bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attributes of Expert Anticipation Should Inform the Design of Virtual Reality Simulators to Accelerate Learning and Transfer of Skill
Authors: Müller Sean , Dekker Evan , Morris-Binelli Khaya , Piggott Benjamin , Hoyne Gerard , Christensen Wayne , Fadde Peter , Zaichkowsky Leonard , Brenton John , Hambrick David Z.
Published: July 2022

Expert sport performers cope with a multitude of visual information to achieve precise skill goals under time stress and pressure. For example, a major league baseball or cricket batter must read opponent variations in actions and ball flight paths to strike the ball in less than a second. Crowded playing schedules and training load restrictions to minimise injury have limited opportunity for field-based practice in sports. As a result, many sports organisations are exploring the use of virtual reality (VR) simulators. Whilst VR synthetic experiences can allow greater control of visual stimuli, immersion to create presence in an environment, and interaction with stimuli, compared to traditional video simulation, the underpinning mechanisms of how experts use visual information for anticipation have not been properly incorporated into its content design. In themes, this opinion article briefly explains the mechanisms underpinning expert visual anticipation, as well as its learning and transfer, with a view that this knowledge can better inform VR simulator content design. In each theme, examples are discussed for improved content design of VR simulators taking into consideration its advantages and limitations relative to video simulation techniques. Whilst sport is used as the exemplar, the points discussed have implications for skill learning in other domains, such as military and law enforcement. It is hoped that our paper will stimulate improved content design of VR simulators for future research and skill enhancement across several domains.
Distorting Fundamental Norms of International Law to Resurrect the Soviet Union: The International Law Context of Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine
Authors: Cavandoli Sofia , Wilson Gary
Published: July 2022

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine which commenced on 24 February 2022 represented just the latest, albeit most devastating, intervention in a neighbouring former Soviet state. This article considers the legal justifications for Russia’s actions and finds them to be far from satisfactory. The claims advanced by Russia closely mirror those made in respect of its prior interventions in the former Soviet space, underlining an attempt to distort some of the most fundamental norms of international law in order to afford an air of legitimacy to its actions. Although it is too soon to conclude with any certainty what the longer term implications of the recent conflict will be, both politically and legally, it is apparent that it can be seen as part of a wider policy objective on Russia’s part to maintain and/or reassert influence over its ‘near abroad’. While in some respects indicative of the possible emergence of a new ‘Cold War’, the international reaction to its intervention in Ukraine suggests that any intention to manipulate or reconstitute legal norms in support of its agenda is meeting with mass rejection.
The origin and population genetics of wolves in the north Hungarian mountains
Authors: Fehér Péter , Frank Krisztián , Gombkötő Péter , Rigg Robin , Bedő Péter , Újváry Dóra , Stéger Viktor , Szemethy László
Published: July 2022

The grey wolf (Canis lupus) is one of the most challenging species to conserve in our modern and crowded world. Due to various factors, most European wolf populations are currently growing. In Hungary, numbers have increased since the 2000s. Although spontaneous recolonisation from Slovakia is considered to be the most likely mechanism by the majority of experts, some stakeholders claim that hand-reared individuals have been released. To determine the origin of wolves in northern Hungary, we analysed samples of free-ranging wolves collected in Slovakia and Hungary as well as samples from wolves in private enclosures in the region. We also included reference samples from domestic dogs. All samples were genotyped at 14 canine autosomal tetranucleotide microsatellite loci (STR) and analysed using multivariate, Bayesian methods. Hungarian wolf samples were also analysed using kinship methods. In the free-ranging wolf samples, all loci were polymorphic with 3–12 alleles. The overall observed (Ho) and unbiased expected (uHE) heterozygosities were 0.60–0.66 and 0.69–0.71, respectively. Parental and sibling relationships were also found among Hungarian individuals: three generations of a pack in the Bükk Mountains were identified. Samples from free-ranging wolves clustered separately from those of captive wolves and dogs. However, genetic similarities were found between Slovakian and Hungarian wolf samples. Our analyses indicate a Slovakian origin of the sampled Hungarian wolves, and we found no evidence that individuals originating in captivity have played any role in the recolonisation process. Kinship relationships and moderate genetic diversity suggest that there is ongoing gene flow across the Slovakian–Hungarian border.
MD simulation estimation of saturation pressure and vapor-liquid equilibrium for binary blends of HFO-1234yf and HFO-1123
Authors: Alam Md. Sarwar , Jeong Ji Hwan
Published: July 2022

Saturation pressure and vapor-liquid equilibrium data of low GWP hydrofluoroolefin compound HFO-1234yf (2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene) and its binary blends with HFO-1123 (1,1,2-trifluoroethene) were estimated using molecular dynamics (MD) simulation with the aid of COMPASS force field from 214.15 K to 330.15 K. The maximum absolute deviations of present saturated vapor pressure data from published experimental results were 0.03% for HFO-1123 system and 0.017% for HFO-1234yf system. These models were used to estimate the saturated vapor pressure for six different mixtures of HFO-1234yf and HFO-1123. The saturated liquid and vapor densities, the vapor-liquid coexistence curve (VLCC), and the critical points of the blended refrigerants with various molecular mass fractions were predicted using MD simulations and Gibbs ensemble Monte Carlo (GEMC) simulations. The critical points of HFO-1234yf and HFO-1123 matched well with published data.
Female Sexual Dysfunction Resources: Women and Healthcare Providers Need More Options
Authors: Dubinskaya A , Heard J , Choi E , Cohen T , Anger J , Eilber K , Scott V
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is an orphaned field due to numerous barriers faced by both providers and patients. Internet platforms, such as mobile applications, are potential tools to overcome these barriers and improve patient access to education and management options for FSD.

