bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation of environment‐friendly hydrophilic rubber from natural rubber grafted with sodium acrylate by reactive melt mixing
Authors: Nuinu Pranee , Srichan Sansanee , Ngamlerd Anuchit , Wichian Chamaiporn , Prasertsri Sarawut , Saengsuwan Sayant , Hinchiranan Napida , Vudjung Chaiwute
Published: March 2022

In this research, we present an easy way to prepare environment‐friendly hydrophilic rubbers derived from natural rubber (NR) grafted with sodium acrylate (NaAA) through reactive blending using an internal mixer operated at a rotor speed of 80 rpm and 150°C. The key parameters affecting the grafting efficiency of NR‐g‐NaAA were investigated in terms of the fill factor (FF) of the chamber, mixing time, and NaAA content. Lastly, the grafted sample (with a suitable grafting efficiency) was crosslinked using peroxide curing to produce X(NR‐g‐NaAA) as a hydrophilic NR sample. Results showed that grafting efficiency of the NR‐g‐NaAA samples tended to decrease with increasing FF and NaAA contents owing to the higher chain‐scission reaction rather than the free‐radical generation on the NR molecules in the mastication step, while the optimal mixing time was only 4 min. The remarkable improvement in the hydrophilicity of NR by grafting with NaAA was established via the presence of C = O vibration of the ionized carboxylate group (–COO−) of NaAA located at 1559 cm−1. Increasing the grafting efficiency up to 69% resulted in a marked decrease in the water contact angle from 103° to 72° and enhanced the water swelling of the X(NR‐g‐NaAA) sample.
Mechanically robust sodium alginate/cellulose nanofibers/polyethyleneimine composite aerogel for effective removal of hexavalent chromium and anionic dyes
Authors: Xie Qian , Zou Yuke , Wang Yazhou , Wang Haibo , Du Zongliang , Cheng Xu
Published: March 2022

To improve the mechanical properties and adsorption capacity of sodium alginate aerogel (SA), cellulose nanofibers were used as reinforcing fillers, and polyethyleneimine (PEI) was used as a crosslinker to reinforce the SA aerogel. Moreover, PEI provided functional groups to adsorb Cr(VI) and anionic dyes (Congo red [CR] and Methyl orange [MO]) through electrostatic and coordination action. The biomass aerogel adsorption materials were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive spectroscopy, x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and so on. The results showed that the maximum adsorption capacity of the composite aerogel adsorbent for Cr(VI), CR, and MO under the optimal pH value was 726.59, 2007.48, and 2253.38 mg/g, respectively. Langmuir model and quasi‐second‐order kinetics can be employed to reasonably describe the adsorption process of Cr(VI) and anionic dyes. Compared with other reported adsorption materials, this biomass composite aerogel has notable advantages such as simple preparation, economical application, high adsorption capacity, convenient recycling, and environmental.
Exploring telehealth during COVID for assessing autism spectrum disorder in a diverse sample
Authors: Stavropoulos Katherine K.M. , Heyman Michelle , Salinas Giselle , Baker Elizabeth , Blacher Jan
Published: March 2022

Due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, the importance of telehealth has rapidly increased, in particular as many in‐person clinics have closed. Early intervention is crucial for improving outcomes in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As such, the need for timely assessments and diagnoses remains despite COVID‐19‐related closures. This study offers preliminary data collected from 23 children assessed through a no‐cost autism clinic in Southern California using a novel telehealth model. This includes an overview of an adapted, telehealth version of in‐person observational assessment techniques for diagnosing autism. In addition, preliminary data on social validity assessed at two points are presented. Findings suggest that caregivers found the telehealth assessment procedures acceptable and convenient, and overall were satisfied with both the assessment and the written report/verbal feedback. Implications for future uses of telehealth are discussed, including how telehealth can assist with decision‐making around school‐based services and/or placement.
Rapid analysis of strigolactone receptor activity in a Nicotiana benthamiana dwarf14 mutant
Authors: White Alexandra R. F. , Mendez Jose A. , Khosla Aashima , Nelson David C.
Published: March 2022

DWARF14 (D14) is an ɑ/β‐hydrolase and receptor for the plant hormone strigolactone (SL) in angiosperms. Upon SL perception, D14 works with MORE AXILLARY GROWTH2 (MAX2) to trigger polyubiquitination and degradation of DWARF53(D53)‐type proteins in the SUPPRESSOR OF MAX2 1‐LIKE (SMXL) family. We used CRISPR‐Cas9 to generate knockout alleles of the two homoeologous D14 genes in the Nicotiana benthamiana genome. The Nbd14a,b double mutant had several phenotypes that are consistent with the loss of SL perception in other plants, including increased axillary bud outgrowth, reduced height, shortened petioles, and smaller leaves. A ratiometric fluorescent reporter system was used to monitor degradation of SMXL7 from Arabidopsis thaliana (AtSMXL7) after transient expression in N. benthamiana and treatment with the strigolactone analog GR24. AtSMXL7 was degraded after treatment with GR245DS, which has the stereochemical configuration of natural SLs, as well as its enantiomer GR24ent‐5DS. In Nbd14a,b leaves, AtSMXL7 abundance was unaffected by rac‐GR24 or either GR24 stereoisomer. Transient coexpression of AtD14 with the AtSMXL7 reporter in Nbd14a,b restored the degradation response to rac‐GR24, but required an active catalytic triad. We used this platform to evaluate the ability of several AtD14 mutants that had not been characterized in plants to target AtSMXL7 for degradation.
Spatio‐temporal distribution of Anthonomus grandis grandis Boh. in tropical cotton fields
Authors: Oliveira Andréa A. S. , Araújo Tamíris A. , Showler Allan T. , Araújo Ana C. A. , Almeida Igor S. , Aguiar Renata S. A. , Miranda José E. , Fernandes Flávio L. , Bastos Cristina S.
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

