bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between stem diameter and whole‐tree transpiration across young, mature and old‐growth ponderosa pine forests under wet and dry soil conditions
Authors: Tsuruta Kenji , Kwon Hyojung , Law Beverly E. , Kume Tomonori
Published: June 2023

Previous studies have reported cross‐site relationships between stem diameter at breast height (DBH) and whole‐tree transpiration (Qt) across a variety of species and locations. These relationships enable us to estimate canopy transpiration rates using DBH data from forest inventory networks worldwide. However, transpiration responses to environmental conditions such as soil moisture often depend on tree species and age, suggesting that the DBH–Qt relationship varies with soil moisture conditions. In the present study, we collated Qt of 41 ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa Dougl. ex P. Laws.) trees in young (23‐year‐old), mature (90‐year‐old) and old‐growth (250‐year‐old) forests using the sap flow technique. Sap flux density considering the radial decline (u) was three times higher in young trees than mature and old‐growth trees under wet soil conditions. The largest declines in u were observed in young trees and then mature trees when soil moisture condition changed from wet to dry. Decreases in u were smaller for old‐growth trees than for young and mature trees. The DBH–Qt relationship differed with soil moisture conditions, showing a strong linear correlation under wet condition across all four age groups but a non‐linear correlation under dry condition. u was overestimated by up to 50%, particularly in the young trees when neglecting differences in the response of u to soil water deficit among different ages. These results suggest that differences in u and its responses to soil water deficit among stand ages should be considered when applying the DBH–Qt relationship for other tree species.
Child appraisals of injustice in the context of acute and chronic pain: An interpretative phenomenological analysis
Authors: Daenen Frederick , Baert Fleur , McParland Joanna , Trost Zina , Schillemans An , Tanghe Ann , Vervoort Tine
Published: June 2023

Background

Recent research has found child pain‐related injustice appraisals to be associated with adverse pain‐related outcomes. However, this evidence is mainly based on research using a measure developed for adults in the context of accident‐related injuries, which may not translate to paediatric pain populations. Research on the phenomenology of child pain‐related injustice appraisals is lacking. This study aimed to examine the phenomenology of pain‐related injustice appraisals among both pain‐free children and children living with chronic pain, to compare and contrast their experiences.

Methods

Two focus groups were held with pain‐free children (n = 16), and three focus groups were held with paediatric chronic pain patients attending a rehabilitation centre (n = 15) in Belgium. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was applied.

Results

Two injustice‐related themes were generated from the focus groups with pain‐free children: (1) ‘Someone else is at fault’ and (2) ‘I am in pain and he is not’. Two injustice‐related themes were generated from the focus groups with paediatric chronic pain patients: (1) ‘People don't see my pain’ and (2) ‘I am missing out because of my pain’.

Conclusions

This study offers the first exploration of the phenomenology of child pain‐related injustice appraisals in both pain‐free children and paediatric pain patients. Findings highlight the interpersonal nature of lived injustice experiences caused by chronic pain, which is not fully captured by existing child pain‐related injustice measures. Findings further suggest that pain‐related injustice notions may not be extrapolated from a chronic to an acute pain context.

Significance

The current study offers the first exploration of the phenomenology of child pain‐related injustice appraisals in both pain‐free children and paediatric chronic pain patients. Findings highlight the interpersonal nature of injustice appraisals that are specific to the experience of chronic rather than acute pain. These appraisals are not fully captured by current child pain‐related injustice measures.
Optimizing the Performance of Sputtered‐NiOx‐Based Perovskite Solar Cells via Regulating the PbI2 Concentration
Authors: Liu Xiaoyu , Liu Ye , Lang Runze , Liu Yanliang , Lei Wenshan , Cong Ridong , Jiang Shugang , Feng Lingdi , Liu Haixu , Wang Xinzhan , Yu Wei , Lu Wanbing
Published: June 2023

Nickel oxide (NiOx) prepared by sputtering is a promising hole transport material for inverted planar perovskite solar cells (PSCs) because of its wide bandgap, deep valance band edge, excellent optical transmittance, and low cost. However, the interface reaction between sputtered‐NiOx and perovskite layer leads to the formation of lead iodine on perovskite surface, which limits the efficiency and stability of the device. Herein, we report a facile approach to improve the performance of the sputtered‐NiOx‐based PSCs via precise control the concentration of PbI2 in precursor solution. It is demonstrated that the concentration of PbI2 has a significant effect on the microstructure and photoelectric properties of the perovskite layer deposited on sputtered‐NiOx. When the PbI2 concentration is 2% less than the stoichiometric perovskite, the efficiency of the optimized device is improved to 15.64%, and the device stability under unencapsulated atmospheric conditions is also significantly improved. In the optimized sample, a small amount of residual PbI2 still exists in perovskite films, which is proved beneficial for passivating grain boundary defects and enhancing the performance of the PSCs. This work provides a feasible way for enhancing the performance of sputtered‐NiOx‐based PSCs as well suggest a probability for reducing the consumption of PbI2.
Human serum albumin subdomain IB is physiologically adapted for payloading homopterocarpin to human aldehyde dehydrogenase: Combinatorial in vitro and in silico approaches
Authors: Ayenero Michael E. , Akinwusi Gbemi E. , Kolawole Adejoke N. , Falese Babatunde A. , Olawuni Idowu J. , Kolawole Ayodele O.
Published: June 2023