Objective

The purpose of this review is to identify existing applications addressing female sexual health and evaluate their educational content and services.

Methods

We searched the internet and Apple App Store for key words including: “sexual wellness app for women”, “female sexual health app”, “best sex apps for women”, “sexual health for women”, “sexual health”, “sexual wellness”. A panel of female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery experts reviewed the apps for quality of content, scientific basis of provided information, interactivity, usability and whether they would recommend it as a reference tool for patients.

Results

Of the 204 apps identified, 182 were excluded based on unrelated content (sex frequency trackers, ovulation trackers, sex games for couples, etc.). Two applications did not work and three were meant to be used with a vibrator. Total of 17 apps were analyzed and divided into five categories: educational (6), emotions and communication (2), relaxation and meditation (4), general sexual health (2), and social and fun (3). Among these 17 apps, eight required either a one-time payment ($4.99- 9.99) or annual subscription ($23-120) and two apps were advertisement driven. The apps from the educational category were reviewed in further details. All of the educational apps provided scientific information in collaboration with health experts, however only three offered interactive features. When assessed for usability, one app received good (70) and five received excellent (97.5) scores based on the System Usability Scale (SUS). The majority of the apps (5) provided information on pathology and treatments of orgasmic dysfunction, but only one app, created by a physician, provided information on all categories of female sexual dysfunctions. The reviewers identified only one app that they would recommend as a credible resource for patients to use.

Conclusions

Internet apps provide an ideal platform for women to learn about sexual health and female sexual dysfunction, which is rarely addressed by their healthcare providers. Apps may also serve as a valuable reference for providers. Our review of relevant apps available on the Apple App Store revealed only six with evidence-based information, and only one that would be recommended to patients by experts in the field. Clearly, there is a need for more accessible, educational resources addressing female sexual dysfunction for patients and providers.

Disclosure

No
Inspiring Sexual Attitude Reassessment (SAR)
Authors: Zal F
Published: July 2022

Introduction

This article will outline exemplary practices in teaching a Sexual Attitude Reassessment (SAR). SAR is sometimes colloquially referred to as diversity, equity, inclusion, and intersectionality training in the field of sexology. However, SAR is much more than that. SAR is a bridge 'from' cis-hetero-monogamous-ableist kyriarchy and other forms of erotic marginalization 'to' embodiment, loving kindness, compassion, compersion, and equanimity.

Objective

Stop the perpetuation of sexual shame, stigma, and other harms through meta-cognition, increased sexual world-view, professional boundaries, and triadic professional relationships for compassionate client support and equity formation.

Methods

Analysis of SAR lesson plans from multiple leaders in the field, to compare and critique methods and pedagogy utilized.Literature review of books, dissertations, and peer-reviewed journal publications on SAR.Professional recommendations based upon research and analysis.

Results

SAR is an opportunity for each participant to recognize and critically examine our internalized shame, stigma, aversion, and joy. Through this process of collaborative reflection, dialogue, and meta-cognition; we can learn to address the hidden narratives that might guide and/or foreclose our potential personal lives and to minimize harmful perpetuation of shame and stigma to clients, colleagues, family, and community. Physician, first heal thyself!It is important to understand that while as SAR is a required course for AASECT certification; it is the potential first of many experiential steps along the path of personal and professional exploration that will unfold across one's lifespan. SAR is a critical examination of one's sexual beliefs and values. A way of challenging the world as we know it to exist by purposefully confronting different worldviews, cultures, abilities, sexual orientations, gender identities, socioeconomic status, and social histories via lived experiences. SAR is also a nurturing space that encourages the growing process and facilitates brave learning.

Conclusions

Recommendations will be made around sexually explicit media, live / virtual formats, group discussion formats, positionality, vulnerability, and other resources.

Disclosure

No
Impact of Infertility on Female Sexual Function
Authors: Agarwal N , Bachmann G , Phillips N
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Infertility, known to have a negative impact on couples, may cause significant distress in a relationship and can potentially lead to/or exacerbate sexual dysfunction. The physical, psychological, and often financial strains of infertility treatments, with potential failure to achieve the desired pregnancy can all contribute to this stress. Additionally, sex may be seen as becoming a medical or therapeutic act, with loss of spontaneity and pleasure. Hence, infertility and sexual dysfunction can be interlinked. Despite this association, intervention with effective templates of care appears to be limited in addressing this issue.

Objective

A systematic literature review was done, focusing on female sexual dysfunction due to infertility and on what are available templates of care.

Methods

A Google Scholar and pub med search were done with keywords “sexual dysfunction,” “infertility,” and “couple.”

