bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thin Film Growth of 3D Sr‐based Metal‐Organic Framework on Conductive Glass via Electrochemical Deposition
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Yang An‐Chih , Inamdar Arif I. , Kamal Saqib , Hsu Ji‐Chiang , Kang Dun‐Yen , Tseng Tien‐Wen , Hung Chen‐Hsiung , Lu Kuang‐Lieh
Published: February 2022

Integration of metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) as components of advanced electronic devices is at a very early phase of development and the fundamental issues related to their crystal growth on conductive substrate need to be addressed. Herein, we report on the structural characterization of a newly synthesized Sr‐based MOF {[Sr(2,5‐Pzdc)(H2O)2] ⋅ 3 H2O}n (1) and the uniform crystal growth of compound 1 on a conducting glass (fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO)) substrate using electrochemical deposition techniques. The Sr‐based MOF 1 was synthesized by the reaction of Sr(NO3)2 with 2,5‐pyrazinedicarboxylic acid dihydrate (2,5‐Pzdc) under solvothermal conditions. A single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis revealed that 1 has a 3D structure and crystallizes in the triclinic P
space group. In addition, the uniform crystal growth of this MOF on a conducting glass (FTO) substrate was successfully achieved using electrochemical deposition techniques. Only a handful of MOFs have been reposed to grown on conductive surfaces, which makes this study an important focal point for future research on the applications of MOF‐based devices in microelectronics.
Facet‐Control versus Co‐Catalyst‐Control in Photocatalytic H2 Evolution from Anatase TiO2 Nanocrystals
Authors: Qin Shanshan , Shui Lancang , Osuagwu Benedict , Denisov Nikita , Tesler Alexander B. , Schmuki Patrik
Published: February 2022

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) and, in particular, its anatase polymorph, is widely studied for photocatalytic H2 production. In the present work, we examine the importance of reactive facets of anatase crystallites on the photocatalytic H2 evolution from aqueous methanol solutions. For this, we synthesized anatase TiO2 nanocrystals with a large amount of either {001} facets, that is, nanosheets, or {101} facets, that is, octahedral nanocubes, and examined their photocatalytic H2 evolution and then repeated this procedure with samples where Pt co‐catalyst is present on all facets. Octahedral nanocubes with abundant {101} facets produce >4 times more H2 than nanosheets enriched in {001} facets if the reaction is carried out under co‐catalyst‐free conditions. For samples that carry Pt co‐catalyst on both {001} and {101} facets, faceting loses entirely its significance. This demonstrates that the beneficial role of faceting, namely the introduction of {101} facets that act as electron transfer mediator is relevant only for co‐catalyst‐free TiO2 surfaces.
Ten ignored questions for stress psychology research
Authors: Gan Yiqun , Ma Jinjin , Peng Huini , Zhu Huanya , Ju Qianqian , Chen Yidi
Published: February 2022

Stress psychology is an interesting and important interdisciplinary research field. In this perspective article, we briefly discuss 10 challenges related to the conceptual definition, research methodology, and translation in the field of stress that do not receive sufficient attention or are ignored entirely. Future research should attempt to integrate a comprehensive stress conceptual framework into a multidimensional comprehensive stress model, incorporating subjective and objective indicators as comprehensive measures. The popularity of machine learning, cognitive neuroscience, and gene epigenetics is a promising approach that brings innovation to the field of stress psychology. The development of wearable devices that precisely record physiological signals to assess stress responses in naturalistic situations, standardize real‐life stressors, and measure baselines presents challenges to address in the future. Conducting large individualized and digital intervention studies could be crucial steps in enhancing the translation of research.
Prediction of polypropylene business strategy for a petrochemical plant using a technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution‐based artificial neural network
Authors: Singh Akash , Majumder Pinki , Bera Uttam Kumar
Published: February 2022

The quality of polypropylene is one of the major components in the plastic industry. The quality of the polypropylene depends upon the melt flow index and the xylene solubility under the given condition such as hydrogen flow, donor flow, pressure, temperature, etc. This study investigates the use of artificial neural network (ANN) modeling for the prediction of the quality of polypropylene for petrochemical plants. This study proposes an ANN model to predict the “melt flow index (MFI) and xylene solubility” as the quality of polypropylene depends upon these two factors. Hydrogen (H2) flow, pressure, temperature, and donor flow are the controlling parameters for the MFI and xylene solubility. The study proposes a new approach for the selection of the best topology using the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) multicriterion decision‐making (MCDM) process for the ANN technique. Experimental data are trained with three training algorithms each with four combinations of training functions and each with three combinations of numbers of neurons. In this study, the best model for ANN is found by the Levenberg–Marquardt backpropagation training algorithm with logarithmic sigmoid and hyperbolic tangent sigmoid transfer functions. The best topology for the ANN model for prediction is selected by using the TOPSIS method. Some sensitivity analyses are provided graphically to show the physical nature of the problem.
Vladimir Kharitonov: Achievements in research
Authors: Egorov Alexey
Published: February 2022

