bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Conversation with Chimeric Animal Researchers
Authors: Craig Kaitlynn P.
Published: December 2022

In this conversation, three researchers from the fields of developmental biology and stem cell science—Ali Brivanlou, Lorenz Studer, and May Schwarz—speak about the importance of conducting chimeric animal experiments. The scientists describe some of the stem cell‐based chimeric research being conducted in the United States, responsibilities they have in using modified animals for experiments, and things they would like the public to understand about this research. This conversation illuminates not only what chimeric animal researchers are doing in the lab but also how their work may benefit society and where this science might go in the future.
MHD natural convection heat and mass transfer flow over an inclined porous plate with thermophoresis and nonlinear thermal radiation effects
Authors: Jha Basant K. , Samaila Gabriel
Published: December 2022

This study examined magnetohydrodynamic natural convection mass and heat transfer flow of an electrically conducting and viscous incompressible fluid over an inclined porous plate with thermophoresis, suction/injection, and uniform magnetic field. The mathematical model governing the fluid behavior surrounding an inclined plate is solved through the Runge–Kutta–Fehlberg fourth–fifth order after utilizing the shooting method. The implication of active dimensionless parameters in the governing equations is fully discussed in detail. The results obtained show that, in the existence of nonlinear thermal radiation and suction/injection, the heat transfer rises with the increase in the angle of inclination but it decreases with the mass transfer and plate shear stress. Furthermore, the heat transfer rate experiences a serious setback due to the increase in the buoyancy force but improves the plate shear stress. The mass transfer is directly proportional to the thermophoresis effect. In addition, Particle suction increases the velocity and temperature curves while it declines the concentration profile, but the opposite is valid for injection. Nonlinear thermal radiation positively affects the temperature, velocity, and concentration profiles. The Lorentz force suppresses the fluid transport and retard the rate of particle concentration, but promotes the fluid temperature distribution. It is also deduced that increasing the rate of particle suction from 0 to 1, accounts for over 76% increase in the particle deposition at the plate surface. However, increasing the rate of particle injection from 0.004 to 0.250 accounts for an over 83% decrease in the particle deposition at the plate surface.
A powerful probabilistic model for noise analysis in medical images
Authors: Gürman Mustafa , Bilgehan Bülent , Sabuncu Özlem , Mirzaei Omid
Published: December 2022

The statistical properties in various medical images demonstrate uncorrelated noise fluctuations. The signal noise fluctuations are generally due to physical imaging processes and have nothing to do with the tissue textures. Adding the noise types (e.g., quantization, electronics, photon) usually degrade medical images. The noise variation is usually assumed to be additive with zero‐mean, constant variance Gaussian distribution. However, close consideration of different medical images indicates the need for better model representation to minimise the noise that can be vital in decision‐making. This research proposed a probabilistic method to represent all real‐type noise in general medical images. The method aims to cover most classical statistical models such as Gaussian, lognormal, Rayleigh, Weibull, and Nakagami without a prior examination to test for fitness. The proposed model was applied to actual clinical images to test the performance of the noise originating from the physical processes. The noise is assumed to be additive white Gaussian type with a zero mean and constant variance. The theoretical literature indicates that a nonlinear function can better represent noise. This research helps to form a relationship between the image intensity and the noise variance that yields the fitting parameters in the introduced nonlinear function. The validity of the proposed method was proved mathematically and tested using the well know Kolmogorov–Smirnov (K‐S) and Akaike Information Criteria (AIC) tests. The method was successfully applied to various clinical images such as magnetic resonance, x‐ray, and panoramic images. The model's performance is compared with the classical models using root mean squared error (RMSE), relative error (RE), and R2 as the evaluation matrices. The presented model has outperformed all classic models.
A novel convolutional neural network‐based approach for brain tumor classification using magnetic resonance images
Authors: Cinar Necip , Kaya Mehmet , Kaya Buket
Published: December 2022

Brain tumor is a disease that seriously threatens human health and can often be treated with risky surgeries. Experts detect brain tumor with high resolution magnetic resonance (MR) images. However, the expected accuracy value could not be reached in the studies carried out so far. The aim of this study is to develop a new approach for detecting brain tumor types using MR images. In the proposed approach, it is designed a CNN‐based neural network from scratch. The results of the method were compared with existing networks. The proposed approach detected glioma tumors with 99.64%, meningiomas tumor with 96.53%, pituitary tumors with 98.39% and an average of 98.32% accuracy. The developed CNN based model is also compared with deep CNN models such as ResNet50, VGG19, DensetNet121 and InceptionV3, which are operated by transfer learning method. The results show that the proposed approach outperforms other deep neural networks.
Spillovers from gender equality onto economic equality: Evidence from 162 nations
Authors: Nelson Michael A. , Goel Rajeev K.
Published: December 2022

