bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Collapsed oyster populations in large Florida estuaries appear resistant to restoration using traditional cultching methods—Insights from ongoing efforts in multiple systems
Authors: Pine W. E. , Brucker J. , Davis M. , Geiger S. , Gandy R. , Shantz A. , Stewart Merrill T. , Camp E. V.
Published: October 2023

Objective

Depressed eastern oyster Crassostrea virginica populations in the northern Gulf of Mexico have been the target of numerous post-Deepwater Horizon restoration projects. These projects primarily have focused on replacing oyster cultch (substrate) to promote spat settlement, increase recruitment, and bolster adult oyster populations. This study assessed the outcomes of six such efforts, which used different cultch types and densities between 2015 and 2022 in three estuaries on the Florida panhandle (Pensacola, St. Andrew, and Apalachicola bays). Total restoration costs for these projects were more than US$14 million.

Methods

Using generalized linear models, we analyzed oyster count data collected from diver surveys in three size-classes (spat, seed, and adult). We tested whether oyster population responses in the six restoration efforts varied over time, location, or study design.

Result

Oyster counts did not persistently increase after restoration, regardless of cultch type or density. Positive responses to restoration efforts were irregular and short-lived and seemed only to occur for spat-size oysters immediately after restoration. None of the restoration efforts significantly improved the abundance of oysters of any size-class in any of the study estuaries. Factors contributing to these results likely include design and implementation elements, such as the materials used and the height of the restored reefs. However, monitoring programs have not been able to deliver a clear picture of what is hindering restoration success.

Conclusion

For oyster restoration efforts to succeed, changes are needed—both in their implementation and in the way they are monitored—in order to promote continuous learning and improvement in restoration outcomes.
Will carbon emission trading policy improve the synergistic reduction efficiency of pollution and carbon? Evidence from 216 Chinese cities
Authors: Bai Tingting , Qi Yong , Li Zihao , Xu Dong
Published: October 2023

Based on the panel data of 216 Chinese cities from 2008 to 2018, the synergistic reduction efficiency of pollution and carbon (SREPC) was calculated using the super‐efficiency slack‐based measure model. Differences‐in‐differences (DID), propensity score matching (PSM)–DID, and spatial‐DID were adopted to study the impact of the carbon emission trading (CET) policy on SREPC. The study results show that SREPC was not improved overall, with an unbalanced development characteristic of high efficiency in the east and low efficiency in the west. The Meta‐frontier results show that there were indeed significant differences between pilot and non‐pilot cities before and after the implementation of the CET policy. Mechanism tests reveal that CET promoted SREPC by improving energy efficiency and optimizing industrial structures. Spatial analysis shows that CET had spatial spillover effects and decreased SREPC in neighboring cities. These reduction effects occurred in neighboring non‐pilot cities and showed an inverted U‐shaped relationship with increasing geographical distance, particularly significant within 500–600 km. Inverse data envelopment analysis shows that CET can utilize the synergistic reduction potential of pollution and carbon.
Systematic Review and Quantitative Data Synthesis of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell Transcriptomics Reveals Consensus Gene Expression Changes in Response to a High Fat Meal
Authors: Dordevic Aimee L. , Williamson Gary
Published: October 2023

Scope

Metabolic flexibility is essential for a healthy response to a high fat meal, and is assessed by measuring postprandial changes in blood markers including peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs; lymphocytes and monocytes). However, there is no clear consensus on postprandial gene expression and protein changes in these cells.

Method and results

The study systematically reviews the literature reporting transcriptional and proteomic changes in PBMCs after consumption of a high fat meal. After re‐analysis of the raw data to ensure equivalence between studies, ≈85 genes are significantly changed (defined as in the same direction in ≥3 studies) with about half involved in four processes: inflammation/oxidative stress, GTP metabolism, apoptosis, and lipid localization/transport. For meals consisting predominantly of unsaturated fatty acids (UFA), notable additional processes are phosphorylation and glucocorticoid response. For saturated fatty acids (SFA), genes related to migration/angiogenesis and platelet aggregation are also changed.

Conclusion

Despite differences in study design, common gene changes are identified in PBMCs following a high fat meal. These common genes and processes will facilitate definition of the postprandial transcriptome as part of the overall postcibalome, linking all molecules and processes that change in the blood after a meal.
An inexpensive method for reliable recovery of stream temperature data
Authors: Rogers Kevin B. , Hodge Brian W.
Published: October 2023

Objective

Water temperature is perhaps the single-most important environmental driver of fish populations. The strong relationship between fish and water temperature allows fisheries managers to make predictions about the influence of temperature on fishes under both current and future climatic conditions. These predictions are more robust if based on year-round and long-term data. However, water temperature data are commonly compromised or lost altogether when data-logging temperature sensors are damaged or go missing. In recognition of the need for reliable ways to collect long-term, year-round temperature data, we designed, implemented, and tested a durable but cryptic logger deployment and retrieval system.

Methods

We used metal housings and stakes to protect and anchor temperature loggers on the streambed and, when necessary, used a metal detector to assist with logger recovery. We then evaluated logger recovery rates across 12 years and 312 deployments at 85 sites in first- to ninth-order Rocky Mountain streams and rivers.