Results

Although there are many studies depicting the correlation between the infertility and sexual dysfunction, templates of management appear to be lacking. Data suggest that infertility is a major contributor to female sexual dysfunction. That is, not only the infertility diagnosis but also the duration of infertility contributes to the sexual dysfunction. Studies have shown the lubrication and orgasm issues are the woman's main concerns. Also, sexual dysfunction is more profoundly impaired in patients with secondary infertility, lower educational level and higher partner education.

Conclusions

These data suggest that couples undergoing infertility treatment should be evaluated for sexual dysfunction and be offered management during the infertility process. Sexual therapy does not appear to be routinely offered, despite the fact that these patients are at an increased risk of either developing a sexual dysfunction or a sexual dysfunction being exacerbated as a result of infertility as part of the infertility treatment process.

Disclosure

No
Could Hormone Levels Impact the Severity of Clitoral Phimosis?
Authors: Romanello J , Myers M , Nico E , Sussman R , Marantidis J , Rubin R
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Clitoral adhesions (CA) occur when the prepuce adheres to the glans clitoris. CA can be classified as mild, moderate, or severe, based on if more than 75%, 25% to 75%, or less than 25% of the glans clitoris is exposed. Symptoms of CA include pain, difficulty with arousal, and muted or absent orgasm. There is a paucity of information on how hormone levels may contribute to the formation of CA. We hypothesize that patients with lower levels of free and total testosterone, and higher levels of the blood transport protein sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) could have more severe adhesions. Higher free and total testosterone can yield more oily skin, which may break up or prevent adhesions. Additionally, with higher SHBG, there is less free testosterone available to be used by tissues in the body.

Objective

To determine if patients with lower free and total testosterone, and higher SHBG have more severe adhesions.

Methods

Charts of females with CA who underwent the non-surgical lysis procedure at one sexual medicine practice were considered for this study. 24 charts contained information on the severity of phimosis before lysis, total and free testosterone levels, as well as SHBG levels around the time of lysis. The study group consisted of patients with mild (n=9), moderate (n=8), or severe (n=7) CA.

Results

The average calculated free testosterone among patients with mild, moderate, and severe CA was 0.23ng/dL, 0.35ng/dL, and 0.14ng/dL. The average total testosterone among patients with mild, moderate, and severe CA was 24.79ng/dL, 27.81ng/dL, and 20.26ng/dL. The average SHBG among patients with mild, moderate, and severe CA was 98.69nmol/L, 95.76nmol/L, and 109.40nmol/L.

Conclusions

We predicted that patients with more severe adhesions would have lower levels of free and total testosterone, as well as higher levels of SHBG, yet this trend did not appear overall in this data among patients with mild, moderate, or severe adhesions. Additional studies with larger sample sizes are needed to explore the potential impact of free and total testosterone, as well as SHBG levels on the development and severity of CA. Studies could also compare levels of these hormones in patients with and without adhesions, or consider patients with recurrence of adhesions. Insight into a hormonal etiology could be important to patients with altered levels of these hormones - for example, patients with medical conditions such as PCOS, patients taking medications such as oral contraceptive pills, and menopausal women on oral estrogen (as increased estrogen raises levels of SHBG) could be at an increased risk for developing CA. Further studies could also consider if the clitoides of transgender males on gender-affirming hormone therapy with testosterone have lower incidences of CA.

Disclosure

Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Sprout (Raleigh, NC), Absorption Pharmaceuticals
Characteristics of Systemic Testosterone Therapy for Female Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder – A Claims Database Analysis
Authors: Kohn T , Dumas K , Kohn J , Agrawal P , Clifton M
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) is estimated to impact ∼10% of women but is commonly undiagnosed. Systemic testosterone therapy (alone or with estrogen) improves libido in women with HSDD; however, concern for adverse effects may limit broad utilization.

Objective

Our objective is to describe trends in systemic testosterone for HSDD using a large US claims database.

Methods

The TriNetX Diamond Network database was queried: a US health research network of 190 million patients, encompassing healthcare encounters and prescriptions. We identified female patients with HSDD (ICD-10 F52.0) without age limitation from 2010 to September 2021. Testosterone prescription trends (total prescriptions, number per patient, incidence over time [prescriptions/person-day] assessed in 2010-2012, 2013-2015, 2016-2018, and 2019-2021), route of administration, and coadministration with estrogen were extracted. Significance over time was assessed using Chi Square for trend.

Results

37,491 women diagnosed with HSDD were identified with mean age 46.5±12.4 years. Only 3.9% of women with HSDD (n=1444) were prescribed systemic testosterone (mean age 50.6±10.0 years). Over the past decade, there was a statistically significant increase in testosterone prescriptions for HSDD, specifically for women age 18-40 years and 41-55 years, as seen in Figure 1 (p<0.05). Most prescriptions were for injectable testosterone (56.8%), while 29.3% were for topical testosterone and 13.9% with route unknown. 556 women received only 1 prescription for systemic testosterone, 327 received 2-3 prescriptions, 262 received 4-9 prescriptions, and 299 received 10+ prescriptions. Systemic estrogen was co-prescribed for 543 women and vaginal estrogen was co-prescribed for 259 women; 642 women received no estrogen prescription.

Conclusions

Systemic testosterone therapy for HSDD remains rare but its use has increased over time; duration, route, and co-administration with estrogen remain highly variable. Long-term compliance with systemic testosterone therapy remains relatively low.