This paper studies the influence of different aspects of gender equality or female empowerment on income inequality. A key question addressed is: Are there positive spillovers from gender equality to income equality? Using data drawn from 162 nations over the years 1985–2019, results show that nations with a long history of women's suffrage, greater representation of women in the government, lower fertility rates and better overall gender equality experienced lower income inequality, ceteris paribus. These results are largely supported in several robustness checks, including different model estimation strategies to address potential reverse‐causality issues, considering alternative measures of income inequality, and considerations of persistence and nonlinearities in the gender inequality measures. The spillovers from some dimensions of gender equality are found to be sensitive to existing income inequality. Policymakers ignoring the payoffs from gender empowerment on income distribution might be underinvesting in initiatives to empower women.
LncRNA SNHG1 targets miR‐340‐5p/PIK3CA axis to regulate microvascular endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis in DR
Authors: He Fu‐Tao , Fu Xiao‐Lin , Li Mo‐Han , Fu Chun‐Yan , Chen Jian‐Zhi
Published: December 2022

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a serious long‐term complication of diabetes. However, the current treatment of DR is still challenging. We aimed to investigate the role of lncRNA SNHG1/miR‐340‐5p/PIK3CA in DR and the mechanisms involved. Blood samples from clinical DR patients and healthy subjects were obtained. HRMECs were induced by high glucose for 24 h to establish the DR model. The vector for interfering or overexpressing lncRNA SNHG1, miR‐340‐5p, and PIK3CA was constructed. LncRNA SNHG1, miR‐340‐5p, and PIK3CA expressions were detected by qRT‐PCR or Western blot. Cell proliferation and migration were detected by CCK‐8 and Transwell assays. Blood vessel formation was detected by angiogenesis assay. Dual‐luciferase reporter assay tested the interaction of lncRNA SNHG1 with miR‐340‐5p and miR‐340‐5p with PIK3CA. RIP measured the binding of miR‐340‐5p to PIK3CA. In the blood of DR patients and the DR model, lncRNA SNHG1 was increased and miR‐340‐5p expression was down‐regulated. In the DR model, PIK3CA expression was elevated. Downregulation of lncRNA SNHG1 inhibited HRMECs proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis. LncRNA SNHG1 interacted with miR‐340‐5p, and up‐regulation of miR‐340‐5p inhibited HRMECs proliferation, migration and angiogenesis. The inhibition of cell proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis of HRMECs caused by down‐regulation of lncRNA SNHG1 was reversed by knockdown of miR‐340‐5p. miR‐340‐5p targeted PIK3CA, and downregulation of PIK3CA inhibited HRMECs proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis. The inhibition of HRMECs proliferation, migration and angiogenesis caused by down‐regulation of lncRNA SNHG1 could be reversed by overexpression of PIK3CA. LncRNA SNHG1 targeted miR‐340‐5p/PIK3CA axis to regulate microvascular endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis in DR.
Decades of weathering improves coal waste biogeochemical properties by altering dissolved organic matter and microbial communities: A case‐study of a coal waste pile
Authors: Tuo Pinpeng , Ren Jie , Hao Chongkai , Zhang Xi , Li Renyou
Published: December 2022

The spatial heterogeneity of vegetation cover in coal waste pile suggests that the geochemical and biological properties of coal waste are spatially heterogeneous, which contributes to vegetation colonization on tailings. However, whether and how altering the organic matter components and microbial community of coal waste via weathering affects biogeochemical characteristics and vegetation establishment mechanisms remain unclear. Thus, we explored the characterization of dissolved organic matter in coal waste and its biogeochemical implications. Our results highlight coal waste as primary succession for bacterial communities and provide new insights into the bacterial community assembly response to dissolved organic matter and geochemical properties at such sites. Biogeochemical parameters including pH, EC, nutrients, particle size, and enzymatic activities were affected differently by organic components. The electrical conductivity (EC) decreased after decades of natural weathering, whereas pH, moisture, available N and P, urease, phosphatase, soluble microbial byproduct‐like material, humic acid‐like organics, bacterial diversity, and richness increased significantly. Further taxonomical and co‐occurrence network analyses indicated that the primary succession of bacterial communities was strongly influenced by biogenically formed organic components, particle size, and available nutrients. Our results revealed that the humic‐like components facilitated the improved biogeochemical properties and succession of composition and structure of the bacterial community. It demonstrated that weathering‐induced organic matter degradation trigger biogeochemical property improvement and bacterial community succession, and further facilitate the transformation of coal waste into a plant growth substrate. Our results provide a reference for engineering and application practice of utilization and in‐situ remediation ecological reconstruction in coal waste deposits.
Elemental content allometries and silicon uptake rates of planktonic Rhizaria: Insights into their ecology and role in biogeochemical cycles
Authors: Laget Manon , Llopis‐Monferrer Natalia , Maguer Jean‐François , Leynaert Aude , Biard Tristan
Published: December 2022