Knowledge of the spatio‐temporal distribution of pests is important for the development of accurate management approaches. The boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis grandis Boh., is a deleterious cotton, Gossypium hirsutum L., pest in the western hemisphere. The spread of boll weevils across cotton fields remains poorly understood. We assessed the dispersal pattern of adult weevils through cotton fields cultivated in a tropical area during dry and wet seasons using geostatistics for the number of adults and infested reproductive structures (buds, bolls and total).

RESULTS

Adult weevils and infested reproductive structures increased across both seasons despite the prevailing climatic variables. In both seasons, boll weevil adults and infested reproductive structures followed an aggregated distribution. The distances over which samples maintained spatial dependence varied from 0.7 to 43.4 m in the dry season and from 6.0 to 614.4 m in the wet season. Boll weevil infestations started at field borders and the infested reproductive structures (oviposition and/or feeding punctured) were greater than the adults regardless of cotton growth stage.

CONCLUSION

Sampling for boll weevils in cotton fields should start at the field borders and focus on total infested reproductive structures (buds + bolls) and as cotton plants develop, sampling should focus on the field as a whole. Distances among samples will vary from 6 to 470 m. Thus, despite the cotton phenological stage or growing season, monitoring of boll weevil should be done by sampling total infested reproductive structures with a minimum distance of 6 m among samples. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
A new method to validate and compare varietal resistance and yield tolerance of sugar beet (Beta vulgaris) against the beet cyst nematode, Heterodera schachtiiSchmidt
Authors: Wright Alistair JD , Stevens Mark , Back Matthew A , Sparkes Debbie L
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

Beet cyst nematode, Heterodera schachtii Schmidt is a global threat to sugar beet crops, and is found in every major sugar beet growing region. Annual losses due to this nematode can be severe, being estimated at €90 m in Europe alone in the 1990s. Fortunately tolerant, resistant and partially resistant varieties have since been introduced which help to limit yield loss and are now widely being deployed in infested fields. However, understanding yield performance of these varieties has been difficult, especially when variety testing programmes usually require uninfested fields.

RESULTS

For the first time, and in a standardised manner, we can now assess simultaneously the resistance of different varieties to BCN and their actual yield tolerance, by comparing them to varieties grown in uninfested micro‐plots alongside those which are infested. This method provides new insights on variety yield performance and nematode reproduction over an entire growing season. In addition, the investigations are also been able to detect significant physiological differences in the development and growth of the tolerant varieties' canopies and leaf chlorophyll levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings are of direct benefit to sugar beet growers challenged by BCN. The standardised testing provides new information on predicted variety performance. We found that these tests are justified, as not all tolerant varieties respond in the same manner to nematode infestation. Therefore, these assessments will become a vital part of variety testing for sugar beet growers, allowing for tailored deployment of variety types and more informed decision making on‐farm, helping to maximise yields whilst minimising nematode damage. © 2022 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Failure Physics and Reliability of GaN‐Based HEMTs for Microwave and Millimeter‐Wave Applications: A Review of Consolidated Data and Recent Results
Authors: Zanoni Enrico , Rampazzo Fabiana , De Santi Carlo , Gao Zhan , Sharma Chandan , Modolo Nicola , Verzellesi Giovanni , Chini Alessandro , Meneghesso Gaudenzio , Meneghini Matteo
Published: March 2022

Herein, the results are reviewed concerning reliability of high‐electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) based on GaN, which currently represent the technology of choice for high‐efficiency microwave and millimeter‐wave power amplifiers. Several failure mechanisms of these devices are extensively studied, including converse piezoelectric effects, formation of conductive percolation paths at the edge of gate toward the drain, surface oxidation of GaN, time‐dependent breakdown of GaN buffer, and of field‐plate dielectric. For GaN HEMTs with scaled gate length, the simultaneous control of short‐channel effects, deep‐level dispersion, and hot‐electron‐induced degradation requires a careful optimization of epitaxial material quality and device design.
The sensitivity of the West African monsoon circulation to intraseasonal soil moisture feedbacks
Authors: Talib Joshua , Taylor Christopher M. , Klein Cornelia , Harris Bethan L. , Anderson Seonaid R. , Semeena Valiyaveetil S.
Published: March 2022

