bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using unsupervised capsule neural network reveal spatial representations in the human brain
Authors: Wang Gongshu , Jiang Ning , Liu Tiantian , Wang Li , Suo Dingjie , Chen Duanduan , Funahashi Shintaro , Yan Tianyi
Published: March 2024

Humans can extract high‐level spatial features from visual signals, but spatial representations in the brain are complex and remain unclear. The unsupervised capsule neural network (U‐CapsNet) is sensitive to the spatial location and relationship of the object, contains a special recurrent mechanism and uses a self‐supervised generation strategy to represent images, which is similar to the computational principle in the human brain. Therefore, we hypothesized that U‐CapsNet can help us understand how the human brain processes spatial information. First, brain activities were studied using functional magnetic resonance imaging during spatial working memory in which participants had to remember the locations of circles for a short time. Then, U‐CapsNet served as a computational model of the brain to perform tasks that are identical to those performed by humans. Finally, the representational models were used to compare the U‐CapsNet with the brain. The results showed that some human‐defined spatial features naturally emerged in the latent space of U‐CapsNet. Moreover, representations in U‐CapsNet captured the response structure of two types of brain regions during different activity patterns, as well as important factors associated with human behavior. Together, our study not only provides a computationally feasible framework for modeling how the human brain encodes spatial features but also provides insights into the representational format and goals of the human brain.
The superior frontal sulcus in the human brain: Morphology and probability maps
Authors: Drudik Kristina , Petrides Michael
Published: March 2024

The superior frontal sulcus (SFS) is the major sulcus on the dorsolateral frontal cortex that defines the lateral limit of the superior frontal gyrus. Caudally, it originates near the superior precentral sulcus (SPRS) and, rostrally, it terminates near the frontal pole. The advent of structural neuroimaging has demonstrated significant variability in this sulcus that is not captured by the classic sulcal maps. The present investigation examined the morphological variability of the SFS in 50 individual magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of the human brain that were registered to the Montreal Neurological Institute (MNI) standard stereotaxic space. Two primary morphological patterns were identified: (i) the SFS was classified as a continuous sulcus or (ii) the SFS was a complex of sulcal segments. The SFS showed a high probability of merging with neighbouring sulci on the superior and middle frontal gyri and these patterns were documented. In addition, the morphological variability and spatial extent of the SFS were quantified using volumetric and surface spatial probability maps. The results from the current investigation provide an anatomical framework for understanding the morphology of the SFS, which is critical for the interpretation of structural and functional neuroimaging data in the dorsolateral frontal region, as well as for improving the accuracy of neurosurgical interventions.
Counselor burnout, person–environment fit, and job crafting among school counselors: A person–centered approach
Authors: Çarkıt Ersoy
Published: March 2024

The present study explored the interrelationship among counselor burnout, person–environment fit, and job crafting via a latent profile analysis (LPA). Using a sample of 451 school counselors (76.9% women, 23.1% men) in Türkiye, the LPA revealed three distinct profiles regarding adaptation to the environment (maladaptive, average, and adaptive). The auxiliary variable analysis showed that career adaptability and its components (i.e., concern, control, curiosity, and confidence) increased the likelihood of school counselors’ membership in the adaptive group. In addition, the results showed significant mean differences in the levels of positive affect and negative affect across profile memberships, such that the adaptive group had the highest positive affect and the lowest negative affect. Implications are discussed.
Computational modeling of oligothiophenes‐based donor molecules to boost optoelectronic attributes of organic solar cells
Authors: Mubarik Adeel , Shafiq Faiza , Arunkumar Ammasi , Ju Xue‐Hai
Published: March 2024

The computational modeling of seven oligothiophene‐based donor molecules (TZ1–TZ7) designed by acceptor modification at the terminal position of the literature molecule (TZR) were discussed for organic solar cells (OSCs). DFT simulations using B3LYP/def2svp levels were performed to study the optoelectronic, and PV properties of TZ1–TZ7. A range of essential aspects for efficient small donor molecules like open circuit voltages (VOC), excitation energy (Ex), dipole moment (μ), density of state (DOS), absorption maxima (λmax), transition density matrix (TDM), binding energy (Eb), and frontier molecular orbitals (FMOs) of TZ1–TZ7 and TZR have also been investigated. DOS and FMOs analysis revealed a reduced energy gap (Eg) and effective charge transfer (CT) in the TZ1–TZ7 molecules. The absorption spectra were examined using TD‐DFT. Due to smaller Eg, Eb, Ex, and higher λmax, μ, the TZ1–TZ7 molecules exhibit remarkable optoelectronic properties. The computed VOC (0.969–1.189) and fill factor (0.886–0.897) for TZ1–TZ7 lead to improved power conversion efficiency (PCE) ranging from 14.05% to 17.60%. All compounds are strongly recommended for fabricating efficient OSCs with excellent PV properties. The current work is a step towards environmentally friendly organic PV and will pave the way for future structural engineering research for the efficient material design of OSCs.
The small extracellular vesicle‐mediated intercellular transformation of CXCR1Low to CXCR1High tumour cells promotes the progression of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Xu Qiaoshi , Cheng Aoming , Li Bo , Tian Xutengyue , Han Zhengxue , Feng Zhien
Published: March 2024