The in vitro interactions of homopterocarpin, a potent antioxidant and anti‐ulcerative isoflavonoid, with human serum albumin (HSA) and human aldehyde dehydrogenase (hALDH) were explored using various spectroscopic methods, in silico and molecular dynamic (MD) studies. The result showed that homopterocarpin quenched the intrinsic fluorescences of HSA and hALDH. The interactions were entropically favorable, driven primarily by hydrophobic interactions. The proteins have one binding site for the isoflavonoid. This interaction  increased the proteins hydrodynamic radii by over 5% and caused a slight change in HSA surface hydrophobicity Homopterocarpin preferentially binds to HSA subdomain IB with a binding affinity of −10.1 kcal/mol before interaction stoke with hALDH (–8.4 kcal/mol). HSA‐homopterocarpin complex attained pharmacokinetic‐pharmacodynamics reversible equilibration time faster than ALDH‐homopterocarpin. However, the probable and eventual therapeutic effect of homopterocarpin is the mixed inhibition ALDH activity having a Ki value of 20.74 μM. The MD results revealed the stabilization of the complex in HSA–homopterocarpin and ALDH–homopterocarpin from their respective spatial structures of the complex. The findings of this research will provide significant benefits in understanding the pharmacokinetics characteristics of homopterocarpin at the clinical level.
Response of soil phosphatase activity and soil phosphorus fractions to the application of chloropicrin and azoxystrobin in ginger cultivation
Authors: Wang Yan , Yang Xiaomei , Xu Minggang , Geissen Violette
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

Soil fumigation can change soil nutrient cycling processes by affecting soil beneficial microorganisms, which is a key issue for soil fertility. However, the effect of combined application of fumigant and fungicide on soil phosphorus (P) availability remains largely unclear. We investigated the effects of the fumigant chloropicrin (CP) and the fungicide azoxystrobin (AZO) on soil phosphatase activity and soil P fractions in ginger production using a 28‐week pot experiment with six treatments: control (CK), a single application of AZO (AZO1), double applications of AZO (AZO2), CP‐fumigated soil without AZO (CP), CP combined with AZO1 (CP + AZO1) and CP combined with AZO2 (CP + AZO2).

RESULTS

AZO application alone significantly increased the soil labile P fractions (Resin‐P + NaHCO3‐Pi + NaOH‐Pi) at 9 weeks after planting (WAP) but decreased the soil phosphatase activity at 28 WAP. CP fumigation significantly reduced the soil phosphatase activity but increased the proportions of soil labile P fractions (Resin‐P + NaHCO3‐Pi + NaHCO3‐Po) to total P (TP) by 9.0–15.5% throughout the experiment. The combined application of CP and AZO had a synergistic effect on soil phosphatase activity and soil P fractions compared with a single application.

CONCLUSION

Although AZO application and CP fumigation can increase soil available P in the short term, they might negatively affect soil fertility in the long run by inhibiting soil phosphatase activity. Soil microbial activities, especially microorganisms related to P cycling, may be responsible for the variations in soil P availability, but further research is needed. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
A Decade of Sub‐100‐fs Thin‐Disk Laser Oscillators
Authors: Drs Jakub , Fischer Julian , Modsching Norbert , Labaye François , Müller Michael , Wittwer Valentin J. , Südmeyer Thomas
Published: June 2023

Thin‐disk lasers (TDLs) are best known for their high‐power continuous‐wave industrial applications. Nonetheless, the thin‐disk geometry is also highly attractive for ultrafast laser oscillators. The short propagation distance and large beam diameter inside the gain crystal allows for very low induced nonlinearity, low dispersion, and extreme peak powers inside the laser cavity. The path toward TDL oscillators directly delivering high average power at ultrafast pulse duration required for many scientific applications has, however, been tangled and is still ongoing. A decade ago, the first sub‐100‐fs laser oscillator is demonstrated, initiating the pursuit of even shorter pulses. Since then, many gain materials have been investigated in the thin‐disk geometry as well as various mode‐locking mechanisms for their suitability for efficient short‐pulse operation. In this review, the fast‐evolving development trends of TDL oscillators, as well as their scientific applications and prospects will be discussed.
An Efficient, Fast‐Responding, Low‐Loss Thermo‐Optic Phase Shifter Based on a Hydrogen‐Doped Indium Oxide Microheater
Authors: Tong Weiyu , Yang Erqi , Pang Yu , Yang Haobo , Qian Xin , Yang Ronggui , Hu Bin , Dong Jianji , Zhang Xinliang
Published: June 2023

