bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbially driven fate of terrigenous particulate organic matter in oceans
Authors: Zhang Lianbao , Chen Mingming , Zheng Yue , Wang Jianning , Xiao Xilin , Chen Xiaowei , Hu Chen , Shen Jiaming , Liu Jihua , Tang Kai , Xu Dapeng , Shi Qiang , Ning Xiaoyan , Thomas Helmuth , Qin Wei , Zhao Meixun , Jiao Nianzhi , Zhang Yao
Published: November 2022

A long‐standing enigma in oceanography is why terrestrial organic matter is “missing” in the global ocean, despite the considerable discharge into it every year. Although some explanations, such as mineralogical composition, hydrodynamic processes, and priming effect, have been proposed, we hypothesize that the essential mechanism behind the missing organic matter is microbial processing, for which the underlying coupled geochemical, molecular, and genetic evidence is unknown. An ultra‐large‐volume, long‐term river–seawater stratified simulation system was constructed to unravel the microbially driven fate of terrigenous particulate organic matter (POM) in oceans. Analysis of combining the molecular with POM chemical composition data suggests that Bacteroidetes could act as pioneers in the processing of terrigenous POM in oceans, degrading high‐molecular‐weight, high‐carbon compounds such as polysaccharides. Remaining low‐molecular‐weight nitrogenous organic matter is subsequently degraded by Planctomycetes and Proteobacteria. Isotopic signals show that this preferential degradation causes a distinct “aging” effect of POM, and along with nitrification enhanced by remineralization, causes a decrease in the POM C : N ratio. Degradation of terrigenous POM and bacterial biomass biosynthesis leads to positive deviations in δ15N and δ13C. Relatively refractory hydrocarbons, aromatic compounds, and phenols are accumulated by microbial processes in this system. This study provides mechanistic insights into the missing chemical and isotopic signals and microbially driven fate of terrigenous POM in the ocean, with important implications for how riverine material input affects marine carbon and nitrogen cycling.
Glycidyl Cinnamate: Copolymerization with Glycidyl Ethers, In‐Situ NMR Kinetics, and Photocrosslinking
Authors: Maciol Kamil , Schüttner Sandra , Blankenburg Jan , Johann Tobias , Frey Holger
Published: November 2022

The copolymerization of glycidyl cinnamate (GC) as a hitherto non‐polymerizable, photoreactive epoxide structure to aliphatic polyether copolymers is described, using the monomer‐activated epoxide ring‐opening polymerization (MAROP). Ethoxyethyl glycidyl ether (EEGE) and GC are copolymerized employing triisobutylaluminum (i‐Bu3Al) as a catalyst and tetraoctylammonium bromide (NOctBr4) as an initiator. The amount of GC varies from 3 mol% to 100 mol%, which results in apparent molecular weights in the range of 2600 to 4600 g mol−1and dispersities (Đ)below 1.34. Studies of the microstructure by in‐situ1H NMR kinetics indicate a gradient‐like distribution of EEGE and GC (reactivity ratios:rEEGE= 0.28;rGC= 3.6), applying the ideal copolymerization model for evaluation. A tentative explanation relies on differing bond lengths in the respective epoxide rings, as suggested by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Mild and selective cleavage of the acetal protecting groups of EEGE is achieved using the acidic ionic resin Dowex, leaving the GC ester bonds intact (Mn = 1900–3700 g mol−1,Đ <1.34). Thermal properties of the copolymers and the PGC homopolymer are investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The crosslinking of P(G‐co‐GC) copolymers by UV irradiation allows hydrogel formation, which is confirmed by IR spectroscopy.
Tension‐Responsive Graphene Oxide Conductive Hydrogel with Robust Mechanical Properties and High Sensitivity for Human Motion Monitoring
Authors: Sun Peijie , Li Qiaoling
Published: November 2022

PVA‐BB/GO‐Fe3+/agar hydrogels (BB is configured by 1:1 configuration of 0.04 mol L−1 boric acid solution and 0.04 mol L−1 borax solution) are designed with excellent mechanical and electrical properties due to their triple cross‐linked network, and they maintain stable performance in various tests, which is sufficient to support the use of hydrogels in multiple scenarios. Meanwhile, the tension responsiveness of the PVA‐BB/GO‐Fe3+/agar hydrogel allows it to rapidly transmit signal changes upon tension changes. Finally, maintaining increased energy dissipation and strength enhancement during the loading–unloading cycle provides the possibility of long, stable operation. In summary, it is believed that PVA‐BB/GO‐Fe3+/agar hydrogel has significant potential in the field of flexible sensors and is expected to be fabricated as a sensor for motion monitoring.
The effect of product touch information and sale proneness on consumers' responses to price discounts
Authors: Yazdanparast Atefeh , Kukar‐Kinney Monika
Published: November 2022