The heterogeneity of tumour cells enables cancers to dynamically adapt to microenvironmental stresses during progression. However, the mechanism underlying the transformation and intercellular communication between heterogeneous tumour cells has remained elusive. Here, we report a “contagion model” that mediates intercellular transformation between heterogeneous tumour cells which facilitates tumour progression. Initially identifying heterogeneous expression of CXCR1, a receptor for interleukin‐8, in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) tumour cells, we found that CXCR1High tumour cells had higher abilities for migration and invasion. Following interleukin‐8‐mediated activation, CXCR1High cells transformed CXCR1Low cells into CXCR1High cells through the secretion of small extracellular vesicles (sEVs), which increased the proportion of CXCR1High cells and facilitated tumour progression. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that sEVs derived from interleukin‐8‐activated CXCR1High cells contain high levels of ATP citrate lyase (ACLY), which acetylates NF‐κB p65 and facilitates its nuclear translocation to transcribe CXCR1 in CXCR1Low cells. That process could be inhibited by Bempedoic acid, an FDA‐approved ACLY‐targeted drug. Taken together, our study reveals an sEV‐mediated transformation of CXCR1Low to CXCR1High cells that promotes HNSCC progression. This provides a new paradigm to explain the dynamic changes of heterogeneous tumour cells, and identifies Bempedoic acid as a potential drug for HNSCC treatment.
Identification of a novel orthonairovirus from ticks and serological survey in animals near China–North korea border
Authors: Li Fan , Li Jixu , Song Jingdong , Li De , Yin Qikai , Fu Shihong , Nie Kai , Cui Qianqian , Xu Songtao , Wei Qiang , Wang Huanyu
Published: March 2024

Emerging pathogenic tick‐borne viruses (TBVs) have attracted a great deal of attention due to their significant impact on human and animal health. A novel orthonairovirus named Dadong virus (DDV) was isolated from Haemaphysalis concinna ticks in the Changbai Mountain region on the China–North Korea border. DDV can induce cytopathic effects in mammalian and human cell lines. Phylogenetic analysis showed that it belongs to the genus Orthonairovirus, family Nairoviridae, exhibiting 72.4%–81.3% nucleic acid identity to Tofla orthonairovirus, known to cause lethal infection in IFNAR KO mice. The first serological evidence of DDV circulating in cattle and mice was also obtained, with 4.0% (1/25) of cattle and 2.27% (1/44) of mice seropositive for DDV. Further investigations, including serological surveys using human samples, are required to assess the public health risk posed by DDV.
Increased matrix metalloproteinase‐2 in ligamentum flavum hypertrophy and the regulation of MMP‐2/TIMPs by elastin‐derived peptides
Authors: Zhuo Wen‐Hai , Hey Hwee Weng Dennis , Lam Wing Moon Raymond , Chan Xiaoyun Chloe , Lit Loo Hoey , Chiong Yong Soon , Wong Hee‐Kit
Published: March 2024

The study aimed to examine matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2) expression in a rat ligamentum flavum (LF) hypertrophy model in vivo, and the effect of elastin‐derived peptides (EDPs) on MMP‐2 and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) in rat LF cells in vitro. Surgical destabilization was performed at the rat spinal L3/4 level to induce increased mechanical stress. Rats were killed at 6‐ and 12‐weeks postsurgery for histological staining, immunohistochemical staining, RT‐qPCR and western blot. 100 µg/mL EDPs were applied to isolated normal rat LF cells, with or without pretreatment of elastin receptor complex (ERC) inhibitors, to assess the expression of MMP‐2, TIMP‐1, and TIMP‐2. Spinal destabilization led to LF hypertrophy, observed through increased LF thickness and area, along with histological changes of chondrometaplasia and elastic fiber degradation. LF was also stained positively for Col I and Col II, where elastic fiber has broken down. MMP‐2 expression was notably elevated in the hypertrophied LF, accompanied by increased TIMP‐2 and TIMP‐3 levels. EDPs were found to suppress MMP‐2 expression and reduce TIMP‐1 and TIMP‐2 levels in rat LF cells. Interestingly, exposure to EDPs led to a significant rise in MMP‐2/TIMP‐1 and MMP‐2/TIMP‐2 ratios, dependent on the ERC. Collectively, the study suggests that increased MMP‐2 activity contributes to elastic fiber degradation in hypertrophied LF, generating EDPs that further enhance the MMP‐2/TIMPs ratio in LF cells in an ERC‐dependent manner. Further research is essential to delve into the mechanisms of EDPs in LF hypertrophy.
Environmental conditions in the Massif Central during the Upper Palaeolithic using stable isotope tracking (13C, 15N) of bone collagen from large herbivores
Authors: Drucker Dorothée G. , Fontana Laure
Published: March 2024