A survey of the main research results of Professor Kharitonov is provided. The following topics are considered: stability analysis of interval polynomials, quasi‐polynomials, and multivariate polynomials; Kalman's hypothesis on the generalization of the Lyapunov matrix equation; critical delay values, complete type functionals and prediction‐based control for time‐delay systems. The fundamentals of Kharitonov's work and the influence of his results on other researchers are discussed.
Heuristics‐enhanced geospatial machine learning (SaaS) of an ancient Mediterranean environment
Authors: Svatos Karl B. W. , Ahmed Zubair , Recalde‐Salas Angela , Young Tom
Published: February 2022

Raw soil core physical data used in machine learning algorithms with corresponding spatial remotely sensed data is an emerging science. Using data derived from soil core samples previously collected in Universal Transverse Mercator zone 50 (Western Australia) and remotely sensed data, a model that predicted ground movement (GM) was developed specific to Australian Standards manual AS 1726–2017. This is the first approach for Australian soils and first in the world for soils older than 200 million yr. The model developed reliably predicted GM with 91.1% accuracy. The error obtained from the prediction is within acceptable limits currently used by engineers in calculations concerning soil classification for engineering purposes. Concerning the remotely sensed data analyzed, accuracy of the Atterberg limits method might be improved if additional information about soil structure (layering and horizon) or other variables (seasonal data) are built into this model. This model can be used to save on construction material costs, reduce the potential for human error associated with data collection and sample manipulation, but also fast‐track (by up to 6 wk based on current wait times) building approvals while ensuring compliance to the relevant legislation. This platform also reduces the environmental effects of invasive drilling techniques. A requirement within principles of sustainable building practices, and associated with current standards commonly used by structural engineers who may seek better understanding of soil properties in Australia as a software service (with application potential in North America).
Plantation politics and discourse: Forests and property in upland Ireland
Authors: Asselin Jodie
Published: February 2022

This article explores the discursive, technical, and disciplinary mechanisms that frame plantation forests as the dominant model of forest expansion in upland Ireland. It is primarily through this frame that criticisms and local voices are solicited and interpreted. I argue that the dominance of the plantation model, the industry's integration with key environmental and economic goals, and full governmental support leave little room for a case‐by‐case examination of the model and its consequences. Plantations have the potential to shift the nature of private property and the relationship between farmer and field. This reworking of the property relationship is a significant alteration of a central rural feature that has received limited attention owing to the hegemony of current practices. Regardless of the benefits or faults of the plantation model, the dominance of official discourse is such that richer and more contextually dependent discussions are muted.
Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)‐Modified Graphite Felt and Carbon Cloth Anodes for Use in Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Mishra Praveena , Malla Manzoor Ahmad , Gupta Sushil Kumar , Mishra P. , Malla M. A. , Gupta S. K.
Published: February 2022

Anode modification is an effective method for enhancing extracellular electron transportation and improving the power density of Microbial Fuel Cells (MFC). In this study, we decorated the surface of Carbon Cloth (CC) and Graphite Felt (GF) with a new conductive polymer, poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxyhiophene) (PEDOT), using galvanostatic electropolymerization and fabricated a CC/PEDOT and GF/PEDOT anode for MFC application. Cyclic Voltammetry (CV) and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) analyses illustrated that the PEDOT coating improved a redox‐active surface area, high electron transfer capabilities, and lower charge‐transfer resistance of anode. These modified electrodes give enhanced MFC performances with maximum energy generation and coulombic efficiency compared with plain electrode. The morphological characteristics like higher surface area and open structure of felt and carbon material promoted microbial formation and electrochemical active area. Compared with the unmodified anode, the PEDOT anodic modification improves the current density by 6.9 times i. e., 3.813 Am−2. Thus GF/PEDOT anode excelled among the studied anodes with the synergetic effect of PEDOT coating and structural configuration, making it a potential optimum anode for MFC application.
The Use of GC‐MS and Network Pharmacology to Analyze the Material Basis and Mechanism of Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. in Treating Chronic Cerebral Circulation Insufficiency
Authors: Lv Hongyang , Zhang Xiaorui , Ren Yuanyuan , Zeng Yijia , Fang Qian , Fu Qinwen , He Dongmei , Yan Zhuyun
Published: February 2022

Use Gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry technology (GC‐MS) to identify volatile chemical components in Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. (LCH). The TCMSP and Swiss Target Prediction online platform were used to screen and predict the potential targets of the chemical components of LCH, and GeneCards, CTD, OMIM, DisGeNET, GEO databases were used to collect the potential targets of chronic cerebral circulation insufficiency (CCCI). A total of 50 volatile chemical components in LCH were analyzed and identified, and 126 potential targets for LCH treatment of CCCI were screened on this basis. Through further network topology analysis, 33 core components and 36 potential core targets were screened out. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that LCH played a therapeutic role through signaling pathways such as Neuroactive ligand‐receptor interaction, Alzheimer disease, Pathways of neurodegeneration‐multiple diseases, Proteoglycans in cancer, and Chemical carcinogenesis‐receptor activation. The molecular docking results showed the top 4 active ingredients, Ligustilide, Terpineol, 3‐Butylidenephthalide, and Linalool, and the top 5 core targets CREBBP, HSP90AA1, ESR1, VEGFA, and NR3 C1 all have good binding activity. The free energy is less than ≤‐5 kcal/mol, and the molecular docking conformation is stable. LCH may improve the symptoms of CCCI by acting on inhibiting inflammatory factors, protecting nerve cells, and promoting angiogenesis pathways.
Divergent Synthesis of Decahydroquinoline‐Type Poison‐Frog Alkaloids
Authors: Takashima Katsuki , Okada Takuya , Kato Atsushi , Yamasaki Yuhei , Sugouchi Takeshi , Akanuma Shin‐ichi , Kubo Yoshiyuki , Hosoya Ken‐ichi , Morita Hiroyuki , Ito Takuya , Kodama Takeshi , Tanabe Genzoh , Toyooka Naoki
Published: February 2022