Since price discounts are costly and can negatively affect consumers' perceptions of quality, it is crucial to identify the factors that make them effective in stimulating purchase behavior. Drawing on cue utilization theory, we examine price discount effectiveness in affecting consumers' reliance on the sale cue based on the provided product touch information as an intrinsic cue and individual consumer differences in sale proneness. Two experimental studies indicate that price discount information, product touch information, and sale proneness interact to determine consumers' responses. Perceived quality is the underlying mechanism behind the observed effects. For nonsale‐prone consumers, product touch information favorably influences responses to large price discounts by addressing product quality concerns and enhancing purchase confidence, but has no effect for regularly priced or low discounted products. For sale‐prone consumers, product touch information is not effective in increasing their responses regardless of the discount size. A qualitative study provides support for these results and highlights the role of perceived quality and purchase confidence. The research contributes to behavioral pricing, cue utilization theory, and sensory marketing and suggests that marketing managers should provide consumers with product touch information when implementing high discounts for products for which prepurchase touch is important.
Construction of Porous Polyureas and Polyamides via Domino Polymerization and Their High‐Efficiency Au(III) Adsorption
Authors: Lei Yujie , Xia Yunxia , Chen Wangzhi , Lin Bo , Li Tiesheng , Li Lei
Published: November 2022

The adoption of new synthesis strategy and monomers significantly promotes the construction of porous organic polymers (POPs) and their promising applications. A fabricating method of porous polyimides is developed via sequential imidization and cross‐linking reaction among self‐condensable building blocks, as reported in the authors' previous manuscript. Herein, porous polyureas (A‐POPs) are prepared starting from 4‐ethynylaniline and diisocyanate monomers, while porous polyamides (B‐POPs) are synthesized from 4‐ethynylbenzoic acid and diisocyanate monomers. It is found that decreasing the monomer content in solvent can effectively inhibit the premature phase separation and facilitate the evolution of integrated network. Eventually, a maximum surface area of 425 m2 g−1 is achieved for porous polyureas when the content of monomers is 10%. To the best knowledge, A‐POPs are the porous polyureas with the highest surface areas reported up to now. The as‐prepared porous polyurea (AN‐POP) exhibits the maximum adsorption capacity of 1093.87 ± 5.23 mg g−1 and removal rate of 99.96% for Au(III), due to its high surface area and the coordination between the heteroatoms (N and O) in A‐POPs and metal ions. Besides, the porous polyurea also exhibits excellent renewable efficiency and high selectivity to Au(III).
Morpho‐Functional Changes of Nigral Dopamine Neurons in an α‐Synuclein Model of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Ledonne Ada , Massaro Cenere Mariangela , Paldino Emanuela , D'Angelo Vincenza , D'Addario Sebastian Luca , Casadei Nicolas , Nobili Annalisa , Berretta Nicola , Fusco Francesca R. , Ventura Rossella , Sancesario Giuseppe , Guatteo Ezia , Mercuri Nicola Biagio
Published: November 2022

Background

The accumulation of α‐synuclein (α‐syn) fibrils in intraneuronal inclusions called Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites is a pathological signature of Parkinson's disease (PD). Although several aspects linked to α‐syn–dependent pathology (concerning its spreading, aggregation, and activation of inflammatory and neurodegenerative processes) have been under intense investigation, less attention has been devoted to the real impact of α‐syn overexpression on structural and functional properties of substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) dopamine (DA) neurons, particularly at tardive stages of α‐syn buildup, despite this has obvious relevance to comprehending mechanisms beyond PD progression.

Objectives

We aimed to determine the consequences of a prolonged α‐syn overexpression on somatodendritic morphology and functions of SNpc DA neurons.

Methods

We performed immunohistochemistry, stereological DA cell counts, analyses of dendritic arborization, ex vivo patch‐clamp recordings, and in vivo DA microdialysis measurements in a 12‐ to 13‐month‐old transgenic rat model overexpressing the full‐length human α‐syn (Snca+/+) and age‐matched wild‐type rats.

Results

Aged Snca+/+ rats have mild loss of SNpc DA neurons and decreased basal DA levels in the SN. Residual nigral DA neurons display smaller soma and compromised dendritic arborization and, in parallel, increased firing activity, switch in firing mode, and hyperexcitability associated with hypofunction of fast activating/inactivating voltage‐gated K+ channels and Ca2+‐ and voltage‐activated large conductance K+ channels. These intrinsic currents underlie the repolarization/afterhyperpolarization phase of action potentials, thus affecting neuronal excitability.

Conclusions

Besides clarifying α‐syn–induced pathological landmarks, such evidence reveals compensatory functional mechanisms that nigral DA neurons could adopt during PD progression to counteract neurodegeneration. © 2022 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Evaluation of X chromosome inactivation in endemic Tunisian pemphigus foliaceus
Authors: Abida Olfa , Elloumi Nesrine , Bahloul Emna , Hachicha Hend , Sellami Khadija , Fakhfakh Raouia , Marzouk Sameh , Ben Ayed Ikhlas , Mahfoudh Nadia , Turki Hamida , Masmoudi Hatem
Published: November 2022

Background

Almost 5% of the world's population develops an autoimmune disease (AID), it is considered the fourth leading cause of disability for women, who represent 78% of cases. The sex ratio when it comes to the most prevalent AID varies from 9:1 in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) to 13:1 in endemic Tunisian pemphigus foliaceus (PF).