Thermo‐optic (TO) phase shifters are very fundamental units in large‐scale active silicon photonic integrated circuits (PICs). However, due to the limitation of microheater materials with a trade‐off between heating efficiency and absorption loss, designs reported so far typically suffer from slow response time, high power consumption, low yields, and so on. Here, an energy‐efficient, fast‐responding, low‐loss TO phase shifter is demonstrated by introducing hydrogen‐doped indium oxide (IHO) films as the microheater, and the optimized electron concentration with enhanced mobility endows the IHO with high conductivity as well as high near‐infrared (NIR) transparency, which allow it to directly contact the silicon waveguide without any insulating layer for efficient tuning and fast response. The TO phase shifter achieves a sub‐microsecond response time (970 ns/980 ns) with a π phase shift power consumption of 9.6 mW, and the insertion loss introduced by the IHO microheater is ≈0.5 dB. The proposed IHO‐based microheaters with compatible processing technology illustrate the great potential of such material in the application of large‐scale silicon PICs.
Global attention‐enabled texture enhancement network for MR image reconstruction
Authors: Li Yingnan , Yang Jie , Yu Teng , Chi Jieru , Liu Feng
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Although recent convolutional neural network (CNN) methodologies have shown promising results in fast MR imaging, there is still a desire to explore how they can be used to learn the frequency characteristics of multicontrast images and reconstruct texture details.

Methods

A global attention‐enabled texture enhancement network (GATE‐Net) with a frequency‐dependent feature extraction module (FDFEM) and convolution‐based global attention module (GAM) is proposed to address the highly under‐sampling MR image reconstruction problem. First, FDFEM enables GATE‐Net to effectively extract high‐frequency features from shareable information of multicontrast images to improve the texture details of reconstructed images. Second, GAM with less computation complexity has the receptive field of the entire image, which can fully explore useful shareable information of multi‐contrast images and suppress less beneficial shareable information.

Results

The ablation studies are conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed FDFEM and GAM. Experimental results under various acceleration rates and datasets consistently demonstrate the superiority of GATE‐Net, in terms of peak signal‐to‐noise ratio, structural similarity and normalized mean square error.

Conclusion

A global attention‐enabled texture enhancement network is proposed. it can be applied to multicontrast MR image reconstruction tasks with different acceleration rates and datasets and achieves superior performance in comparison with state‐of‐the‐art methods.
Perceived importance of moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity as a weight control strategy in behavioral weight loss
Authors: Ehmann Marny M. , LaFata Erica M. , McCausland Hannah C. , Knudsen Francesca M. , Butryn Meghan L.
Published: June 2023

Background

Previous research has established the importance of moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA) for weight control. One area of unexplored investigation is the relationship between individuals' perceptions of the importance of MVPA for weight control and MVPA engagement. This study examined the associations between the perceived importance of MVPA and MVPA engagement, weight loss, barriers to PA, and exercise enjoyment in adults enrolled in a long‐term behavioral weight loss (BWL) intervention.

Methods

Adults (N = 301) with overweight/obesity (BMI = 27–45 kg/m2) completed an 18‐month BWL intervention, followed by a no‐intervention 18‐month follow‐up. At baseline, 6 months, 18 months (i.e., post‐treatment), and 36 months (i.e., follow‐up), participants ranked the importance of six strategies for weight control: keeping a food record, MVPA, light PA, self‐weighing, small portions, and low‐calorie diet. Observed MVPA (measured by accelerometer), percent weight loss, perceived barriers to PA, and exercise enjoyment were also measured at each assessment.

Results

Results showed that most participants perceived MVPA as a primary weight control strategy (first, second, or third most important) throughout the intervention, regardless of the weight control goal (weight loss vs. maintenance). Individuals who ranked MVPA as a primary strategy for weight control at concurrent time points, compared to those who did not, engaged in significantly more MVPA at post‐treatment, had greater weight loss at follow‐up, endorsed fewer barriers to PA at post‐treatment and follow‐up, and reported greater exercise enjoyment at baseline and post‐treatment.

Conclusion

Perceived importance of MVPA was related to subjective experiences of MVPA, MVPA adherence, and weight loss in a long‐term BWL intervention.
Female reproductive health in pediatric, adolescent, and young adult cancer survivors
Authors: Hoefgen Holly R. , Benoit Janie , Chan Serena , Jayasinghe Yasmin , Lustberg Maryam , Pohl Victoria , Saraf Amanda , Schmidt Deb , Appiah Leslie Coker
Published: June 2023

An estimated 500,000 cancer survivors of reproductive age in the United States will live to experience the long‐term consequences of cancer treatment. Therefore, a focused aspect of cancer care has appropriately shifted to include quality of life in survivorship. Infertility is a late effect of therapy that affects 12% of female survivors of childhood cancer receiving any cancer treatment in large cohort studies and results in a 40% decreased likelihood of pregnancy in young adults of ages 18–39 years. Nonfertility gynecologic late effects such as hypoestrogenism, radiation‐induced uterine and vaginal injury, genital graft‐versus‐host disease after hematopoietic stem cell transplant, and sexual dysfunction also significantly affect quality of life in survivorship but are underdiagnosed and require consideration. Several articles in the special edition “Reproductive Health in Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivorship” address infertility, genital graft‐versus‐host disease, and psychosexual functioning in survivorship. This review article focuses on other adverse gynecologic outcomes of cancer therapies including hypogonadism and hormone replacement therapy, radiation‐induced uterovaginal injury, vaccination and contraception, breast and cervical cancer screening, and pregnancy considerations in survivorship.
Formation and stability of the conducting cluster in the composite filaments based on polylactide and carbon nanofibers
Authors: Malafeev K. V. , Moskalyuk O. A. , Kamalov A. M. , Popova E. N. , Ivan'kova Е. М. , Suslov D. N. , Kasatkin I. A. , Dobrovolskaya I. P. , Yudin V. E.
Published: June 2023