The divergent synthesis of cis‐, 4a‐epi‐cis‐, 2‐epi‐cis‐, and trans‐decahydroquinoline‐type poison‐frog alkaloids was achieved from the known chiral acetate 5 using a stereoselective Michael‐type conjugate addition reaction and an intramolecular aldol‐type cyclization with epimerization. The conformational control was achieved on the basis of the A1,3 strain in the starting material and the stereoelectronic effect. More specifically, the synthesis of cis‐251 A, cis‐209 J‐1, cis‐223F‐1, 4a‐epi‐cis‐251 A, 2‐epi‐cis‐251 A, and trans‐251 A bearing a seven‐carbon chain at the α‐position of the nitrogen atom on the piperidine nucleus was also realized. These compounds are expected to show selective and potent inhibitory activities toward nicotinic acetylcholine receptors.
Quantitative Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) of Magnetically Confined Bacteria Enables Early Detection of Human Bacteremia
Authors: Lee Min Seok , Hyun Hwi , Park Inwon , Kim Sungho , Jang Dong‐Hyun , Kim Seonghye , Im Jae‐Kyeong , Kim Hajin , Lee Jae Hyuk , Kwon Taejoon , Kang Joo H.
Published: February 2022

The current diagnosis of bacteremia mainly relies on blood culture, which is inadequate for the rapid and quantitative determination of most bacteria in blood. Here, a quantitative, multiplex, microfluidic fluorescence in situ hybridization method (μFISH) is developed, which enables early and rapid (3‐h) diagnosis of bacteremia without the need for prior blood culture. This novel technology employs mannose‐binding lectin‐coated magnetic nanoparticles, which effectively opsonize a broad range of pathogens, magnetically sequestering them in a microfluidic device. Therein, μFISH probes, based on unique 16S rRNA sequences, enable the identification and quantification of sequestered pathogens both in saline and whole blood, which is more sensitive than conventional polymerase chain reaction. Using μFISH, Escherichia coli (E. coli) is detected in whole blood collected from a porcine disease model and from E. coli‐infected patients. Moreover, the proportion of E. coli, relative to other bacterial levels in the blood, is accurately and rapidly determined, which is not possible using conventional diagnostic methods. Blood from E. coli‐infected patients is differentiated from healthy donors’ blood using cutoff values with a 0.05 significance level. Thus, μFISH is a versatile method that can be used to rapidly identify pathogens and determine their levels relative to other culturable and nonculturable bacteria in biological samples.
Cancelable electrocardiogram biometric system based on chaotic encryption using three‐dimensional logistic map for biometric‐based cloud services
Authors: Eldesouky Samer , El‐Shafai Walid , Ahmed Hossam El din H. , El‐Samie Fathi E. Abd
Published: February 2022

Biometric features are extensively employed for security purposes, but they are vulnerable to threats and can be lost or compromised. Electrocardiogram (ECG) has been utilized as one of the most favorable biometrics. However, it contains confidential patient health information and personal identification details. Moreover, security flaws take place in hacking scenarios. Therefore, original biometrics must be secured by preventing them from being used in biometric databases. The enhanced security trend in biometric authentication is cancelable biometrics. Cancelable biometric systems can be built by generating regularly repeated distortions of biometric features to secure the sensitive data of the users. When cancelable features are disclosed, distortion parameters are modified, and new cancelable templates are generated. This paper presents a proposed cancelable ECG recognition system based on the 3D chaotic logistic map encryption, which has highly efficient random characteristics with confusion and diffusion properties. Normal and abnormal ECG signals have been used to test the proposed cancelable biometric recognition system, and good access results have been obtained. The results of the simulation indicate that the proposed system is secure, reliable, and practicable even with ECG signals for patients.
Design thinking, lean startup, and high‐technology marketing for human‐centered systems engineering
Authors: Weiland Karen J. , Knizhnik Jessica R. L.
Published: February 2022