Result

Although we recovered only 73% of loggers with traditional means of retrieval (e.g., GPS or photo), presumably owing to the inconspicuous nature of our metal housings and streambed anchor stakes, we recovered 96% of loggers when a metal detector was also used. Ordinal and binary logistic regression revealed that a metal detector was especially beneficial when trying to recover loggers from unfamiliar monitoring sites or those deployed for long periods of time (years).

Conclusion

Our methods could be replicated for a reliable and inexpensive approach to acquiring year-round stream temperature data.
Proportion of caloric restriction‐induced weight loss as skeletal muscle
Authors: Heymsfield Steven B. , Yang Shengping , McCarthy Cassidy , Brown Jasmin B. , Martin Corby K. , Redman Leanne M. , Ravussin Eric , Shen Wei , Müller Manfred J. , Bosy‐Westphal Anja
Published: October 2023

Objective

This study's objective was to develop models predicting the relative reduction in skeletal muscle (SM) mass during periods of voluntary calorie restriction (CR) and to validate model predictions in longitudinally monitored samples.

Methods

The model development group included healthy nonexercising adults (n = 897) who had whole‐body SM mass measured with magnetic resonance imaging. Model predictions of relative SM changes with CR were evaluated in two longitudinal studies, one 12 to 14 weeks in duration (n = 74) and the other 12 months in duration (n = 26).

Results

A series of SM prediction models were developed in a sample of 415 males and 482 females. Model‐predicted changes in SM mass relative to changes in body weight (i.e., ΔSM/Δbody weight) with a representative model were (mean ± SE) 0.26 ± 0.013 in males and 0.14 ± 0.007 in females (sex difference, p < 0.001). The actual mean proportions of weight loss as SM in the longitudinal studies were 0.23 ± 0.02/0.20 ± 0.06 in males and 0.10 ± 0.02/0.17 ± 0.03 in females, similar to model‐predicted values.

Conclusions

Nonelderly males and females with overweight and obesity experience respective reductions in SM mass with voluntary CR in the absence of a structured exercise program of about 2 to 2.5 kg and 1 to 1.5 kg per 10‐kg weight loss, respectively. These estimates are predicted to be influenced by interactions between age and body mass index in males, a hypothesis that needs future testing.
Trans‐oceanic subsurface photovoltaic performance
Authors: Krawczyk Collin A. , Shafer Michael W. , Flikkema Paul G. , Rose Holser Rachel , Costa Daniel
Published: October 2023

Utilization of marine photovoltaic energy is primarily focused on surface harvesting with limited photovoltaic cell implementations in submarine environments. Potential applications include marine wildlife telemetry devices, autonomous underwater vehicles, or remote sensing assets. In these applications, understanding the power at depth is critical, but there has yet to be a long‐term study of cell performance in a realistic marine environment that spans time, geographic location, and depth. In this paper, we present photovoltaic assessments carried out by devices mounted to adult female northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris) during their spring migrations in the Pacific Ocean with deployment times between 76 and 107 days. Encompassing a large geographic area between Santa Cruz, California, and the Aleutian Islands of Alaska during their migrations, elephant seal behavior allows for repeated depth profiles each day, making them an ideal host for subsurface power assessments. This paper presents the first longitudinal study of photovoltaic cell performance in the marine environment that spans location, time, and depth. This work discusses the calibration, data time alignment, and power calculations of these oceanic deployments. Deployment results, including power results and energy predictions from the data record, are presented up to 22 m in depth. We highlight how the recorded power data of these cells compares to previously published results and how depth impacts subsurface power and energy harvesting.
Textile‐Based Flexible Temperature Sensors for Wearable and Sports Applications
Authors: Soomro Afaque Manzoor , Jawed Bushra , Qayoom Abdul , Hyder Hasnain , Hussain Kashif , Iram Lubina , Waqas Muhammad , Ahmed Faheem , Sattar Abdul , Almani Suhail , Lim Jong Hwan
Published: October 2023

Flexible textile‐based sensors are versatile alternatives that can be comfortably worn and can detect a broad range of body and environment temperatures. Furthermore, they become more essential due to the recent rise in the use of wearable customized gadgets, wearable clothing, sports, medical, and soft robotics. Typically made from rigid materials like metals or semiconductors, traditional temperature sensors are heavy, inflexible, and difficult to wear since they can only endure very slight variations in their physical shape to be placed on any irregularly shaped object. In this review, developments in textile temperature sensors are discussed with a focus on their performance, fabrication techniques, advances in various materials, and applications, such as wearable monitoring and sports. Moreover, an in‐depth analysis of different performance parameters is also presented. Lastly, to provide useful guidance and directions for future study, it is concluded by outlining the current limitations of this field, and future recommendations for the scientific community to further explore other facets of textile temperature devices.
Synthesis of Titanium Carbide MXene Nanosheets by Ecofriendly Technique for Strontium Ion Adsorption
Authors: Colkesen Pinar , Fitriani Pipit , Yoon Dang-Hyok
Published: October 2023