Disclosure

No
Making Gender Salient
Authors: Catalano Weeks Ana
Published: July 2022

Do gender quota laws – policies that mandate women's inclusion on parties' candidate slates – affect policy outcomes? Making Gender Salient tackles this crucial question by offering a new theory to understand when and how gender quota laws impact policy. Drawing on cross-national data from high-income democracies and a mixed-methods research design, the book argues that quotas lead to policy change for issues characterized by a gender gap in preferences, especially if these issues deviate from the usual left/right party policy divide. The book focuses on one such issue, work-family policies, and finds that quotas shift work-family policies in the direction of gender equality. Substantive chapters show that quotas make gender more salient by giving women louder voices within parties, providing access to powerful ministerial roles, and encouraging male party leaders to compete on previously marginalized issues. The book concludes that quotas are one important way of facilitating congruence between women's policy preferences and actual policy outcomes.
Measuring consumers’ demand for nutrition attributes: an application to ready-to-heat meals
Authors: Zhang Qi , Gallardo R. Karina
Published: July 2022

This study analyzes consumers’ preferences for nutrition and convenience attributes in ready-to-heat meals, using grocery scanner data applied to a Berry, Levinsohn, and Pakes model. Households’ preferences for convenience meals stem on saving time. Also, households prefer convenience meals with higher contents of sugar, fat, sodium, cholesterol, and fiber, and lower in calorie content. Results prove that consumption of convenience foods implies a high intake of ingredients with negative consequences on dietary quality and health. Findings showcase the importance of the advancement and adoption of alternative food processing technologies that would circumvent the production of convenient foods high in non-healthy ingredients.
Globalization from Below: Labor Inequality in the German Shipbuilding Industry, 1960–2000
Authors: Bothe Katharina , Decker-Lange Carolin
Published: July 2022

This article examines how globalization shaped work and employment in the German shipbuilding industry in the second half of the twentieth century. Official documents show that, as a response to global competition, originally large and labor-intensive shipyards in the northwest of Germany evolved into lean and nimble high-technology companies across four decades. Oral history interviews with former migrant and nonmigrant staff of two leading shipyards reveal that this large-scale industry transformation is a hitherto hidden history of labor mobility, migration, and evolving dimensions of diversity in the workplace. Migration is a lens through which to understand how corporate responses to global developments led to persistent patterns of social exclusion and inequality between and within groups of workers with and without migrant backgrounds that have not been documented before, namely: social divisions, unequal access to vocational training and retraining programs, unequal career opportunities, unfair redundancies, and unequal impact of precarious work.
“Racial Discrimination Can in No Way Be Justified”: The Vatican and Desegregation in the South, 1946–1968
Authors: NEWMAN MARK
Published: July 2022

Although the Vatican pragmatically accepted the establishment of segregated Catholic institutions in the Jim Crow South during the late nineteenth century and the first half of the twentieth, its condemnation of Nazi and fascist racism and espousal of the doctrine of the Mystical Body of Christ rejected racial distinctions. This article argues that Rome's postwar transnational interest in countering international communism and appealing to the global South also encouraged its support for racial equality, integration and the civil rights movement, and denial of religious legitimacy to segregationists. Yet Catholic desegregation in the South was largely token and one-sided, and closed many black institutions.
Making a difference – ausbau processes in Modern Written Finnish and Kven: How a group of loanwords marks a divergence between the Kven language and Modern Written Finnish
Authors: Niiranen Leena
Published: July 2022

Ausbau processes increase differences between two close written language varieties. Finnish and Kven are considered two ausbau languages today, in contrast to an earlier view which considered Kven to be a dialect of Finnish. In this article, ausbau processes are illustrated by comparing the use of eera verbs, a group constituting international and Scandinavian loanwords in the two languages. Most eera verbs were purged from Modern Written Finnish and they are expressed via other means today. By contrast, Kven accepts eera verbs in the same way as Old Written Finnish. Purism – perceived as avoidance of certain linguistic elements – is the explanation behind ausbau processes in this case, and purist attitudes reflect the identities of language planners. Eera verbs represent a small corner of language, yet their use differentiates Kven from Modern Written Finnish, and underscores the independence of Kven as a separate language.
Alexandre Martinez: The Virtual Reality of Climate Change
Authors: Rocheleau Jackie
Published: July 2022

Martinez brings science to the public using technologies like virtual reality to improve understanding of climate change.
Lina C. P�rez-�ngel: Proud to Study Paleoclimate in Colombia
Authors: Rodrigues Meghie
Published: July 2022

As a young Latina, P�rez-�ngel brings a fresh perspective to paleoclimatology.
Fernando Temprano-Coleto: Going with the Flow
Authors: Sidik Saima
Published: July 2022

A career in fluid mechanics is both intellectually stimulating and well suited to solving environmental problems.
Benjamin Freeman: Slowing Birds’ “Escalator to Extinction”
Authors: Sima Richard
Published: July 2022

From Bolivia to Peru, Freeman researches how a warming world affects tropical birds.
Fiona Lo: A “Really Long, Convoluted Path” to Health
Authors: Sima Richard
Published: July 2022