Intraseasonal soil moisture variability has the potential to feed back onto the West Africa monsoon circulation through its influence on surface turbulent fluxes and planetary boundary‐layer characteristics. Using satellite observations and an atmospheric reanalysis, we investigate intraseasonal soil moisture–atmosphere feedbacks triggered by large‐scale dynamics within the West African monsoon. Surprisingly, even though the surface response across the Sahel to strong convection is short‐lived (days) and precipitation accumulations are spatially and temporally heterogeneous, a coherent regional‐scale surface response to intraseasonal variability is observed. This surface response then feeds back onto the West African monsoon circulation. For example, during a dry intraseasonal event, Sahelian surface soil moisture significantly decreases, which elevates surface temperatures by 1.5 °C and shifts the monsoon circulation southward by approximately 1.5° latitude. Also, during a wet event the surface moistens and cools which leads to a northward monsoon shift. Alongside a low‐level wind response, the African Easterly Jet (AEJ) also responds to surface changes due to variations in the meridional temperature gradient. For example, an increased temperature gradient during a dry event intensifies and shifts the AEJ southward. The combined response of low‐level monsoon westerlies and the AEJ impacts low‐level shear and characteristics of strong convection. Elevated low‐level shear during a dry event promotes an intensification of deep convection across southern West Africa. This study provides new insight into the sensitivity of the West African monsoon circulation to intraseasonal soil moisture feedbacks and encourages similar research in other regions. An improved understanding and model representation of soil moisture–atmosphere feedbacks has the potential to improve forecasts beyond daily time‐scales and enhance early warning systems.
Theoretical study of decomposition of formic acid over Pd catalyst anchored on N‐doped graphene
Authors: Shi Chengkuan , Dong Wenjing , Li Fang , Xue Wei , Wang Yanji
Published: March 2022

The formic acid decomposition (FAD) reaction generates H2 or CO via two competing pathways. The development of high‐efficiency catalysts and clarification of the FAD reaction mechanism are therefore important. Single‐atom/single‐site catalysts (SACs/SSCs) are attracting considerable attention due to their maximum atomic utilization, considerable cost reductions, and superior potential catalytic activity and selectivity. In this work, we precisely designed PdN3‐G and Pd3N3‐G to elucidate the FAD reaction mechanism and used density functional theory (DFT) calculations to explain the effects of Pd atoms and Pd3 clusters. Calculations were performed for four possible FAD reaction pathways. The FAD reaction cannot be achieved completely on the PdN3‐G surface because of the high energy barriers. However, Pd3N3‐G is more favorable with a rate‐determining step energy barrier of 0.55 eV for the carboxyl pathway; the energy barrier for the formate pathway is 1.61 eV. The energy barriers of the two CO pathways are 1.31 and 3.01 eV, respectively. The results indicate that Pd3N3‐G is a promising catalyst for FAD reaction and provide a theoretical basis for the rational design of SACs/SSCs for FAD reaction.
A High‐Mobility Hole Bilayer in a Germanium Double Quantum Well
Authors: Tosato Alberto , Ferrari Beatrice , Sammak Amir , Hamilton Alexander R. , Veldhorst Menno , Virgilio Michele , Scappucci Giordano
Published: March 2022

A hole bilayer in a strained germanium double quantum well is designed, fabricated, and studied. Magnetotransport characterization of double quantum well field‐effect transistors as a function of gate voltage reveals the population of two hole channels with a high combined mobility of and a low percolation density of . The individual population of the channels from the interference patterns of the Landau fan diagram was resolved. At a density of the system is in resonance and an anti‐crossing of the first two bilayer subbands is observed and a symmetric‐antisymmetric gap of is estimated, in agreement with Schrödinger‐Poisson simulations.
A Pure and Indistinguishable Single‐Photon Source at Telecommunication Wavelength
Authors: Da Lio Beatrice , Faurby Carlos , Zhou Xiaoyan , Chan Ming Lai , Uppu Ravitej , Thyrrestrup Henri , Scholz Sven , Wieck Andreas D. , Ludwig Arne , Lodahl Peter , Midolo Leonardo
Published: March 2022

On‐demand single‐photon sources emitting pure and indistinguishable photons at the telecommunication wavelength are critical assets toward the deployment of fiber‐based quantum networks. Indeed, single photons may serve as flying qubits, allowing communication of quantum information over long distances. Self‐assembled InAs quantum dots embedded in GaAs constitute an excellent nearly deterministic source of high‐quality single photons, but the vast majority of sources operate in the 900–950 nm wavelength range, precluding their adoption in a quantum network. A quantum frequency conversion scheme is presented here for converting single photons from quantum dots to the telecommunication C band, around 1550 nm, achieving 40.8% end‐to‐end efficiency, while maintaining both high purity and a high degree of indistinguishability during conversion with measured values of and , respectively.
Longitudinal associations between stress and sleep disturbances during COVID‐19
Authors: Ballesio Andrea , Zagaria Andrea , Musetti Alessandro , Lenzo Vittorio , Palagini Laura , Quattropani Maria Catena , Vegni Elena , Bonazza Federica , Filosa Maria , Manari Tommaso , Freda Maria Francesca , Saita Emanuela , Castelnuovo Gianluca , Plazzi Giuseppe , Lombardo Caterina , Franceschini Christian
Published: March 2022