The environmental conditions experienced by hunter‐gatherers during the second part of the Upper Palaeolithic (ca. 28 000–15 000 cal bp) are poorly known in the mid‐elevation volcanic mountains of the Massif Central in southern France. The stable isotope ratios of carbon and nitrogen (13C/12C and 15N/14N expressed as δ13C and δ15N values) in bone collagen of large herbivores can track their diet and habitat, reflecting local abiotic conditions (temperature, aridity, altitude). Due to poor preservation of skeletal organic matter in the region, new radiocarbon dating was conducted on a limited number of quality‐controlled collagen samples, based on a minimum carbon content of 30%. They document three main phases of occupation corresponding to the Final Gravettian, the Badegoulian and the Magdalenian, each of which is represented in different regions of the Allier and Loire valleys. Over time, a decrease in horse δ15N values, the best documented species of large herbivores, is found between the Final Gravettian (ca. 26 700–25 600 cal 
bp), around the Last Glacial Maximum and the Badegoulian (ca. 21 900–19 200 cal 
bp), followed by an increase in δ15N and δ13C values during the Magdalenian (ca. 19 100–16 600 cal 
bp). During the Badegoulian, the δ15N values of the horses were lower than those of their counterparts in southwestern France, testifying to harsh climatic conditions favourable to a tundra‐like landscape, also reflected in the higher horse and reindeer δ13C values in the Allier valley compared to those in southwestern France. The relatively high δ13C and low δ15N values of a Final Gravettian wolf from the Allier valley suggests reindeer as a preferred prey, in line with their high abundance in the archaeological sites. Game access, rather than climatic conditions or lithic resources, seems to have motivated human groups to occupy the Massif Central during the Upper Palaeolithic.
Markers for meat provenance and authenticity with an account of its defining factors and quality characteristics – a review
Authors: Erasmus Sara Wilhelmina , Sohaib Muhammad , Revilla Isabel , Vivar‐Quintana Ana María , Giancoli Sophia Jennie
Published: March 2024

Provenance is becoming increasingly important in meat supply chains as it lends products higher perceived quality. However, its precise definition and interpretation along with its associated characteristics factors have remained somewhat elusive. This review meticulously defines meat provenance while dissecting the essential factors and associated quality attributes that constitute its essence and are subsequently employed to establish pertinent markers for provenance. Meat provenance emerges as a multi‐dimensional construct stemming from the adept management of a constellation of factors relating to geographical origin, farm production system, traceability, and authenticity. Through intricate interactions, these factors unveil innate originality that not only forges a distinct reputation but also imparts a unique typicity to the meat product. Gaining insights into a meat product's provenance becomes attainable by scrutinizing its pertinent composition and organoleptic quality traits. Trace elements and stable isotopes stand out as provenance markers, forging a direct connection to both geographical origin and dietary sources. While somewhat less direct in linkage, other markers such as plant biomarkers, fatty acid composition, pH levels, flavour and aromatic compounds along with organoleptic characteristics contribute to the overall understanding of provenance. Additionally, the identification of animal species and breeds serves as key markers, particularly in the context of protected geographical indications. The study findings are useful for the various stakeholders of how the information for meat provenance can be linked with intrinsic and extrinsic factors for meat quality and protecting the integrity of the supply chain with special reference to traceability and authenticity. © 2024 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
No effect of dislocation status at arrival in emergency department on outcome of knee joint dislocations
Authors: Szymski Dominik , Huber Lorenz , Riedl Moritz , Rupp Markus , Alt Volker , Weber Johannes
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Knee dislocation is a rare but severe injury of the lower extremities. The aim of this study was to report on the epidemiology, diagnostics and treatment of such injuries and to identify negative predictors of clinical outcomes.

Methods

This retrospective analysis included all knee dislocations treated at a Level I Trauma Centre in Germany between 2009 and 2021. Medical records were categorised, collected and analysed in a standardised manner. A follow‐up visit 1 year after the injury focused on limitations in knee mobility.

Results

A total of 120 knee dislocations were included in the study. 29.3% of patients presented to the emergency department with a dislocated joint, and 17.5% (n = 21) had a neurovascular lesion. At follow‐up 12 months after the injury, 65.8% of the patients reported limitations in the range of motion, and 11.7% (n = 14) reported severe limitations in daily activities. Site infections due to surgery occurred in 3.3% of patients. Increased body weight (r = 0.294; p < 0.001 and r = 0.259; p = 0.004), an increased body mass index above 25 kg/m2 (body mass index, r = 0.296; p < 0.001 and r = 0.264; p = 0.004) and deficits in peripheral perfusion as well as sensory and motor function (r = 0.231; p = 0.040 and r = −0.192; p = 0.036) were found to be negative predictive factors for clinical outcome. For posttraumatic neurovascular injury, lack of peripheral perfusion, insufficient sensory and motor function (r = −0.683; p < 0.0001), as well as a higher Schenck grade (r = 0.320; p = 0.037), were identified as independent risk factors. The status of dislocation at the site of the accident and on arrival at the emergency department had no impact on the outcome or neurovascular injury.

Conclusion

Knee dislocation is a rare injury with a high rate of severe complications such as neurovascular lesions. In particular, the initial status of neurovascular structures and injury classification showed a relevant negative correlation with the posttraumatic status of nerves and vessels. In particular, patients with these characteristics need close monitoring to prevent negative long‐term consequences.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Does ChatGPT Answer Otolaryngology Questions Accurately?
Authors: Maksimoski Matthew , Noble Anisha Rhea , Smith David F.
Published: March 2024

Objective

Investigate the accuracy of ChatGPT in the manner of medical questions related to otolaryngology.