Lo uses her background in atmospheric sciences to forecast pollen concentrations.
Review of computer-generated hologram algorithms for color dynamic holographic three-dimensional display
Authors: Pi Dapu , Liu Juan , Wang Yongtian
Published: July 2022

Holographic three-dimensional display is an important display technique because it can provide all depth information of a real or virtual scene without any special eyewear. In recent years, with the development of computer and optoelectronic technology, computer-generated holograms have attracted extensive attention and developed as the most promising method to realize holographic display. However, some bottlenecks still restrict the development of computer-generated holograms, such as heavy computation burden, low image quality, and the complicated system of color holographic display. To overcome these problems, numerous algorithms have been investigated with the aim of color dynamic holographic three-dimensional display. In this review, we will explain the essence of various computer-generated hologram algorithms and provide some insights for future research.
Manipulating the light-matter interactions in plasmonic nanocavities at 1 nm spatial resolution
Authors: Wen Bao-Ying , Wang Jing-Yu , Shen Tai-Long , Zhu Zhen-Wei , Guan Peng-Cheng , Lin Jia-Sheng , Peng Wei , Cai Wei-Wei , Jin Huaizhou , Xu Qing-Chi , Yang Zhi-Lin , Tian Zhong-Qun , Li Jian-Feng
Published: July 2022

The light-matter interaction between plasmonic nanocavity and exciton at the sub-diffraction limit is a central research field in nanophotonics. Here, we demonstrated the vertical distribution of the light-matter interactions at ~1 nm spatial resolution by coupling A excitons of MoS2 and gap-mode plasmonic nanocavities. Moreover, we observed the significant photoluminescence (PL) enhancement factor reaching up to 2800 times, which is attributed to the Purcell effect and large local density of states in gap-mode plasmonic nanocavities. Meanwhile, the theoretical calculations are well reproduced and support the experimental results.
Data-driven design of high-performance MASnxPb1-xI3 perovskite materials by machine learning and experimental realization
Authors: Cai Xia , Liu Fengcai , Yu Anran , Qin Jiajun , Hatamvand Mohammad , Ahmed Irfan , Luo Jiayan , Zhang Yiming , Zhang Hao , Zhan Yiqiang
Published: July 2022

The photovoltaic performance of perovskite solar cell is determined by multiple interrelated factors, such as perovskite compositions, electronic properties of each transport layer and fabrication parameters, which makes it rather challenging for optimization of device performances and discovery of underlying mechanisms. Here, we propose and realize a novel machine learning approach based on forward-reverse framework to establish the relationship between key parameters and photovoltaic performance in high-profile MASnxPb1-xI3 perovskite materials. The proposed method establishes the asymmetrically bowing relationship between band gap and Sn composition, which is precisely verified by our experiments. Based on the analysis of structural evolution and SHAP library, the rapid-change region and low-bandgap plateau region for small and large Sn composition are explained, respectively. By establishing the models for photovoltaic parameters of working photovoltaic devices, the deviation of short-circuit current and open-circuit voltage with band gap in defective-zone and low-bandgap-plateau regions from Shockley-Queisser theory is captured by our models, and the former is due to the deep-level traps formed by crystallographic distortion and the latter is due to the enhanced susceptibility by increased Sn4+ content. The more difficulty for hole extraction than electron is also concluded in the models and the prediction curve of power conversion efficiency is in a good agreement with Shockley-Queisser limit. With the help of search and optimization algorithms, an optimized Sn:Pb composition ratio near 0.6 is finally obtained for high-performance perovskite solar cells, then verified by our experiments. Our constructive method could also be applicable to other material optimization and efficient device development.
Alcohol consumption and telomere length: Mendelian randomization clarifies alcohol’s effects
Authors: Topiwala A. , Taschler B. , Ebmeier K. P. , Smith S. , Zhou H. , Levey D. F. , Codd V. , Samani N. J. , Gelernter J. , Nichols T. E. , Burgess S.
Published: July 2022

Alcohol’s impact on telomere length, a proposed marker of biological aging, is unclear. We performed the largest observational study to date (in n = 245,354 UK Biobank participants) and compared findings with Mendelian randomization (MR) estimates. Two-sample MR used data from 472,174 participants in a recent genome-wide association study (GWAS) of telomere length. Genetic variants were selected on the basis of associations with alcohol consumption (n = 941,280) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) (n = 57,564 cases). Non-linear MR employed UK Biobank individual data. MR analyses suggested a causal relationship between alcohol traits, more strongly for AUD, and telomere length. Higher genetically-predicted AUD (inverse variance-weighted (IVW) β = −0.06, 95% confidence interval (CI): −0.10 to −0.02, p = 0.001) was associated with shorter telomere length. There was a weaker association with genetically-predicted alcoholic drinks weekly (IVW β = −0.07, CI: −0.14 to −0.01, p = 0.03). Results were consistent across methods and independent from smoking. Non-linear analyses indicated a potential threshold relationship between alcohol and telomere length. Our findings indicate that alcohol consumption may shorten telomere length. There are implications for age-related diseases.
Cryo-EM structures of Na+-pumping NADH-ubiquinone oxidoreductase from Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Kishikawa Jun-ichi , Ishikawa Moe , Masuya Takahiro , Murai Masatoshi , Kitazumi Yuki , Butler Nicole L. , Kato Takayuki , Barquera Blanca , Miyoshi Hideto
Published: July 2022