The last two decades have shown the importance of Rhizaria in the biogeochemical cycles of carbon and silicon in modern oceans. This eukaryotic supergroup, which includes Radiolaria and Phaeodaria, represents an important part of zooplanktonic carbon biomass and contributes to carbon and silica export. Still, accurate estimations of their carbon biomass are hindered by poor knowledge of their elemental composition, contrasting with well‐established allometric carbon‐to‐volume relationships for smaller protists such as phytoplankton. Here, we directly measured carbon, nitrogen, and biogenic silica content as well as silicon uptake rates of planktonic Rhizaria. We highlight that size can be used as a predictor of elemental content for a broad variety of planktonic Rhizaria ranging from 200 μm to several mm, whereas size is weakly correlated with silicon uptake rates. Our results indicate that the scaling exponent of the carbon‐to‐volume allometry is significantly lower than those for smaller protists, underlining the low carbon strategy of these organisms. Still, we show that carbon and nitrogen densities span over four orders of magnitude, possibly accounting for the differences in depth ranges, nutritional modes and colonial or solitary forms. We estimate Rhizaria sinking speeds by combining carbon, nitrogen, and silica content data and show that great variability exists among the different taxa. Besides giving a better understanding of rhizarian ecology and biogeochemistry, these analyses, at the individual scale, are a first step to subsequent biomass and flux estimations at larger scales.
High Mechanical Strength and Multifunctional Microphase‐Separated Supramolecular Hydrogels Fabricated by Liquid‐Crystalline Block Copolymer
Authors: Liu Yang , Chen Lv , Yang Yuxuan , Chen Hongxiang , Zhang Xiongzhi , Liu Simin
Published: December 2022

The development of multifunctional supramolecular hydrogels with high mechanical strength and multifunction is in high demand. In this work, the diblock copolymer poly(acrylamide‐co‐1‐benzyl‐3‐vinylimidazolium bromide)‐block‐polyAzobenzene is synthesized through reversible addition−fragmentation chain transfer polymerization. The dynamic host–guest interactions between the host molecule cucurbit[8] uril and guest units are used to fabricate a 3D network of supramolecular hydrogels. Investigations on the properties of the supramolecular hydrogels show that the tensile stress of the sample is 1.46 MPa, eight times higher than that of hydrogel without liquid‐crystalline block copolymer, and the self‐healing efficiency of the supramolecular hydrogels at room temperature is 88.3% (fracture stress) and 100% (fracture strain) after 24 h. Results show that microphase‐separated structure plays a key role in the high‐strength hydrogel, whereas the host–guest interaction endows the hydrogel with self‐healing properties. The supramolecular hydrogels with high mechanical strength, photo‐responsivity, injectability, and biocompatibility can be used in various potential applications.
Single‐cell transcriptomics reveals distinct cell response between acute and chronic pulmonary infection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Hu Xueli , Wu Mingbo , Ma Teng , Zhang Yige , Zou Chaoyu , Wang Ruihuan , Zhang Yongxin , Ren Yuan , Li Qianqian , Liu Huan , Li Heyue , Wang Taolin , Sun Xiaolong , Yang Yang , Tang Miao , Li Xuefeng , Li Jing , Gao Xiang , Li Taiwen , Zhou Xikun
Published: December 2022

Knowledge of the changes in the immune microenvironment during pulmonary bacterial acute and chronic infections is limited. The dissection of immune system may provide a basis for effective therapeutic strategies against bacterial infection. Here, we describe a single immune cell atlas of mouse lungs after acute and chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection using single‐cell transcriptomics, multiplex immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry. Our single‐cell transcriptomic analysis revealed large‐scale comprehensive changes in immune cell composition and high variation in cell–cell interactions after acute and chronic P. aeruginosa infection. Bacterial infection reprograms the genetic architecture of immune cell populations. We identified specific immune cell types, including Cxcl2+ B cells and interstitial macrophages, in response to acute and chronic infection, such as their proportions, distribution, and functional status. Importantly, the patterns of immune cell response are drastically different between acute and chronic infection models. The distinct molecular signatures highlight the importance of the highly dynamic cell–cell interaction process in different pathological conditions, which has not been completely revealed previously. These findings provide a comprehensive and unbiased immune cellular landscape for respiratory pathogenesis in mice, enabling further understanding of immunologic mechanisms in infection and inflammatory diseases.
Posttraumatic stress symptoms and chronic pain: Cross‐sectional associations with perception of sensory and social stimuli
Authors: Pierce Jennifer , Mohan Nitesh , Fatabhoy Megha G. , McAfee Jenna , Zhu Guohao , Hassett Afton L.
Published: December 2022

Chronic pain and posttraumatic stress symptoms frequently co‐occur. Both may be associated with how individuals perceive stimuli; yet, to our knowledge, studies have not considered their joint effects on the perception of stimuli. In the present study, we examined main and interactive effects of chronic pain phenotype (no chronic pain; <4 regions of chronic pain; ≥4 regions of chronic pain) and high posttraumatic stress symptoms (>3 symptoms) on sensory sensitivity (i.e., external sensory sensitivity and somatic awareness) and sensitivity to social stimuli (i.e., hostility, perceived rejection, and rejection sensitivity). Adult patients with a self‐reported history of trauma or abuse (n = 305) completed across‐sectional, online survey. A chronic pain phenotype indicating ≥4 regions of chronic pain exhibited significant main effects on somatic awareness and hostility. High posttraumatic stress symptoms exhibited significant main effects on all sensory and social variables. An interaction between chronic pain phenotype and high posttraumatic stress symptoms was also found for perceived rejection, such that the association between high posttraumatic stress symptoms and higher perceived rejection was buffered for individuals with <4 regions of chronic pain. The findings suggest that both chronic pain phenotype, particularly ≥4 regions of chronic pain, and high posttraumatic stress symptoms are related to the perception of sensory and social stimuli. These findings may be important for understanding the impact of each condition on functioning and well‐being, as well as how to appropriately treat and manage symptoms.
Stability analysis and optimal control of an epidemic model with multidimensional information of media coverage on networks
Authors: Chang Xinghua , Wang Jianrong , Liu Maoxing , Yang Yunyun
Published: December 2022