The psychological consequences of COVID‐19 pandemic may include the activation of stress systems, that involve the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis which influences many physiological functions, including sleep. Despite epidemiological studies evidenced greater prevalence of stress symptoms and sleep disturbances during COVID‐19, longitudinal evidence investigating the effects of stress on sleep disturbances during the pandemic is lacking. We collected measures of perceived stress and sleep disturbances during the first wave of COVID‐19 (March 2020) and at 8–10 months follow up in a sample of 648 adults (M = 33.52, SD = 12.98 years). Results showed that 39.4% of participants reported moderate to extremely severe stress in March 2020. Prevalence of sleep disturbances was 54.8% in March 2020 and 57.4% at follow‐up. Structural equation modelling highlighted that perceived stress in March 2020 significantly predicted sleep disturbances at follow up (β = 0.203; p < 0.001), even after controlling for baseline sleep disturbances. Results remained significant even after controlling for the effects of covariates including age, sex, depression and anxiety symptoms, and referring to psychological services (β = 0.179; p < 0.05). Findings confirm the high prevalence of stress symptoms during the COVID‐19 pandemic and provide first longitudinal evidence for the effects of perceived stress on sleep disturbances during the pandemic.
A Highly Efficient Sulfur Host Enabled by Nitrogen/Oxygen Dual‐Doped Honeycomb‐Like Carbon for Advanced Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Zou Kunyang , Jing Weitao , Dai Xin , Chen Xinxing , Shi Ming , Yao Zhiyin , Zhu Ting , Sun Junjie , Chen Yuanzhen , Liu Yan , Liu Yongning
Published: March 2022

High energy density and long cycle life of lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries suffer from the shuttle/expansion effect. Sufficient sulfur storage space, local fixation of polysulfides, and outstanding electrical conductivity are crucial for a robust cathode host. Herein, a modified template method is proposed to synthesize a highly regular and uniform nitrogen/oxygen dual‐doped honeycomb‐like carbon as sulfur host (N/O‐HC‐S). The unique structure not only offers physical entrapment for polysulfides (LiPSs) but also provides chemical adsorption and catalytic conversion sites of polysulfides. In addition, this structure offers enough space for loading sulfur, and a regular space of nanometer size can effectively prevent sulfur particles from accumulating. As expected, the as‐prepared N/O‐HC900‐S with high areal sulfur loading (7.4 mg cm−2) shows a high areal specific capacity of 7.35 mAh cm−2 at 0.2 C. Theoretical calculations also reveal that the strong chemical immobilization and catalytic conversion of LiPSs attributed to the spin density and charge distribution of carbon atoms will be influenced by the neighbor nitrogen/oxygen dopants. This structure that provides cooperative chemical adsorption, high lithium ions flux, and catalytic conversion for LiPSs can offer a new strategy for constructing a polysulfide confinement structure to achieve robust Li–S batteries.
A Versatile Electrochemical Biosensor for the Detection of Circulating MicroRNA toward Non‐Small Cell Lung Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Meng Fanyu , Yu Wenjun , Chen Changqiang , Guo Susu , Tian Xiaoting , Miao Yayou , Ma Lifang , Zhang Xiao , Yu Yongchun , Huang Lin , Qian Kun , Wang Jiayi
Published: March 2022

Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) can be used as noninvasive biomarkers and are also found circulating in body fluids such as blood. Dysregulated miRNA expression is associated with many diseases, including non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and the miRNA assay is helpful in cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring. In this work, a versatile electrochemical biosensing system is developed for miRNA detection by DNAzyme‐cleavage cycling amplification and hybridization chain reaction (HCR) amplification. With cleavage by Mn2+ targeted DNAzyme, DNA‐walker can move along the predesigned DNA tracks and contribute to the transduction and enhancement of signals. For the electrochemical process, the formation of multiple G‐quadruplex‐incorporated long double‐stranded DNA (dsDNA/G‐quadruplex) structures is triggered through HCR amplification. The introduction of G‐quadruplex allows sensitive measurement of miRNA down to 5.68 fM with good specificity. Furthermore, by profiling miRNA in the NSCLC cohort, this designed strategy shows high efficiency (area under the curve (AUC) of 0.879 using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis) with the sensitivity of 80.0% for NSCLC early diagnosis (stage I). For the discrimination of NSCLC and benign disease, the assay displays an AUC of 0.907, superior to six clinically‐acceptable protein tumor markers. Therefore, this platform holds promise in clinical application toward NSCLC diagnosis and prognosis.
Game‐based learning has good chemistry with chemistry education: A three‐level meta‐analysis
Authors: Hu Yuanyuan , Gallagher Timothy , Wouters Pieter , van der Schaaf Marieke , Kester Liesbeth
Published: March 2022