The use of design thinking, lean startup, and high‐technology marketing in systems engineering is presented as a case study. All were used and evaluated for their potential to improve systems engineering processes and design, address the challenges of culture change, increase the adoption rate of new technology, and engage with potential users and sponsors more effectively. Multiple examples of training and use on a Model‐Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) initiative at a large government agency showcase how these approaches were tailored and used successfully for significant benefits such as enhanced collaboration and better problem definition and design solutions. Challenges remain for use by quiet thinkers and with virtual teams. These new ways of thinking are well aligned with creating and using new technologies and are suitable for situations involving innovation, uncertainty, and change within organizations. This case study intends to familiarize systems engineers with the application of these human‐centered approaches, to interest systems engineers in incorporating these approaches into their work processes, and to inspire the systems engineering research community to investigate further.
Enacting a critical translingual approach in teacher preparation: Disrupting oppressive language ideologies and fostering the personal, political, and pedagogical stances of preservice teachers of English
Authors: Seltzer Kate
Published: February 2022

This article builds on García, Johnson, and Seltzer's (2017) concept of a translanguaging stance and lays out three of its interrelated elements—the personal, the political, and the pedagogical—that can position teachers of English to disrupt oppressive language ideologies. To move from an overemphasis on “practice” toward a focus on stance development requires that teacher preparation programs engage majority white, monolingual teacher candidates in critical reflection on how ideologies around being white and monolingual shape their perceptions of language‐minoritized students' languaging and literacies. This article offers practical approaches rooted both in theory and in collaborative research with a classroom English teacher to explore how teacher preparation programs can integrate self‐reflective, consciousness‐raising activities and projects into their coursework to encourage candidates to grapple with these three elements of their teaching stance.
Tussilagone protects acute lung injury from PM2.5 via alleviating Hif‐1α/NF‐κB‐mediated inflammatory response
Authors: Lin Hongwei , Chen Min , Gao Yanjun , Wang Zaiqiang , Jin Faguang
Published: February 2022

Environmental pollution, especially particulate matter in the air, is a serious threat to human health. Long‐term inhalation of particulate matter with a diameter < 2.5 μm (PM2.5) induced irreversible respiratory and lung injury. However, it is not clear whether temporary exposure to massive PM2.5 would result in epithelial damage and lung injury. More importantly, it is urgent to clarify the mechanisms of PM2.5 cytotoxicity and develop a defensive and therapeutic approach. In this study, we demonstrated that temporary exposure with PM2.5 induced lung epithelial cell apoptosis via promoting cytokines expression and inflammatory factors secretion. The cytotoxicity of PM2.5 could be alleviated by tussilagone (TSL), which is a natural compound isolated from the flower buds of Tussilago farfara. The mechanism study indicated that PM2.5 promoted the protein level of Hif‐1α by reducing its degradation mediated by PHD2 binding, which furtherly activated NF‐κB signaling and inflammatory response. Meanwhile, TSL administration facilitated the interaction of the Hif‐1α/PHD2 complex and restored the Hif‐1α protein level increased by PM2.5. When PHD2 was inhibited in epithelial cells, the protective function of TSL on PM2.5 cytotoxicity was attenuated and the expression of cytokines was retrieved. Expectedly, the in vivo study also suggested that temporary PM2.5 exposure led to acute lung injury. TSL treatment could effectively relieve the damage and decrease the expression of inflammatory cytokines by repressing Hif‐1α level and NF‐κB activation. Our findings provide a new therapeutic strategy for air pollution‐related respiratory diseases, and TSL would be a potential preventive medicine for PM2.5 cytotoxicity.
Time‐dependent effect of inhaled cigarette smoke exposure in the bleomycin‐induced lung injury rat model
Authors: Go Ryeo‐Eun , Lee Sung‐Moo , Shin Young‐Jun , Kim Min‐Seok , Park Chul‐Min , Ko Eul‐Bee , Kim Soochong , Choi Kyung‐Chul
Published: February 2022

Cigarette smoke (CS) substances are known to induce diverse ailments such as cancer, decreased immunity, and lung diseases. Although some studies have been actively conducted to evaluate cigarette toxicity, the current animal exposure methods, that is, exposure of 28‐ or 90‐days, require considerable research cost and lead to obscure results of the CS effects. In a previous study, we compared the effects of CS in a rat model of bleomycin (BLM) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced lung disease. We determined that compared to the LPS‐induced rat model, the BLM‐induced rat model was more sensitive to alterations in secreting cytokines and total cell number. In the current study, we further confirmed the time‐point of effective inhalation exposure by CS in the BLM‐induced lung injury rat model. Using an automatic video instillator, rats were administered a single dose of 2.5 mg/kg BLM (day 1), and subsequently exposed to CS via inhalation (nose‐only) 4 h/day, for 1, 2, 3, and 4 weeks. The bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was obtained from the right lung lobes, total cell numbers were counted, and chemokine and cytokine expressions were evaluated using Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay. For the 1‐week exposure, we observed a greater increase of neutrophils in the BLM + CS 300 μg/L group than in the BLM or CS 300 μg/L groups. Exposure of CS in the BLM‐induced lung injury rat model enhanced the secretions of chemokines and cytokines, such as CCL2/MCP‐1, CXCL2/MIP‐2 and TNF‐α, at 1 week. Immunohistochemistry and Hematoxylin and Eosin staining of lungs at 1–2 weeks after exposure clearly confirmed this tendency in the increased levels of CCL2/MCP‐1 and TNF‐α. Taken together, these results indicate that the rat model of BLM‐induced lung injury is more sensitive to CS exposure than other rat models, and may be an appropriate model to evaluate the effect of CS exposure at 1–2 weeks.
The first case report of rabies in a grey wolf (Canis lupus) in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province (Iran)
Authors: Ghorani Mohammadreza , Eslami Fahime , Jafari Ghafar
Published: February 2022