Methods

A ChatGPT session was opened within which 93 questions were asked related to otolaryngology topics. Questions were drawn from all major domains within otolaryngology and based upon key action statements (KAS) from clinical practice guidelines (CPGs). Twenty‐one “patient‐level” questions were also asked of the program. Answers were graded as either “correct,” “partially correct,” “incorrect,” or “non‐answer.”

Results

Correct answers were given at a rate of 45.5% (71.4% correct in patient‐level, 37.3% CPG); partially correct answers at 31.8% (28.6% patient‐level, 32.8% CPG); incorrect at 21.6% (0% patient‐level, 28.4% CPG); and 1.1% non‐answers (% patient‐level, 1.5% CPG). There was no difference in the rate of correct answers between CPGs published before or after the period of data collection cited by ChatGPT. CPG‐based questions were less likely to be correct than patient‐level questions (p = 0.003).

Conclusion

Publicly available artificial intelligence software has become increasingly popular with consumers for everything from story‐telling to data collection. In this study, we examined the accuracy of ChatGPT responses to questions related to otolaryngology over 7 domains and 21 published CPGs. Physicians and patients should understand the limitations of this software as it applies to otolaryngology, and programmers in future iterations should consider giving greater weight to information published by well‐established journals and written by national content experts.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 134:4011–4015, 2024
Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma/Waldenström Macroglobulinemia Diagnosed Following Recurrent Epistaxis
Authors: Liu Shengyang , Wang Rui , Shi Li , Chen Aiping
Published: March 2024

We present a rare case of Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma/Waldenström Macroglobulinemia (LPL/WM) diagnosed in a 65‐year‐old female initially presenting with recurrent bilateral epistaxis. Despite multiple cauterizations and a history of ineffective conventional treatments, comprehensive evaluations led to the diagnosis, underscoring the critical need for thorough investigation in persistent epistaxis cases, particularly when standard approaches fail. This case emphasizes the importance of considering indolent lymphomas in the differential diagnosis of recurrent epistaxis and showcases the diagnostic pathway leading to successful identification and treatment of a rare etiology. Laryngoscope, 134:3974–3976, 2024
The widespread keeping of wild pets in the Neotropics: An overlooked risk for human, livestock and wildlife health
Authors: Romero‐Vidal Pedro , Blanco Guillermo , Barbosa Jomar M. , Carrete Martina , Hiraldo Fernando , Pacífico Erica C. , Rojas Abraham , Bermúdez‐Cavero Alan O. , Díaz‐Luque José A. , León‐Pérez Rodrigo , Tella José L.
Published: March 2024

Zoonoses constitute a major risk to human health. Comprehensive assessments on the potential emergence of novel disease outbreaks are essential to ensure the effectiveness of sanitary controls and to establish mitigating actions.

Through a continental‐scale survey of rural human settlements conducted over 13 years in 15 Neotropical countries, we document the vast extent of poaching to meet the local demand for pets, resulting in thousands of families living with ca. 275 species of wild animals without any sanitary controls. Parrots account for ca. 80% of wild pets, dying mostly from diseases at an average age of 1 year.

This culturally rooted tradition, which dates back to pre‐Columbian times, may lead to health risks by bringing wild animals prone to carrying parasites and pathogens into close contact with humans and their exotic pets and livestock.

Although animal pathogens and parasites have been transmitted to humans for centuries, the current trend of human population growth and connectivity can increase the risk of zoonotic outbreaks spreading at an unprecedented pace. Similarly, disease transmission from humans and poultry to wild animals is also expected to be facilitated via wild pets, leading to conservation problems.

Several studies have highlighted the risk posed by wildlife city markets for cross‐species disease transmission, ignoring the risk associated with widespread pet ownership of wild animals poached locally in rural areas. Given its geographic and social dimensions, a holistic approach is required to reduce this illegal activity as well as to strengthen health surveillance of seized individuals and people in close contact with poached pets, which would benefit both people and wildlife.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
The behaviours of different carnivore and livestock species shape spatial patterns of human–carnivore conflict
Authors: Kuiper Timothy , Macdonald David , Sibanda Lovemore , Mathe Liomba‐Junior , Mahdlamoto Daphne , Loveridge Andrew
Published: March 2024

Understanding the ecological and human factors that shape the loss of livestock to wild carnivores can help target conservation efforts.

We used 5 years of livestock depredation records (2009–2013, n = 1147) alongside Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe, to investigate how spatial patterns vary by carnivore and livestock species.

Dominant patterns across all species and seasons included an increased likelihood of depredation closer to protected areas (core carnivore habitat) and in more open areas closer to human settlements (where livestock are most abundant). Lions were less likely than spotted hyenas to attack livestock further from protected areas, while goat and donkey depredation was more concentrated around homesteads compared to cattle depredation. Leopards were more likely than other predators to attack livestock in areas of higher human density and nearer water sources, likely reflecting their preference for goats and sheep which generally remain near homesteads unless taken to watering holes.

Carnivores make trade‐offs between attacking livestock where it is most available (near human settlements) and where the risk of detection and retaliation by humans is lower (nearer protected areas, in more wooded habitats, and further from human activity).

