bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teachers' Intentions to Implement Antibullying Practices: The Role of Social Dominance Orientation and Teaching for Creativity
Authors: Maor Rotem
Published: November 2024

Teachers play an important role in treating and preventing school bullying; however, there are instances when they do not act to stop or prevent this phenomenon. There are multiple factors that predict whether and how teachers respond to school bullying. The current study focuses on teachers' Social Dominance Orientation (SDO) as a predictor of their intentions to implement antibullying practices. The study also aims to examine whether Teaching for Creativity (TfC) behavior might serve as a protective mechanism against weakened intentions to implement such practices. Using a quantitative method, a questionnaire was administered to 690 Israeli teachers. In accordance with the hypotheses, teachers' SDO predicted lower intentions to implement antibullying practices, while their TfC behavior predicted higher intentions. Moreover, TfC moderated the association between teachers' SDO and their intentions to implement antibullying practices. These results may contribute to the development and implementation of creative teacher‐based antibullying intervention programs.
Design and Experiment of Cantilevered Lotus Seedpod Picking Device
Authors: Zeng Yuqi , Xue Long , Tang Bizhong , Ying Chaoyang , Liu Muhua , Li Jing , Liao Keke , Ruan Chengzhi
Published: November 2024

Addressing the issue of the absence of relevant automated harvesting machinery for lotus seedpods, which currently relies solely on manual harvesting, this paper proposes a four‐degree‐of‐freedom cantilever‐type lotus seedpod harvesting device. This harvesting device comprises an electric mobile chassis, mobile mechanism, harvesting mechanism, transfer mechanism, image acquisition system, and control system, which make it suitable for harvesting lotus seedpod in standardized lotus fields. The cantilevered lotus seedpod picking device obtains the image of the lotus from the depth camera at an overlooking angle. The YOLOv5‐trained lotus‐bud recognition model is used to identify and locate the lotus seedpod. Through the calibration using active vision method, the conversion relationship between the ZED camera coordinates and the base coordinates of the picking device is calculated to realize lotus seedpod picking. The results of picking experiments conducted in different time periods show that the picking success rate is higher at night, and in the early morning and evening, with the picking success rates of 89.47%, 85.7%, and 85%, respectively, while the picking success rate at noon is only 42.86%. It can be seen that the ambient light has a great influence on the picking of the lotus seedpods, and it is reasonable to avoid the midday period with strong light for picking. The experimental results show that the clamping coupling method realizes the integration of automatic picking and conveying of lotus seedpods, improves the picking efficiency, and provides a new scheme for fruit picking.
Keeping it real: How entrepreneurs effectively disclose risk
Authors: Bolinger Mark T. , Brownell Katrina M. , Covin Jeffrey G.
Published: November 2024

Research Summary

Across three studies (N = 300, 141, 188), we apply impression management theory to examine if and how entrepreneurs can strategically disclose risk while facilitating beneficial audience perceptions. In the crowdfunding context, we show that intentionally packaging positive information with risk disclosures—a strategy we describe as “compensation”—enhances financing outcomes. Furthermore, we conducted two follow‐up randomized experiments (N = 141, 188) to test intervening mechanisms (i.e., perceived authenticity, project quality) and boundary conditions (i.e., information specificity, gender) of the relationship between compensation and crowdfunding performance. Our research has implications for the strategic disclosure of risk, extends our understanding of contextual factors that influence the effectiveness of impression management tactics, and provides guidance for entrepreneurs engaged in crowdfunding efforts.

Managerial Summary

Should early‐stage entrepreneurs disclose risk to potential investors? In our study, we examine the effects of making the choice to disclose risks associated with a new venture. While risk disclosure may harm financing efforts, we reveal that using a tactic we call “compensation”—in which risk disclosures are packaged with information meant to mitigate the risk—enhances financing efforts for early‐stage entrepreneurs by cultivating perceptions of authenticity. Furthermore, we found that the benefit of this tactic appears to be even greater for female entrepreneurs than male entrepreneurs. Overall, our research shows that entrepreneurs should disclose risk, but should take care to do so in a specific manner.
Binding Studies Between Dinotefuran and Bovine Serum Albumin Using Multiple Analytical Approaches
Authors: Yadav Sandeep , Raman Anirudh Pratap Singh , Sewariya Shubham , Singh Prashant , Jain Pallavi , Chandra Ramesh , Kumari Kamlesh
Published: November 2024

The present study examines the interaction between bovine serum albumin (BSA) and dinotefuran utilizing spectroscopic, electrochemical, and computational approaches. The examination of fluorescence spectroscopy demonstrates the formation of a stable complex (protein‐ligand) between dinotefuran and BSA, with a binding coefficient of 3.8 × 108 M−1 and a stoichiometry of 2:1 (dinotefuran to BSA). The presence of static quenching phenomena indicates the creation of a non‐covalent compound. UV spectroscopy and circular dichroism spectroscopy confirm the development of the dinotefuran‐BSA complex. Molecular docking simulations reveal the interaction between dinotefuran and specific amino acid residues of BSA with a binding energy (B.E.) of −5.4 kcal mol−1. The stability of the dinotefuran‐BSA complex is confirmed using molecular dynamics simulations, as evidenced by extracted trajectories. Electrochemical investigations reveal a slow and continuous interaction between dinotefuran and BSA, as indicated by the steady reduction in the intensity of the dinotefuran peak over time. This thorough examination offers unique insights into the molecular interactions between dinotefuran and BSA, providing new perspectives on their binding mechanisms and implications in biological systems.
Efficient and Facile Synthesis of Bexagliflozin: An SGLT‐2 Inhibitor
Authors: Kilaru Govinda G Krishna , Pagadala Ramakanth , Gutta Madhusudan , Kondabattula Chandra Shekar , Rajkumar S. T. , Gundekari Sreedhar , Varkolu Mohan
Published: November 2024