Game‐based learning (GBL) may address the unique characteristics of a single subject such as chemistry. Previous systematic reviews on the effects of GBL have yielded contradictory results concerning cognitive and motivational outcomes. This meta‐analysis aims to: (a) estimate the overall effect size of GBL in chemistry education on cognitive, motivational, and emotional outcomes compared with non‐GBL (i.e., media comparison); (b) examine possible moderators of the effects; and (c) identify the more effective game design and instructional design features (i.e., value‐added comparison). We screened 842 articles and included 34 studies. This study is the first GBL meta‐analysis that employed a three‐level random‐effects model for the overall effects. Moderator analysis used a mixed‐effects meta‐regression model. Results from the media comparison suggest chemistry GBL was more effective for cognition (g = 0.70, k = 30, N = 4155), retention (g = 0.59, k = 20, N = 2860), and motivation (g = 0.35, k = 7, N = 974) than non‐GBL and the substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 86%) for cognitive outcomes. No study reported emotional outcomes, and studies considering value‐added comparisons of GBL with versus without specific design features (k = 3) were too few to perform a meta‐analysis. Moderator analyses implied that except for publication source and sample size, no other moderator was related to effect sizes. There may be the small‐study effects, particularly publication bias. Although we conclude that GBL enhances chemistry learning more than non‐GBL, the results also make clear that additional high‐quality value‐added research is needed to identify design guidelines that may further improve chemistry GBL. More GBL meta‐analyses on subjects other than chemistry are also needed. As the first GBL meta‐analysis that emphasizes emotion, we call for more research on emotion and on relationships between cognition, motivation, and emotion in GBL.
Magnetoelastic nonlinear free vibration of an annular plate under a nonuniform magnetic field of the long straight current‐carrying wire
Authors: Xu Haoran , Hu Yuda , Hao Ying
Published: March 2022

In this article, the magnetoelastic nonlinear free vibration of a thin conductive annular plate under the nonuniform toroidal magnetic field is investigated, where the magnetic field is generated by a long straight current‐carrying wire. Based on electromagnetic theory, expressions of the nonuniform magnetic field, electromagnetic forces are deduced. The nonlinear free vibration equation of plate is derived by using the Hamilton principle. Considering different boundary conditions, the axisymmetric vibration differential equation is achieved by the Galerkin method. The method of multiple scales is employed to obtain the second‐order approximate analytical solutions and natural frequency. In numerical calculation, the characteristics of nonlinear natural vibration and singular points varying with different parameters, for example, current intensity and plate size, are presented, respectively. The results indicate that, with the increase of current, natural frequency increases and then stabilizes in the inner‐clamped and out‐free (C‐F) boundary, but decreases and stabilizes in the cases of the inner‐clamped and out‐clamped (C‐C) boundary or inner‐simply and out‐simply (S‐S) boundary. Moreover, when wire current is off, natural frequency maintains a constant, where the equilibrium solution of the system is a center. In addition, for all boundary conditions, natural frequency increases significantly with increase of internal radius and thickness, but decreases with the increase of outer radius.
Hard Problem and Free Will: An Information-Theoretical Approach
Authors: D’Ariano Giacomo Mauro , Faggin Federico
Published: March 2022

We explore definite theoretical assertions about consciousness, starting from a non-reductive psycho-informational solution of David Chalmers's hard problem, based on the hypothesis that a fundamental property of “information" is its experience by the supporting “system". The kind of information involved in consciousness needs to be quantum for multiple reasons, including its intrinsic privacy and its power of building up thoughts by entangling qualia states. As a result we reach a quantum-information-based panpsychism, with classical physics supervening on quantum physics, quantum physics supervening on quantum information, and quantum information supervening on consciousness.
Einführung
Authors: Lütters Stefanie
Published: March 2022

Politische Gleichheit ist der moralische Grundpfeiler demokratischer Regierungen. Alle Staatsbürgerinnen und Staatsbürger sind verfassungsmäßig mit den gleichen Teilhaberechten ausgestattet und sollen in der politischen Arena als politisch Gleiche behandelt werden. Dieses Ideal repräsentativer Demokratien steht jedoch vermehrt auf dem Prüfstand, wobei einige Diagnosen über den Zustand westlicher Demokratien überaus alarmierend ausfallen.
Daten und Methoden
Authors: Lütters Stefanie
Published: March 2022

Basierend auf der Konzeptualisierung sozialer Netzwerke als Bindeglied einer statusabhängigen Partizipation wurden im vorherigen Kapitel Hypothesen um die soziale und politische Einbindung abgeleitet. Zur statistischen Überprüfung dieser Annahmen werden nun Daten benötigt, die die zentralen Konstrukte angemessen abbilden. Bislang existieren jedoch kaum kleinräumige Erhebungen, die sämtliche spezifizierten Forschungsbestandteile einbinden, wobei insbesondere informelle Netzwerkstrukturen häufig nur unzureichend behandelt werden. Da bereits vorhandene Daten insgesamt als unvollständig oder zu ungenau für eine sekundärstatistische Untersuchung bewertet werden, wird im Folgenden eine Primärerhebung angestrebt. Infolgedessen widmet sich dieses Kapitel der Darlegung des empirischen Forschungsdesigns, welches die Auswahl der Untersuchungseinheiten sowie deren Begründung, die Methode der Datenerhebung und die Entwicklung des Messinstrumentes umfasst. Geschlossen wird dieser Teil mit praktischen Informationen, der Feldphase und einem Überblick über zentrale datenanalytische Aspekte.
Correction to: Robots as My Future Colleagues: Changing Attitudes Toward Collaborative Robots by Means of Experience-Based Workshops
Authors: Leoste Janika , Viik Tõnu , López José San Martín , Kangur Mihkel , Vunder Veiko , Mollard Yoan , Õun Tiia , Tammo Henri , Paekivi Kristian
Published: March 2022