Methods

To test the potential involvement of skewed x‐inactivation in the pathogenesis of Tunisian PF, we analyzed the methylation status of a highly polymorphic CAG repeat in the androgen receptor gene and evaluated the x chromosome inactivation (XCI) patterns in peripheral blood‐leukocyte‐derived DNA samples of female patients with PF (n = 98) compared to healthy control (HC) subjects (n = 150), as well as female patients with SLE (n = 98) were enrolled as a reference group.

Results

XCI status was informative for 50 of the 98 PF patients (51%) and 70 of the 150 HC women (47%). Extremely skewed XCI patterns were more frequent in PF and SLEwomen than HC, but the difference was statistically significant only in women with SLE. No statistical difference was observed in XCI patterns between PF and SLE patients. PF phenotype‐XCI correlation analysis revealed that (i) skewed XCI patterns may be involved in the disease's subtype and (ii) it was more pronounced in the endemic group than the sporadic one. Furthermore, preferential XCI showed an increase in heterozygote genotypes of PF's susceptibility polymorphisms in immunity‐related X genes (FOXP3, AR, and TLR7) in PF patients compared to HC.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that skewed XCI could lead to hemizygosity of X‐linked alleles that might unmask X‐linked deleterious alleles.
Spectral analysis of an even order differential operator with square integrable potential
Authors: Polyakov Dmitry M.
Published: November 2022

By using the method of similar operators, we study an even order differential operator with periodic, antiperiodic, and Dirichlet boundary conditions. We obtain eigenvalue asymptotics of this operator and estimates for its spectral decompositions and spectral projections. We also describe the asymptotic behavior of the corresponding analytic semigroup of operators.
Repeatability assessment for simultaneous measurement of arterial blood flow, venous oxygen saturation, and muscle perfusion following dynamic exercise
Authors: Mahmud Sultan Z. , Bashir Adil
Published: November 2022

The purpose of the present study was to demonstrate a new sequence and determine the repeatability of simultaneous dynamic measurements of blood flow, venous oxygen saturation (SvO2), and relative perfusion (change from resting perfusion) in calf muscle during recovery from plantar flexion exercise. The feasibility of near simultaneous measurement of bio‐energetic parameters was also demonstrated. A sequence was developed to simultaneously measure arterial blood flow using flow‐encoded projection, SvO2 using susceptibility‐based oximetry, and relative perfusion using arterial spin labeling in combination with dynamic plantar flexion exercise. The parameters were determined at rest and during recovery from single leg plantar flexion exercise. Test–retest repeatability was analyzed using Bland–Altman analysis and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). The mitochondrial capacity of skeletal muscle was also measured immediately afterwards with dynamic phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Eight healthy subjects participated in the study for test–retest repeatability. Popliteal artery blood flow at rest was 1.79 ± 0.58 ml/s and increased to 11.18 ± 3.02 ml/s immediately after exercise. Popliteal vein SvO2 decreased to 45.93% ± 6.5% from a resting value of 70.46% ± 4.76% following exercise. Relative perfusion (change from rest value) was 51.83 ± 15.00 ml/100 g/min at the cessation of exercise. The recovery of blood flow and SvO2 was modeled as a single exponential with time constants of 38.03 ± 6.91 and 71.19 ± 14.53 s, respectively. All the measured parameters exhibited good repeatability with ICC ranging from 0.8 to 0.95. Bioenergetics measurements were within normal range, demonstrating the feasibility of near simultaneous measurement of hemodynamic and energetic parameters. Clinical feasibility was assessed with Barth syndrome patients, demonstrating reduced oxygen extraction from the blood and reduced mitochondrial oxidative capacity compared with healthy controls. The proposed protocol allows rapid imaging of multiple parameters in skeletal muscle that might be affected in disease.
An integrative review of supportive relationships between child‐bearing women and midwives
Authors: Almorbaty Hadeer , Ebert Lyn , Dowse Eileen , Chan Sally Wai‐Chi
Published: November 2022

Aims

To review and evaluate the literature on the factors related to developing supportive relationships between women and midwives, including facilitators and barriers.

Design

An integrative review.

Method

The search used CINAHL, MEDLINE, Embase, EMcare, Maternity and Infant Care, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar from January 2009–June 2020. Two reviewers screened the eligible studies, and 2,399 records were identified. Quality was assessed with the mixed methods appraisal tool, and 14 articles were included.

Results

The findings highlight that successful relationships require therapeutic communication, trust, respect, partnership, and shared decision‐making. Supportive relationships improve women′s satisfaction and birth outcomes, and continuity of care model is an enabling factor. Further research is required to understand supportive relationships in non‐continuity of care models and when different cultural backgrounds exist.
Similarities and controversies in imaging of pediatric renal tumors: A SIOP‐RTSG and COG collaboration
Authors: van der Beek Justine N. , Artunduaga Maddy , Schenk Jens‐Peter , Eklund Meryle J. , Smith Ethan A. , Lederman Henrique M. , Warwick Anne B. , Littooij Annemieke S. , Khanna Geetika
Published: November 2022