2D titanium carbide (Ti3C2Tx, where Tx indicates the surface termination) MXene nanosheets are synthesized by etching the Ti3AlC2 MAX phase using two kinds of etchants: potassium hydroxide (KOH) base and hydrofluoric (HF) acid. This study aims to reduce the environmental side effects caused by the etchant in fabricating MXene nanosheets to extract strontium ions (Sr2+) from nuclear wastewater. Ti3C2Tx MXene synthesized using alkaline KOH etchant shows a 99% Sr2+ removal rate, which is much higher than that synthesized using the conventional HF etchant (82%). The enhanced Sr2+ removal rate associated with KOH etching is explained by unique surface termination, which offers more active adsorption sites for Sr2+ by the partial hydrolysis of TiC bonds on the surface of MXene nanosheets.
Influence of Metal (Al, Mg, Sm, and Cu) Dopants on Structural, Optical, Magnetic, and Antimicrobial Properties of ZnO Nanopowders Synthesized by Coprecipitation Method
Authors: Sowmya Kanakamedala , Aparna Yarramareddy , Chendra Prakash Antham , Thotakura Ramesh , Bhaskar Ankam
Published: October 2023

Pure and metal‐doped ZnO nanopowders with composition formula M0.04Zn0.96O (where M = Al, Mg, Sm, and Cu) are synthesized using the coprecipitation method. The structural characterization of synthesized powders is investigated using X‐ray diffraction and the results confirm the hexagonal wurtzite structure without any additional phases. The change in structural parameters of ZnO with dopants is estimated using X‐ray peak profile analysis. The structural characterization is further analyzed by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy. The size and morphology of the synthesized powders are analyzed by a field‐emission scanning electron microscope, which also evidences the formation of uniform nanostructures with quasi‐spherical and hexagonal shapes. Moreover, the elemental composition of these metal‐doped nanotructures is determined by energy‐dispersive X‐ray measurements. UV–vis spectroscopy is used to determine the energy bandgap of ZnO nanopowders. A vibration sample magnetometer is employed to measure the samples' magnetic properties, and dopants are found to induce distinct magnetic behaviors in ZnO. The antimicrobial activity of the synthesized powders is measured using the well diffusion method. It is observed that the introduction of dopant metals leads to increased microbial activity. Among the doped ZnO variants, Al‐doped ZnO exhibits the highest level of microbial activity compared to pure ZnO and other samples.
Novel Structural and Electronic Properties, Magnetic Anisotropy and Quantum Capacitance of Cr2/3Sc1/3CO2 I‐Mxene
Authors: Liu Ming‐Zhu , Li Xiao‐Hong , Zhang Rui‐Zhou , Cui Hong‐Ling
Published: October 2023

MXene is widely used as electrode material because of its excellent performance. A new branch, i‐MXene is recently synthesized and confirmed to have superior performance. Density functional theory is used to investigate the structural and electronic properties, magnetic anisotropy and quantum capacitance of Cr2/3Sc1/3CO2 i‐MXene. The results indicate that the three models are stable and have magnetism, which originates from Cr‐d states. Cr2/3Sc1/3CO2 has higher work function and can be used as hole injection electrode. Model 2 prefers in‐plane as the magnetic easy direction, while the magnetic easy‐axis of model 3 is out‐of‐plane. The three models of Cr2/3Sc1/3CO2 are all suitable for anode material in whole voltage. Quantum capacitance, surface storage charges and electrode types at 233, 300, and 353 K are also investigated.
Experimental Simulation and Electromechanical Characterization of Dynamic Air Gap Eccentricity Faults inPMSG
Authors: He Yu‐Ling , Dai De‐Rui , Xu Ming‐Xing , Zhang Wen , Liu Xiang‐Ao , Li Yong , Xing Yun , Zheng Wen‐Jie , Gerada David
Published: October 2023

This paper presents a designed experimental simulation scheme for dynamic air gap eccentricity (DAGE) faults in permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG), along with the testing of their electromechanical characteristics. Unlike previous studies, this paper proposes and applies an experimental device setting scheme that enables accurate and convenient calibration of the DAGE fault degree, offering a novel solution for practical DAGE simulation. The experimental unit measures the electromechanical characteristics of the PMSG before and after the DAGE fault, taking into account the influence of load. The mechanical parameter considered is the stator vibration, while the electrical parameter is the circulating current parallel branches (CCPB) inside the stator winding. The characteristic frequencies of stator vibration and CCPB under the DAGE fault are analyzed based on the experimental results and verified through theoretical calculations and finite element analysis (FEA). The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed DAGE experimental device. Moreover, DAGE failure increases the strength of stator vibration and introduces new frequency components, namelyfrand 2f ± fr. Under normal operation, the PMSG exhibits no CCPB. However, DAGE faults cause CCPB with frequency components off ± fr. Moreover, the severity of the fault degree positively correlates with larger root‐mean‐square (RMS) values and characteristic frequency amplitudes of stator vibration and CCPB. Furthermore, the amplitude of stator vibration and CCPB decreases with increasing load. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Human Milk Surveys on Persistent Organic Pollutants from a Historical Perspective
Authors: Fürst Peter
Published: October 2023