Composite threads based on polylactide (PLA) containing up to 20 wt% carbon nanofibers (CNF) were produced using melt technology. The formation of a percolation cluster was studied in composite filaments with various morphologies (non‐oriented, subjected to isothermal crystallization, and oriented by six times). By adding 20 wt% CNF, a specific resistance of 100 Ohm m was achieved in the PLA filament. With orientation stretching, the specific resistance was 107 Ohm m, regardless of the CNF concentration. The scanning electron microscopy study showed poor adhesion between PLA and CNF. Threads containing 1 wt% CNF demonstrated stable conductive characteristics under dynamic loading for 24 h (50% of their breaking load). Studies of the creep of composite fibers have shown that small amounts of CNFs promote the sliding of polymer fibrils. In vivo tests showed that the addition of 5 wt% CNF led to an increase in the rate of bioresorption of PLA filaments. Additionally, the conductive properties were maintained for 12 months after implantation. The prepared filaments can be used in flexible electronics for biomedical applications.
Parallels between drought and flooding: An integrated framework for plant eco‐physiological responses to water stress
Authors: Chen Siluo , ten Tusscher Kirsten H. W. J. , Sasidharan Rashmi , Dekker Stefan C. , de Boer Hugo J.
Published: June 2023

Drought and flooding occur at opposite ends of the soil moisture spectrum yet their resulting stress responses in plants share many similarities. Drought limits root water uptake to which plants respond with stomatal closure and reduced leaf gas exchange. Flooding limits root metabolism due to soil oxygen deficiency, which also limits root water uptake and leaf gas exchange. As drought and flooding can occur consecutively in the same system and resulting plant stress responses share similar mechanisms, a single theoretical framework that integrates plant responses over a continuum of soil water conditions from drought to flooding is attractive. Based on a review of recent literature, we integrated the main plant eco‐physiological mechanisms in a single theoretical framework with a focus on plant water transport, plant oxygen dynamics, and leaf gas exchange. We used theory from the soil–plant–atmosphere continuum modeling as “backbone” for our framework, and subsequently incorporated interactions between processes that regulate plant water and oxygen status, abscisic acid and ethylene levels, and the resulting acclimation strategies in response to drought, waterlogging, and complete submergence. Our theoretical framework provides a basis for the development of mathematical models to describe plant responses to the soil moisture continuum from drought to flooding.
Leveraging transformers‐based language models in proteome bioinformatics
Authors: Le Nguyen Quoc Khanh
Published: June 2023

In recent years, the rapid growth of biological data has increased interest in using bioinformatics to analyze and interpret this data. Proteomics, which studies the structure, function, and interactions of proteins, is a crucial area of bioinformatics. Using natural language processing (NLP) techniques in proteomics is an emerging field that combines machine learning and text mining to analyze biological data. Recently, transformer‐based NLP models have gained significant attention for their ability to process variable‐length input sequences in parallel, using self‐attention mechanisms to capture long‐range dependencies. In this review paper, we discuss the recent advancements in transformer‐based NLP models in proteome bioinformatics and examine their advantages, limitations, and potential applications to improve the accuracy and efficiency of various tasks. Additionally, we highlight the challenges and future directions of using these models in proteome bioinformatics research. Overall, this review provides valuable insights into the potential of transformer‐based NLP models to revolutionize proteome bioinformatics.
Subjective cognition and memory lapses in the daily lives of breast cancer survivors: Examining associations with objective cognitive performance, fatigue, and depressed mood
Authors: Veal Britney M. , Scott Stacey B. , Jim Heather S. L. , Small Brent J.
Published: June 2023

Objective

Subjective reports of cancer‐related cognitive impairment often far exceed that documented using in‐person neuropsychological assessment. This study evaluated whether subjective cognition was associated with real‐time objective cognitive performance in daily life versus performance on an in‐person neuropsychological battery, as well as fatigue and depressed mood.

Methods

Participants were 47 women (M age = 53.3 years) who completed adjuvant treatment for early‐stage breast cancer 6–36 months previously. During an in‐person assessment, participants completed a neuropsychological battery and questionnaires on subjective cognition, fatigue, and depressed mood. Over 14 days, participants responded to up to 5 prompts that assessed real‐time processing speed and memory and self‐reported ratings of depressed mood and fatigue. In the evenings, participants rated their subjective cognition that day and reported on memory lapses (e.g., forgetting a word).

Results

During the in‐person assessment, participants who rated their cognition worse reported worse depressed mood, but did not exhibit poorer objective cognitive performance. Women with worse rated daily subjective cognition reported more daily fatigue but did not demonstrate worse real‐time objective cognition. Finally, women who reported memory lapses at the end of the day reported more fatigue and depressed mood, demonstrated better real‐time performance on processing speed (p = 0.001), and worse in‐person processing speed and visuospatial skills (p's ≤ 0.02).