A novel synthetic approach for the preparation of bexagliflozin (1), a selective inhibitor of sodium‐dependent glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT‐2) utilized in the management of type 2 diabetes. This new method is designed to be simple and environmentally friendly, employing innovative intermediates and offering high efficiency in the production of compound (1). The paper details the experimental procedures undertaken to assess this advanced and scalable synthetic route. Key features of the process include the use of commercially available and easily manageable reagents, reduced reaction steps, and minimized waste generation. This approach not only enhances the efficiency of the synthesis but also aligns with sustainable chemical practices.
Harnessing Miniscope Imaging in Freely Moving Animals to Unveil Migraine Pathophysiology and Validate Novel Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Degel Caroline , Zitelli Kevin , Zapata Jonathan , Nassi Jonathan , Botta Paolo
Published: November 2024

Migraine is a debilitating neurological disorder that affects millions worldwide. Elucidating its underlying mechanisms is crucial for developing effective therapeutic interventions. In this editorial, we discuss the potential applications of one‐photon miniscopes, which enable minimally invasive, high spatiotemporal resolution fluorescence imaging in freely moving animals. By providing real‐time visualization of vascular dynamics and neuronal activity, these cutting‐edge techniques can offer unique insights into migraine pathophysiology. We explore the significance of these applications in preclinical research with a case study demonstrating their potential to drive the development of novel therapeutic strategies for effective migraine management.
Transnational literacies and praxis responding to refugee‐background students and their families from Burma/Myanmar
Authors: Duran Chatwara Suwannamai , Cun Aijuan
Published: November 2024

While Southeast Asian countries are gearing up toward being internationally recognizable in their economics, tourism, education, and their English proficiency competitiveness, refugee‐background populations are often minoritized. Traumatic past and forced migration make refugee‐background students different from traditional students. It is vital to attend to their needs and values not only because they are vulnerable citizens but they have “rights to health, education and protection” (United Nations, 2023). Drawing on our experiences working closely with refugee‐background students and their families from Myanmar in multiyear ethnographic studies, we emphasize transnationalism, multilingualism, and multimodal literacies that draw out their potential. Our studies showcase refugee‐background families from Myanmar but residing in two U.S. cities where English is a dominant language. The research findings suggest the interconnection of transnational literacies (Warriner, 2007), cultural artifacts, narratives, and learner's agency that can be utilized to address the students' accumulated linguistic and literacy resources. In addition to providing empirical evidence and their collective praxis, we offer practical implications for English language classrooms that work functionally with refugee‐background students who have been through trauma and obstacles yet gained hard‐earned knowledge along the way of their migrations.
“Who says Singlish cannot be used?”: An EIL‐aware teacher professional development course in Singapore
Authors: Marlina Roby
Published: November 2024

In response to the global expansion of the English language, several conceptual and analytical paradigms—World Englishes (WE), English as a lingua franca (ELF), and English as an international language (EIL)—have been developed to study the pluricentricity of English and its pedagogical implications. English language teacher education programmes need to challenge language ideologies that promote native‐speakerism and monolingualism, acknowledge the plurality of the English language and its speakers, and promote respect for such plurality. However, these implications are still notably absent in many English language teacher education programmes. Programmes that do include courses on English language variations are either too theoretical or have constructed this variation from a deficit lens. In this article, undergirded by the EIL paradigm, the author proposes to detail an institutional approach to designing an EIL‐informed professional development course which aims to theoretically and practically inspire in‐service English language teachers in the Southeast Asian region to legitimately acknowledge the plurality of English, and to translate such awareness into classroom practices. The article specifically delves into a curriculum crafted to achieve this aim. Additionally, it presents feedback from Singapore in‐service English teachers in order to gain insights into the course's impact on their convictions about English, and on their classroom practices. It ends with a discussion on this feedback as well as of the study's limitations.
Sudden Loss of Motor-Evoked Potentials (MEPs) During the Resection of A Nondominant Insular Glioma: Case Report and Management Review
Authors: Gómez-Revuelta Cristina , Llobregat Carlos Martorell , Abarca-Olivas Javier , Piqueres Maria Dolores Coves , González-López Pablo
Published: November 2024