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) were identified in humans who have not been dealing with these chemicals intentionally—from organochlorine pesticides towards industrial chemicals, brominated and fluorine containing POPs. This chapter provides a brief overview of major developments in POPs monitoring in human milk and depicts a gradual broadening of the knowledge underpinned by advances in the instrumentation for chemical analysis as well as expansion of range of analytes that warranted attention. The chapter also shows how, in the course of the past 70 years, human milk monitoring has become an efficient and cost-effective non-invasive biomonitoring tool to evaluate the internal human exposure to POPs and the resulting body burden.
WHO- and UNEP-Coordinated Human Milk Studies 2000–2019: Findings of Chlorinated Paraffins
Authors: Krätschmer Kerstin , Vetter Walter , Kalina Jiří , Malisch Rainer
Published: October 2023

Chlorinated paraffins (CP) are complex mixtures of several million theoretically possible individual compounds. Contrary to medium-chain CP (MCCP, C14–C17) and long-chain CP (LCCP, C18–C30), the third sub-group investigated, short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCP, C10–C13), have been listed in 2017 in Annex A (Elimination) of the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. The concentrations of CP were determined in 84 nation-wide pooled human milk samples collected between 2009 and 2019 in 57 countries participating in exposure studies coordinated by the World Health Organization and the United Nations Environment Programme. Until 2015, only total CP content was determined. In light of on-going efforts to also add other CP groups to the Annexes of the Stockholm Convention and the glaring lack of data on the general background contamination worldwide, later analysis determined SCCP and MCCP and investigated the presence of LCCP (C18–C20 only). CP were present in all 84 samples, ranging 8.7–700 ng/g lipid. A statistically significant increase rate of total CP concentrations in human milk of 30% over 10 years was found on a global level, with a considerable variation between UN Regional Groups. Homologue group patterns indicated higher shares of MCCP and LCCP in industrialized countries and economically dependent areas. Compared to all other POPs analysed in the samples, the concentration of the sum of SCCP and MCCP was in most cases only surpassed by DDT, except European countries with high shares of PCB. Considering the ubiquitous presence of CP in humans worldwide, further investigation into toxicological effects and human exposure seems more pressing than ever, so that regulatory action may follow.
Time Trends in Human Milk Derived from WHO- and UNEP-Coordinated Exposure Studies, Chapter 1: Polychlorinated Biphenyls, Polychlorinated Dibenzo-p-Dioxins and Polychlorinated Dibenzofurans
Authors: Malisch Rainer , Schächtele Alexander , van Leeuwen F. X. Rolaf , Moy Gerald , Tritscher Angelika , Šebková Kateřina , Klánová Jana , Kalina Jiří
Published: October 2023

Temporal trends of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDD) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDF) in human milk were assessed by consideration only of countries with repeated participation in WHO/UNEP-coordinated exposure studies performed between 1987 and 2019. In contrast to a general estimation of time trends from all participating countries, this is a more precise approach because levels among countries are often highly variable. Studies on time trends for contaminants in human milk are important components of the effectiveness evaluation of the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). There is no stipulation of a quantitative goal for the rate of reduction/decrease in POPs levels, however, as a quantitative objective for studies, these should have the ability to detect a 50% decrease in the levels of POPs within a 10-year period.

For non-dioxin-like PCB (calculated as the sum of six indicator PCB), a decrease of about 50% to 60% over 10 years was achieved in most of the five UN Regional Groups. Considerable decreases in concentrations with reductions of up to 95% over three decades were observed in European countries with high concentrations at the end of the 1980s, compared to slower decreases in less polluted ones. For the toxic equivalents (TEQ) of PCDD/PCDF and the total TEQ of PCDD/PCDF and dioxin-like PCB, a decrease of about 50% over 10 years was found mainly in Western European and some other countries with initially relatively high concentrations. TEQ concentrations of PCDD/PCDF decreased by up to 90% over three decades. Lower decreases observed in many countries have to be seen in the context of the quite low levels in these countries in comparison with other countries.
Time Trends in Human Milk Derived from WHO- and UNEP-Coordinated Exposure Studies, Chapter 3: Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)
Authors: Malisch Rainer , Fürst Peter , Šebková Kateřina , Sapunova Daria , Kalina Jiří
Published: October 2023

Temporal trends of perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS) were assessed using 86 pooled human milk samples from 59 countries from all United Nations Regional Groups collected between 2008 and 2019 as part of the WHO/UNEP-coordinated exposure studies. The primary objective of these temporal studies is to provide monitoring data for the effectiveness evaluation of the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). General temporal trends were estimated using data from all participating countries by grouping into three equal four-year periods (2008–2011, 2012–2015, and 2016–2019) reflecting the performance of three rounds of the studies. A more precise approach is the use of data from 24 countries with repeated participation in the WHO/UNEP-coordinated exposure studies, 22 of them in different periods and two in the same period. However, there were no Western European countries with multiple participation, and only two countries from the Asia-Pacific Region with one country submitting two samples in the same period.