The Na+-pumping NADH-ubiquinone oxidoreductase (Na+-NQR) couples electron transfer from NADH to ubiquinone with Na+-pumping, generating an electrochemical Na+ gradient that is essential for energy-consuming reactions in bacteria. Since Na+-NQR is exclusively found in prokaryotes, it is a promising target for highly selective antibiotics. However, the molecular mechanism of inhibition is not well-understood for lack of the atomic structural information about an inhibitor-bound state. Here we present cryo-electron microscopy structures of Na+-NQR from Vibrio cholerae with or without a bound inhibitor at 2.5- to 3.1-Å resolution. The structures reveal the arrangement of all six redox cofactors including a herein identified 2Fe-2S cluster located between the NqrD and NqrE subunits. A large part of the hydrophilic NqrF is barely visible in the density map, suggesting a high degree of flexibility. This flexibility may be responsible to reducing the long distance between the 2Fe-2S centers in NqrF and NqrD/E. Two different types of specific inhibitors bind to the N-terminal region of NqrB, which is disordered in the absence of inhibitors. The present study provides a foundation for understanding the function of Na+-NQR and the binding manner of specific inhibitors.
Study of the long-term degradation behavior of bamboo scrimber under natural weathering
Authors: Zhang Ya-Hui , Ma Hong-Xia , Qi Yue , Zhu Rong-Xian , Li Xing-Wei , Yu Wen-Ji , Rao Fei
Published: July 2022

In this work, the degradation behavior of bamboo scrimber are investigated under natural weathering system for six years. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and colorimeter were used to characterize the change of bamboo scrimber surface and microstructure. Natural weathering led to degradation of lignin and rapid color changes, demonstrated by decrease of 1232 cm−1, 1423 cm−1 and 1506 cm−1 absorption peaks, the reduction of C1and increase of C2, and ΔE* value notably. Lignin degradation resulted in micro-check formation in the cell walls of fibers and parenchyma cells within exposure time. In particular, parameters of weather resistance changed rapidly within the initial two years and stabilized in the following four years. It is also revealed that two natural regions with different type of climate have significantly affected the degradation behavior of bamboo scrimber.
Biocatalytic decarboxylative Michael addition for synthesis of 1,4-benzoxazinone derivatives
Authors: Bavandi Hossein , Shahedi Mansour , Habibi Zohreh , Yousefi Maryam , Brask Jesper , Mohammadi Mehdi
Published: July 2022

The Candida antarctica lipase B (Novozym 435) is found to catalyze a novel decarboxylative Michael addition in vinylogous carbamate systems for the synthesis of 1,4-benzoxazinone derivatives. The reaction goes through Michael addition, ester hydrolysis and decarboxylation. A possible mechanism is suggested, with simultaneous lipase-catalyzed Michael addition and ester hydrolysis. The present methodology offers formation of complex products through multi-step reactions in a one pot process under mild and facile reaction conditions with moderate to high yields (51–90%) and no side product formation. The reaction seems to be is a great example of enzymatic promiscuity.
Improved drought tolerance of EMS mutagenized Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) mutants by in vitro screening at germination stage
Authors: Tiryaki Iskender , Sari Ugur , Cetin Selcuk , Acar Okan
Published: July 2022

The objectives of this study were to determine drought tolerant novel mutant of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) genotypes by screening EMS mutagenized 340675 M3 seeds at germination stages in the presence of osmotic stress of 35% PEG6000. Root growth assay provided several drought tolerant candidate mutants. Of those, 4 mutants were further evaluated at water deficit conditions applied for 24 days after the first cutting at flowering bud stage. The results revealed that mutants determined as drought tolerant at germination stage were also tolerant to water deficit conditions. Protein content and superoxide dismutase values were found to be higher in all mutants than controls. Ascorbate peroxides, glutton reductase and lipid peroxidase values varied based on the mutant genotype and duration of drought stress. Drought stress significantly changed transcriptional levels of MtP5CS, MtDehyd, MseIF-2, MtRD2 and MsNAC genes. These results indicated that in vitro screening of alfalfa mutant seeds for osmatic tolerance at germination and early seedling growth stages was successfully able to determine the drought tolerant alfalfa mutants which were also tolerant to water deficit conditions after the first cutting at flowering bud stage.
A multifaceted strategy to improve recombinant expression and structural characterisation of a Trypanosoma invariant surface protein
Authors: Sülzen Hagen , Votrubova Jitka , Dhillon Arun , Zoll Sebastian
Published: July 2022

Identification of a protein minimal fragment amenable to crystallisation can be time- and labour intensive especially if large amounts are required and the protein has a complex fold and functionally important post-translational modifications. In addition, a lack of homologues and structural information can further complicate the design of a minimal expression construct. Recombinant expression in E. coli promises high yields, low costs and fast turnover times, but falls short for many extracellular, eukaryotic proteins. Eukaryotic expression systems provide an alternative but are costly, slow and require special handling and equipment. Using a member of a structurally uncharacterized, eukaryotic receptor family as an example we employ hydrogen–deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX-MS) guided construct design in conjunction with truncation scanning and targeted expression host switching to identify a minimal expression construct that can be produced with high yields and moderate costs.
Study on blasting characteristics of rock mass with weak interlayer based on energy field
Authors: Cui Jianbin , Xie Liangfu , Qiao Wei , Qiu Liewang , Hu Zeyu , Wu Liming
Published: July 2022