A 43-year-old man was admitted into the emergency room at our hospital after presenting with a tonic-clonic seizure. MRI showed a right-side operculo-insular tumor. This was treated by performing a craniotomy under general anesthesia with intraoperative monitoring. Tumor resection was started by exploring the temporal and frontal opercula without problems. However, during the resection of the insular compartment, a sudden loss of MEPs was observed. Surgery was stopped immediately, and all the relevant anesthetic parameters, vital signs, anesthetic drugs were reviewed. No retractors had been used at that time, so vasospasm was suspected as the underlying cause of the signal change. An ICG bolus injection confirmed vasospasm in one of the M2 branches running over the insula. A direct vessel massage was performed yet resulted in no apparent improvement in the appearance of the vessel when ICG was injected. Therefore, repeated massage with nimodipine was performed, which resulted in the resolution of the vasospasm. MEPs progressively recovered to base line levels, and surgery could then be finished without further incident. During the postoperative recovery period, no focal deficit was identified, and the postoperative MRI showed a planned subtotal resection without apparent ischemia. The goal of this report is to review the potential causes of such a loss of intraoperative MEPs and its best management in order to prevent postoperative motor deficit and to manage the situation should it occur.
Dura Opening in Cases with Acute Traumatic Subdural Hemorrhage
Authors: Kasper Ekkehard M. , Kaya Serdar
Published: November 2024

The most common pathophysiological etiology of traumatic subdural hematoma is the rupture of bridging veins that drain the venous blood from the brain parenchyma into the superior sagittal sinus. Treatment of choice for such a hematoma would be craniotomy and evacuation. Opening dura in a stellate fashion during in acute traumatic subdural hematoma surgery might decrease the risk of added injury to bridging veins and decrease possible morbidity due to brain edema.
Internal Carotid Artery Injury During the Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Surgery of Pituitary Adenoma: Case Illustration, Introspection, and Systematic Review
Authors: Mishra Rakesh , Konar Subhash Kanti , Shukla Dhaval P.
Published: November 2024

Advances in endoscopic technology have made the endoscopic transsphenoidal approach the preferred approach for most surgeries of pituitary adenoma. The goal of these surgeries is to achieve cure, efficacy, and safety. Ample research has deliberated on the complications of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, meningitis, visual deterioration and nasal crusting after endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery. Among these, injury to the internal carotid artery (ICA) is not common in transsphenoidal pituitary surgery and has an incidence that ranges from 0.1% to 1%. Though it is rare, the effects are devastating and associated with a high risk of mortality and morbidity. As a result, iatrogenic ICA injury is every neurosurgeon’s nightmare. Available literature primarily consists of case reports on these injuries. The literature is lacking on preventive and management options. We present an unusual case of a patient who had a nonfunctioning pituitary macroadenoma and an unexpected injury to the internal carotid artery (ICA) during endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery. We share our successful experience with its management via emergency endovascular treatment with parent vessel occlusion for an iatrogenic ICA injury. We present the article to address the pragmatic questions and challenges faced by neurosurgeons experiencing this complication for the first time.
Avoidance and Management of Complications in Retrosigmoid Approach to Vestibular Schwannomas
Authors: Pattankar Sanjeev , Misra Basant K.
Published: November 2024

An experience with two rare complications during surgery of vestibular schwannomas (VSs) is presented, and measures to avoid and manage the complications are discussed.

Case A: Spinal cord ischemia in semi-sitting position: A 47-year-old with a giant vestibular schwannoma (VS) underwent surgery through a retrosigmoid approach in the semi-sitting position. The intraoperative phase was uneventful, except for an episode of moderate hypotension. Postoperatively, the patient woke up with quadriparesis. MRI on the cervical spine revealed restricted diffusion from C4 to C7 suggestive of cord ischemia. Complete neurological recovery occurred over the following 3 months. Awareness of this potential complication, preoperative screening for degenerative spine disease, avoiding excessive intraoperative cervical flexion, using sensory & motor evoked potentials, and diligently avoiding intraoperative hypotension can prevent such occurrences.

Case B: High-riding jugular bulb (HRJB) injury: A 42-year-old male patient underwent a retrosigmoid approach for a right-sided VS in the lateral position. During internal auditory canal (IAC) drilling, there was an injury to the HRJB, resulting in torrential bleeding. It was managed successfully with the sequential application of Gelfoam, fibrin glue, and Surgicel. The drilling was carefully continued by using a diamond drill, and the complete excision of VS was achieved with no injury to cranial nerve 7 (CN7) while maintaining normal facial symmetry. Awareness of an HRJB reduces the risk, and in case of injury, sequential hemostatic measures ensure adequate IAC drilling and the total excision of the tumor.
Complications Following Decompressive Craniectomy
Authors: Shukla Dhaval P.
Published: November 2024

Decompressive craniectomy (DC) is performed to treat refractory intracranial hypertension following traumatic brain injury and stroke. Though technically not demanding, DC is still associated with several early and delayed complications. Early complications can be fatal, whereas delayed complications may result in regression of recovery. Adequately sized DC along with aggressive medical management mitigates most of the acute complications whereas early cranioplasty prevents delayed complications.
A Clinical Learning Curve Should Be Avoided in Neurosurgery
Authors: Taylor Allan , Le Feuvre David , Taylor Bettina
Published: November 2024