The country-specific PFOS data showed decreasing tendencies in 19 of the 22 countries with participation in different periods, quite constant levels in two countries and increasing tendencies in one country (from its first participation in 2010 to the second participation in 2015). For the two countries with repeated participation in the same period, it does not seem appropriate to derive country-specific temporal tendencies. An overall decrease of PFOS concentrations over 10 years of 48% and 52%, respectively, was calculated by the Theil–Sen method (1) using all samples and (2) using samples from countries with repeated participation. PFOA concentrations showed decreasing tendencies in 17 countries of the 22 countries with participation in different periods, quite constant levels in two countries and increasing tendencies in three countries (from their first participation between 2009 and 2011 to the second participation in 2015). An overall decrease over 10 years for PFOA concentrations of 42% and 47%, respectively, was calculated by the Theil–Sen method (1) using all samples and (2) using samples from countries with repeated participation. The estimation of general temporal trends for PFHxS was not possible, as in 84% of the samples PFHxS concentrations were below the limit of quantification (5.7 ng/L).
Risk–Benefit Analysis for the Breastfed Infant Based on the WHO- and UNEP Human Milk Surveys for Dioxin-like Compounds
Authors: van den Berg Martin , van Duursen Majorie B. M. , Tritscher Angelika , Malisch Rainer , Peterson Richard E.
Published: October 2023

Dioxin-like compounds (DLC) are still present in human milk and this chapter describes a risk–benefit analysis based on decades of WHO global human milk surveys. At present there is no health-based guidance value (HBGV) available for the breastfed infant. Although formally these HBGVs have been set to protect human health for a lifetime exposure period, much of the underlying experimental data focus on the perinatal and/or childhood period. Therefore, it is justifiable to use these HBGVs for early life and shorter than lifetime exposures, e.g. breastfeeding. With this approach the present HBGVs for DLC were generally exceeded one order of magnitude or more in industrialized countries over the period 2000 to 2019. If HBGVs of 1 or 0.1 pg TEQ/kg/day are used to calculate toxicological acceptable levels for DLC in human milk, it can be estimated that such levels will not be reached before, respectively, 2030 or 2050. When the subtle adverse health effects of DLC in the breastfed infant reported in the 1990s were compared with benefits of breastfeeding for the infant and mother, it is concluded that benefits grossly outweigh the potential adverse health. Therefore, it is concluded that the WHO has rightfully encouraged breastfeeding for the last decades.
Outlook (Towards Future Studies on Human Milk)
Authors: Šebková Kateřina , Fürst Peter , Malisch Rainer
Published: October 2023

After the comprehensive presentation of the results of the WHO/UNEP studies on human milk in this compendium, this short chapter looks at upcoming needs, challenges, and opportunities. It briefly discusses the candidate chemicals to be reviewed for listing, related challenges for chemical analyses and aligns them with the progress in new techniques and technologies. Further, a need for harmonization of the survey design has also been apparent in recent years, at least at the EU level, in particular in support of the next generation risk assessment and enhanced protection of human health. This fact also represents a new opportunity on how to further develop existing human milk studies to provide necessary management responses.
WHO- and UNEP-Coordinated Exposure Studies 2000–2019: Findings of Polybrominated Substances (PBDE, HBCDD, PBB 153, PBDD/PBDF)
Authors: Schächtele Alexander , Malisch Rainer , Hardebusch Björn , van Leeuwen F. X. Rolaf , Moy Gerald , Tritscher Angelika , van Duursen Majorie , van den Berg Martin , Šebková Kateřina , Klánová Jana , Kalina Jiří
Published: October 2023

The concentrations of a number of polybrominated substances were determined in pooled human milk samples collected from up to 80 countries from all the United Nations Regional Groups. The samples were taken from one or more of the five exposure studies on persistent organic pollutants coordinated by the World Health Organization and the United Nations Environment Programme between 2000 and 2019.

Large differences in levels were found for polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE). The concentration of the sum of 6 PBDE congeners (∑PBDE6: BDE-47, BDE-99, BDE-100, BDE-153, BDE-154, BDE-183) of 135 pooled samples from 80 countries was in the range between 0.3 and 352 ng/g lipid (median 1.6 ng/g lipid). The highest concentrations were detected in the Western European and Others Group (including Australia, Israel, New Zealand, and the USA) in 2003. Time trends were assessed for 36 countries with repeated participation. Rates of decrease tend to fluctuate at near background levels; but at higher levels, a decreasing trend was observed for nearly all countries. Deca-BDE (BDE-209) contributed on average about 13% to ∑PBDE7(sum of ∑PBDE6plus BDE-209). The contribution of the octa-brominated diphenyl ether (octa-BDE) BDE-197 and nona-BDEs-206, -207, and -208 to the sum of 25 PBDE was in the range of the six recommended analytes and BDE-209. Therefore, their addition to the list of recommended analytes should be considered.

The α-HBCDD levels of 102 pooled samples from 72 countries collected between 2006 and 2019 ranged between <0.1 and 15 ng/g lipid (median: 0.5 ng/g lipid). β-HBCDD and γ-HBCDD were in nearly all samples below the limit of quantification (LOQ for 90% of the samples: <0.1 ng/g lipid) or around the LOQ (max: 0.8 ng/g lipid). Thus, it can be concluded that α-HBCD is the predominant stereoisomer in human milk.