Conclusion

Subjective cognition was consistently associated with self‐reported fatigue and depressed mood. Specific memory lapses were related to in‐person and daily objective cognitive performance. This suggests that incorporating reports of memory lapses may help clinicians identify those with objectively measured cancer‐related cognitive impairment.
Feeding preference and intraguild interactions between the parasitoidTrichogramma achaeaeand the predatorMacrolophus pygmaeus, two biological agents ofTuta absoluta
Authors: Borges Isabel , Oliveira Luisa , Durão Ana , Arruda Patricia , Soares António O.
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

Tuta absolutais an exotic species and a major pest of tomato crops in Europe.Macrolophus pygmaeusandTrichogramma achaeaeare two biocontrol agents widely used in integrated pest management programs of the South American tomato pinwormTuta absoluta. In this study, we evaluated under laboratory conditions the (i) voracity ofM. pygmaeusfemales fed on single diets ofTuta absolutaeggs parasitized or unparasitized byTrichogramma achaeae, (ii) voracity and feeding preference ofM. pygmaeusfemales provided with mixed diets ofTuta absolutaeggs unparasitized and parasitized byTrichogramma achaeaeand (iii) effect of competitive and intraguild interactions betweenM. pygmaeusandTrichogramma achaeaeon the number ofTuta absolutaeggs consumed and/or parasitized. Lastly, we assessed under field conditions the effect of interspecific and intraspecific interactions between natural enemies on the number ofTuta absolutaeggs consumed and/or parasitized.

RESULTS

Macrolophus pygmaeusconsumed more unparasitized than parasitized eggs ofTuta absoluta. Under mixed diet regimes, Manly indices revealed a feeding preference for unparasitized eggs, and a decrease in the total number of eggs consumed, as the proportion of available parasitized eggs increased, whereas the unparasitized eggs were consumed in direct proportion to their availability. Conspecific interactions betweenM. pygmaeus, in contrast toTrichogramma achaeae, revealed the possible occurrence of intraspecific competition. For intraguild heterospecific interactions, the number ofTuta absolutaeggs consumed byM. pygmaeusand parasitized byTrichogramma achaeaewas lower than that predicted for additive and non‐interactive scenarios. Under field conditions, a significant difference between the conspecific treatment and heterospecific treatments revealed a slightly higher success rate in controllingTuta absolutawhen bothM. pygmaeusandTrichogramma achaeaewere used simultaneously.

CONCLUSION

Macrolophus pygmaeusprefers unparasitized eggs ofTuta absolutabut inflicts intraguild predation onTrichogramma achaeae. In conspecific experiments, mutual interference betweenM. pygmaeuspredators intensifies as the number of individuals increases, but forTrichogramma achaeae, it occurs in an unpredictable manner. AddingTrichogramma achaeaecould significantly increase the level of control ofTuta absolutacompared to what could be achieved when onlyM. pygmaeusis present in glasshouse tomatoes. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Local context mapping and promotion strategies for actions aimed at sustainable development goals in schools in the Paranhana Valley‐Brazil
Authors: de Leão Felipe Baptista , Morais Gabriel Schmitt , Ambrós Weslei Monteiro , Veras Moacir Medeiros , Tubino Rejane Maria Candiota , Gameiro Paula Hauber
Published: June 2023

Economic, social, and environmental aspects improvement on a global scale underline institutional based programs importance aimed at the long‐term activities proposed by the 2030 Agenda of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This perspective offers an approach based upon planning, executing, controlling and improving social actors' performance in this dynamic relationship. As schools play an important role in this scenario, actively participating in the structuring of sustainable development’ conscious citizens, this study sought to identify the existence of Programs, Projects and Actions (PPA's) focused on the 17 SDGs of the United Nations (UN) in public and private schools in the Paranhana Valley, a region located in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, which is of uttermost importance to local performance for more than 200 thousand inhabitants, clustering six cities whose economy is mainly based on the footwear production chain. The study also addresses the existing limitations for PPA's implementation, aiming to understand how schools articulate them with different stakeholders. The research was based on the survey of 156 educational institutions located in the region, through structured interviews with open and dependent questions. The study identified that Paranhana Valley schools' existing initiatives must be diversified into long‐term programs, expanding their scope to each sustainability pillar. They must better articulate with local context, increasingly involving students' families, the students themselves, teachers, and the community. With such results, a report proposing initiatives encompassing each of the 17 SDGs in schools' scope was built. Such an approach can be implemented by other educational institutions in different contexts.
An Emerging Family of Piezocatalysts: 2D Piezoelectric Materials
Authors: Jin Cheng‐Chao , Liu Dai‐Ming , Zhang Ling‐Xia
Published: June 2023