Achieving competence in performing complex neurosurgical operations and learning new techniques after qualification take time. The improvement in skill over time (or as more procedures are performed) can be represented graphically as a learning curve. While surgeons are operating on patients to acquire the required skills, patients might be harmed. This is often referred to colloquially but incorrectly as “a steep learning curve.” Although this may be an accepted learning practice for surgeons, it is unlikely to be acceptable to patients. Surgeons need to find ways of reaching a competent level of practice before operating on patients. To this end, the need for new techniques, what skills they require, and how they can be learned in a nonclinical environment should be defined. This can help surgeons determine where they start on a learning curve and what skills they need to achieve competence.
Employment Vulnerabilities of Female and Young Adults in Arab Countries: Trends Since the Onset of COVID-19
Authors: AlAzzawi Shireen , Hlasny Vladimir
Published: November 2024

Labor market outcomes of Arab young adults have become more precarious since a decade ago, reflecting an increase in inequality of opportunities. We assess how the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these vulnerabilities. Applying job transition tables and multinomial logit regressions of workers’ employment statuses to panel microdata from rapid telephone surveys from four Arab countries, we estimate how the different stages of the pandemic affected job transitions and outcomes of distinct groups: young-older and female-male workers in Egypt, Jordan, Morocco and Tunisia. We find that the stringency of pandemic-mitigation policies negatively affected employment and labor participation of most worker groups. Those laid off during the pandemic came predominantly from among those without formal employment history. Mitigating these trends, higher education and experience, and proximity to urban labor markets enables workers to retain employment, conferring consistently high returns to them in terms of remaining economically active or employed. In the latter stages of the pandemic, men’s prospects gradually recovered, but women largely remained shut out from the job market. Young adults trailed older workers throughout the pandemic. The pandemic thus perpetuated existing inequalities across sexes and ages, as well as across broader socioeconomic fault lines.
Limited Social Contact at Work During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Shift Worker’s Health and Well-being
Authors: Skiba Regina , McNeely Eileen , Weziak-Bialowolska Dorota
Published: November 2024

The SARS-CoV-2 outbreak prompted significant organizational adjustments in workplaces, necessitating the restructuring of shift schedules and guidelines to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Workplace modifications encompassed ensuring physical distancing, restricting contact beyond the workplace, embracing remote work, and altering work conditions (e.g., smaller employee teams, reduced shift groups, and extended working hours). These changes primarily aimed to minimize employee interactions, particularly affecting shift workers who already experienced limited socialization due to their fluctuating schedules. The challenge of building a social life for shift workers was exacerbated as societal activities typically occurred after the standard 9–5 workday. The availability and quality of social networks and social engagement, in addition to stress, are indicated as potential mediators of disease in shift workers. This study analyzes longitudinal survey data from 631 garment factory workers in Poland from 2019 to 2021. Findings reveal that shift workers encountered heightened difficulties in general health, mental well-being, and social relationships during the pandemic (2020–2021) compared to other employees. Recognizing the adverse social implications for shift workers in extraordinary circumstances like the COVID-19 pandemic emphasizes the need for proactive employer measures to address these concerns.
Klimawandel – ein Gesundheitsthema (auch) für Familien und ihre jungen Kinder?
Authors: Schoierer Julia , Lehmann Hannah , Köster-Lange Johanna , Gerke Jonas
Published: November 2024

Nur auf einem gesunden Planeten können Kinder gesund aufwachsen. Der Klimawandel bedroht ihre Gesundheit durch steigende Temperaturen und extreme Wetterereignisse. In Deutschland sind die Durchschnittstemperaturen gestiegen, was zu häufigeren und intensiveren Hitzewellen führt. Diese Entwicklung gefährdet besonders Kinder, deren Thermoregulation noch nicht ausgereift ist. UV-Exposition erhöht das Risiko für Hautkrebs und Augenschäden. Wetterextreme beeinträchtigen zudem die mentale Gesundheit von Kindern.

Betreuungs‑, Bildungs- und Freizeiteinrichtungen spielen eine Schlüsselrolle im Umgang mit den psychischen und physischen Belastungen des Klimawandels. Widerstandsfähige Systeme und Einrichtungen können Stabilität und Resilienz fördern und präventiv wirken. Die Anpassung der Lebenswelten von Kindern an den Klimawandel ist jedoch noch unzureichend. Es ist essenziell, durch praxisnahe Informationsmaterialien die Klimakompetenz der Lebensweltakteurinnen und -akteure zu stärken, damit diese nicht nur sensibilisiert werden, sondern aktiv Schutzmaßnahmen etablieren können. Auch Krankenkassen können durch Beratung und Unterstützung klimafreundlicher und gesundheitsförderlicher Aktivitäten eine wichtige Rolle in der Prävention spielen.