Rabies is an acute fatal viral encephalitis usually transmitted from animals to men following domestic and wild animal bites. Rabies is endemic in Iran. It is the most important zoonotic disease in the country. Here, we describe a case report of grey wolf rabies in Iran. One grey wolf in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province showed signs of rabies. Clinical signs were characterised by increased sensitivity, ferocity, restlessness, and depression is accompanied by lethargy. After a while, the animal died. The brain samples were taken from the wolf soon after death. The sample was refrigerated and transported fresh on ice to the laboratory. Fluorescent antibody technique (FAT) confirmed rabies infection in the wolf. Prevention and control of this fatal disease require a sensitive surveillance system to follow suspected animal and human rabies cases thoroughly through the improved reporting system, which contains the history of exposure, clinical examinations, symptoms, and laboratory results. Rapid and accurate diagnosis of rabies is very important due to its zoonotic and public health.
Impact of blade structural and aerodynamic uncertainties on wind turbine loads
Authors: Gonzaga Paulo , Toft Henrik , Worden Keith , Dervilis Nikolaos , Bernhammer Lars , Stevanovic Nevena , Gonzales Alejandro
Published: February 2022

Offshore wind power has been in the spotlight among renewable energy sources. The current trends of increased power ratings and longer blades come together with the aim to reduce energy costs by design optimisation. The standard approach to deal with uncertainties in wind‐turbine design has been by the use of characteristic values and safety factors. This paper focusses on modelling the effect of structural and aerodynamic uncertainties in blades. First, the uncertainties in laminate properties are characterised and propagated in a blade structural model by means of a Monte Carlo simulation. Wind tunnel measurement data are then used to define the variability in lift and drag coefficients for both clean and rough aerofoil behaviour, which is then used to extrapolate rough behaviours throughout the blade. A stochastic spatial interpolation parameter is used to define the evolution of the degradation level. The combined effect and the variance contribution of these two uncertainty sources in turbine loads is finally defined by aeroelastic turbine simulation. This research aims to provide a framework to deal with uncertainties in wind‐turbine blade design and understand their effects in turbine behaviour.
Hyperbolic string vertices
Authors: Costello Kevin , Zwiebach Barton
Published: February 2022

Abstract

The string vertices of closed string field theory are subsets of the moduli spaces of punctured Riemann surfaces that satisfy a geometric version of the Batalin-Vilkovisky master equation. We present a homological proof of existence of string vertices and their uniqueness up to canonical transformations. Using hyperbolic metrics on surfaces with geodesic boundaries we give an exact construction of string vertices as sets of surfaces with systole greater than or equal to L with L ≤ 2 arcsinh 1. Intrinsic hyperbolic collars prevent the appearance of short geodesics upon sewing. The surfaces generated by Feynman diagrams are naturally endowed with Thurston metrics: hyperbolic on the vertices and flat on the propagators. For the classical theory the length L is arbitrary and, as L → ∞ hyperbolic vertices become the minimal-area vertices of closed string theory.
On the search for multicenter AdS black holes from M-theory
Authors: Monten Ruben , Toldo Chiara
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We study the effective potentials for various probe branes surrounding AdS4 black holes with massive halos in consistent truncations of M-theory on the Sasaki-Einstein7 manifolds Q111 and M111. These probes are either M2 branes extended in spacetime or “particle-like” probes such as internally wrapped M2 branes and, upon reduction to type IIA String theory, D6 branes corresponding to baryon operators in the dual Chern-Simons theory. We find both global and local minima of the potential outside the horizon, indicating the existence of stable and metastable multicenter AdS black holes in the extreme mass ratio regime, at fixed temperature and charges. For the planar case, we also find an instability towards nucleation of spacetime-filling M2 branes. With this analysis, we address some open questions on the holographic description of glassy phases of matter.
Codesign in resource-limited societies: theoretical perspectives, inputs, outputs and influencing factors
Authors: Jagtap Santosh
Published: February 2022

Codesign with resource-constrained people living in developing countries is crucial for sustained adoption and use of designed solutions. Several studies have investigated codesign with resource-constrained people. It is, therefore, important to understand what has been investigated and learnt so far as well as to plan for further scholarly exploration of this field. To address this, I applied a systematic literature review (SLR) approach to understand main sources, definitions, and theoretical perspectives regarding codesign with resource-constrained people. The SLR also aimed to understand inputs and outputs of codesign as well as factors influencing the codesign process. The findings portray a multifaceted picture regarding these aspects of codesign. I discuss implications of review findings for the practice of codesigning solutions with resource-constrained people, identify concerns that researchers should have about this field, and offer suggestions for future research in this field of codesign.
Romance and the ozone layer: panel evidence on green behavior in couples
Authors: Köbrich León Anja , Schobin Janosch
Published: February 2022

