , Kınık Kerem
Published: December 2023

This study was conducted to identify the challenges faced by medical rescue teams during the response phase of sudden-onset disasters and provide a comprehensive understanding of these challenges. Peer-reviewed, English-language articles published until January 2023 that described the challenges faced by medical rescue teams during disaster response were searched in the Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, PubMed, and Science Direct databases. The articles were assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) version 2018, a quality evaluation tool, and a qualitative thematic synthesis approach was adopted. A total of 353 publications were identified, and 18 of these met the inclusion criteria. Of the 18 included studies, 8 were review articles, 4 were special reports, 3 were cross-sectional studies, 1 was a mixed methods study, 1 was a qualitative study, and 1 was a short communication. Through qualitative analysis, the challenges faced by medical rescue teams during disaster response were categorized into 6 factors: organizational, individual, environmental and health, logistical, communication and information, and other factors. These factors are significant in terms of issues such as delayed access to disaster victims, disruptions in response processes, and an increase in morbidity and mortality rates. Therefore, the findings in our study shed light on future research in the field of disasters and offer opportunities to develop a roadmap for improving the conditions of medical rescue teams.
The relationship between parent's self-reported exposure to food marketing and child and parental purchasing and consumption outcomes in five countries: findings from the International Food Policy Study
Authors: Soares Guimarães Julia , Pauzé Elise , Potvin Kent Monique , Barquera Simón , Jáuregui Alejandra , Sacks Gary , Vanderlee Lana , Hammond David
Published: December 2023

Food and beverage marketing influences children's food preferences and dietary intake. Children's diets are also heavily influenced by their family environment. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between parent's self-reported exposure to unhealthy food marketing and a range of outcomes related to children's desire for and intake of unhealthy foods and beverages. The study also sought to examine whether these outcomes varied across different countries. The analysed data are from the International Food Policy Study and were collected in 2018 using an online survey. The sample included 5764 parents of children under 18, living in Australia, Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, or the United States. Binary logistic regressions assessed the link between the number of parental exposure locations and children's requests for and parental purchases of unhealthy foods. Generalized ordinal regression gauged the relationship between the number of exposure locations and children's consumption of such items. Interaction terms tested if these associations varied by country. Parental exposure to unhealthy food marketing was positively associated with parents reporting child purchase requests and purchase outcomes; and differed by country. Increased parental exposure to unhealthy food marketing was associated with slightly lower odds of children's weekly consumption of unhealthy foods, and this association varied by country. In conclusion, parental report of a greater range of food marketing exposure was associated with a range of outcomes that would increase children's exposure to unhealthy food products or their marketing. Governments should consider developing more comprehensive restrictions on the marketing of unhealthy foods.
MORE ON BLURRY HOD
Authors: FUCHS GUNTER
Published: December 2023

I continue the study of the blurry HOD hierarchy. The technically most involved result is that the theory ZFC + “

$\aleph _\omega $

is a strong limit cardinal and

$\aleph _{\omega +1}$

is the least leap” is equiconsistent with the theory ZFC + “there is a measurable cardinal.”
Patient-perceived dysphagia and voice change post thyroid surgery: a telephone questionnaire
Authors: Mowat Andrew , Sandhar Pardip , Chan Jacqueline , De Mriganka
Published: December 2023

Objective

This study analyses the incidence of subjectively experienced dysphagia and voice change in post-thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy patients without recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy.

Methods

A total of 400 patients were invited to participate in a telephone questionnaire based on the Dysphagia Handicap Index and Voice Handicap Index. At 6–24 months following surgery, participants were divided into: post-thyroid surgery (total, hemi-, parathyroidectomy) groups and controls (other ENT procedures). A total of 254 responses were received (127 following thyroid surgery, 127 controls).

Results

Twenty-two per cent of post-thyroidectomy patients had a Voice Handicap Index score of more than 3, compared to 15 per cent of parathyroid patients and 4 per cent of controls. The mean Dysphagia Handicap Index score for patients post thyroidectomy and hemi-thyroidectomy was 2.0. Parathyroidectomy patients had a mean Dysphagia Handicap Index score of 1.3, higher than controls at 1.0.

Conclusion

Dysphagia and voice alteration are common following thyroid surgery, even in the absence of recurrent laryngeal nerve injury. Both deficits occur more frequently following thyroid surgery than parathyroid surgery.
Analysis and numerical simulations of travelling waves due to plant–soil negative feedback
Authors: Iuorio Annalisa , Salvatori Nicole , Toraldo Gerardo , Giannino Francesco
Published: December 2023

In this work, we carry out an analytical and numerical investigation of travelling waves representing arced vegetation patterns on sloped terrains. These patterns are reported to appear also in ecosystems which are not water deprived; therefore, we study the hypothesis that their appearance is due to plant–soil negative feedback, namely due to biomass-(auto)toxicity interactions.