Malignant renal tumors are rare in children, and Wilms tumors (WTs) are the most common subtype. Imaging plays an essential role in the diagnosis, staging, and follow‐up of these patients. Initial workup for staging is mainly performed by cross‐sectional imaging modalities such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Imaging approach within the two core international groups, the Children's Oncology Group (COG, North America) and the International Society of Pediatric Oncology ‐ Renal Tumor Study Group (SIOP‐RTSG, Europe), differs. Whereas abdominal ultrasound (US) is used for the initial diagnosis of a suspected pediatric renal tumor globally, COG protocols support the use of CT or MRI for locoregional staging, contrary to the preference for MRI over CT for abdominopelvic evaluation within the SIOP‐RTSG. The purpose of this manuscript is to summarize current imaging approaches, highlighting differences and similarities within these core international groups, while focusing on future innovative efforts and collaboration within the HARMONICA initiative.
Enhanced mechanical and thermal properties of carbon fiber‐reinforced thermoplastic copoly(phthalazinone ether sulfone ketone) composites
Authors: Wang Bing , Li Nan , Fu Xin , Cheng Shan , Zhao Na , Zhang Jiazi , Hu Fangyuan , Bao Qingguang , Hao Haoyue , Jian Xigao
Published: November 2022

This paper presented a facile and effective way to modify copoly(phthalazinone ether sulfone ketone) (PPBESK) resin with SiC nanowires (SiC NWs) to improve the mechanical and thermal properties of CF/PPBESK composites. The results showed that linear SiC NWs with a diameter of about 3 μm and length of about 100 μm were uniformly incorporated into the composite, which greatly enhanced the toughness of the PPBESK resin and the interfacial performance between the CF and PPBESK. Compared with the untreated composites, the ILSS, compressive strength, flexural strength, and through‐thickness thermal conductivity of the SiC NWs treated composites increased by 12.3%, 31.7%, 15.0%, and 40.7%, respectively. In addition, the thermal effusivity of SiC NWs treated composites was also ameliorated. These results will provide a feasible approach for the fabrication of structurally functionally integrated composites.
High‐dimensional propensity scores for empirical covariate selection in secondary database studies: Planning, implementation, and reporting
Authors: Rassen Jeremy A. , Blin Patrick , Kloss Sebastian , Neugebauer Romain S. , Platt Robert W. , Pottegård Anton , Schneeweiss Sebastian , Toh Sengwee
Published: November 2022

Real‐world evidence used for regulatory, payer, and clinical decision‐making requires principled epidemiology in design and analysis, applying methods to minimize confounding given the lack of randomization. One technique to deal with potential confounding is propensity score (PS) analysis, which allows for the adjustment for measured preexposure covariates. Since its first publication in 2009, the high‐dimensional propensity score (hdPS) method has emerged as an approach that extends traditional PS covariate selection to include large numbers of covariates that may reduce confounding bias in the analysis of healthcare databases. hdPS is an automated, data‐driven analytic approach for covariate selection that empirically identifies preexposure variables and proxies to include in the PS model. This article provides an overview of the hdPS approach and recommendations on the planning, implementation, and reporting of hdPS used for causal treatment‐effect estimations in longitudinal healthcare databases. We supply a checklist with key considerations as a supportive decision tool to aid investigators in the implementation and transparent reporting of hdPS techniques, and to aid decision‐makers unfamiliar with hdPS in the understanding and interpretation of studies employing this approach. This article is endorsed by the International Society for Pharmacoepidemiology.
Exploring the role of m6A modification in cancer
Authors: Wei Yongqi , Li Yin , Lu Chunlai
Published: November 2022

m6A is one of the most common, abundant, and conserved post‐transcriptional modifications that regulate broad biological processes in the human body through m6A regulators. m6A regulators are figuratively classified according to their functions: writers, erasers, and readers, which can methylate RNAs, demethylate RNAs, and recognize RNA m6A sites, consequently affecting RNA fate. Tumors are an essential class of diseases that threaten human health, and as the study of m6A modification in tumors continues to advance, more and more relevant studies are emerging. In this review, we overview the recent studies of m6A in various types of tumors to demonstrate the role of m6A modification in providing a vision in diagnosing and treating tumors.
Sometimes faster can be better: Microneedling IPG strips enables higher throughput for integrative top‐down proteomics
Authors: Carbonara Katrina , Coorssen Jens R.
Published: November 2022

Passive rehydration of immobilized pH gradient (IPG) strips for two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis (2DE) has, to our knowledge, never been quantitatively evaluated to determine an ideal rehydration time. Seeking to increase throughput without sacrificing analytical rigor, we report that a substantially shorter rehydration time is accomplished when surface area of IPG strips is increased via microneedling. Rehydration for 4 h, post microneedling, provides comparable results to overnight rehydration in final analyses by 2DE, while also shortening the overall protocol by 1 day.
A facile and versatile strategy for synthesis of dopamine‐functionalized polymers
Authors: Wang Ruosi , Sun Mengxiao , Wang Chenyu , Dong Anjie , Zhang Jianhua
Published: November 2022