These results have helped target local mitigation strategies. They may also inform human–wildlife conflict mitigation at other sites globally by highlighting the need to understand species‐specific differences in conflict patterns and tailor solutions accordingly.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Australian physiotherapists' knowledge and views on the relationship between climate change, health, and physiotherapy
Authors: Chi Linya , Boucaut Rose , Li L. S. Katrina , Fryer Caroline E. , Kumar Saravana
Published: March 2024

Background and purpose

Climate change is an important issue for the health of communities globally and the conduct of health care practice. Little is currently known about the knowledge and views of Australian physiotherapists in relation to the issue of climate change. Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate Australian physiotherapists' views on, and practice in relation to, climate change and its effects on health.

Methods

A quantitative cross‐sectional study using a modified version of a published survey was undertaken. Using a comprehensive distribution strategy, the survey (23 questions) was disseminated through professional associations, networks of the research team and social media. Data were summarized descriptively.

Results

One hundred and thirty physiotherapists accessed the final survey. Ninety‐five surveys were eligible for analysis. 90.4% of participants were certain about the existence of climate change. 79.6% of participants thought that climate change was already impacting their patients' health, but only 19.4% of participants felt “very knowledgeable” about the health impacts of climate change. Main barriers to addressing climate change with patients were identified as lack of time and knowledge. 77.2% of participants indicated support for receiving education on climate change and health as continuing professional education. 70.9% of participants agreed that their professional association had a significant advocacy role in climate change and health.

Conclusion

Australian physiotherapists are witnessing the impact of climate change and support strategies to mitigate it. These strategies can be implemented at an individual level (e.g., further physiotherapy training) and at a professional organizational level (e.g., guidance from professional associations).
Indonesia's sustainable development goals in relation to curbing and monitoring the illegal wildlife trade
Authors: Nijman Vincent , Abdullah Abdullah , Adinda Esther , Ardiansyah Ahmad , Campera Marco , Chavez Jessica , Dewi Tungga , Hedger Katherine , Imron Muhammad Ali , Shepherd Chris R. , Sukmadewi Desak Ketut Tristiana , Wirdateti Wirdateti , Nekaris K. A. I.
Published: March 2024

Indonesia has committed to implement the sustainable development goals (SDG) by 2030 including the ending trafficking of protected species and addressing the illegal wildlife demand and supply. As such, there is a need for long‐term data on wild animal trade and its contribution to the wider economy. We initiated a long‐term monitoring programme of live civet trade in wildlife markets (120 surveys, 2010–2023). Civets are traded to be kept as exotic pets and to produce civet coffee and are a proxy for other high‐profile wildlife. We recorded 2289 civets of six species, including ones with strict regulations in place. Despite the trade being illegal, and contra to Indonesia's commitments as part of the SDG to curb this trade, it remained remarkably stable over time (numbers, species, prices). As such, Indonesia is not meeting its SDG targets that are related to curbing illegal wildlife trade and illicit financial flows.
The relative importance of ESG pillars: A two‐step machine learning and analytical framework
Authors: Mashayekhi Bita , Asiaei Kaveh , Rezaee Zabihollah , Jahangard Amin , Samavat Milad , Homayoun Saeid
Published: March 2024

This study aims to contribute to the ongoing and inconclusive debates regarding the relative significance of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) sustainability key performance indicators and their correlation with overall sustainability performance. We present a unique two‐step analytical framework to leverage Thomson Reuters' ESG Score (ASSET4) database to determine the most impactful ESG pillars and their subcomponents at both the firm and industry levels. This framework integrates the Method based on the Removal Effects of Criteria (MEREC) with K‐means cluster analysis. Through the MEREC‐K‐means framework, we determine the two most noteworthy ESG pillars within various industries, subsequently clustering them to form peer groups for comprehensive comparative analysis. We find that while the social and economic pillars are the two fundamental pillars of ESG performance in all industries in general, this prioritization sometimes differs from industry to industry. This research makes theoretical and practical contributions by introducing a novel dimensionality reduction technique in ESG pillars, offering valuable insights for strategic resource allocation in corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability initiatives. The implications of our findings extend broadly to investors, policymakers, and practitioners, empowering them to make more informed decisions.
Why is Superlubricity of Diamond‐Like Carbon Rare at Nanoscale?
Authors: Jang Seokhoon , Colliton Ana G. , Flaih Hind S. , Irgens Eskil M. K. , Kramarczuk Lucas J. , Rauber Griffin D. , Vickers Jordan , Ogrinc Andrew L. , Zhang Zhenxi , Gong Zhenbin , Chen Zhe , Borovsky Brian P. , Kim Seong. H.
Published: March 2024