Due to the diversity and inaccuracy in media communications, the effect of awareness programs includes positive and negative emotions which are aroused by the prevalence of media coverage on infectious diseases. In this paper, an epidemic model with positive and negative information is proposed on heterogeneous network. Firstly, the basic reproduction number of infectious disease transmission is carried on, and the global stability of disease‐free equilibrium and endemic equilibrium is analyzed. Secondly, three time‐varying control schemes are offered to contain the contact infection rate and enhance the implementation rate of positive information for improving people's awareness and reducing the number of infected and the cost of control. In addition, under the principle of the Pontryagin minimization, the combination strategy is analyzed to form a solution for optimal control. Finally, the numerical simulations are performed to verify the analytical findings, that is, the optimal control effectively reduces the final infected scale and control cost.
Technical note: A knowledge graph approach to registering tumour specific data of patient‐candidates for proton therapy in the Netherlands
Authors: Kalendralis Petros , Sloep Matthijs , Choudhury Ananya , Seyben Lerau , Snel Jasper , George Nibin Moni , Veugen Joeri , Veening Martijn , Langendijk Johannes A. , Dekker Andre , van Soest Johan , Fijten Rianne
Published: December 2022

The registration of multi‐source radiation oncology data is a time‐consuming and labour‐intensive procedure. The standardisation of data collection offers the possibility for the acquisition of quality data for research and clinical purposes. With this study, we present an overview of the different tumour group data lists in the Dutch national proton therapy registry. Furthermore, as a representative example of the workings of these different tumour‐specific knowledge graphs, we present the FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) data principles‐compliant knowledge graph approach describing the head and neck tumour variables using radiotherapy domain ontologies and semantic web technologies. Our goal is to provide the radiotherapy community with a flexible and interoperable data model for data exchange between centres. We highlight data variables that are needed for models used in the model‐based approach (MBA), which ensures a fair selection of patients that will benefit most from proton therapy.
Technical note: Water‐equivalent thickness of Superflab bolus material at diagnostic x‐ray energies
Authors: Blunt Kayla F. , Marshall Emily L. , Guo Chao , Lu Zheng Feng , Reiser Ingrid
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this work was to determine the water‐equivalent thickness of Superflab bolus material for narrow and broad field‐of‐view (FOV) x‐ray geometries at diagnostic x‐ray energies.

Methods

Transmission measurements were performed for incremental thicknesses of Superflab bolus material and water in narrow and broad FOV x‐ray geometries. The transmission data was fit to a non‐linear model for x‐ray transmission ‐ the Archer model. Water‐equivalent thickness of Superflab was calculated based upon fitting parameters to transmission curves for 75, 95, and 115 kV x‐ray tube voltages. Measured x‐ray transmission factors for water and Superflab were used to determine the water equivalence of Superflab.

Results

For all x‐ray tube voltages and geometries, the water equivalence of Superflab was greater than one, indicating that Superflab is more attenuating than water. This effect was stronger for broad FOV geometries. At 95 kV, 30 cm of Superflab corresponded to 32.0 cm of water in the narrow FOV geometry, and 34.3 cm of water in the broad FOV geometry. The Archer model fitting parameters and Superflab water equivalence are reported for all x‐ray beam conditions explored in this work.

Conclusions

Superflab bolus material is more attenuating than water at diagnostic x‐ray energies. The Archer model and its respective fitting parameters reported in this work may be used to estimate the water‐equivalent thickness of Superflab for diagnostic x‐ray spectra.
Nurses' sense of organizational support, Self‐esteem and perceived professional benefits: A mediating model
Authors: Wang Mingjing , Wang Limin , Lu Caihong
Published: December 2022

Aim

To explore the mediating role of self‐esteem in the relationship between perceived organizational support and professional benefits among Registered Nurses in China.

Design

This was an online, cross‐sectional study involving 1850 nurses from six hospitals in China.

Methods

Data were collected using a 4‐part questionnaire including a sociodemographic questionnaire, perceived organizational support scale, self‐esteem scale and brief nurses' perceived professional benefits questionnaire from September to November 2021. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to explore the associations among them.

Results

Perceived organizational support was positively correlated with self‐esteem and perceived professional benefits among nurses, whereas self‐esteem positively predicted nurses' perceived professional benefits . Self‐esteem partially mediated the relationship between the two variables. The ratio of the mediating effect to the total effect was 16.7%.
Get Ready for UCMR 5
Authors: Wagner Mary Carol , Adams Hunter , Selar Niranjan , Beier Alejandra , Steinle‐Darling Eva
Published: December 2022

Gathering data on unregulated contaminants is an essential component of the US Environmental Protection Agency's charge to protect public health.
Informing the design of urban green and blue spaces through an understanding of Europeans' usage and preferences
Authors: Jakstis Kristen , Dubovik Maria , Laikari Arto , Mustajärvi Kaisa , Wendling Laura , Fischer Leonie K.
Published: December 2022

In light of global climate change and the biodiversity crisis, making cities more resilient through an adjusted design of urban green and blue spaces is crucial. Nature‐based solutions help address these challenges while providing opportunities for nature experiences, and providing cultural ecosystem services that support public health. The COVID‐19 pandemic and its associated stressors highlighted the interrelated socio‐ecological services provided by nature‐based solutions like urban green and blue spaces.