Die Gesundheitsförderung in Lebenswelten mit Kindern birgt großes Potenzial, klimaschützendes und klimaangepasstes Verhalten zu fördern und langfristig bei Kindern und Familien zu etablieren. Um hier die notwendigen Veränderungen herbeizuführen, bedarf es der sektorenübergreifenden Zusammenarbeit zwischen Einrichtungen, Trägern, Behörden, Krankenkassen und -versicherungen und der Zivilgesellschaft sowie zwischen Bund, Ländern und Kommunen.
Wild-Type Domestication: Loss of Intrinsic Metabolic Traits Concealed by Culture in Rich Media
Authors: Vezina Ben , Cooper Helena B. , Wisniewski Jessica A. , Parker Matthew H. , Jenney Adam W. J. , Holt Kathryn E. , Wyres Kelly L.
Published: November 2024

Bacteria are typically isolated on rich media to maximise isolation success, removing them from their native evolutionary context. This eliminates selection pressures, enabling otherwise deleterious genomic events to accumulate. Here, we present a cautionary tale of these ‘quiet mutations’ which can persist unnoticed in bacterial culture lines. We used a combination of microbiological culture (standard and minimal media conditions), whole genome sequencing and metabolic modelling to investigate putative Klebsiella pneumoniae L-histidine auxotrophs. Additionally, we used genome-scale metabolic modelling to predict auxotrophies among completed public genomes (n = 2637). Two sub-populations were identified within a K. pneumoniae frozen stock, differing in their ability to grow in the absence of L-histidine. These sub-populations were the same ‘strain’, separated by eight single nucleotide variants and an insertion sequence-mediated deletion of the L-histidine biosynthetic operon. The His− sub-population remained undetected for > 10 years despite its inclusion in independent laboratory experiments. Genome-scale metabolic models predicted 0.8% public genomes contained ≥ 1 auxotrophy, with purine/pyrimidine biosynthesis and amino acid metabolism most frequently implicated. We provide a definitive example of the role of standard rich media culture conditions in obscuring biologically relevant mutations (i.e. nutrient auxotrophies) and estimate the prevalence of such auxotrophies using public genome collections. While the prevalence is low, it is not insignificant given the thousands of K. pneumoniae that are isolated for global surveillance and research studies each year. Our data serve as a pertinent reminder that rich-media culturing can cause unnoticed wild-type domestication.
Three-year outcomes of surgical bleb revision with mitomycin C for early scarring bleb after trabeculectomy
Authors: Caraher-Masuda Risa , Sakamoto Mari , Okuda Mina , Takano Fumio , Mori Sotaro , Ueda Kaori , Kanamori Akiyasu , Yamada-Nakanishi Yuko , Nakamura Makoto
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To report the 3-year outcomes of surgical bleb revision (SBR) with mitomycin C (MMC) for early scarring bleb after trabeculectomy (TLE).

Study design

Retrospective observational study.

Methods

We included glaucoma patients aged ≧ 18 who underwent SBR with MMC within 6 months of their first TLE at Kobe University Hospital and were followed for at least 6 months. The primary outcome measure was the three-year success rate of SBR. We defined surgical success as: intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction ≧ 20% from baseline and 5 ≦ IOP ≦ 18 mmHg. Failure was defined when the IOP deviated from the criteria, when the eye required additional glaucoma surgery, and when the eye lost light perception. Complete success (CS) was success without glaucoma medications and qualified success (QS) was success with glaucoma medications. The secondary outcome measures included IOP, the number of glaucoma medications, mean deviation (MD), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), corneal endothelial cell density (ECD), and surgical complications.

Results

Sixty-eight eyes of 68 patients were analyzed. The median interval between initial TLE and SBR was 2 months. Overall success rate at three-year after SBR were 45.1% and 9.6% for QS and CS, respectively. A greater number of medications used before TLE was a contributing factor to failure (P = 0.02). 22 eyes (32.4%) underwent additional glaucoma surgery, and 41 eyes (60.3%) were spared from additional glaucoma surgery within 3 years after SBR. The median IOP decreased form 24.0 mmHg to 11.0 mmHg 3 years after SBR, and the number of medications decreased from 4 to 2 (P < 0.01). MD remained unchanged, but BCVA and ECD decreased at 3years postoperatively. There were no serious complications of SBR.

Conclusion

SBR may be an effective treatment option for early scarring blebs after TLE but is unsuccessful in eyes that have used many glaucoma medications prior to TLE.
On the Validity of the Capsian and Iberomaurusian Entities (Northwest African Later Stone Age)
Authors: Perrault Nicolas
Published: November 2024

The Capsian is an early Holocene Northwest African tradition. Since 1933, it is divided into two facies: the Typical Capsian and the Upper Capsian. Recently, Dachy et al. (2023) claimed to have discovered a third facies. Their evidence for this claim comes from two key observations: one distinguishing the new facies from the Upper Capsian and the other from the Typical Capsian. But a passage from Sheppard (1987), who studied much of the same material, seems to directly contradict one of these observations. Meanwhile, the other observation is challenged by doubts previously expressed by the authors themselves (Perrin et al., 2020), doubts that seem to have been set aside in their 2023 paper. It therefore seems currently difficult to recognize their third Capsian facies. The authors further imply that their discovery of a third facies would mean that the “term ‘Capsian’ alone can no longer be used to designate a single, coherent cultural whole.” They suggest, therefore, redefining the word “Capsian” in terms of space and time. But the existence of a third facies would not necessarily render the Capsian incoherent. The Iberomaurusian’s unity is here also provisionally defended in response to a similar idea expressed recently. Despite these issues, the work of Dachy et al. (2023) remains an interesting contribution that highlights the potential value of future excavations in the Oum el Bouaghi region of Algeria. The current paper, in closing, argues that to discuss the value of traditional labels like “Iberomaurusian” and “Capsian,” lithic analysts would need to adopt a standard method for data collection and publication. Such a method is in development.
Synthetic Turbulence with Prescribed Probability Density Function and Application to Scalar Quantities Occurring in Reactive Flows
Authors: Klein Markus
Published: November 2024