Hydrogenated diamond‐like carbon (HDLC) is a promising solid lubricant for its superlubricity which can benefit various industrial applications. While HDLC exhibits notable friction reduction in macroscale tests in inert or reducing environmental conditions, ultralow friction is rarely observed at the nanoscale. This study investigates this rather peculiar dependence of HDLC superlubricity on the contact scale. To attain superlubricity, HDLC requires i) removal of ≈2 nm‐thick air‐oxidized surface layer and ii) shear‐induced transformation of amorphous carbon to highly graphitic and hydrogenated structure. The nanoscale wear depth exceeds the typical thickness of the air‐oxidized layer, ruling out the possibility of incomplete removal of the air‐oxidized layer. Raman analysis of transfer films indicates that shear‐induced graphitization readily occurs at shear stresses lower than or comparable to those in the nanoscale test. Thus, the same is expected to occur at the nanoscale test. However, the graphitic transfer films are not detected in ex‐situ analyses after nanoscale friction tests, indicating that the graphitic transfer films are pushed out of the nanoscale contact area due to the instability of transfer films within a small contact area. Combining all these observations, this study concludes the retention of highly graphitic transfer films is crucial to achieving HDLC superlubricity.
Unraveling the Electrocatalytic Activity in HMF Oxidation to FDCA by Fine‐Tuning the Degree of NiOOH Phase Over Ni Nanoparticles Supported on Graphene Oxide
Authors: Klinyod Sorasak , Yodsin Nuttapon , Nguyen Mai Thanh , Pasom Zikkawas , Assavapanumat Sunpet , Ketkaew Marisa , Kidkhunthod Pinit , Yonezawa Tetsu , Namuangruk Supawadee , Wattanakit Chularat
Published: March 2024

The development of an efficient electrocatalyst for HMF oxidation to FDCA has been in the early stages. Herein, the NiNPs/GO‐Ni‐foam is fabricated as an electrocatalyst for FDCA production. However, the electrocatalytic performance of the untreated NiNPs/GO‐Ni‐foam is observed with moderate Faradaic efficiency (FE) (73.0%) and FDCA yield (80.2%). By electrochemically treating the NiNPs/GO‐Ni‐foam in an alkaline solution with positive potential at different treatment durations, the degree of NiOOH on metal surfaces is changed. The distinctive electrocatalytic activity obtained when using the different NiOOH degrees allows to understand the crucial impact of NiOOH species in HMF electrooxidation. Enhancing the portion of the NiOOH phase on the electrocatalyst surface improves electrocatalytic activity in terms of FE and FDCA yield up to 94.8±4.8% and 86.9±4.1%, respectively. Interestingly, as long as the NiOOH portion on the electrocatalyst surface is preserved or regenerated, the electrocatalyst performance can be intact even after several catalytic cycles. The theoretical study via density functional theory (DFT) also agrees with the experimental observations and confirms that the NiOOH phase facilitates the electrochemical transformation of HMF to FDCA through the HMFCA pathway, and the potential limiting step of the overall reaction is the oxidation of FFCA to FDCA.
Prevention of Thermal Crack in Steel Slab Using Neural Networks Model to Predict Impact Absorption Energy
Authors: Cho Kyungchul , Kim Gibeom , Kwon Sang‐Hum , Yim Chang‐Hee , Hong Dae‐Geun
Published: March 2024

To prevent thermal cracks on steel slabs during the stacking, scarfing, and grinding processes after continuous casting, an optimized machine learning (ML) model to predict the impact absorption energy (EIA) of steel slabs is developed. A total of 1,421 experimental EIA data are collected from Charpy impact tests at slab temperatures 25 ≤ TS ≤ 400 °C, then ML models that considered 15 steel‐component variables and temperatures are developed. Four ML models are developed and their accuracies are compared. The optimized deep neural network algorithm predicts EIA most accurately with root mean squared error of 10.82 J and coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.992. Then the predicted EIA is used as the criterion to predict the occurrence of thermal cracks in slabs that are actually produced by a continuous casting process. At TS = 250 °C, cracking does not occur when the steel has predicted EIA > 175 J. The use of the developed model to predict EIA can prevent the formation of thermal cracks in slabs produced by continuous casting, and enable optimization of the cooling method and scarfing methods that precede the next process after continuous casting of slabs.
Hedgehog pathway negatively regulated depleted uranium‐induced nephrotoxicity
Authors: Xie Xueying , Fu Guoquan , Liu Yuxin , Fan Caixia , Tan Shanshan , Huang Huarong , Yan Junyan , Jin Lifang
Published: March 2024

Depleted uranium (DU) retains the radiological toxicities, which accumulates preferentially in the kidneys. Hedgehog (Hh) pathway plays a critical role in tissue injury. However, the role of Hh in DU‐induced nephrotoxicity was still unclear. This study was carried out to investigate the effect of Gli2, which was an important transcription effector of Hh signaling, on DU induced nephrotoxicity. To clarify it, CK19 positive tubular epithelial cells specific Gli2 conditional knockout (KO) mice model was exposed to DU, and then histopathological damage and Hh signaling pathway activation was analyzed. Moreover, HEK‐293 T cells were exposed to DU with Gant61 or Gli2 overexpression, and cytotoxicity of DU as analyzed. Results showed that DU caused nephrotoxicity accompanied by activation of Hh signaling pathway. Meanwhile, genetic KO of Gli2 reduced DU‐induced nephrotoxicity by normalizing biochemical indicators and reducing Hh pathway activation. Pharmacologic inhibition of Gli1/2 by Gant61 reduced DU induced cytotoxicity by inhibiting apoptosis, ROS formation and Hh pathway activation. However, overexpression of Gli2 aggravated DU‐induced cytotoxicity by increasing the levels of apoptosis and ROS formation. Taken together, these results revealed that Hh signaling negatively regulated DU‐inducted nephrotoxicity, and that inhibition of Gli2 might serve as a promising nephroprotective target for DU‐induced kidney injury.
Intestinal strictures in Crohn's disease: An update from 2023
Authors: Liu Zishan , Huang Zhuoyan , Wang Yu , Xiong Shanshan , Lin Sinan , He Jinshen , Tan Jinyu , Liu Caiguang , Wu Xiaomin , Nie Jing , Huang Weidong , Zhang Yao , Zhou Longyuan , Mao Ren
Published: March 2024