Mussel‐inspired biomimetic dopamine (DA)‐functionalized polymers have been widely studied and applied in many fields, such as biological adhesives, surface modification and biomedicine. However, the current preparation methods still face challenging obstacles, such as complex multistep processes, harsh reaction conditions and relatively low yield. Herein, a facile, efficient and versatile strategy was designed to synthesize DA‐functionalized polymers by epoxy‐amino click reaction between DA and epoxy‐containing polymers derived from readily available commercial monomer glycidyl methacrylate (GMA). A series of DA‐functionalized polymers were successfully prepared and their structure and composition were fully characterized. In addition, the performance for adhesion and surface modification of obtained DA‐functionalized polymers was evaluated. The results indicated this novel synthetical strategy can readily prepare DA‐functionalized polymers in a highly simple and controllable manner. Moreover, the DA‐functionalized polymers prepared by epoxy‐amino click reaction possessed an enhanced performance for adhesiveness. Considering the universality, simplicity and high controllability of this methodology as well as the readily available raw materials, this strategy provides new opportunities for scale‐up production of DA‐functionalized polymers with tunable DA content for various applications.
Case report of a pediatric Chinese cystic fibrosis patient with the c.1521_1523delCTT/c.3874‐4522A>G genotype
Authors: Su Yanyan , Tang Yu , Tang Xiaolei , Shen Yuelin
Published: November 2022

This report describes a case of an 11‐year‐old Chinese boy with cystic fibrosis (CF) bearing the c.1521_1523delCTT/c.3874‐4522A>G genotype, an extremely rare CF genotype in the Chinese population. Notably, the deep intron mutation c.3874‐4522A>G, which has mainly been reported in patients with phenotypically mild CF, is identified here for the first time in a Chinese patient with severe CF. In the case discussed here, the c.3874‐4522A>G mutation was associated with severe pulmonary disease with early symptoms onset, progressive bronchiectasis, recurrent airway infection with both Pseudomonas aeruginosa and methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus, rapid decline of lung function and poor weight gain. Despite intensive hospital‐based pulmonary care and optimized therapy, the child died of cardiopulmonary failure 3 months after discharge.
Ramsey goodness of trees in random graphs
Authors: Araújo Pedro , Moreira Luiz , Pavez‐Signé Matías
Published: November 2022

For graphs and a family of graphs , we write to denote that every blue‐red coloring of the edges of contains either a blue copy of , or a red copy of each . For integers and , let denote the family of all trees with edges and maximum degree at most . We prove that for each , there exist constants such that if and , then
with high probability. This is a random version of a well‐known result of Chvátal from 1977. The proof combines a stability argument with the embedding of trees in expander graphs. Furthermore, the proof of the stability result is based on a sparse random analogue of the Erdős–Sós conjecture for trees with linear size and bounded maximum degree, which may be of independent interest.
Application of a Rapid In Vitro Method Based on Glucometer for Determination of Starch Digestibility and Estimated Glycemic Index in Rice
Authors: Srikaeo Khongsak
Published: November 2022

Measuring the glycemic index (GI) of rice in vivo is time consuming and costly. A simple, reliable, and cost‐effective in vitro digestion assay suitable for use during rice breeding and rice product development is required. The purpose of this study is to propose the use of an in vitro enzymatic starch digestion assay based on a glucometer to determine the estimated GI (eGI) of rice in both raw and cooked forms. Four rice cultivars differing in amylose contents are examined. The known GI rice cultivar, Doongara, is used as the reference. The assay includes the digestion of ground rice using all of the enzymes require to simulate the human digestive tract. The glucose released during digestion is determined using a portable hand‐held glucometer over a 120‐min period. The obtained starch digestograms are modeled using a first‐order kinetic model, and eGI values are calculated. The assay is applicable to both raw and cooked rice samples. It can be used to classify rice according to its eGI as affected by cultivars and cooking methods. The protocol is robust, high‐throughput, and adaptable to non‐laboratory settings. It can benefit rice breeders, farmers, and manufacturers of rice products.
Exposure to copper activates mitophagy and endoplasmic reticulum stress‐mediated apoptosis in chicken (Gallus gallus) cerebrum
Authors: Huo Yihui , Ma Feiyang , Li Tingyu , Lei Chaiqin , Liao Jianzhao , Han Qingyue , Li Ying , Pan Jiaqiang , Hu Lianmei , Guo Jianying , Tang Zhaoxin
Published: November 2022

A large amount of copper (Cu) used in production activities can lead to the enrichment of Cu in the environment, which can cause toxicity to animals. However, the toxicity mechanism of Cu on the cerebrum is still uncertain. Hence, a total of 240 chickens were separated into four groups in this study to reveal the potential connection between mitophagy and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress‐mediated apoptosis in the chicken cerebrum in the case of excess Cu exposure. The cu exposure situation was simulated by diets containing various levels of copper (11 mg/kg, control group; 110 mg/kg, group I; 220 mg/kg, group II and 330 mg/kg, group III) for 49 days. The results of histology showed that vacuolar degeneration was observed in the treated groups, and the mitochondria swell and autophagosomes formation were found under excess Cu treatment. Additionally, the expression of mitophagy (PINK1, Parkin, LC3I, LC3II and p62) and ER stress (GRP78, PERK, ATF6, IRE1α, XBP1, CHOP, and JNK) indexes were significantly upregulated under excess Cu exposure. Furthermore, the mRNA and protein expression of Bcl‐2 were decreased, while Bak1, Bax, Caspase12, and Caspase3 were increased compared to the control group. In summary, this study demonstrated that an overdose of Cu could induce mitophagy and ER stress‐mediated apoptosis in the chicken cerebrum. These findings revealed an important potential connection between Cu toxicity and cerebrum damage, which provided a new insight into Cu neurotoxicity.
Interparticle diffusion and thermodynamic modeling studies for the removal of heavy metals using mixed adsorbents in industrial effluents
Authors: Tadepalli Srinivas , Murthy K. S. R. , Sahu Omprakash
Published: November 2022