Piezocatalysis is an emerging technique that holds great promise for the conversion of ubiquitous mechanical energy into electrochemical energy through piezoelectric effect. However, mechanical energies in natural environment (such as wind energy, water flow energy, and noise) are typically tiny, scattered, and featured with low frequency and low power. Therefore, a high response to these tiny mechanical energies is critical to achieving high piezocatalytic performance. In comparison to nanoparticles or 1D piezoelectric materials, 2D piezoelectric materials possess characteristics such as high flexibility, easy deformation, large surface area, and rich active sites, showing more promise in future for practical applications. In this review, state‐of‐the‐art research progresses on 2D piezoelectric materials and their applications in piezocatalysis are provided. First, a detailed description of 2D piezoelectric materials are offered. Then a comprehensive summary of the piezocatalysis technique is presented and examines the piezocatalysis applications of 2D piezoelectric materials in various fields, including environmental remediation, small‐molecule catalysis, and biomedicine. Finally, the main challenges and prospects of 2D piezoelectric materials and their applications in piezocatalysis are discussed. It is expected that this review can fuel the practical application of 2D piezoelectric materials in piezocatalysis.
Physico‐Chemical Properties of Laponite®/Polyethylene‐oxide Based Composites
Authors: Lysenkov Eduard , Klepko Valery , Bulavin Leonid , Lebovka Nikolai
Published: June 2023

This review aims to provide a literature overview as well as the authors’ personal account to the studies of Laponite® (Lap)/Polyethylene‐oxide (PEO) based composite materials and their applications. These composites can be prepared over a wide range of their mutual concentrations, they are highly water soluble, and have many useful physico‐chemical properties. To the readers’ convenience, the contents are subdivided into different sections, related with consideration of PEO properties and its solubility in water, behavior of Lap systems(structure of Lap‐platelets, properties of aqueous dispersions of Lap and aging effects in them), analyzing ofproperties LAP/PEO systems, Lap platelets‐PEO interactions, adsorption mechanisms, aging effects, aggregation and electrokinetic properties. The different applications of Lap/PEO composites are reviewed. These applications include Lap/PEO based electrolytes for lithium polymer batteries, electrospun nanofibers, environmental, biomedical and biotechnology engineering. Both Lap and PEO are highly biocompatible with living systems and they are non‐toxic, non‐yellowing, and non‐inflammable. Medical applications of Lap/PEO composites in bio‐sensing, tissue engineering, drug delivery, cell proliferation, and wound dressings are also discussed.
Self‐regulated learning and technology among teacher candidates
Authors: Bembenutty Héfer
Published: June 2023

Extensive evidence indicates that self‐regulated learning is associated with crucial academic outcomes and the significant ways digital technologies enhance pedagogical approaches in diverse learning environments in postsecondary education. Despite this evidence, self‐regulated learning and digital technologies have not been fully integrated to support teacher educators and teacher candidates. This chapter extends the existing literature about self‐regulated learning by integrating it with digital technologies among teacher candidates and describes a technology project in which teacher candidates identify the benefit of self‐regulated learning and technology. The chapter concludes by offering recommendations about integrating self‐regulated learning and technology in teacher preparation programs, including helping candidates to be proactive, self‐directed, and self‐efficacious. Candidates need to be agentic in their pursuit of the teaching profession during training programs that encourage and support a culturally proactive pedagogy.
Multiple biliary duct hamartomas in a cat resulting in a hepatic mass: A case report
Authors: Naghi Rachel , Bertran Judith , Spoldi Elisa , Dark Michael J. , de Oliveira Helena Hauck , Souza Carlos , Maxwell Elizabeth A.
Published: June 2023

A 13‐year‐old, male neutered domestic short‐haired cat was diagnosed with multiple biliary duct hamartomas after liver lobectomy for a suspected malignant hepatic mass. Distinguishing ultrasonographic findings included a lobular, mostly well‐defined, heterogeneous, predominantly hyperechoic, left hepatic mass. Computed tomography (CT) confirmed the presence of a lobular, well‐defined, fluid to soft tissue attenuating, heterogeneously hypoenhancing left divisional hepatic mass. Grossly, a large left sided multilobular pale pink gelatinous hepatic mass was surgically excised. Histopathologically, the mass was composed of irregular cystic spaces lined by cuboidal epithelium and separated by mature regular fibrous tissue. Three months following surgery there was no evidence of recurrence or progression of disease on repeat abdominal ultrasound (AUS).
Critical review on data processing algorithms in non-target screening: challenges and opportunities to improve result comparability
Authors: Renner Gerrit , Reuschenbach Max
Published: June 2023

Non-target screening (NTS) is a powerful environmental and analytical chemistry approach for detecting and identifying unknown compounds in complex samples. High-resolution mass spectrometry has enhanced NTS capabilities but created challenges in data analysis, including data preprocessing, peak detection, and feature extraction. This review provides an in-depth understanding of NTS data processing methods, focusing on centroiding, extracted ion chromatogram (XIC) building, chromatographic peak characterization, alignment, componentization, and prioritization of features. We discuss the strengths and weaknesses of various algorithms, the influence of user input parameters on the results, and the need for automated parameter optimization. We address uncertainty and data quality issues, emphasizing the importance of incorporating confidence intervals and raw data quality assessment in data processing workflows. Furthermore, we highlight the need for cross-study comparability and propose potential solutions, such as utilizing standardized statistics and open-access data exchange platforms. In conclusion, we offer future perspectives and recommendations for developers and users of NTS data processing algorithms and workflows. By addressing these challenges and capitalizing on the opportunities presented, the NTS community can advance the field, improve the reliability of results, and enhance data comparability across different studies.
Barriers and strength factors of adult immunization plans in seven countries of the European region
Authors: Lanza Teresa Eleonora , Lombardi Gaia Surya , Tumelero Serena , Paladini Andrea , Castagna Carolina , Cadeddu Chiara
Published: June 2023

Aim

The present systematic review analyzes existing strategies and policies used for adult vaccination of seven countries of the European area, emphasizing weaknesses and strengths of immunization schedules. Selected countries were Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Sweden, and Romania.