The exploration of the drivers of interpersonal alignment processes in romantic partners is particularly relevant to policies that promote green behavior because social anchoring in families and relationships can undermine effective behavioral change. The present paper aims to investigate the role important life events, such as childbirth, marriage, and the acquisition of real estate, in explaining the alignment of pro-environmental behavior within couples over time. The adoption of a life-course perspective is a novelty. We draw on a representative longitudinal panel data set to investigate the significance of important life events and the distribution of economic power within a relationship for green alignment. The empirical results are double edged. They show that partners who are expecting the birth of their first child are more similar than partners who are not expecting children. After childbirth, partners become significantly more dissimilar. Furthermore, we find evidence of a reconciliation effect. Over time, partners who divorce and continue cohabiting align more than partners who do not divorce.
Towards quantitative point of care detection using SERS lateral flow immunoassays
Authors: Sloan-Dennison Sian , O’Connor Emma , Dear James W. , Graham Duncan , Faulds Karen
Published: February 2022

The rapid detection of biomolecules in a point of care (POC) setting is very important for diagnostic purposes. A platform which can provide this, whilst still being low cost and simple to use, is paper-based lateral flow immunoassays (LFIA). LFIA combine immunology and chromatography to detect a target by forming an immunocomplex with a label which traps them in a test zone. Qualitative analysis can be performed using the naked eye whilst quantitative analysis takes place by measuring the optical signal provided by the label at the test zone. There are numerous detection methods available; however, many suffer from low sensitivity and lack of multiplexing capabilities or are poor at providing POC quantitative analysis. An attractive method to overcome this is to use nanoparticles coated in Raman reporters as the labelled species and to analyse test zones using surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). Due to the wide variety of metal nanoparticles, Raman reporter and laser excitations that are available, SERS-based LFIA have been adapted to identify and quantify multiple targets at once. Large Raman microscopes combined with long mapping times have limited the platform to the lab; however, by transferring the analysis to portable Raman instruments, rapid and quantitative measurements can be taken at the POC without any loss in sensitivity. Portable or handheld SERS-LFIA platforms can therefore be used anywhere, from modern clinics to remote and resource-poor settings. This review will present an overview of SERS-based LFIA platforms and the major recent advancements in multiplexing and portable and handheld detection with an outlook on the future of the platform.

Graphical abstract
Functional outcome of contralateral C7 nerve transfer combined with free functional gracilis transplantation to repair total brachial plexus avulsion: a report of thirty-nine cases
Authors: Chen Jianping , Qin Bengang , Wang Honggang , Fang Jintao , Yang Jiantao , Gu Liqiang
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Treatment of total brachial plexus avulsion (TBPA) is a challenge in the clinic, especially the restoration of hand function. The current main surgical order is from proximal to distal joints. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the outcomes of “distal to proximal” surgical method.

Methods

Thirty-nine patients underwent contralateral C7 (CC7) nerve transfer to directly repair the lower trunk (CC7-LT) and phrenic nerve transfer to the suprascapular nerve (PN-SSN) during the first stage, followed by free functional gracilis transplantation (FFGT) for elbow flexion and finger extension. Muscle strength of upper limb, degree of shoulder abduction and elbow flexion, and Semmes–Weinstein monofilament test and static two-point discrimination of the hand were examined according to the modified British Medical Research Council (mBMRC) scoring system.

Results

The results showed that motor recovery reached a level of M3 + or greater in 66.7% of patients for shoulder abduction, 87.2% of patients for elbow flexion, 48.7% of patients for finger extension, and 25.6% of patients for finger flexion. The mean shoulder abduction angle was 45.5° (range 0–90°), and the average elbow flexion angle was 107.2° (range 0–142°), with 2.5 kg average flexion strength (range 0.5–5 kg). In addition, protective sensibility (≥ S2) was found to be achieved in 71.8% of patients.

Conclusion

In reconstruction of TBPA, CC7 transfer combined with free functional gracilis transplantation is an available treatment method. It could help patients regain shoulder joint stability and the function of elbow flexion and finger extension and, more importantly, provide finger sensation and partial finger flexion function. However, the pick-up function was unsatisfied, which needed additional surgery.
Properties of an attention-grabbing motion signal: a comparison of tail and body movements in a lizard
Authors: Peters Richard A. , Ramos Jose
Published: February 2022

Animals signals must be detected by receiver sensory systems, and overcome a variety of local ecological factors that could otherwise affect their transmission and reception. Habitat structure, competition, avoidance of unintended receivers and varying environmental conditions have all been shown to influence how animals signal. Environmental noise is also crucial, and animals modify their behavior in response to it. Animals generating movement-based visual signals have to contend with wind-blown plants that generate motion noise and can affect the detection of salient movements. The lizard Amphibolurus muricatus uses tail flicking at the start of displays to attract attention, and we hypothesized that tail movements are ideally suited to this function. We compared visual amplitudes generated by tail movements with push-ups, which are a key component of the rest of the display. We show that tail movement amplitudes are highly variable over the course of the display but consistently greater than amplitudes generated by push-ups and not constrained by viewing position. We suggest that these features, combined with the tail being a light structure that does not compromise other activities, provide an ideal introductory component for attracting attention in the ecological setting in which they are generated.
Long-term microclimate study of a peatland in Central Europe to understand microrefugia
Authors: Słowińska Sandra , Słowiński Michał , Marcisz Katarzyna , Lamentowicz Mariusz
Published: February 2022