This pan‐European study therefore aimed to enhance the socio‐ecological understanding of green and blue spaces to support their design and management. Using an online survey, green and blue space preferences, usage, and pandemic‐related changes in greenspace visit and outdoor recreation frequencies were examined.

Greenspace visit and outdoor recreation frequencies were associated with respondents’ (N = 584 from 15 countries) geographical location, dominant type of neighbourhood greenspace and greenspace availability during the pandemic, but not greenspace perceptions or sociodemographic background.

Greenspace visit and outdoor recreation frequencies were generally high; however, Southern Europeans reported lower greenspace visit and outdoor recreation frequencies both before and during the pandemic than Northern Europeans. Many Southern Europeans also reported having few neighbourhood greenspaces and low greenspace availability during the pandemic.

The most common outdoor recreational activity among respondents before the pandemic was walking or running with the most frequently stated purpose of time spent outdoors being restorative in nature (i.e. relaxing or calming down). Most Europeans had positive perceptions of green and blue spaces with preferences for structurally diverse and natural or unmanaged green elements.

This highlights the importance of accessible green and blue spaces both in everyday life and during times of crisis. Stakeholders, their preferences, and regional and cultural differences should be included in the co‐design of urban green and blue spaces to maximize their potential for both people and nature.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Effect of heat input on temperature characteristics and fusion behavior at bonding interface of CFRTP induction welded joint with carbon fiber susceptor
Authors: Wang Feiyun , Zhang Pingze , Luo Jiebang , Li Binbin , Liu Gang , Zhan Xiaohong
Published: December 2022

Induction welding is a suitable and promising technique for the assembly of thermoplastic composite structural components. In this work, the simulation and experimental research of induction welding devoted to the quality and efficient bonding of carbon fiber reinforced polyetheretherketone (CF/PEEK) laminates utilizing carbon fiber susceptors is presented. The carbon fiber susceptors that consist of carbon fabric and resin film same as base materials are prepared as heating elements to concentrate the heat generation on the welding interface. A transient three‐dimensional finite element model is developed to analyze the heating characteristics and temperature distribution during the welding process. Induction welding experiments are carried out to investigate the effect of heat input on fusion behavior at the bonding interface, focusing on macro appearances, interfacial fusion morphologies and welding defects. The results show that heat distribution at the welding interface is uneven, presenting that the temperature at the edge is higher than at the center. An increase in heat input facilitates the fusion of the joints, which is demonstrated by a smaller relative width of the fusion zone and expander effective bonding area. However, macro and micro welding defects start to appear in joints due to the massive melting, ablation and thermal decomposition of resin, which are caused by excessive heat input. The micro defects dominated by pores are divided into four types according to their positions, sizes, morphologies and causes of formation.
Antibacterial and electrochemical evaluation of electrospun polyethersulfone/silver composites as highly persistent nanomaterials
Authors: Hernández‐Orozco María Mónica , Castellanos‐Espinoza Raúl , Hernández‐Santos Nuri Aranzazú , Ramírez‐Montiel Fátima Berenice , Álvarez‐Contreras Lorena , Arellano‐Arreola Víctor Manuel , Padilla‐Vaca Felipe , Arjona Noé , España‐Sánchez Beatriz Liliana
Published: December 2022

Silver‐based antibacterial nanoparticles have demonstrated indices of possible bacterial resistance after consecutive periods of time, limiting their application on antibacterial surfaces. In this work, we fabricate electrospun composites of polyethersulfone (PES) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), displaying highly‐persistent antibacterial behavior after 10 bacterial expositions. The herein‐reported membranes were synthesized by changing the Ag loading (0.05, 0.5, and 5 wt%), adding polyvinylpyrrolidone as a dispersion promoter, and the resulting composites were evaluated after a different number of bacterial expositions against Escherichia coli (E. coli) aiming to determine their bacterial tolerance. SEM micrographs revealed that the PES fiber diameters decreased as a function of the silver content from 798 to 398 nm, attributed to the conductivity and the viscosity improvement by AgNPs introduction in the polymer solution during the electrospun process. Moreover, the surface roughness (determined by atomic force microscopy) and the contact angle changed with the Ag content, increasing the hydrophilic behavior and promoting a better interaction with the bacteria suspended in the solution. Antibacterial activity kinetics of PES/AgNPs fibers showed 75% bacterial inhibition against E. coli in the composite with 0.5 wt% Ag after 3 h of exposition, and 75% after 1.5 h in composites with 5 wt% of Ag. The ca. 25% survival bacteria were used for consecutive bacterial tolerance assays, where the antibacterial behavior was constant after 10 expositions. Interestingly, electrochemical tests confirmed that PES fibers could control the silver‐releasing process. Thus, PES/AgNPs composites avoid the bacterial adaptation process, which makes them suitable as functional antimicrobial nanomaterials.
SVECV‐f12: A composite scheme for accurate and cost‐effective evaluation of reaction barriers. II. Benchmarking using Karton's BH28 barrier heights database
Authors: Kieninger Martina , Ventura Oscar N.
Published: December 2022