Subject and methods

Three main scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were queried and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed. Studies assessing weaknesses or strengths factors, facilitators and barriers related to the adult vaccination plans were considered eligible. We included ten studies with a medium/high score at the quality assessment.

Results

The main barriers and strength factors for vaccination can be divided into the following categories: financial aspects (e.g., if the vaccine has a funding mechanism); logistic factors (e.g., convenience, opening times); factors related to healthcare professionals (e.g., recommendations, provision by different categories of healthcare professionals).

Conclusion

Substantial improvement in adult vaccination uptake is urgently necessary to decrease the burden of infectious disease on healthcare systems. Although decision-making regarding adult vaccination is complex and influenced by psychological and personal factors, addressing practical or logistical issues related to immunization plans can facilitate higher vaccination coverage.
Solving the winner determination problem with discounted bids in transportation auctions
Authors: Triki Chefi , Hasan Md. Rakibul , Elomri Adel
Published: June 2023

Continuing advances in modern technologies have transformed the procedure of transportation procurement through auctions in supply chain management (SCM). This study examines the online combinatorial auction (CA), which serves customers placed at the nodes of a transportation network, with particular consideration given to carbon emissions. The CA mechanism allows early shipments of the carriers to improve their load consolidation and reduce their repositioning trips. Sustainability and carbon emissions are considered by prioritizing the carrier’s carbon reduction performances. Two models are examined under the carbon emission regulations (Carbon tax and Cap-and-offset) to choose the winners in the CA. Our aim is to minimize the cost of transportation procurement and reduce carbon emissions by incorporating the green reputation-based winner determination problem within the procurement model. Computational experiments reveal the positive impact of prioritization and discounted offers in reducing both transportation costs and the number of empty trips. Indeed, our results show the introduction of the discounted bids allows a reduction of about 2% in the transportation cost for the shipper and 24% of empty movements, on average, for the carriers.
Association Between Judgment Biases During Facial Processing and Body Dysmorphic Symptomatology
Authors: Dietel Fanny Alexandra , Jacobs Laura , Onken Rebecca , Buhlmann Ulrike , MacLeod Colin , Dondzilo Laura
Published: June 2023

Background

Recent work has shown that judgment biases during facial processing serve as a correlate of dysmorphic concern. The current study aimed to replicate and extend this work by further testing larger model-congruent interrelations between judgment biases and intrusions, negative affect, maladaptive behaviors and social media investment.

Methods

Females reporting high (n = 30) vs. low (n = 33) dysmorphic concern categorized photographs of their own and other faces in terms of either attractiveness or gaze direction using the Biased Judgment-Dimension Task. To assess intrusions and maladaptive behaviors, participants completed the Task-Irrelevant Intrusions Task and a 3-day diary, respectively.

Results

Results revealed that, regardless of judgment required, individuals low in dysmorphic concern were faster to make judgments about attractive vs. unattractive photographs. We termed this novel and potentially protective bias “Efficient Processing of Attractive Self” (EPAS). Furthermore, EPAS patterns predicted lower dysmorphic concern, higher self-esteem, and reduced maladaptive behaviors, including reduced screen time.

Conclusions

These findings are consistent with a potential relevance of EPAS in maintaining dysmorphic concern. Associations with cognitive-behavioral factors highlight potential benefits of modifying these bias patterns during visually oriented interventions.
Well known microbial plant growth promoters provoke plant growth suppression and increase chili pepper wilt caused by the root pathogen Phytophthora capsici
Authors: Raya-Hernández Andrea Iovanna , López-Carmona Dante , Jaramillo-López Pablo , Fernández-Pavía Sylvia Patricia , Carreón-Abud Yazmín , Fraire-Velázquez Saúl , Larsen John
Published: June 2023

Microbial plant growth promoters (MPGP) are known to improve crop nutrition and root health. Here we examined the effects of individual and combined inoculation of chili pepper (variety Camino Real) with the known plant growth promoters Rhizophagus irregularis (isolate BEG87) and a commercial product of Azospirillum brasilense on chili pepper growth and biocontrol against the oomycete root pathogen Phytophthora capsici (isolate CH11). In a greenhouse pot experiment, unfertilized ten-week-old chili pepper plants with individual and combined inoculation of R. irregularis and A. brasilense were confronted with P. capsici, and four weeks later plants were harvested and scored for plant growth and disease severity. Surprisingly, both MPGP not only decreased plant growth, but also promoted root rot caused by P. capsici. This increased disease severity with P. capsici root rot in mycorrhizal chili pepper was further corroborated in a second greenhouse pot experiment with inert growth substrate and mineral fertilization. In conclusion, individual and combined inoculation with R. irregularis and A. brasilense may not only cause plant growth suppression in chili pepper plants, but also increase root rot caused by P. capsici.
The dynamics and uniqueness of semigration to hermanus from across South Africa
Authors: Willemse Lodene
Published: June 2023