To this aim, we introduce a reaction-diffusion-advection model describing the dynamics of vegetation biomass and toxicity which includes the effect of sloped terrains on the spatial distribution of these variables. Our analytical investigation shows the absence of Turing patterns, whereas travelling waves (moving uphill in the slope direction) emerge. Investigating the corresponding dispersion relation, we provide an analytic expression for the asymptotic speed of the wave. Numerical simulations not only just confirm this analytical quantity but also reveal the impact of toxicity on the structure of the emerging travelling pattern.

Our analysis represents a further step in understanding the mechanisms behind relevant plants‘ spatial distributions observed in real life. In particular, since vegetation patterns (both stationary and transient) are known to play a crucial role in determining the underlying ecosystems’ resilience, the framework presented here allows us to better understand the emergence of such structures to a larger variety of ecological scenarios and hence improve the relative strategies to ensure the ecosystems’ resilience.
Experiences of fetal care, social support, and emotional functioning during the COVID-19 pandemic in women carrying a fetus with CHD
Authors: Nigam Priya , Gramszlo Colette , Srivastava Shubhika , Sood Erica
Published: December 2023

Objective:

To explore how the COVID-19 pandemic affected fetal care, social support, and emotional functioning for women carrying a fetus with CHD.

Method:

This was a single-centre qualitative study of 31 women who received a prenatal diagnosis of CHD during the pandemic. Patients completed semi-structured interviews about their experiences with fetal care, social support, and perceptions of risk to themselves and their fetus. Consistent themes regarding the impact of the pandemic were identified using an inductive thematic approach. Demographic data were collected via self-report and chart review.

Results:

Women generally reported consistent access to fetal care throughout the pandemic, with frequent use of telemedicine in addition to in-person care, but negative impacts resulting from restrictions on family support at appointments. Limited access to social support overall and a loss of pregnancy traditions were described. Many women reported feeling isolated and experiencing worries and fears about COVID-19 but also noted feeling supported by their healthcare team. Partner/family support during appointments and connection to peer-to-peer support were identified as recommendations to mitigate negative impacts.

Conclusion:

Women carrying a fetus with CHD during the COVID-19 pandemic experienced unique stressors that may affect mental health. However, many also experienced unexpected supports that may mitigate effects of pandemic-related stressors. Results can inform efforts to promote positive family outcomes during and following the COVID-19 pandemic.
A novel PIN diode-based frequency reconfigurable patch antenna with switching between the mid-5G and high-5G frequency band
Authors: Chowdhury Atanu , Ranjan Prashant
Published: December 2023

This research article represents the design of a simple, smaller, and novel frequency reconfigurable patch antenna for 5G communication using PIN diodes. This antenna operates in both mid-5G and high-5G bands. The antenna is intended to operate in eight distinct modes with three PIN diodes in 5G wireless communication covering 27.46–50 GHz of high-5G band (range n257/n258/n260/n261/n262) and frequencies of the 3–6 GHz of mid-5G band (range n77/n78/n79/n46). The antenna has an overall size of 20 mm × 25 mm × 1.6 mm and is placed upon a low-cost FR4 substrate. A higher radiation efficiency from 75% to 98% is achieved in all the different modes. The resonant frequencies are around 3.46, 4.43, 5.83, 31.8, 35.5, and 46 GHz in different modes of operation. Different switching statuses have been carried out in this research work and their performances have also been illustrated in the form of surface current distribution in different resonant frequencies. The simulated and measured results are compared to highlight its proposed design operation.
The Rising Tide of Rights: Addressing Climate Loss and Damage through Rights-Based Litigation
Authors: Wewerinke-Singh Margaretha
Published: December 2023

This article offers a comprehensive analysis of rights-based climate litigation aimed at addressing climate change-induced loss and damage, underlining its potential as a transformative force amid the minimal progress towards a coordinated global response on this topic. It builds on literature highlighting the potential of rights-based climate litigation to fill the gap in accountability for climate change and its consequences, noting that research to date has not systematically analyzed the remedies that plaintiffs have sought or secured. By focusing on remedy claims, this study illuminates the capacity and the limitations of such litigation to unlock redress for loss and damage while highlighting its reciprocal relationship with international negotiations. This synergy implies a promising trajectory towards a more equitable climate governance framework, despite the complexities and challenges inherent in this rapidly evolving field.