A simple composite scheme developed for the calculation of accurate reaction barriers, and benchmarked against small systems, is applied here to compute barriers in the BH28 data set published in 2019 by Karton. This set comprises more complex transition states, with up to 7 non‐hydrogen and 10 hydrogen atoms, which barriers calculated at the SVECV‐f12 level are compared to the accurate CCSDT(Q)/CBS values obtained by Karton. A mean absolute difference of 2.4 kJ mol−1 and a root mean square difference of 1.9 kJ mol−1 were obtained, underlying the chemical accuracy of the protocol.
Merging three‐dimensional occupancy grid maps to support multi‐UAVs cooperative navigation systems
Authors: Basso Maik , Stocchero Diego , Schnarndorf Pedro , de Freitas Edison Pignaton
Published: December 2022

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have been widely used in many applications due to, among other features, their versatility, reduced operation cost, and reduced size. These applications increasingly require that features related to autonomous navigation be employed, such as mapping. However, the reduced capacity of resources such as battery life and hardware (memory and processing capacity) can hinder the development of these applications in UAVs. Thus, the collaborative use of multi‐UAVs for mapping can be used as an alternative to solve this problem, creating a cooperative navigation system. This system requires that individual local maps will be merged into a global map in a distributed way. In this context, this work proposes a system for merging three‐dimensional occupancy grid maps for use in UAVs that compose a cooperative navigation system. The proposed solution consists of a keypoint detector, a keypoint descriptor, and filters for keypoints and correspondences. The keypoint properties, such as orientation, are acquired from potential field gradients. Image processing techniques are applied to remove the map noise and better calculate the transformation parameters. The proposed system is validated by a set of simulation experiments performed in six different environments (indoor and outdoor). First, each component of the proposed system is individually evaluated. Then, the complete pairwise map merging system is evaluated. Finally, the appropriate functioning of the proposed system is validated through a visual evaluation.
Rapid formation of iron monosulfide on Indicator of Reduction in Soil devices in S‐rich hydric soils
Authors: Duball Chelsea E. , Andersen Megan L. , Beaudette Dylan , Vaughan Karen L.
Published: December 2022

Indicator of Reduction in Soil (IRIS) devices are used to identify anaerobic conditions in soils for hydric soil and wetland identification purposes. IRIS devices quantify anaerobic conditions via the visualization of iron (Fe) reduction (e.g., orange Fe3+ paint reduces to soluble Fe2+, leaving behind the bare, white polyvinyl chloride device). Under stronger reducing conditions, sulfate (SO42−) reduction can occur, and sulfides (S2− and/or H2S) can react with the Fe3+ paint, resulting in the precipitation of black‐colored, reduced iron monosulfide (FeS). While these processes are well known, the rate of FeS formation remains relatively understudied and current IRIS methods may not capture these data accurately. This study investigated FeS formation on IRIS films to identify deployment times that capture the minimum and maximum precipitation of FeS. To determine the timing and magnitude of FeS‐precipitation on IRIS films, five replicate films were deployed in a wet, S‐rich soil, across 11 periods ranging from 2 min to 30 days.  Results show that FeS precipitated on IRIS films in just 2 min, and the highest average amount of FeS (82%) precipitated in 1 day. After 1 day, the percentage of FeS decreased and a white color change became more apparent on IRIS films. Our results suggest that the recommended 30‐day deployment period is too long for accurately measuring FeS‐precipitation on IRIS devices deployed in wet, alkaline soils. These considerations should be incorporated into standard IRIS protocols used to quantify anaerobic conditions and other biogeochemical conditions (e.g., pore‐water sulfide levels) in S‐rich soils.
Printed Organic Photovoltaic Modules on Transferable Ultra‐thin Substrates as Additive Power Sources
Authors: Saravanapavanantham Mayuran , Mwaura Jeremiah , Bulović Vladimir
Published: December 2022

Thin‐film photovoltaics with functional components on the order of a few microns, present an avenue toward realizing additive power onto any surface of interest without excessive addition in weight and topography. To date, demonstrations of such ultra‐thin photovoltaics have been limited to small‐scale devices, often prepared on glass carrier substrates with only a few layers solution‐processed. We demonstrate large‐area, ultra‐thin organic photovoltaic (PV) modules produced with scalable solution‐based printing processes for all layers. We further demonstrate their transfer onto light‐weight and high‐strength composite fabrics, resulting in durable fabric‐PV systems ∼50 microns thin, weighing under 1 gram over the module area (corresponding to an area density of 105 g m−2), and having a specific power of 370 W kg−1. Integration of the ultra‐thin modules onto composite fabrics lends mechanical resilience to allow these fabric‐PV systems to maintain their performance even after 500 roll‐up cycles. This approach to decouple the manufacturing and integration of photovoltaics enables new opportunities in ubiquitous energy generation.
In Situ Observation on the Heterogeneous Nucleation of MnS in Heavy Rail Steels with Varied Aluminum Content
Authors: Song Peishu , Li Yaoqiang , Zhu Tanhua , Zhang Lifeng
Published: December 2022