In order to explore the influence of weak interlayer on blasting characteristics in natural rock mass, by using the particle flow code (PFC2D), a single hole blasting numerical model of hard rock with soft interlayer is established. The blasting experiments at different positions and thicknesses of weak interlayer are carried out. Then an in-depth analysis from the perspectives of crack effect, stress field and energy field is made. Results showed that: (i) When the explosion is initiated outside the weak interlayer, if the interlayer is located within about twice the radius of the crushing area, the closer the interlayer is to the blast hole, the higher the damage degree of the rock mass around the blast hole. And the number of cracks will increase by about 1–2% when the distance between the weak interlayer and the blast hole decreases by 0.5 m. (ii) When detonating outside the weak interlayer, if the interlayer is within about 4 times radius of the crushing area, the hard rock on both sides of the weak interlayer will in a high stress state. Under the same case, the peak kinetic energy and peak friction energy will increase by about 23 and 13%, respectively, and the peak strain energy will increase by about 218 kJ for every 0.1 m increase in the thickness of the weak interlayer.
Porous biomaterials for tissue engineering: a review
Authors: Maksoud Fouad Junior , Velázquez de la Paz María Fernanda , Hann Alice J. , Thanarak Jeerawan , Reilly Gwendolen C. , Claeyssens Frederik , Green Nicola H. , Zhang Yu Shrike
Published: July 2022

The field of porous biomaterials has grown rapidly over the past decades.
An integrated mesh with an anisotropic surface for unidirectional liquid manipulation
Authors: Liu Cong , Huang Jinxia , Guo Zhiguang , Liu Weimin
Published: July 2022

An integrated mesh with anisotropic surface for unidirectional liquid manipulation can realize liquid penetration or slipping depending on the arrangement of slippery tracks, showing highly controllable droplet manipulation.
Anionic or neutral? the charge of Ni8 cubes in metal–organic framework compounds
Authors: Freund Ralph , Kalytta-Mewes Andreas , Kraft Maryana , Volkmer Dirk
Published: July 2022

The cubic SBU Ni8X6L6 (X = OH−/H2O, L = ligand) in MOFs has so far been described as neutral in the literature. We investigated by detailed DRIFTS measurements and exchange reactions whether it shows anionic character, as observed in complexes.
Charge recombination suppression in dye-sensitized solar cells by tuning the dielectric constant of triphenylamine dyes with altering π-bridges from naphthalene to anthracene units
Authors: Khanmohammadi Chenab Karim , Zamani Meymian Mohammad-Reza , Qashqay Samaneh Mahmoudi
Published: July 2022

Charge recombination reactions (CRRs) are responsible for the major loss of power conversion efficiency (PCE) in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs).
Electro-/photocatalytic alkene-derived radical cation chemistry: recent advances in synthetic applications
Authors: Luo Mu-Jia , Xiao Qiang , Li Jin-Heng
Published: July 2022

This review covers the recent progress in electro-/photo-catalytic alkene-derived radical cation chemistry for organic synthesis, including synthetic strategies, plausible mechanisms and further research outlook.
Kinetic study on the activation of PhICl2 with Lewis bases for aromatic chlorination
Authors: Davis Benjamin A. , Tania  , Dutton Jason L.
Published: July 2022

A kinetic study on the chlorination of arenes with nucleophilically activated PhICl2 experimentally demonstrates the nucleophile induces elimination of chlorine gas.
Light-promoted oxidation of aldehydes to carboxylic acids under aerobic and photocatalyst-free conditions
Authors: Batsika Charikleia S. , Koutsilieris Charalampos , Koutoulogenis Giorgos S. , Kokotou Maroula G. , Kokotos Christoforos G. , Kokotos George
Published: July 2022

Photochemical aerobic catalyst-free oxidation of aldehydes to carboxylic acids.
Enhanced radioluminescence of yttrium pyrosilicate nanoparticles via rare earth multiplex doping
Authors: Zhang Eric , Bandera Yuriy , Dickey Ashley , Kolis Joseph W. , Foulger Stephen H.
Published: July 2022

Radioluminescent multi-doped yttrium pyrosilicate (YPS) nanoparticles were synthesized using a high temperature multi-composite reactor. The luminescent activators explored were cerium, terbium, and europium.
Outstanding MRI contrast with dysprosium phosphate nanoparticles of tuneable size
Authors: Gómez-González Elisabet , Caro Carlos , García-Martín María L. , Becerro Ana Isabel , Ocaña Manuel
Published: July 2022

A series of DyPO4 nanoparticles with tunable size was synthesized and their magnetic relaxivity was analyzed to study their application as high-field MRI contrast agents.
Electro-optic metasurface-based free-space modulators
Authors: Damgaard-Carstensen Christopher , Thomaschewski Martin , Bozhevolnyi Sergey I.
Published: July 2022