Based on a (synthetic) turbulent signal which obeys a Gaussian probability density function (PDF) together with some form of prescribed two-point statistics (i.e. integral length or time scales or turbulent energy spectrum), a simple algorithm is proposed to transform the original signal, such that it follows a new target PDF. It is shown that for many practical applications the transformation does not change the integral length or time scale more than a few per cent. The algorithm can be combined with any turbulence generator. It has applications for prescribing boundary or initial conditions of non-Gaussian signals in scale resolving simulations of turbulent flows, such as passive scalars like temperature, bounded passive scalars occurring in reactive flows or velocity signals close to walls.
Negative effect and removal of trace amounts of 1,3-dialkylimidazolium ionic liquids in samples from biorefineries
Authors: Lehrhofer Anna F. , Yoneda Yuko , Tran Thi Hoai , Melikhov Ivan , Gille Lars , Hettegger Hubert , Böhmdorfer Stefan , Potthast Antje , Schottenberger Herwig , Rosenau Thomas
Published: November 2024

Ionic liquids (ILs), based on 1,3-dialkylimidazolium cations, are frequently used solvent components or auxiliaries for various types of biomass in biorefinery approaches. Unless washing and sample preparation have been carried out very carefully, analytical samples often contain residual traces of such ionic liquids. These residues can compromise the quality of physicochemical analyses, as was demonstrated for monosaccharide analysis after hydrolysis by gas chromatography, high-performance thin-layer chromatography, or ion chromatography (IC), and even damage analytical equipment, such as gas chromatographic capillaries or IC electrodes. We suggest a simple procedure—short stirring with solid elemental sulfur adsorbed on alumina as the scavenger—as a pretreatment of the analytical samples to remove interfering imidazolium IL traces. The chemistry underlying this pretreatment is the conversion of the 1,3-dialkylimidazolium cation to the corresponding, water-insoluble, neutral, volatile 1,3-dialkylimidazole-2-thiones. Given the negative effect of imidazolium IL impurities, the minor extension of the sample preparation by one short additional step appears to be a small price to pay for an unperturbed and instrument-safe analysis.

Graphical abstract
Rasopathy-Associated Mutation Ptpn11D61Y has Age-Dependent Effect on Synaptic Vesicle Recycling
Authors: Guhathakurta Debarpan , Selzam Franziska , Petrušková Aneta , Weiss Eva-Maria , Akdaş Enes Yağız , Montenegro-Venegas Carolina , Zenker Martin , Fejtová Anna
Published: November 2024

Rasopathies are genetic disorders often associated with developmental delay and intellectual disability. Noonan syndrome (NS) is one of the most common Rasopathies, caused by mutations in PTPN11 in more than 50% of cases. In mammalian neurons, PTPN11 controls the trafficking of postsynaptic glutamate receptors. This process is disrupted in neurons expressing PTPN11 variants associated with Rasopathies and is thought to contribute to the cognitive impairments in Noonan syndrome. Recent work revealed presynaptic impairments upon expression of RASopathy-linked PTPN11 variants in Drosophila. However, the presynaptic role of PTPN11 has not yet been addressed in mammals. Here, we investigated membrane trafficking of synaptic vesicles in cultured mouse cortical neurons expressing Rasopathy-associated PTPN11D61Y variant. We observed a significantly smaller readily releasable and total recycling pool of synaptic vesicles. The drop in synaptic vesicle release competence was accompanied by a decreased rate of SV retrieval. Interestingly, the presynaptic phenotype was evident in mature (DIV21) but not in immature (DIV12) neurons. Thus, our data reveal importance of balanced PTPN11 activity for normal trafficking of neurotransmitter-filled synaptic vesicles in the presynaptic ending of mature neurons.
Understanding the local endemism of Magnolia calimaensis (Lozano) Goovaerts: analysis of its genetic diversity and structure
Authors: Bocanegra-González Kelly T. , Aranguren Yani , Fernández-Méndez Fernando
Published: November 2024