Pollution of water, air, and soil by industrial effluents is a major problem nowadays. A variety of contaminants are too responsible for changing the physicochemical properties of the receiving body. There are practical treatment solutions available to clean up contaminants from various resources. The term “adsorption” refers to one of them. The purpose of the research work is to remove heavy metals from industrial effluent. Mixed adsorbents prepared from activated charcoal and bone charcoals were used to remove the copper and cadmium ions. The experiment carried out in a batch operation and modeling of these data for intraparticle diffusion and thermodynamic calculations were reported in this research work. At optimum operating condition pH 6; metal ion concentration 50 mg/L; dose 5 g/L; agitation 180 rpm and temperature 40°C maximum 99.41% copper ions and 88.12% cadmium ion removal was achieved. Cadmium ions were well fitted in the thermodynamic model compared to copper ions, as demonstrated by the higher correlation coefficient R2 (0.9824) value. Intra particle diffusion demonstrated that film diffusion was a rate‐limiting step at the start of the reaction, while microporous intraparticle diffusion was the rate‐determining phase later on. A Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and scanning electron micrography analysis confirmed the suitability of mixed adsorbents for the removal of cadmium and copper metal ions.
“In the Room Where It Happens:” Advocacy 101 for Literacy Leaders
Authors: Gómez Margarita , Saal Leah Katherine
Published: November 2022

As literacy leaders, we know that printed words carry great meaning and power. Today, there is a widespread belief that advocacy over government concerns or policies can be adequately achieved using social media. While a well‐timed and phrased social media post can supplement advocacy efforts, advocacy must be driven by deeds even more than words. In this article, the authors articulate the importance of face‐to‐face policy advocacy with elected officials to address any educational, health, or social policy in your locale which impacts the students, families, and communities you belong to and/or serve. Specifically, they outline the steps for advocating directly with an elected legislative official (or their staff representative) and provide numerous exemplars of documents as mentor texts to support and supplement policy advocacy efforts. Their models actualize policy advocacy for socially just practices that impact some of the most vulnerable populations, English learners, and associated funding for programs supporting these populations also known as English to Speakers of Other Languages (ELs/ESOL).
Seismic response of floating wind turbines due to seaquakes
Authors: Kaynia Amir M. , Blekastad Håvard , Schell Philip , Walter Erik Løkken
Published: November 2022

Vertical seismic waves, which are primarily due to pressure waves in the ground, can propagate with the same intensity in the seawater and impact floating bodies such as floating wind turbines (FWTs). Part of this wave can further propagate in the tower and generate large vertical accelerations in the nacelle. This paper presents a methodology for computation of the pressure waves generated by vertical earthquake shaking, referred to as seaquake, its impact on submerged bodies, and the induced dynamic response in the structure. A FWT concept with catenary mooring is used for the assessment of the effects of earthquake shaking. The pressure during a seaquake is determined using a 2D acoustic finite element (FE) model in Abaqus. The acoustic model is benchmarked against a 1D analytical solution. The response due to the environmental loads, namely, wind, current, and waves, is also studied and used as a reference for assessment of the relative significance of the seaquake. Considerable vertical accelerations can occur in the nacelle due to amplification of the platform accelerations through the tower. It is shown that this acceleration could exceed a commonly used operational limit range of 0.2 g to 0.3 g even for moderate accelerations at the seabed. This indicates that earthquake loading should be considered in the design of FWTs in seismic regions. The mooring tensile forces, due to motion of the platform during a seaquake, do not exceed the design tension computed for the extreme environmental conditions. However, the leeward mooring lines could experience zero tension, which could cause snap tension.
Introduction
Authors: Burnay Nathalie , Ogg Jim , Krekula Clary , Vendramin Patricia
Published: November 2022