A free-space optical intensity modulator is realized by exploiting the electro-optic Pockels effect in a lithium niobate thin film. The modulator achieves a modulation depth of ∼20% at the modulation voltage of ± 10 V within the bandwidth of 8.0 MHz.
Multifunctional polyzwitterion ionic liquid coating for long-lifespan and dendrite-free Zn metal anodes
Authors: Lv Yanqun , Xiao Ying , Xu Shuting , Huo Feng , Chen Yong , Zhao Ming , Liu Lili , Su Chang , Zhu Yanli , Chen Shimou
Published: July 2022

A water-blocking polyzwitterion ionic liquid (poly([2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl]dimethyl-(3-sulfopropyl)-co-tert-butyl) (P(SBMA-co-BuA)) coating is designed on Zn anode as a protective layer. Highly stable Zn batteries are achievedviamodified Zn anodes.
Skeletal muscle biochemical origin of exercise intensity domains and their relation to whole-body V̇O2 kinetics
Authors: Korzeniewski Bernard , Rossiter Harry B.
Published: July 2022

This article presents the biochemical intra-skeletal-muscle basis of exercise intensity domains: moderate (M), heavy (H), very heavy (VH) and severe (S). Threshold origins are mediated by a ‘Pi double-threshold’ mechanism of muscle fatigue, which assumes (1) additional ATP usage, underlying muscle V̇O2 and metabolite slow components, is initiated when inorganic phosphate (Pi) exceeds a critical value (Picrit); (2) exercise is terminated because of fatigue, when Pi reaches a peak value (Pipeak); and (3) the Pi increase and additional ATP usage increase mutually stimulate each other forming a positive feedback. M/H and H/VH borders are defined by Pi on-kinetics in relation to Picrit and Pipeak. The values of the ATP usage activity, proportional to power output (PO), for the M/H, H/VH and VH/S borders are lowest in untrained muscle and highest in well-trained muscle. The metabolic range between the M/H and H/VH border (or ‘H space’) decreases with muscle training, while the difference between the H/VH and VH/S border (or ‘VH space’) is only weakly dependent on training status. The absolute magnitude of the muscle V̇O2 slow-component, absent in M exercise, rises gradually with PO to a maximal value in H exercise, and then decreases with PO in VH and S exercise. Simulations of untrained, physically active and well-trained muscle demonstrate that the muscle M/H border need not be identical to the whole-body M/H border determined from pulmonary V̇O2 on-kinetics and blood lactate, while suggesting that the biochemical origins of the H/VH border reside within skeletal muscle and correspond to whole-body critical power.
A Perceptual Study of Communication Effectiveness in Cluttering
Authors: Scaler Scott Kathleen , Gurtizen Emily , Giacumbo Katrina , Kisenwether Jessica
Published: July 2022

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to investigate listener perception of communication effectiveness when listening to samples of speakers who clutter and exhibit excessive revisions as compared to control speakers matched by gender and education level.

Method:

In this study, 100 undergraduate listeners rated 30-s monologue samples of adults who clutter and whose speech contained excessive revisions. Ratings were collected via a visual analog scale. After marking their ratings, listeners were asked to write down any details they could recall from each monologue.

Results:

Adults who clutter were rated significantly poorer than controls in the categories of message, conciseness, flow, and organization. There were no significant differences in ratings by class year. Descriptively, listeners also inaccurately identified the main idea of each speaker's message more often when listening to adults with cluttering as compared to controls. Thematic analysis of listener comments emphasized themes of increased speed, difficulty understanding words, and lack of organization and cohesion among adults who clutter. By contrast, listener comments for controls emphasized increased flow and ease in following speakers' messages.

Conclusions:

This study provides objective data that listeners judged those who clutter with excessive revisions less favorably than controls in terms of their ability to understand the speakers' main point, ability to get to the point, smooth flow of speech, organization of message, and clarity of speech. These judgments occurred despite normal scores on standardized language tests among the participants with cluttering.
A novel fault location scheme for transmission lines connected to wind farm based on variational iteration method
Authors: Shu Hongchun , Deng Yaqi , Cao Pulin , Dong Jun , He Tingyi , Wang Guangxue
Published: July 2022

The phenomenon of wind abandoned caused by fault of transmission lines has occurred frequently. Since fault current output by wind turbine after fault may induce the frequency variation of the fundamental frequency, fault location based on the fundamental resistance is easily invalid. In order to locate fault accurately and rapidly after wind farm transmission line faults, a time‐domain‐based novel fault location method for transmission line of wind farm is introduced in this paper. The main idea of the proposed scheme is to discretise the distributed‐parameter model of transmission line that is given in the form of partial differential equations by using the finite‐difference time‐domain. In addition, the phase current and voltage at both ends of lines are regarded as boundary conditions. Then, the variational iteration method is utilised to calculate transmission line equations to obtain line length function. At last, fault location function is constructed by a minimised objective function. This paper builds wind power transmission line system simulation model and carries out simulation experiments on PSCAD/EMTDC. To verify the performance of the algorithm, several factors are taken into account for simulation including different fault distances, different fault types, different fault resistances, and different fault inception angles. Simulation results reveal the performance of the proposed method to locate fault for transmission lines connected to wind farm with high accuracy.