This study aims to comprehend the factors that influence local endemism in Magnolia calimaensis, a tree species inhabiting the rain forests of Buenaventura in Colombia, classified as critically endangered with an estimated population of fewer than 100 individuals. A total of 38 individuals were collected from the Bajo Calima and Bahía Málaga localities. Subsequently, microsatellite marker analysis of the species’ genetic diversity and structure were conducted. Nine microsatellites from other tropical Magnolia species amplified in this system, with only seven being variable and functional. The results revealed diminished levels of genetic diversity and notable indices of inbreeding for both populations (He: 0.30 / F: 0.63 for Bajo Calima and He: 0.31 / F: 0.22 for Bahía Málaga). Furthermore, F-Statistics indicate high genetic differentiation between populations (FST=0.42) and low migration (Nm=0.34). Despite the continuity of the rain forests inhabited by the species and the availability of dispersion vectors, the results suggest that its restricted distribution is not related to the landscape. We hypothesize that gene flow and broader distribution are constrained by the species’ reproductive biology. Frequent geitonogamy and self-pollination in Magnolia, along with the potential impact of Lepidoptera parasites damaging floral structures during critical developmental stages, may play a significant role. Future studies should aim to investigate these factors in detail. The genetic results emphasize the urgent need to implement genetic restoration strategies to preserve and ensure the perpetuity of known populations of M. calimaensis.
Torsion and Extension of Functionally Graded Mooney–Rivlin Cylinders
Authors: Fairclough Kesna A. , Batra Romesh C.
Published: November 2024

We analytically study finite torsional and extensional deformations of rubberlike material circular cylinders with the two material moduli in the Mooney–Rivlin relation assumed to be continuous functions of the undeformed radius. It is shown that under null resultant axial load on the end faces the cylinder length increases upon twisting. Furthermore, when the two moduli are affine functions of the radius the inhomogeneity parameters can be found to have the maximum shear stress occur at a pre-determined interior point. Whereas the radial stress is finite at the center of a cross-section of a homogeneous material cylinder, it may have large values for an inhomogeneous material cylinder. The closed-form solutions provided herein for the two moduli having affine, power-law and exponential functions of the radius should benefit numerical analysts verify their algorithms and engineers design soft material robots for improving their performance under torsional loads.
Gambling-Related Harm to Affected Others: Lived Experience Differs by Relationship Type, Gambling Severity, Life Circumstances, and Relationship Factors
Authors: Newall Philip , Rawat Vijay , Hing Nerilee , Browne Matthew , Tulloch Catherine , Russell Alex M. T. , Li En , Rockloff Matthew , Dellosa Georgia
Published: November 2024

Quantitative self-report measures for gambling-related harm experienced by gamblers themselves are established in the literature, whereas similar measures of gambling-related harm to affected others (AOs, a.k.a. concerned significant others) are given less attention. The impact of gambling-related harm varies significantly among different relationship types, such as partners, family members, and friends. Moreover, while many studies concentrate primarily of AOs of individuals meeting the threshold criteria for “problem gambling”, AOs of gamblers with less severe issues can also experience harm. The present work takes a qualitative approach to understanding gambling-related harm as experienced by AOs, by exploring the lived experience of 30 AOs across these three relationship types, and the full spectrum of AO harm according to the Short Gambling Harm Screen for Concerned Significant Others (SGHS-CSO) self-report measure. The results showed that the level of AO harm varied both across and within each relationship type depending on how heavily the gambler gambled, whether the two people gambled together, how close the relationship was, the AO’s level of social support, and also how interdependent the two people’s life situations were. AOs enacted multiple strategies to help reduce harm for the gambler and themselves, or alternatively distanced themselves from the gambler. The findings indicate that SGHS-CSO comparisons may work reasonably well within a given relationship type, but also suggest ways to improve the comparability of measured harm across different AO relationship types.
Characterization of Sodium Thermal Insulation Reaction Product and its Effect on Fatigue Crack Growth in 316 LN Austenitic Steel
Authors: Avinash Ch. S. S. S. , Nanibabu M. , Snehalatha V. , Vetrivendan E. , Polaki S. R. , Rao E. Hemanth , Das Sanjay Kumar , Venkatraman B.
Published: November 2024

Though sodium is the most preferred coolant for fast breeder reactors due to excellent heat transfer capabilities, its high chemical reactivity poses a concern during accidental leaks. Despite defense in depth in various levels for protecting the sodium leaks in the heat transport circuits, small undetected leaks may lead to localized degradation of structural material due to deposition of reaction products in the leak zone. Experiments have been conducted by exposing SS-316 LN specimens to sodium–glass wool interaction zone at 300 °C in air to study the influence of reaction products on chemical composition and crack growth properties. Post-exposure X-ray diffraction analysis of the samples revealed presence of silicates and aluminates of sodium in the outer layers, and complex ternary and quaternary oxides of sodium, iron, chromium and nickel in the inner layers. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed deposition of oxides on the exposed surface. Elemental analysis of the samples carried out by energy-dispersive spectroscopy indicated leaching of major alloying elements like chromium, nickel and iron to a depth of about ~ 25 µm from the exposed surface. Room-temperature fatigue crack growth studies on the exposed specimen shown considerable reduction in crack initiation (threshold) fracture toughness range ΔKth.
Intelligent framework of sustainable cyber-physical services for autonomous manufacturing industries
Authors: Iram Shamaila , Fernando Terrence , Asim Muhammad , Shakeel Hafiz Muhammad
Published: November 2024