Hexabromobiphenyl (PBB 153) was below the limit of quantification (0.5 ng/g lipid) in 106 of 110 pooled samples from 69 countries. In four samples, low concentrations of between 1.0 and 1.7 ng/g lipid were found.

In addition to these chemicals listed by the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants, in 38 pooled samples from 28 countries concentrations of polybrominated dibenzodioxins and -furans (PBDD/PBDF) were determined to assess their contribution to the overall sum of WHO2005toxic equivalents (TEQ) with polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDD) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDF). PBDD and PBDF provided on average about 10% to the overall TEQ calculated as sum of WHO-PCDD/PCDF-TEQ and WHO-PBDD/PBDF-TEQ, when assuming the same toxic equivalency factors for brominated congeners as assigned to their chlorinated analogs. No correlations between PCDD/PCDF and PBDD/PBDF, or PBDD/PBDF and PBDE were found.
Children and the Interpretation of the Gugon Tuhon: The Age Factor
Authors: Erviana Ida , Widhyasmaramurti  , Puspitorini Dwi
Published: October 2023

Gugon tuhon is a speech used by Javanese parents to give advice and teach good behaviors to their children. This paper deals with the children’s age factor which influences on their comprehension of gugon tuhons concerning eating etiquette. The data were collected through a questionnaire on children’s comprehension, belief, and obedience to gugon tuhons, which targeted children of 1st graders (7–8 years old), 3rd graders (9–10 years old), and 5th graders (11–12 years old) in Kediri city, East Java. Using a qualitative method, the data were analyzed and described based on Austin and Searle’s speech act theory. The results show that in today’s modern era, gugon tuhons concerning eating etiquette are still used as a means for character building in Javanese families, so as for parents to introduce social and cultural norms of eating etiquette to their children. It is found that there are different understandings of this kind of speech. Children’s different understanding of gugon tuhons provides an insight into the language phenomenon in modern society, particularly as to how children’s age influences their illocutionary speech acts in comprehending gugon tuhons.
Superstructure and Cohesion in the Narratives of Jakarta Sign Language Signers
Authors: Putri Innova Safitri Suprapto , Yuwono Untung
Published: October 2023

This chapter deals with the narrative structure and connecting elements of narrative discourse in Jakarta Sign Language (JakSL). Two research questions are discussed in this paper: (1) what is the narrative structure of fairy tales proposed in the JakSL? and (2) what are elements in the JakSL that create the narrative cohesion in the narratives of the Deaf? The first question pertains to the narrative structure of sign language, while the second question relates to cohesion in sign language. The method used in this research is descriptive qualitative. The data are taken from the transcription of two narrative signing videos about a fable—The Hare and The Tortoise—narrated by two JakSL signers. The results of this research show the story order delivered by two informants of JakSL speakers which corresponds to the order of narrative structure as proposed by Labov and Waletzky (Essays on the verbal and visual arts: proceedings of the American Ethnological Society. Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, Inc., 1967) In this study, the structure is formed both by manual movements and nonmanual movements. Two types of grammatical cohesion, namely reference and ellipsis, are found. Meanwhile, in lexical cohesion, repetition and collocation are found.
Discourse on Adlibs Radio Advertisements: Structure and Cooperative Principles
Authors: Andiani Puspita , Suhardijanto Totok
Published: October 2023

This chapter aims at explaining structures and violations of the cooperative principle in adlibs to understand its function in a radio advertisement. This adlib is a new method in radio advertisement in which radio broadcasters read and perform the advertising. Data are collected from the morning program of Gen FM radio. This research applies qualitative method in order to provide descriptive data in the form of written and oral words from observed or targeted individuals. There are two key findings in this study. First, the most often of adlibs structures is an advertisement structure without opening or greeting. It means that the radio broadcasters started adlibs without prior notification. Second, the most violated principle is Grice's maxim of relevance. The radio broadcasters deliberately contravene the maxim of relevance that radio listeners do not think they are listening to an advertisement. Therefore, a radio broadcaster must have skill to deliver adlibs as natural as possible. This research shows the current conditions of radio advertisement from the perspective of linguistics. The success of adlibs radio advertisements relies heavily on the ability in manipulation discursive and pragmatic aspects of language and communication.
Just Like Conversation?: Speech and Thought Presentation in Indonesian Adolescent Fiction
Authors: Djenar Dwi Noverini
Published: October 2023

This chapter examines a remark by an observer of Indonesian adolescent literature that the language in Indonesian Teenlit novels resembles “spoken language,” implying that it is conversational in style. Drawing on approaches to speech and thought presentation initially applied to the study of English language texts, the chapter shows that direct speech and free direct speech are the main techniques employed by Indonesian authors to represent the speech and thought of adolescent characters. It is argued that the observer’s remark is not an indication that the language in Teenlit is indeed like conversational language. Rather, it represents an intuitive judgment that attests to the authors’ effective use of the techniques.
Preferential expression of SCN1A in GABAergic neurons improves survival and epileptic phenotype in a mouse model of Dravet syndrome
Authors: Ricobaraza Ana , Bunuales Maria , Gonzalez-Aparicio Manuela , Fadila Saja , Rubinstein Moran , Vides-Urrestarazu Irene , Banderas Julliana , Sola-Sevilla Noemi , Sanchez-Carpintero Rocio , Lanciego Jose Luis , Roda Elvira , Honrubia Adriana , Arnaiz Patricia , Hernandez-Alcoceba Ruben
Published: October 2023