Peatlands perform many important ecosystem functions at both the local and global scale, including hydrologic and climatic regulation. Although peatlands often act as climatic microrefugia, they have rarely been the subject of long-term microclimatic studies. In this study, we aimed to compare the local climatic conditions of a mid-forest mire to that of an open area and examine the differences in microclimates within the mire based on plant community diversity, shading, and water table depths. The peatland studied in this work was significantly cooler than the reference site, mainly due to a higher decline in nighttime air temperatures. However, the daily maximum air temperature near the ground was often higher. We also noticed that microclimates significantly differed within the studied peatland. Wet and shaded microsites were cooler than the sites having a lower water level and receiving higher amounts of solar radiation. The results of the study suggest that peatlands have locally cooler climates, and thus can serve as climate change refugia. These findings can help us interpret reconstructed data from the peat archive, and, when combined with experiments, identify tipping points for peatland ecosystems.
A free boundary isometric embedding problem in the unit ball
Authors: Koerber Thomas
Published: February 2022

We study a free boundary isometric embedding problem for abstract Riemannian two-manifolds with the topology of the disc. Under the assumption of positive Gauss curvature and geodesic curvature of the boundary being equal to one, we show that every such disc may be isometrically embedded into the Euclidean three-space $$\mathbb {R}^3$$

R

3

such that the image of the boundary meets the unit sphere $$\mathbb {S}^2$$

S

2

orthogonally. We also show that the embedding is unique up to rotations and reflections through planes containing the origin. Finally, we define a new Brown-York type quasi-local mass for certain free boundary surfaces and discuss its positivity.
Exploiting environmental signals to enable policy correlation in large-scale decentralized systems
Authors: Danassis Panayiotis , Erden Zeki Doruk , Faltings Boi
Published: February 2022

Can artificial agents benefit from human conventions? Human societies manage to successfully self-organize and resolve the tragedy of the commons in common-pool resources, in spite of the bleak prediction of non-cooperative game theory. On top of that, real-world problems are inherently large-scale and of low observability. One key concept that facilitates human coordination in such settings is the use of conventions. Inspired by human behavior, we investigate the learning dynamics and emergence of temporal conventions, focusing on common-pool resources. Extra emphasis was given in designing arealistic evaluation setting: (a) environment dynamics are modeled on real-world fisheries, (b) we assume decentralized learning, where agents can observe only their own history, and (c) we run large-scale simulations (up to 64 agents). Uncoupled policies and low observability make cooperation hard to achieve; as the number of agents grow, the probability of taking a correct gradient direction decreases exponentially. By introducing anarbitrary common signal(e.g., date, time, or any periodic set of numbers) as a means to couple the learning process, we show that temporal conventions can emerge and agents reachsustainableharvesting strategies. The introduction of the signal consistently improves the social welfare (by$$258\%$$258%on average, up to$$3306\%$$3306%), the range of environmental parameters where sustainability can be achieved (by$$46\%$$46%on average, up to$$300\%$$300%), and the convergence speed in low abundance settings (by$$13\%$$13%on average, up to$$53\%$$53%).
Adoption of Pedagogical Documentation in Finnish ECEC Settings
Authors: Lindh Charlotte , Mansikka Jan-Erik
Published: February 2022

According to educational research, pedagogical documentation, utilised in early childhood education and care (ECEC) settings in several countries around the world, can enhance participation and quality. However, the use of pedagogical documentation does not have an unequivocal meaning and the impact depends on the context and how pedagogical documentation is implemented and adopted. This study investigated how pedagogical documentation was used and adopted among professionals in Finnish ECEC in the wake of a new normative curriculum in 2016 that made pedagogical documentation mandatory. Theoretically, the study is based on educational research that has a close affinity to the Reggio Emilia approach to documentation. The empirical data (N = 135) was derived from a questionnaire that was sent out to ECEC centres in one larger municipality in Finland. Our empirical data was examined using a mix of quantitative and qualitative content analysis. Our findings arrived at four different dimensions presenting various ways of implementing and adopting pedagogical documentation. We see the results as significant both in Finland and internationally, since pedagogical documentation requires interpretation by ECEC professionals and adaptation to local and regional conditions.
A Capability Approach to worker dignity under Algorithmic Management
Authors: Lamers Laura , Meijerink Jeroen , Jansen Giedo , Boon Mieke
Published: February 2022

This paper proposes a conceptual framework to study and evaluate the impact of ‘Algorithmic Management’ (AM) on worker dignity. While the literature on AM addresses many concerns that relate to the dignity of workers, a shared understanding of what worker dignity means, and a framework to study it, in the context of software algorithms at work is lacking. We advance a conceptual framework based on a Capability Approach (CA) as a route to understanding worker dignity under AM. This paper contributes to the existing AM literature which currently is mainly focused on exploitation and violations of dignity and its protection. By using a CA, we expand this focus and can evaluate the possibility that AM might also enable and promote dignity. We conclude that our CA-based conceptual framework provides a valuable means to study AM and then discuss avenues for future research into the complex relationship between worker dignity and AM systems.
Exculpation and Stigma in Tourette Syndrome
Authors: Bervoets Jo , Kampen Jarl K. , Hens Kristien
Published: February 2022

Purpose

There is a widespread recognition that biomedical explanations offer benefits to those diagnosed with a mental disorder. Recent research points out that such explanations may nevertheless have stigmatizing effects. In this study, this ‘mixed blessing’  [2] account of biomedical explanations is investigated in a case of philosophical interest: Tourette Syndrome.