Crohn's disease (CD) is a chronic inflammatory disease that leads to intestinal stricture in nearly 35% of cases within 10 years of initial diagnosis. The unknown pathogenesis, lack of universally accepted criteria, and absence of an effective management approach remain unconquered challenges in structuring CD. The pathogenesis of stricturing CD involves intricate interactions between factors such as immune cell dysbiosis, fibroblast activation, and microecology imbalance. New techniques such as single‐cell sequencing provide a fresh perspective. Non‐invasive diagnostic tools such as serum biomarkers and novel cross‐sectional imaging techniques offer a precise understanding of intestinal fibrostenosis. Here, we provide a timely and comprehensive review of the worthy advancements in intestinal strictures in 2023, aiming to dispense cutting‐edge information regarding fibrosis and to build a cornerstone for researchers and clinicians to make greater progress in the field of intestinal strictures.
Incidence and prognosis of olfactory and gustatory dysfunctions related to SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron strain infection in China: A national multicenter survey of 35,566 individuals
Authors: Liu Meng‐Fan , Ma Rui‐Xia , Cao Xian‐Bao , Zhang Hua , Zhou Shui‐Hong , Jiang Wei‐Hong , Jiang Yan , Sun Jing‐Wu , Yang Qin‐Tai , Li Xue‐Zhong , Sun Ya‐Nan , Shi Li , Wang Min , Song Xi‐Cheng , Chen Fu‐Quan , Zhang Xiao‐Shu , Wei Hong‐Quan , Yu Shao‐Qing , Zhu Dong‐Dong , Ba Luo , Cao Zhi‐Wei , Xiao Xu‐Ping , Wei Xin , Lin Zhi‐Hong , Chen Feng‐Hong , Shan Chun‐Guang , Wang Guang‐Ke , Ye Jing , Qu Shen‐Hong , Zhao Chang‐Qing , Wang Zhen‐Lin , Li Hua‐Bin , Liu Feng , Cui Xiao‐Bo , Ye Sheng‐Nan , Liu Zheng , Xu Yu , Cai Xiao , Huang Wei , Zhang Ru‐Xin , Zhao Yu‐Lin , Yu Guo‐Dong , Shi Guang‐Gang , Lu Mei‐Ping , Shen Yang , Zhao Yu‐Tong , Pei Jia‐Hong , Xie Shao‐Bing , Yu Long‐Gang , Liu Ye‐Hai , Gu Shao‐Wei , Yang Yu‐Cheng , Cheng Lei , liu Jian‐Feng
Published: March 2024

Objective

This cross‐sectional study aimed to determine the epidemiology of olfactory and gustatory dysfunctions related to COVID‐19 in China.

Methods

This study was conducted by 45 tertiary Grade‐A hospitals in China. Online and offline questionnaire data were obtained from patients infected with COVID‐19 between December 28, 2022, and February 21, 2023. The collected information included basic demographics, medical history, smoking and drinking history, vaccination history, changes in olfactory and gustatory functions before and after infection, and other postinfection symptoms, as well as the duration and improvement status of olfactory and gustatory disorders.

Results

Complete questionnaires were obtained from 35,566 subjects. The overall incidence of olfactory and taste dysfunction was 67.75%. Being female or being a cigarette smoker increased the likelihood of developing olfactory and taste dysfunction. Having received four doses of the vaccine or having good oral health or being a alcohol drinker decreased the risk of such dysfunction. Before infection, the average olfactory and taste VAS scores were 8.41 and 8.51, respectively; after infection, they decreased to 3.69 and 4.29 and recovered to 5.83 and 6.55 by the time of the survey. The median duration of dysosmia and dysgeusia was 15 and 12 days, respectively, with 0.5% of patients having symptoms lasting for more than 28 days. The overall self‐reported improvement rate was 59.16%. Recovery was higher in males, never smokers, those who received two or three vaccine doses, and those that had never experienced dental health issues, or chronic accompanying symptoms.

Conclusions

The incidence of dysosmia and dysgeusia following infection with the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus is high in China. Incidence and prognosis are influenced by several factors, including sex, SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination, history of head‐facial trauma, nasal and oral health status, smoking and drinking history, and the persistence of accompanying symptoms.
Through Media and Digital Literacy Education Towards Civic Participation of Disadvantaged Youth
Authors: Römer Lucie
Published: March 2024

Media literacy has been increasingly becoming a prerequisite of full citizen participation. The latter has been shifting, especially among youth, away from the traditional media forms and more and more towards non-conventional ones. For example see the FridaysForFuture movement. The possibility for and abilities to get involved in the public debate are, though, not distributed equally. One of the tools to narrow down the ‘participation gap’ may be in media literacy education (MLE). This chapter presents a participatory action research exploring the possibilities of the MLE for the development of citizen participation of disadvantaged youth. It draws especially on the three-month intervention at the vocational school in the Czech Republic. 17 students aged 17–19 participated in the study in 2019.