In recent years, policies that extend the working life have been a key feature of European and other countries with post-industrialised economies. These policies focus on two dimensions of work and retirement which governments consider crucial to reform if pension systems are to be safeguarded in the context of ageing populations. First, legal and administrative reforms are pushing back the legal age of retirement thereby withholding pension rights until workers have reached a certain age. Second, defined benefit pensions, so-called because employees and employers know the formula for calculating retirement benefits in advance of paying them, are being phased out and replaced by defined contribution pensions, where the level of contributions, and not the final benefit, is pre-defined and no final pension promise is made. This shift results in the individualisation of pension benefits, since in most cases workers must build up sufficient contributions and invest in pension products on financial markets. The effect of this trend is that workers remain in the labour force longer in order to secure an acceptable pension benefit. Overall, the implementation of these two policies to extend the working life has produced the desired effect of retaining individuals longer in the labour market and easing the pressure on public pensions, as can be seen in data produced by Eurostat since the 1990s: the proportion of people aged 55 years or more in the total number of persons employed in the EU-27 increased from 12% to 20% between 2004 and 2019 (Eurostat, 2021).
From Early Retirement to Extending Working Life: Institutionalisation and Standardization at the End of Career in Belgium
Authors: Burnay Nathalie , Sanderson Jean-Paul
Published: November 2022

Since the 2000s, successive Belgian governments have adopted measures to increase the employment rate and to promote the retention of older workers in employment. However, Belgium remains characterized by a low employment rate among 55–64-year olds. The aim of this article is to understand the reasons for this through the answers to two questions: why do people leave the labour market, and who are the workers who continue their professional activity after the statutory retirement age? This study is based on the theoretical framework of the life-course, and on the processes of standardization/de-standardization and institutionalization/de-institutionalization.
Social Exclusion in Later Life, Evidence from the European Social Survey
Authors: Albuquerque Paula C. , Fontainha Elsa
Published: November 2022

Social Exclusion (SE) is a multidimensional concept, broader than just poverty or economic exclusion, that aims at expressing to what extent people have the opportunity to participate in society.

We analyse how SE evolved for a certain birth cohort (respondents born between 1945 and 1953) along time, to gain a life-course perspective, and for the same age group in two different periods, to study how the situation of individuals in later life stages has changed from one period to the other. Our paper explores the recently updated data from the European Social Survey (ESS, Round 9 – 2018), combined with data from Round 1 – 2002, to obtain an insight into the evolution of SE among the older population in 15 European countries, by producing measures of SE including different domains (Social Relations, Civic Participation, Neighbourhood and Community and Health and Well-being). The same birth cohort (respondents born between 1945 and 1953) is analysed in 2002 and in 2018. We investigate the association of SE with the type of participation in the labour market, which, according to the rules developed by the welfare state institutions, is expected to change for that cohort, between the two periods. And, indeed, we find evidence of such association. Differences between the situation of men and women are highlighted, with higher levels of SE experienced by women in most domains.
Gender, Transitions and Turning Points: The Life Course and Older Workers’ Trajectories in Different US Occupations
Authors: Ní Léime Áine , Street Debra
Published: November 2022

This chapter interrogates the proposition that extending working life is an unproblematic policy measure introduced to address demographic ageing and increased pension costs. The implications of extending working life varies for workers in different occupations. The chapter draws on interview data from a qualitative study of 17 men and 20 women workers in the United States. Interviewees working either as teachers or in physically-demanding jobs such as care-giving for older people or cleaning narrated their work-life history and discussed their current work, future plans and their views on working longer.

Analysis of different strands of their work-life trajectories – work, family, health – from a life course perspective reveals that workers may be channelled into particular kinds of employment and that advantage or disadvantage can accumulate across the life course. It supports previous research showing that physically-demanding work adversely affects workers’ health. Gendered expectations regarding the provision of care can result in disrupted careers for women, leading to lower pension provision and the need to continue working later. Such processes, combined with pension reforms and the increasingly precarious nature of employment can lead to poor economic and health outcomes for some workers. The implications of these findings for policy are discussed.
Transitions into Precarity at Work Among Older Men in the Metal Industry in Portugal and Sweden
Authors: Neves Rita Borges , Krekula Clary
Published: November 2022

Transitions into precariousness and labour market exclusion in late professional career need to be understood from the perspective of individual biographies unfolding in relation to historical developments, social structures and social changes.

The generation born in the 1950’s in Europe, now nearing retirement, has lived through periods of economic affluence and welfare state expansion, but also of macro-economic shocks, deindustrialization, and neo-liberal slimming of public social structures. These changes were concurrent with accelerated digitalization and restructuring of work organizations.

This chapter illustrates transitions into unemployment and precariousness among older men in the context of economic downturn and organizational restructuring in a sector particularly exposed to the effects of neo-liberal globalization- the metal industry. We go on to show how in two different organizational-institutional realities countries, such as Portugal and Sweden these workers are exposed to different mechanisms that paved the way out of secure employment into insecure employment and precarious positions in the labour market.
Older Workers and Their Relations to the Labour Market in Albania
Authors: Xhumari Merita Vaso
Published: November 2022

The life course perspective is used in analysis of the older workers relations to the labour market in a societal context. Transition to the market economy of Albania has increased the vulnerability especially for two categories: the youngest, as the new entries into the labour market, and the oldest workers, who found it difficult to be adjusted to the labour market demand, after the failure of state enterprises, changes in working environments, social services, family, etc. The investigation of older workers in the labour market is focused on five dimensions: (1) the labour market structure and employment status of older workers; (2) the employment & VET policies; (3) the work-life balance with ageing; (4) health and (5) retirement.