Method

We conducted a vignette survey with 221 participants in which we first assessed quantitative attributions of blame as well as the desire for social distance for behavior associated with Tourette Syndrome.

Results

In our study, it is confirmed that in the case of biomedical explanations, less blame is attributed than in the case of psychosocial explanations. When presented with a mixed (or an epigenetic) explanation stressing an entanglement of biological and psychosocial factors this did not increase blame attribution. The desire for social distance is unaffected by the type of explanation but the participants’ free text feedback indicates this might obfuscate an underlying dilemma between stigma and blame revealed in recent research.

Conclusion

There seems to be potential for blame reduction in explanations where biological and psychosocial factors are entangled. However, dynamic, ‘epigenetic’, explanations require further qualitative research to be performed as well as a philosophical framework to account for the ‘mixed blessings’ account.
The ties that bind? Marriage formation, consanguinity and war in Lebanon and Palestine
Authors: Jarallah Yara
Published: February 2022

The paper explores the link between the civil war (1975–1990) in Lebanon and the first Intifada (1987–1993) in Palestine, and women’s transition to marriage and consanguinity. It marries the literature on demographic behaviour and social ties, and contributes to nascent literature on demographic behaviour in times of war extended to consanguinity. It uses a mixed methods approach using two nationally representative data sets- one from each country, complemented with in-depth interviews (n = 55). Estimation methods are a discrete-time hazard model for entry into marriage and a discrete-time competing risks model for type of marriage. Findings provide empirical support for a war-induced effect on marriage formation, with a conflict-induced educational differential, especially for higher educated women in both settings. In times of war, Lebanese, and Palestinian women and their families resort to marriage as a protective strategy, especially when further educational pursuit is no longer deemed relevant because of both actual and perceived threats to women’s safety. The strategies that women devise however, differ across both countries. Women in Lebanon strategize out-group marriages to diversify resources by establishing new alliances through marriage, while in-group marriages decline. Palestinian women on the other hand, show more heterogeneity, with some women maintaining existing familial bonds through in-group marriages, while others diversify resources through out-group marriages to facilitate new alliances. The differences in women’s strategies in each setting is also indicative of other context contingent conflict-induced mechanisms. These operate through distorted sex-ratios against women in Lebanon, and through the breakage of kin networks through migration/displacement in Palestine.
Ex Vivo Immunomodulatory Effects of Lactobacillus-, Lacticaseibacillus-, and Bifidobacterium-Containing Synbiotics on Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells and Monocyte-Derived Dendritic Cells in the Context of Grass Pollen Allergy
Authors: Heldner Alexander , Heath Matthew D. , Schnautz Benjamin , Kotz Sebastian , Chaker Adam , Kramer Matthias F. , Jakwerth Constanze A. , Zissler Ulrich M. , Schmidt-Weber Carsten B. , Blank Simon
Published: February 2022

Sensing of the intestinal microbiota by the host immune system is important to induce protective immune responses. Hence, modification of the gut microbiota might be able to prevent or treat allergies, mediated by proinflammatory Th2 immune responses. The aim was to investigate the ex vivo immunomodulatory effects of the synbiotics Pollagen® and Kallergen®, containing the probiotic bacterial strains Lactobacillus, Lacticaseibacillus and Bifidobacterium, in the context of grass pollen allergy. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from grass pollen–allergic patients and healthy controls were stimulated with grass pollen extract (GPE) and synbiotics and Gata3 expression and cytokine secretion analyzed. Monocyte-derived dendritic cells (MoDCs) cells were matured in the presence of GPE and synbiotics, co-cultured with autologous naïve T cells and maturation markers and cytokine secretion analyzed. GPE stimulation of PBMCs from grass pollen–allergic patients resulted in a significant higher production of the Th2 cytokines IL-4, IL-5, IL-9 and IL-13 compared to healthy controls. Gata3+CD4+ T cell induction was independent of the allergic status. The synbiotics promoted IL-10 and IFN-γ secretion and downregulated the GPE-induced Th2-like phenotype. Co-culturing naïve T cells with MoDCs, matured in the presence of GPE and synbiotics, shifted the GPE-induced Th2 cytokine release towards Th1-Th17-promoting conditions in allergic subjects. The investigated synbiotics are effective in downregulating the GPE-induced Th2 immune response in PBMCs from grass pollen–allergic patients as well as in autologous MoDC-T cell stimulation assays. In addition to increased IL-10 release, the data indicates a shift from a Th2- to a more Th1- and Th17-like phenotype.