The SCN1A gene encodes the alpha subunit of a voltage-gated sodium channel (Nav1.1), which is essential for the function of inhibitory neurons in the brain. Mutations in this gene cause severe encephalopathies such as Dravet syndrome (DS). Upregulation of SCN1A expression by different approaches has demonstrated promising therapeutic effects in preclinical models of DS. Limiting the effect to inhibitory neurons may contribute to the restoration of brain homeostasis, increasing the safety and efficacy of the treatment. In this work, we have evaluated different approaches to obtain preferential expression of the full SCN1A cDNA (6 Kb) in GABAergic neurons, using high-capacity adenoviral vectors (HC-AdV). In order to favour infection of these cells, we considered ErbB4 as a surface target. Incorporation of the EGF-like domain from neuregulin 1 alpha (NRG1α) in the fiber of adenovirus capsid allowed preferential infection in cells lines expressing ErbB4. However, it had no impact on the infectivity of the vector in primary cultures or in vivo. For transcriptional control of transgene expression, we developed a regulatory sequence (DP3V) based on the Distal-less homolog enhancer (Dlx), the vesicular GABA transporter (VGAT) promoter, and a portion of the SCN1A gene. The hybrid DP3V promoter allowed preferential expression of transgenes in GABAergic neurons both in vitro and in vivo. A new HC-AdV expressing SCN1A under the control of this promoter showed improved survival and amelioration of the epileptic phenotype in a DS mouse model. These results increase the repertoire of gene therapy vectors for the treatment of DS and indicate a new avenue for the refinement of gene supplementation in this disease.

Key messages

Adenoviral vectors can deliver the SCN1A cDNA and are amenable for targeting.

An adenoviral vector displaying an ErbB4 ligand in the capsid does not target GABAergic neurons.

A hybrid promoter allows preferential expression of transgenes in GABAergic neurons.

Preferential expression of SCN1A in GABAergic cells is therapeutic in a Dravet syndrome model.
Distribution of coronal plane alignment of the knee classification does not change as knee osteoarthritis progresses: a longitudinal study from the Toei study
Authors: Nomoto Kazuki , Hanada Mitsuru , Hotta Kensuke , Matsuyama Yukihiro
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the coronal plane alignment of the knee (CPAK) phenotypes of individuals with knee osteoarthritis (OA) progression. We hypothesized that distributions of CPAK phenotypes would be similar throughout OA progression, despite arithmetic hip–knee–ankle angle (aHKA) and joint line obliquity (JLO) changing.

Methods

A total of 248 patients (79 men and 169 women) participated in the first study in 2012 and the fifth study in 2020. Patients with progression of knee OA for eight years were included. Knee OA progression was defined as advancement from KL grade 0–2 to KL grade 3 or 4. Alignment parameters, including the aHKA, JLO, hip–knee–ankle angle (HKA), lateral distal femur angle (LDFA), medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA), and joint line convergence angle (JLCA), were measured. Changes in distribution of CPAK classifications and alignment parameters were investigated. Alignment parameters were compared using a paired t‐test. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05.

Results

The study included 48 patients (60 knees). The distributions of all CPAK phenotypes were similar between 2012 and 2020. MPTA (83.7° ± 2.8° vs. 82.3° ± 4.8°, p < 0.01), aHKA (− 3.6° ± 3.8° vs. − 4.9° ± 6.2°, p = 0.01), and JLO (171.1° ± 4.6° vs. 169.5° ± 5.1°, p < 0.01) decreased significantly, and JLCA (1.17° ± 2.2° vs. 3.1° ± 4.7°, p < 0.01) and HKA (4.8° ± 3.9° vs. 8.0° ± 5.4°, p < 0.01) increased significantly. In contrast, LDFA (87.4° ± 3.2° vs. 87.2° ± 3.1°, p = n.s.) did not change significantly.