The original version of the chapter “ Robots as My Future Colleagues: Changing Attitudes Toward Collaborative Robots by Means of Experience-Based Workshops” without open access. This has now been changed to the copyright holder “The Author(s)” and open access under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). For further details see license information in the chapter. The chapter and the book have been updated with the change.
Constraints on relic magnetic black holes
Authors: Diamond Melissa D. , Kaplan David E.
Published: March 2022

Abstract

We present current direct and astrophysical limits on the cosmological abundance of black holes with extremal magnetic charge. Such black holes do not Hawking radiate, allowing those normally too light to survive to the present to do so. The dominant constraints come from white dwarf destruction for low and intermediate masses (2 × 10−5 g – 4 × 1012 g) and Galactic gas cloud heating for heavier masses (> 4 × 1012 g). Extremal magnetic black holes may catalyze proton decay. We derive robust limits — independent of the catalysis cross section — from the effect this has on white dwarfs. We discuss other bounds from neutron star heating, solar neutrino production, binary formation and annihilation into gamma-rays, and magnetic field destruction. Stable magnetically charged black holes can assist in the formation of neutron star mass black holes.
Molecular insights into the pathophysiology of doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity: a graphical representation
Authors: Sangweni Nonhlakanipho F. , Gabuza Kwazi , Huisamen Barbara , Mabasa Lawrence , van Vuuren Derick , Johnson Rabia
Published: March 2022

A breakthrough in oncology research was the discovery of doxorubicin (Dox) in the 1960’s. Unlike other chemotherapy drugs, Dox was determined to have a greater therapeutic index. Since its discovery, Dox has, in part, contributed to the 5–10-year survival increase in cancer patient outcomes. Unfortunately, despite its efficacy, both in adult and pediatric cancers, the clinical significance of Dox is tainted by its adverse side effects, which usually manifest as cardiotoxicity. The issue stems from Dox’s lack of specificity which prevents it from accurately distinguishing between cancer cells and healthy cell lines, like cardiomyocytes. In addition, the high binding affinity of Dox to topoisomerases, which are abundantly found in cancer and cardiac cells in different isoforms, potentiates DNA damage. In both cell lines, Dox induces cytotoxicity by stimulating the production of pro-oxidants whilst inhibiting antioxidant enzymatic activity. Given that the cardiac muscle has an inherently low antioxidant capacity makes it susceptible to oxidative damage thereby, allowing the accumulation of Dox within the myocardium. Subsequently, Dox drives the activation of cell death pathways, such as ferroptosis, necroptosis and apoptosis by triggering numerous cellular responses that have been implicated in diseases. To date, the exact mechanism by which Dox induces the cardiotoxicity remains an aspect of much interest in cardio-oncology research. Hence, the current review summarizes the proposed mechanisms that are associated with the onset and progression of DIC.
A single oral dose of citalopram increases interoceptive insight in healthy volunteers
Authors: Livermore James J. A. , Holmes Clare L. , Moga Gyorgy , Adamatzky Kristian , Critchley Hugo D. , Garfinkel Sarah N. , Campbell-Meiklejohn Daniel
Published: March 2022

Rationale

Interoception is the signalling, perception, and interpretation of internal physiological states. Many mental disorders associated with changes of interoception, including depressive and anxiety disorders, are treated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). However, the causative link between SSRIs and interoception is not yet clear.

Objectives

To ascertain the causal effect of acute changes of serotonin levels on cardiac interoception.

Methods

Using a within-participant placebo-controlled design, forty-seven healthy human volunteers (31 female, 16 male) were tested on and off a 20 mg oral dose of the commonly prescribed SSRI, citalopram. Participants made judgements on the synchrony between their heartbeat and auditory tones and then expressed confidence in each judgement. We measured three types of interoceptive cognition.

Results

Citalopram increased cardiac interoceptive insight, measured as correspondence of self-reported confidence to the likelihood that interoceptive judgements were actually correct. This effect was driven by enhanced confidence for correct interoceptive judgements and was independent of measured cardiac and reported subjective effects of the drug.

Conclusions

An acute change of serotonin levels can increase insight into the reliability of inferences made from cardiac interoceptive sensations.
Complement C1q in plasma induces nonspecific binding of poly(acrylic acid)-coated upconverting nanoparticle antibody conjugates
Authors: Kuusinen Saara , Ekman Miikka , Raiko Kirsti , Hannula Heidi , Lyytikäinen Annika , Lahtinen Satu , Soukka Tero
Published: March 2022

Upconverting nanoparticles are attractive reporters for immunoassays, because their high specific activity and lack of autofluorescence background enable their detection at extremely low concentrations. However, the sensitivity achieved with heterogeneous sandwich immunoassays using nanoparticle reporters is generally limited by the nonspecific binding of nanoparticle antibody conjugates to solid supports. In this study, we characterized plasma components associated with elevated nonspecific binding of poly(acrylic acid)-coated upconverting nanoparticles in heterogeneous two-step sandwich immunoassays. Plasma was consecutively fractionated using various chromatographic methods by selecting after each step the fractions producing the highest nonspecific binding of upconverting nanoparticle conjugates in an immunoassay for cardiac troponin I. Finally, the proteins in the fractions associated with highest amount of nonspecific binding were separated by gel electrophoresis and identified with mass spectrometry. The results indicated that complement component C1q was present in the fractions associated with the highest signal from nonspecific binding. The interference was not limited to only poly(acrylic acid)-coated nanoparticles or certain antibody combination, but occurred more generally. The interference was removed by increasing the ionic strength of the assay buffer in the sample incubation step or by adding a negatively charged blocker to bind on positively charged C1q, suggesting that the interaction is mostly electrostatic. Hence, we assume that the interference is likely to affect various negatively charged nanoparticles. The identification of complement component C1q as the major interfering protein allows for more rational design of countermeasures in future immunoassay development utilizing nanoparticle reporters.