Covid-19 significantly impacted the South African economy, particularly through geographical flexibility in workspaces, made possible by improvements in smart office technology. The ability to participate in hybrid forms of work (and ‘work from home’) has increased patterns of decentralised living, moving away from larger cities towards peripheral suburban locations and smaller towns, usually with the aim of improving living conditions. This trend has been described as ‘semigration’, and towns in the Western Cape seem to be the prime locations. The aim of this study is to investigate the extent and characteristics of semigration to Hermanus, in the Western Cape of South Africa. The data for this study was collected from two companies (Lightstone and Property24). Sampled data from Lightstone was analysed through frequency counts to provide a trend analysis of semigration to Hermanus. Property24’s open-source data was analysed through frequencies, crosstabulations, and various spatial statistical techniques in ArcMap. Results indicate that Covid-19 slowed the pace of property purchases in Hermanus but did not necessarily increase this pace drastically in comparison to previous years. This offers only some anecdotal evidence of potential semigration but does not necessarily confirm it. Geographic shifts were however observed in locations where properties were purchased, while property prices increased in certain suburbs but decreased in others. These variations, together with changing characteristics of semigrants (i.e., their origin locations, wealth segments, and age groups) could suggest changing demographic patterns associated with the semigration phenomenon. Significant impacts on municipal policies and strategies were identified and suggestions made, along with recommendations for further research.
Strategies Steering Intensification Pathways of Farmers in Central Malawi
Authors: Timler Carl J. , Groot Jeroen C. J. , Snapp Sieglinde S. , Tittonell Pablo A.
Published: June 2023

Smallholder farmers face many challenges to improve their livelihoods and food security. Intensification of agricultural production can help to achieve these goals. Yet farmers are highly heterogenous in their strategies towards intensification, potentially following unsustainable intensification pathways. Using Q Methodology, we ascertain different strategies regarding farm improvement and intensification of smallholder farmers in the Dedza and Ntcheu Extension Planning Areas in Central Malawi. These strategies were associated to coherent sequential choices as expressed in “managerial intensification pathways” (MIPs). Three main strategies emerged: Seed Saving Peasants, Aspirant Modern Farmers and Entrepreneurial Business(wo)men. These were subsequently linked to four MIPs. Seed Saving Peasants focus strongly on local seed systems and post-harvest protection of grains, but also allocate more labour to improving crop residue use and manure quality, thus pointing to a labour-oriented MIP. Aspirant Modern Farmers willingly adopt hybrid seeds and inorganic fertilizers but require more extension support; these farmers follow a technology-oriented MIP. Entrepreneurial Business(wo)men are early adopters of new technologies and benefit from improved access to market information and suppliers of new technologies and follow a sustainable technology-based or techno-ecological intensification pathway. This study shows that strongly contrasting perspectives on intensification exist among smallholders and it is expected that their preferred intensification choices will have diverging impacts on the sustainability of their farms. A diversity of extension, advice and incentive instruments will be needed to support farmer decision making towards sustainably intensified farms.
Morphology of Ascophyllum nodosum in relation to commercial harvesting in New Brunswick, Canada
Authors: Lauzon-Guay Jean-Sébastien , Feibel Alison I. , Morse Bryan L. , Ugarte Raúl A.
Published: June 2023

Intertidal seaweed beds form three-dimensional structures providing habitat for a variety of species. As such, ecosystem-based management of seaweed harvesting must take into consideration the impact of the harvest not only on the biomass but also on the morphology of the seaweed. We compare the morphology and vertical distribution of biomass and shoots in Ascophyllum nodosum from three sites with a 20 + year history of commercial harvesting with three corresponding control sites in southern New Brunswick, Canada. We found no significant impact of harvest history on the vertical distribution of shoots or biomass within individual clumps. At two of the three harvested sites, large clumps had a wider circumference than those at the control sites, suggesting that long-term harvesting increases the growth of shoots throughout the clumps; presumably caused by an increase in light penetration through the harvested canopy. We also compare biomass of littorinids, the most abundant invertebrates found in A. nodosum beds at low tide and found no significant difference between control and harvested sites. We conclude that the harvest of A. nodosum according to the current regulations in New Brunswick, does not have long-term impact on the morphology of the algae or on the abundance of its main inhabitant.
SCL(EQ): SCL for First-Order Logic with Equality
Authors: Leidinger Hendrik , Weidenbach Christoph
Published: June 2023

We propose a new calculus SCL(EQ) for first-order logic with equality that only learns non-redundant clauses. Following the idea of CDCL (Conflict Driven Clause Learning) and SCL (Clause Learning from Simple Models) a ground literal model assumption is used to guide inferences that are then guaranteed to be non-redundant. Redundancy is defined with respect to a dynamically changing ordering derived from the ground literal model assumption. We prove SCL(EQ) sound and complete and provide examples where our calculus improves on superposition.