Conclusions

The CPAK classification system can predict constitutional alignment, even with knee OA progression, and enables surgeons to perform individualized preoperative alignment planning according to knee phenotypes.
Predynastic and Early Dynastic plant economy in the Nile Delta: archaeobotanical evidence from Tell el-Iswid
Authors: Marinova Elena , Preiss Sidonie , Attia Elshafaey A. E. , Buchez Nathalie , Midant-Reynes Beatrix
Published: October 2023

The large-scale excavation at the prehistoric site of Tell el-Iswid made it possible to undertake a systematic archaeobotanical study of different structures covering the Predynastic and Early Dynastic period (Lower Egyptian Cultures, i.e. Buto II (3500−3300 bc) to Naqada III Culture (3300−2900 bc)). Here we present the results of the analysis of carpological remains preserved mostly in a charred state and coming from 62 samples processed by manual flotation, with total volume of 615 L and containing a total of 9,672 identifiable and quantifiable items. A further ca. 650 wood fragments (or woody vegetative remains) were subject to anthracological analysis. Besides the aim of overall characterisation and exploration of the plant economy of the site, the macrobotanical assemblages were also considered in relation to the structures from which they were uncovered. The study revealed that the agricultural economy of both studied periods relied on emmer, barley, lentils, and pea, but from Early Dynastic times onwards barley and pulses gained more importance, along with flax (Linum usitatissimum) and condiments (like Anethum graveolens and cf. Origanum sp.), which occur first during this period at the site. Together with the cultivated fields, the surrounding wetlands were also an important part of the plant resources utilized at the site. The stems of Phragmites are the most common among the anthracological remains, together with a small proportion of Tamarix and Acacia charcoal fragments. The overall composition of the plant assemblages (charred and mineralised chaff, small weed or wild growing seeds capable of passing herbivore digestion, dung fragments, awns) suggest that the major source of the retrieved plant remains was dung fuel.
Endocervical crypt involvement by high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and its association with high-grade histopathological recurrence after cervical excision in women with negative excision margins: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Papoutsis Dimitrios , Underwood Martyn , Parry-Smith William , Tzavara Chara
Published: October 2023

Background

There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that endocervical crypt involvement by high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) may represent a risk factor for disease recurrence after cervical treatment.

Objectives

To provide a systematic review and meta-analysis on whether endocervical crypt involvement by high-grade CIN on the excised cervical specimen is associated with high-grade histopathological recurrence during the follow-up of women after cervical excisional treatment.

Search strategy

We searched the Medline, Scopus, Central, and Clinical Trials.gov databases from inception till May 2023.

Selection criteria

Studies that reported on women with a single cervical treatment with any method of excision for CIN2 or CIN3 lesion, negative excision margins, and whose recurrence was defined histopathologically were included.

Data collection and analysis

Two reviewers independently evaluated study eligibility. We used the fixed effects model for meta-analysis.

Main results

There were 4 eligible studies included in the present systematic review that evaluated 1088 women treated with either large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ) or with cold knife conization (CKC). We found no significant association of endocervical crypt involvement by CIN2-3 with high-grade histopathological recurrence at follow-up after cervical excision (OR 1.93; 95% CI 0.51–3.35). The subgroup analysis of women with LLETZ cervical excision showed again no significant association with high-grade histopathological recurrence at follow-up (OR 2.00; 95% CI 0.26–3.74).

Conclusion

Endocervical crypt involvement by high-grade CIN does not seem to be a risk factor for high-grade histopathological recurrence after cervical excision with negative excision margins.
Extreme warm and cold waves derived from multiple high-resolution gridded datasets in Egypt
Authors: Aboelkhair Hassan , Morsy Mostafa
Published: October 2023

The primary purpose of this study is to interpret the variability of extreme warm (Tmax) and cold (Tmin) events over Egypt from 1981 to 2020 using three gridded datasets that evaluated against the observations at 24 in situ stations using robust statistical procedures. These high-resolution gridded datasets are well-matched with the observed data. Furthermore, the monthly maximum of daily Tmax (TXx) and Tmin (TNx) and the monthly minimum of daily Tmax (TXn) and Tmin (TNn) climate indices are used to investigate the variability of extremes over Egypt. It is found that the TXx increased gradually throughout the study period and the Mann–Kendall rank correlation (Tau) is mostly positive in the first and last decades, with the coefficient of variation (COV) ranges from 1 to 5. Also, the lowest TXn values are detected in the first two decades with decadal anomaly ranging from − 2 to + 2, and it has positive Tau values during all decades with COV ranges from 2 to 20. The TNx increased southward, and its decadal anomaly increased gradually over time. The significant positive Tau of TNx is found in the first and last decades, and its COV ranges from 1 to 8. Moreover, the TNn is increased during the study period, and its anomaly is less than + 0.5 °C in the first decade and exceeds + 2 °C in the fourth decade. The significant positive (negative) Tau for TNn appeared during the third (fourth) decade, while its COV ranged from 1 to 12. Finally, the COV and Tau of all indices are often negatively correlated (> − 0.5).
Efficient detection of multivariate correlations with different correlation measures
Authors: d’Hondt Jens E. , Minartz Koen , Papapetrou Odysseas
Published: October 2023

Correlation analysis is an invaluable tool in many domains, for better understanding the data and extracting salient insights. Most works to date focus on detecting high pairwise correlations. A generalization of this problem with known applications but no known efficient solutions involves the discovery of strong multivariate correlations, i.e., finding vectors (typically in the order of 3–5 vectors) that exhibit a strong dependence when considered altogether. In this work, we propose algorithms for detecting multivariate correlations in static and streaming data. Our algorithms, which rely on novel theoretical results, support four different correlation measures, and allow for additional constraints. Our extensive experimental evaluation examines the properties of our solution and demonstrates that our algorithms outperform the state-of-the-art, typically by an order of magnitude.