Graphical abstract
Intestinal microbiota score could predict survival following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Han Lijie , Zhang Haiyan , Ma Ping , Peng Jie , Li Yilu , Wu Jiaying , Li Yuanyuan , Yu Jifeng , Li Wei , Zhang Mengmeng , He Jia bao , Fan Zhiping , Wang Weimin , Sang Li’na , Sun Hui , Liu Qifa , Liu Yang , Jiang Zhongxing
Published: March 2022

Intestinal microbiota is an important prognostic factor for allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT), but its role in predicting survival has not been determined. Here, stool samples at day 15 ± 1 posttransplant were obtained from 209 patients at two centers. Microbiota was examined using 16S rRNA sequencing. The microbiota diversity and abundance of specific bacteria (including Lachnospiraceae, Ruminococcaceae, Erysipelotrichaceae, and Enterobacteriaceae) were assigned a value of 0 or 1 depending on whether they were positive or negative associated with survival, respectively. An accumulated intestinal microbiota (AIM) score was generated, and patients were divided into low- and high-score groups. A low score was associated with a better 3-year cumulative overall survival (OS) as well as lower mortality than a high score (88.5 vs. 43.9% and 7.1 vs. 35.8%, respectively; both P < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, a high score was found to be an independent risk factor for OS and transplant-related mortality (hazard ratio = 5.68 and 3.92, respectively; P < 0.001 and 0.003, respectively). Furthermore, the AIM score could serve as a predictor for survival (area under receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.836, P < 0.001). Therefore, the intestinal microbiota score at neutrophil recovery could predict survival following allo-HSCT.
Interchanging Space and Time in Nonlinear Optics Modeling and Dispersion Management Models
Authors: Fukuizumi Reika , Schneider Guido
Published: March 2022

Interchanging the role of space and time is widely used in nonlinear optics for modeling the evolution of light pulses in glass fibers. A phenomenological model for the mathematical description of light pulses in glass fibers with a periodic structure in this set-up is the so-called dispersion management equation. It is the purpose of this paper to answer the question whether the dispersion management equation or other modulation equations are more than phenomenological models in this situation. Using Floquet theory we prove that in case of comparable wave lengths of the light and of the fiber periodicity the NLS equation and NLS like modulation equations with constant coefficients can be derived and justified through error estimates under the assumption that rather strong stability and non-resonance conditions hold. This is the first NLS approximation result documented for time-periodic dispersive systems. We explain that the failure of these conditions allows us to prove that these modulation equations in general make wrong predictions. The reasons for this failure and the behavior of the system for a fiber periodicity much larger than the wave length of light shows that interchanging the role of space and time for glass fibers with a periodic structure leads to unwanted phenomena.
Compensation of aberrations in holographic microscopes: main strategies and applications
Authors: Sirico Daniele Gaetano , Miccio Lisa , Wang Zhe , Memmolo Pasquale , Xiao Wen , Che Leiping , Xin Lu , Pan Feng , Ferraro Pietro
Published: March 2022

Digital holography is a technique that provides a non-invasive, label-free, quantitative, and high-resolution imaging employable in biological and science of matter fields, but not only. In the last decade, digital holography (DH) has undergone very significant signs of progress that made it one of the most powerful metrology tools. However, one of the most important issues to be afforded and solved for obtaining quantitative phase information about the analyzed specimen is related to phase aberrations. Sources of aberrations can be diverse, and several strategies have been developed and tested to make DH a reliable optical system with submicron resolution. This paper reviews the most effective and robust methods to remove or compensate phase aberrations in retrieved quantitative phase imaging by DH. Different strategies are presented and discussed in detail on how to remove or compensate for such disturbing aberrations. Among the various methods improvements in the optical setups are considered the numerical algorithms, the hybrid methods, and the very recent Artificial Intelligence (AI) approaches to compensate for all aberrations which affect the setups to improve the imaging quality and the accuracy of the reconstruction images’ procedures.
Modelling elongational viscosity overshoot and brittle fracture of low-density polyethylene melts
Authors: Wagner Manfred H. , Narimissa Esmaeil , Poh Leslie , Huang Qian
Published: March 2022

The Hierarchical Multi-mode Molecular Stress Function (HMMSF) model predicts the elongational and multiaxial extensional viscosities of polydisperse linear polymer melts based exclusively on their linear viscoelastic characterization and a single nonlinear material parameter, the so-called dilution modulus $${G}_{D}$$