Product Service Systems (PSSs) introduce new business models for enterprises to promote tangible products along with intangible functions or services, thereby incentivising product sustainability with profitability, economic stability and customer satisfaction. However, the unique characteristics of a PSS challenge obsolete product development processes and demand a dynamic change in the complex building blocks of the underlying design and in the development infrastructure to attain high quality services. This implies a need for radical change in the team structure and the team collaboration model, in the organizational structure, technical infrastructure and in the complex process models by taking the complete product life cycle into consideration. This paper, firstly, identifies PSS unique features that challenge the capabilities of existing frameworks to design a standard PSS. In response, new business models are proposed to address the challenges relating to actors’ involvement, technology provision, organizational needs and process workflow modelling. Secondly, these proposed business models are combined into one comprehensive collaborative PSS design and development methodology by modifying existing modelling techniques. An assessment framework based on Goal-Question-Metrics approach and McCall Quality Model is successfully used to evaluate the PSS development methodology and subsequently, the developed framework through a use-case study analysis.
Leveraging 3D printing in microbial electrochemistry research: current progress and future opportunities
Authors: Xu Mingyi , Cobo Miriam Fernandez-Avila , Zeng Danfei , Zhang Yifeng
Published: November 2024

Microbial electrochemical system (MES) offers sustainable solutions for environmental applications such as wastewater treatment, energy generation, and chemical synthesis by leveraging microbial metabolism and electrochemical processes. This review explores the transformative role of 3D printing in MES research, focusing on reactor body design, electrode fabrication, and bioprinting applications. Rapid prototyping facilitated by 3D printing expedites MES development while unlocking design flexibility, which enhances performance in optimising fluid dynamics and mass transfer efficiency. Tailored ink materials further improve the conductivity and biocompatibility of electrodes, paving the way for environmental applications. 3D-printed bio-anodes and bio-cathodes offer enhanced electrogenesis and boosted electron acceptance processes, respectively, by fine-tuning electrode architectures. Additionally, 3D bioprinting presents opportunities for scaffold fabrication and bioink formulation, enhancing biofilm stability and electron transfer efficiency. Despite current challenges, including material selection and cost, the integration of 3D printing in MES holds immense promise for advancing energy generation, wastewater treatment, resource recovery, carbon utilisation, and biosensing technologies.
A tale of two minerals: contrasting behaviors and mitigation strategies of gypsum scaling and silica scaling in membrane desalination
Authors: Tong Tiezheng , Park Shinyun , Yao Yiqun
Published: November 2024

Mineral scaling represents a major constraint that limits the efficiency of membrane desalination, which is becoming increasingly important for achieving sustainable water supplies in the context of a changing climate. Different mineral scales can be formed via distinct mechanisms that lead to a significant variation of scaling behaviors and mitigation strategies. In this article, we present a comprehensive review that thoroughly compares gypsum scaling and silica scaling, which are two common scaling types formed via crystallization and polymerization respectively, in membrane desalination. We show that the differences between scale formation mechanisms greatly affect the thermodynamics, kinetics, and mineral morphology of gypsum scaling and silica scaling. Then we review the literatures on the distinct behaviors of gypsum scaling and silica scaling during various membrane desalination processes, examining their varied damaging effects on desalination efficiency. We further scrutinize the different interactions of gypsum and silica with organic foulants, which result in contrasting consequences of combined scaling and fouling. In addition, the distinctive mitigation strategies tailored to controlling gypsum scaling and silica scaling, including scaling-resistant membrane materials, antiscalants, and pretreatment, are discussed. We conclude this article with the research needs of attaining a better understanding of different mineral scaling types, aiming to inspire researchers to take scale formation mechanism into consideration when developing more effective approaches of scaling control in membrane desalination.
High doses of polypropylene and polyvinyl chloride microplastics affect the microbial community and nutrient status of vineyard soils
Authors: Jez Erika , Pellegrini Elisa , Lemut Melita Sternad , De Nobili Maria , Contin Marco
Published: November 2024

The escalating use of plastic materials in viticulture causes release of microplastics (MPs) into vineyard soils. This study examines the impact on soil health of polypropylene (PP) raffia and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) tube strings, commonly mulched into the topsoil after use. A 120-d incubation experiment was conducted with soils exposed to high doses (10 g/kg) of microplastics (MPs) from standard, new and used strings. The study investigated alterations in the microbial community, bioavailability of macronutrients (NH4+ and NO3−, P, K, Ca, Mg), and bioavailability of micronutrients (Cu, Zn, Fe, Mg). The presence of MPs significantly stressed the soil microbial community, reducing microbial biomass by 30% after 30 d, with the exception of PVC in acid soil, which caused an unexpected increase of about 60%. The metabolic quotient (qCO2) doubled in MP-polluted soils, with PVC exerting a more pronounced effect than PP. Basal respiration increased by 25% relative to the acid control soil. PVC MPs raised soil pH from 6.2 to 7.2 and firmly reduced the bioavailability of micronutrients, particularly in acidic soils, and led to a 98% reduction in nitrate (NO3−). The availability of NH4+, P, K, Mg decreased by 10% and Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn by 30%. However, Ca availability increased by 30%, despite shifting from the acid-soluble fraction to soil organic matter and crystalline minerals. Calcareous soil was generally more resilient to changes than the acid soil. These findings underscore the urgent need to investigate the long-term effects of MPs from viticulture on soil properties and health.