The volume of both empirical and theoretical research in this field has been growing. However, in the context of central Europe, it is a relatively under researched area. The study was empirically testing a set of characteristics of teaching methods recommended previous studies and concluded, among others, by a recommendation of the holistic approach, long-term projects, blending of the in-the-school- and out-of-the-school-life, and breaching of the school routine. The intervention developed the media competence of the students, while their citizen participation activities’ enhancement remained ambiguous.
Evaluating ‘Meaningful Connectivity’: Digital Literacy and Women in West Bengal, India
Authors: Banerjee Rituparna , Trappel Josef , Van Audenhove Leo
Published: March 2024

India is witnessing a surge in both public-private collaborations and independent initiatives to use technology for ‘national good’. Do such initiatives provide advantages to citizens at grassroots levels in smaller cities or villages? How do we effectively gauge their benefits from the perspectives of their recipients, and evaluate digital literacy initiatives in a situated context? The chapter foregrounds voices of the beneficiaries of Internet-Saathi—a countrywide programme in India supported by Google and the Tata Trusts. It aims to understand how technological access impacts everyday lives of women in a specific, predominantly rural, district, Purulia, in the state of West Bengal. Drawing from in-depth semi-structured interviews with 17 designated ‘Internet Saathis’ between 2016 and 2019, this chapter employs a combination of the Capability Approach (CA) and Choice Framework (CF). This approach privileges processes that nurture substantive freedoms and conscious actions towards women-subjects’ own and others’ empowerment, and their eventual attainment of ‘mattering’. As a concept drawn from social psychology, mattering yields deeper insights into how these women participants perform as both recipients and agents of digital literacy in their immediate and wider environment. This helps to critically evaluate whether diffusion of devices and technologies bring about improved lived experiences, and insights on other barriers that persist.
Developing and Delivering and Data Literacy
Authors: Yates Simeon , Carmi Elinor
Published: March 2024

In this chapter we present our own work on developing the idea of Data Literacy and reflect on the potential to develop democratic education for data citizenship. In our work we link ideas from Dewey (New Republic 61:294–296, 1930) and Freire (Pedagogy of the oppressed (revised). Continuum, 1970/1996), with ideas from Nussbaum (Int Stud Rev 4(2), 123–135, 2002) and Sen (The idea of justice. Harvard University Press, 2009), to consider how we move towards a more just datafied society (see Carmi E, Yates S, Int J Commun 17:3619–3637, 2023). We argue that Data Literacy and Data Citizenship interventions need to build on a deep understanding of their audience and their journey towards greater data citizenship and awareness of issues in our datafied society. The chapter sets out seven principles for the development of Data Literacy and data citizenship support interventions and explores approaches to their development.
Dirt Tracks off the Superhighway: How COVID Widened the Digital Gap for Remote First Nations communities in Australia
Authors: Featherstone Daniel
Published: March 2024

This chapter outlines findings from a 2020 review of the impact of telecommunications infrastructure programs on internet access in Australia’s remote Indigenous communities (RICs) and outstanding needs. This review was undertaken for the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) about 6 months after the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia. The review outlined over $155 million of investment in telecommunications infrastructure in RICS by governments and industry over the last 5 years. However, it found that significant gaps in access and usage of communications technologies remained due to issues of affordability, lack of last mile delivery or community access facilities, service quality and congestion, and barriers to using online services. Some communities have chosen to not accept infrastructure due to concerns around cyber-safety, potential impacts on cultural and social cohesion, and ongoing costs of services and maintenance. Without a coordinated digital inclusion strategy in place to address these barriers, there is currently a patchwork of solutions. The chapter concludes by outlining the report’s recommendations and noting subsequent policy efforts to address the growing digital divide for First Nations people in Australia, including establishing a target to close the digital inclusion gap.
Creating Creativity for Future-Proofing Digital Engagement, an Evidence Based Approach
Authors: Barnard Josie
Published: March 2024

Creativity may be the single most important skill in our increasingly ‘online’ society. Pre-Covid, it had already been established that creativity is key to the acquisition of ‘future-proofing’ digital skills. Through 2020 and 2021, ‘lockdowns’ forced by the Covid pandemic brought wider attention to the value of creativity in the context of digital upskilling – but what exactly is ‘creativity’ in this context, and, how can it be enabled with measurable effectiveness? These questions are the subject of this chapter, which makes three main contributions to the understanding of how digital skills are acquired and developed. Firstly, in presenting findings from a small-scale longitudinal study that was conducted May 2020–May 2021 during Covid lockdowns, it provides evidence that creativity can be deployed to enable ‘future-proofing’ (i.e. sustainable and resilient) digital skills acquisition. Secondly, in a theory and policy context in which it is known in general terms that creativity is important but specificity regarding how is lacking, it provides emergent findings that improve understanding of the role of creativity in digital skills acquisition and retention. Thirdly, it presents a new theoretical position on the role of creativity in developing resilience in the digital sphere, with associated policy implications.