G
D

. For long-chain branched (LCB) polymer melts such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE), the HMMSF model describes quantitatively the elongational stress growth coefficient up to the maximum of the elongational viscosity but fails to predict the existence of the maximum and the following steady-state viscosity. By taking into account branch point withdrawal in elongational flow of LCB melts, we extend the HMMSF model and show that the maximum of the elongational viscosity can be characterized by a single additional parameter, the characteristic stretch $${\overline{\lambda }}_{m}$$

λ
¯

m

, while the steady-state tensile stress and the elongational viscosity depend only on the dilution modulus $${G}_{D}$$

G
D

as in the case of linear polydisperse melts. Comparison of predictions of the Extended Hierarchical Multi-mode Molecular Stress Function (EHMMSF) model to experimental data of 5 LDPE melts with widely different molecular weights, polydispersities and densities, and a model polystyrene pom-pom polymer shows good agreement within experimental accuracy in constant elongational-rate flow as well as stress relaxation after steady and reversed elongational flow. For the LCB melts considered, we report differences in the specific Hencky strain at the maximum of the tensile stress as quantified by the characteristic stretch $${\overline{\lambda }}_{m}$$

λ
¯

m

, and we discuss correlations between polydispersity, dilution modulus $${G}_{D}$$

G
D

, and strain hardening potential of the LDPE melts. We also extend the fracture criterion for brittle fracture of monodisperse polymer melts to the case of polydisperse polymers and find reasonable agreement with experimental evidence.
Clindamycin use in head and neck surgery elevates the rate of infections in tracheostomies
Authors: Fiedler Lukas S. , Herbst Manuel , Pereira Hugo
Published: March 2022

Background

Surgical site infection (SSI) in open surgical tracheostomy (ST) occurs in up to 33% of the cases. SSI can be reduced by a postoperative antibiotic prophylaxis (POAP). The effect of Clindamycin on SSIs in head and neck surgery (HNS) is discussed controversially in the literature.

Methods

An 8 year single-center retrospective comparative analysis of 441 STs (Visor-ST and Bjoerk-flap technique) performed within major HNS was evaluated due to the event of a SSI within 7 days and analyzed descriptively. Logistic regression model evaluated the impact of POAP with Clindamycin on SSIs.

Results

The use of Clindamycin showed twice the rate of ST-SSI as all patients that did not receive Clindamycin, treated with other perioperative antibiotics. (Fisher’s p = 0.008) The logistic regression model could not prove a statistically significant impact. (OR = 2.91, p = 0.04).

Conclusion

We recommend that Clindamycin should be reconsidered as a POAP regimen in ST. Further studies should evaluate alternatives for Penicillin-allergic patients.

Level of evidence III

Comparative retrospective monocentric study.
City networks’ power in global agri-food systems
Authors: Partzsch Lena , Lümmen Jule , Löhr Anne-Cathrine
Published: March 2022

Cities and local governments loom large on the sustainability agenda. Networks such as Fair Trade Towns International (FTT) and the Organic Cities Network aim to bring about global policy change from below. Given the new enthusiasm for local approaches, it seems relevant to ask to what extent local groups exercise power and in what form. City networks present their members as “ethical places” exercising power with, rather than power over others. The article provides an empirical analysis of the power of FTT and Organic Cities in Germany. In both cases, we found cities that are eager to emphasize their inclusive potential. Their willingness to compromise is demonstrated most illustratively by the fact that several cities are members of both networks: While the FTT campaign aims to address problems of international trade but does not abandon it, Organic Cities advocate for a new localism based on food supply from farmers in the same region. In both cases, city networks use their purchasing power to increase the share of certified products. By doing so, the city networks reproduce privileged positions of consumers benefitting from the global capitalist order (power over). However, our analysis revealed that networks also make citizens reflect upon agri-food challenges and allow developing alternatives for more sustainable systems (power with).
The Analyses of Cetacean Virus-Responsive Genes Reveal Evolutionary Marks in Mucosal Immunity-Associated Genes
Authors: Chung Oksung , Jung Ye-Eun , Lee Kyeong Won , An Young Jun , Kim Jungeun , Roh Yoo-Rim , Bhak Jong , Park Kiejung , Weber Jessica A. , Cheong Jaehun , Cha Sun-Shin , Lee Jung-Hyun , Yim Hyung-Soon
Published: March 2022

Viruses are the most common and abundant organisms in the marine environment. To better understand how cetaceans have adapted to this virus-rich environment, we compared cetacean virus-responsive genes to those from terrestrial mammals. We identified virus-responsive gene sequences in seven species of cetaceans, which we compared with orthologous sequences in seven terrestrial mammals. As a result of evolution analysis using the branch model and the branch-site model, 21 genes were selected using at least one model. IFN-ε, an antiviral cytokine expressed at mucous membranes, and its receptor IFNAR1 contain cetacean-specific amino acid substitutions that might change the interaction between the two proteins and lead to regulation of the immune system against viruses. Cetacean-specific amino acid substitutions in IL-6, IL-27, and the signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)1 are also predicted to alter the mucosal immune response of cetaceans. Since mucosal membranes are the first line of defense against the external environment and are involved in immune tolerance, our analysis of cetacean virus-responsive genes suggests that genes with cetacean-specific mutations in mucosal immunity-related genes play an important role in the protection and/or regulation of immune responses against viruses.