In the beginning of 1990s, the early retirement was the first policy intervention to cope with massive unemployment of older workers. Then, the parametric reforms of PAYG social insurance for increasing the retirement ages and the insurance period have had an impact on extending the working life of older workers of 10 years until 2018. However, the replacement rate was lowering from 74.2% in 1990, to 56% in 1993 when reform started, to further 41% in 2018 which impose pensioners to continue working or delaying the retirement. The increased youth unemployment, atypical and informal employment, has been new challenges for older workers to be adjusted to the labour market demand and only 10% of them can continue working after the retirement age. The development of employment services, VET, health care and social protection have been inadequate to promote social inclusion of older workers.

In the framework of the EU integration, Albania has pursued a process of harmonization the legal framework with EU standards. National strategies have been enacted to guarantee human rights, gender equality, and an inclusive society. The social inclusion of older workers into the labour market is a complex issue that depended not only of the Government interventions, but also by the active engagement of other stakeholders. In the Albanian tradition family continues to be a strong supporting institution for older people and children, very likely to the Abbado’s idea in Italy.

This chapter is based on an analysis of policy documents, research and statistics from INSTAT, Eurostat, World Bank, etc. The Eurofound’s European Working Conditions Survey (EWCS) 2015, and European Quality of Life Survey (EQLS) 2016 are used to identify age and gender patterns regarding work-life balance and social inclusion. The analysis suggests that to fully address the complexity of the inclusion of older workers in the labour market, an integrated approach should involve all relevant policy areas such as education, health, employment, and social protection, as well as engagement of all community stakeholders.
Health, Working Conditions and Retirement
Authors: Ardito Chiara , Fleischmann Maria
Published: November 2022

This chapter provides an overview of the working environment as determinant of retirement (section “Working Conditions as Determinants of Retirement”) and its role as mediator of the health effects of retirement (section “The Health Effect of Retirement”).

In the first Section on “Working Conditions as Determinants of Retirement”, we summarize studies showing that having a good job is an important aspect of individuals’ retirement decisions. Mostly positive working conditions appear to contribute to individuals’ later retirement, but adverse working conditions not necessarily relate to earlier retirement. Moreover, adverse conditions can be buffered when combined with high job control, job resources or social support.

In the Section on “The Health Effect of Retirement”, we focus on how retirement affects health in both theoretical and applied studies, suggesting that the inconclusiveness illustrated in theories is also evident in empirical work. Previous studies, however, vary largely regarding the adopted (1) health outcomes, (2) study designs, (3) definition of retirement and (4) the type of work performed before retirement. These four factors could explain the inconsistencies of the results. We finally focus on the latter factor, showing that the effect of retirement on health tends to be positive for workers retiring from low quality or more demanding jobs.

Our chapter concludes with policy advices regarding how to promote longer and healthy working lives and a discussion of relevant groups to pay attention to.
Flavour anomalies and dark matter assisted unification in SO(10) GUT
Authors: Sahu Purushottam , Bhatta Aishwarya , Mohanta Rukmani , Singirala Shivaramakrishna , Patra Sudhanwa
Published: November 2022

Abstract

With the recent experimental hint of new physics from flavor physics anomalies, combined with the evidence from neutrino masses and dark matter, we consider a minimal extension of SM with a scalar leptoquark and a fermion triplet. The scalar leptoquark with couplings to leptons and quarks can explain lepton flavor non-universality observables RK, $$ {R}_{K^{\left(\ast \right)}} $$

R

K

∗

, $$ {R}_{D^{\left(\ast \right)}} $$

R

D

∗

and RJ/ψ. Neutral component of fermion triplet provides current abundance of dark matter in the Universe. The interesting feature of the proposal is that the minimal addition of these phenomenologically rich particles (scalar leptoquark and fermion triplet) assist in realizing the unification of the gauge couplings associated with the strong and electroweak forces of standard model when embedded in the non-supersymmetric SO(10) grand unified theory. We discuss on unification mass scale and the corresponding proton decay constraints while taking into account the GUT threshold corrections.
Trait sensitivity to negative feedback determines the effects of chronic stress and chronic mirtazapine treatment on anxiety and stress-coping strategies in rats
Authors: Surowka Paulina , Noworyta Karolina , Cieslik Agata , Rygula Rafal
Published: November 2022

In this study, we examined whether trait sensitivity to negative feedback (NF) can interact with the effects of chronic stress and antidepressant treatment on anxiety and stress-induced coping strategies in rats. Results of the conducted experiments indicated that animals displaying trait insensitivity to NF were more prone to develop stress-induced anxiety than their NF-sensitive conspecifics. Moreover, an analysis of the behavioral patterns displayed by the NF-insensitive animals during the forced swim test (FST) revealed complementary (anxiety-driven) effects of trait sensitivity to NF on the strategy of coping with an acute, stressful situation. Finally, an analysis of the interactions between NF sensitivity and the effects of antidepressant drug — mirtazapine — revealed that in animals subjected to chronic stress, the effects of the drug on anxiety and coping strategies differ significantly between animals classified as NF insensitive and NF sensitive. The present results suggest that NF sensitivity screening could be potentially used to determine individual vulnerability to development of affective disorders and effectivity of their treatment.