In situ observation, scanning electron microscope/energy‐dispersive spectrometer detection, and lattice disregistry calculation are combined to investigate the evolution mechanism of inclusions in heavy rail steels with varied aluminum contents from SiO2–Al2O3–MnO to SiO2–Al2O3–MnO–MnS at 1323 K and 1393 K. The precipitation of MnS inclusions on SiO2–Al2O3–MnO inclusions in the steel occurs when the Al2O3 content in identical oxide inclusions is 30% at 1393 K and 30%, 40%, and 59% at 1323 K. The MnS outer layer shows visible precipitation from 3 min after heating at experimental temperature. The area fraction of MnS phase in SiO2–Al2O3–MnO–MnS inclusions with varied Al2O3 content at 1323 K decreases in the following order: SiO2–Al2O3 (30%)–MnO > SiO2–Al2O3 (40%) –MnO > SiO2–Al2O3 (59%)–MnO. The precipitation of MnS is prone to occur on the Al2O3‐less region of the SiO2–Al2O3–MnO inclusion. The solubility of Mn and S decreases with decreasing temperature. Lower heating temperature and lower Al2O3 content in SiO2–Al2O3–MnO oxide cores are profitable to the heterogeneous nucleation of MnS due to lower disregistry between MnS with the SiO2–Al2O3–MnO inclusion.
Polystyrene microplastic particles induce autophagic cell death in BEAS‐2B human bronchial epithelial cells
Authors: Jeon Mi Seon , Kim Jun Woo , Han Yu Bin , Jeong Mi Ho , Kim Ha Ryong , Sik Kim Hyung , Park Yong Joo , Chung Kyu Hyuck
Published: December 2022

The detection of high levels of microplastics in indoor and outdoor air has increased concerns regarding its toxic effects on the respiratory system. They are not easily degradable and can be deposited deep in the lungs. Although several studies have reported inhalation toxicities of microplastics, they are still controversial due to a lack of evidence. Herein, we evaluated the inhalation toxicities of three differently charged polystyrene microplastics (PS‐MPs), the most abundant microplastics in the air. Cytotoxicity and ROS generation were evaluated using WST‐1 and DCF‐DA assays, respectively. To evaluate the toxic effects on the lung, inflammatory responses were analyzed after repeated exposure to the PS‐MPs through intratracheal instillation. To explore the mechanism of toxicity, autophagy and ER stress‐associated proteins were analyzed. Only the positively charged PS‐MPs (NH2‐PS‐MPs) showed cytotoxicity and increased ROS generation in BEAS‐2B cells. Similarly, only NH2‐PS‐MPs significantly increased the expression and secretion of the pro‐inflammatory cytokine IL‐β in the animal experiments. The expression of ER stress proteins indicated that NH2‐PS‐MPs increased ER stress via PERK‐EIF2α and ATF4‐CHOP pathways. Moreover, accumulation of NH2‐PS‐MPs in lysosomes and deformity of the nucleus were observed in BEAS‐2B cells with autophagy induction. Taken together, our results demonstrated that NH2‐PS‐MPs induced autophagic cell death in bronchial epithelial cells, leading to inflammatory responses in the lungs. These results suggest that repeated inhalation of microplastics can result in inflammatory responses in the lung through cellular damage of lung epithelial cells, and that inhalation microplastics should be monitored to reduce inhalation health risks.
Beyond Questions: A Fellowship of Opportunities for Fostering Preschoolers' Story Comprehension
Authors: Collins Molly F.
Published: December 2022

Much attention has been paid to storybook reading as a context for supporting preschoolers' emergent language and literacy. Inferential thinking is essential to listening comprehension and to reading comprehension. Understanding the story deeply and reasoning about events and characters are central to children's enjoyment and to comprehension skills needed for later reading. Preschoolers have capacities for inferential thinking, but little practice‐based instruction, except for asking questions, has resulted from the few studies that have explored inferential talk in teacher–child language interactions. We undertook a pilot project with teachers in economically and racially diverse urban classrooms to examine the effects and components of a professional learning experience to support inferential thinking and story comprehension. The article explains important instructional opportunities for fostering story meaning and inferential thinking by leveraging components before, during, and after a read‐aloud and demonstrates practice‐based examples using children's literature.
Malformation of cortical development with abnormal cortex: early ultrasound diagnosis between 14 and 24 weeks of gestation
Authors: Krajden Haratz K. , Birnbaum R. , Kidron D. , Har‐Toov J. , Salemnick Y. , Brusilov M. , Malinger G.
Published: December 2022

Objective

To describe neurosonographic findings diagnostic or highly suggestive of the presence of malformations of cortical development involving the cortex that may be identified before 24 weeks of gestation.

Methods

This was a retrospective single‐center study of fetuses referred for neurosonography, during 2012–2019, with an abnormal cortical or sulcation pattern diagnosed early in the mid trimester. Stored files were analyzed for demographic data, abnormal brain findings, non‐central nervous system abnormalities, final diagnosis and postnatal outcome.

Results

The study cohort included 20 fetuses, with a mean gestational age at diagnosis of 18.7 (range, 14.4–23.6) weeks, in 11 of which the diagnosis was made before 20 weeks of gestation. Reasons for referral were: midline anomaly (n = 7), ventriculomegaly (n = 4), infratentorial findings (n = 3), suspected malformation of cortical development (n = 3), ‘abnormal brain’ (n = 2) and skeletal dysplasia (n = 1). On neurosonography, both the sulcation pattern and the cortical layer were abnormal in four cases, only the sulcation pattern was considered abnormal in seven and only the cortical layer was abnormal in nine. Nineteen fetuses presented with associated central nervous system anomalies and six also had non‐central nervous system malformations. One case was recurrent. Eighteen parents opted for termination of pregnancy, including one selective termination in a twin pregnancy, and two fetuses were liveborn.

Conclusions

Familiarity with fetal brain anatomy and its early sonographic landmarks allowed early diagnosis of malformations involving cortical development. These patients are likely to represent the most severe cases and all had associated malformations. The presence of an abnormal cortical layer and/or abnormal overdeveloped sulci appear to be early signs of malformation of cortical development. © 2022 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Primary cardiac malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour in a dog
Authors: Hardwick Joshua J. , Dawson Lou J. , Cahalan Stephen D. , Barker Emi N.
Published: December 2022

A 6‐year‐old, female labrador retriever was presented for acute onset abdominal distention. Clinical examination identified tachycardia, a novel grade 3/6 right basilar systolic cardiac murmur, a distended abdomen and ventral pitting oedema. Jugular pulses were not present. Echocardiography revealed an infiltrative, intramural cardiac mass, with partial occlusion of the right atrium and ventricle, resulting in isolated caudal vena cava syndrome. Postmortem examination revealed a large mass arising from the base of the right atrium and extending into the ventricular lumen. Histopathological and immunohistochemical findings were consistent with a diagnosis of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour, a rare primary cardiac neoplasm in dogs.
Comparative electrocardiographic study of the Asian freshwater box turtle Cuora flavomarginata and the Asian yellow pond turtle Mauremys mutica using non‐invasive methods
Authors: Kuo Chin‐Chia , Chan I‐Ping , Lai Cheng‐Hung
Published: December 2022

Background

Evaluation of cardiac function is an integral part of clinical examination of chelonians. However, information about electrocardiography (ECG) in turtles and tortoises is limited and fragmentary. Its application is limited due to the lack of ECG reference values. This study aimed to compare specific ECG parameters using non‐invasive methods in the Asian box turtle Cuora flavomarginata (CF) and the Asian yellow pond turtle Mauremys mutica (MM).

Methods

We included 116 clinically healthy and conscious turtles. Two non‐invasive methods, using adhesive patches or crocodile clips, for ECG were applied where possible. The ambient temperature was within the preferred optimum temperature zone of both species. We used specific digital ECG monitoring equipment to record the ECG data and analysed the data using specific software.

Results

The MM group showed better ECG quality and lower heart rate than the CF group. Comparing both methods, the adhesive patches method yielded higher ECG quality in the CF group, while the crocodile clips method yielded higher ECG quality in the MM group.

Conclusions

The study population was selected as presumed healthy turtles; the presence of systemic or cardiac disease could not be excluded completely due to limited investigation. Both ECG methods were clinically potentially useful for obtaining ECG parameters; the ECG quality was influenced by the method used.
o‐Phenylene‐ and o‐benzyl‐linked P/N−Si/Sn Lewis pairs
Authors: Wickemeyer Lucas , Steffenfauseweh Henric , Neumann Beate , Stammler Hans‐Georg , Mitzel Norbert W.
Published: December 2022

A series of different aryl‐linked (frustrated) Lewis pairs with perfluoroethylsilyl and ‐stannyl functions as Lewis acids has been prepared. The 1,2‐phenylene linked tin/phosphorus Lewis pair with a di‐tert‐butylphosphanyl unit as base shows a strong intramolecular donor‐acceptor interaction, but still readily adds hydrogen chloride. At the same time, the analogous silicon/phosphorus Lewis pair could not be obtained due to the decomposition of at least one perfluoroethyl group. With a sterically more demanding 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine base, stable Lewis pairs could be obtained for both, silicon and tin. However, they do not show activity in small molecule activation with H2, phenyl isocyanate, CS2 or SO2. Furthermore, 2‐benzyl‐linked tin/nitrogen and silicon/phosphorus Lewis pairs were synthesized. Studies on their reactions towards small molecules did not show any reactivity, probably caused by an unfavorable preorganization due to rotation of the benzyl position.
Ethics of Knowledge Production in Times of Environmental Change
Authors: Stith Michaela , Corell Robert W. , Magga Rosa-Máren , Kaiser Matthias , Oskal Anders , Mathiesen Svein Disch
Published: December 2022

This chapter includes transdisciplinary analysis, ethical considerations, and guidelines about co-producing research across science and Indigenous peoples’ traditional knowledge systems, particularly in the Arctic region in times of environmental and climatic change. The authors intend to reach out to many readers with different backgrounds and interests. The study employs inter- and transdisciplinary framing of the knowledge systems. This includes an implicit criticism of the typical narrowing of study to disciplinary siloes. It is claimed that traditional academic research misses the importance and positive contributions of different knowledge traditions and thought styles, and it is further claimed that inclusivity of these traditions is an ethical component of responsible research. In this sense, it is hoped that the following chapter inspires researchers to transcend institutionalized knowledge framings and opt for co-production of knowledge that is ethically responsive to rich cultural traditions in the Arctic. Any type of research done in communities should not exploit the Indigenous communities and knowledge holders.