bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge, attitudes and practices concerning catheter‐associated urinary tract infection amongst healthcare workers: a mixed methods systematic review
Authors: Huang Aoli , Hong Weixi , Zhao Baojie , Lin Jing , Xi Rui , Wang Yu
Published: December 2022

Aim

To evaluate healthcare workers' knowledge, attitudes and practices level of prevention and management of catheter‐associated urinary tract infection.

Design

A mixed‐methods systematic review.

Methods

Searches were conducted in CINAHL, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Medline, PubMed and Web of Science databases. Limited literatures published in English before 20 June 2021. Data were analysed and synthesized using thematic analysis by two authors.

Results

Thirty‐four articles were included. Healthcare workers' unbalanced varied knowledge level, positive attitudes, undesirable practices of catheter‐associated urinary tract infection's prevention and control were identified. Barriers of healthcare workers' knowledge, attitudes and practices level of infection prevention included heavy workload, understaffing, physician variability in indwelling urinary catheter (IUC) practice by diagnosis, nursing variability in IUC placement technique, poor relationship and nurse's poor documentation. Leadership, better education, teamwork, technique training and information technology support, advocacy for nurse‐driven protocol and IUC removal reminder were considered as facilitators.
Bird remains from Vilnius Lower Castle, Lithuania (13th–19th centuries) reveal changes in social status and unusual bird pathologies
Authors: Ehrlich Freydis , Piličiauskienė Giedrė , Blaževičius Povilas
Published: December 2022

This paper focuses on the 1,224 bird remains found during the excavations of 1990–2015 in the Vilnius Lower Castle, Lithuania. The faunal material originates from a wide time span of the 13th to the 19th centuries. To explore the bird consumption in different periods of occupation of the castle and between different social strata, we analyzed the bird specimens by morphological characteristics. The study included taxonomical identification, recording the taphonomic features and pathologies, and assessing age and sex. As expected, the majority of the bones belong to the domestic chicken, but it is mostly the presence of wild taxa such as hawk, swan, and wild galliforms that demonstrates the various roles the birds played in peoples' everyday lives. Additionally, a few pathologies like avian osteopetrosis were identified that are unique to the eastern Baltic region.
A handful of duck radiuses: Peculiarities of the avifaunal exploitation at the Gravettian site of Maisières‐Canal (Belgium)
Authors: Goffette Quentin , Lepers Christian , Jadin Ivan , Rots Veerle
Published: December 2022

The early Gravettian site of Maisières‐Canal (Belgium) was discovered in 1966, during the widening of the Canal du Centre. Emergency excavation allowed the discovery of an open‐air human occupation which yielded abundant archaeological material. A re‐examination of the well‐preserved faunal collections has expanded the bird assemblage from the 29 bones initially recognized to 78, which have been studied from an archaeozoological point of view. Six taxa were identified, including species regularly encountered in Upper Paleolithic sites, such as the snowy owl (Bubo scandiacus), the northern raven (Corvus corax), and the willow or rock ptarmigan (Lagopus sp.). Ducks (Anatinae) are by far the best represented taxa. Surprisingly, only radius fragments were recovered for ducks, most bearing breaks and tool marks. We paid special attention to this peculiar set of duck radiuses. We performed experiments on fresh duck wings to evaluate the impact of different actions on the radius. Based on our experiments, two main hypotheses emerged. This accumulation of duck radiuses may represent (1) the waste from the production of dry wings and/or (2) a supply of raw material for craft activities. However, neither of these two hypotheses can be conclusively confirmed. As well as exhibiting some discrepancies, the bird bone assemblage from Maisières‐Canal shares several characteristics with early Gravettian sites from central Europe.
Early time‐restricted eating affects weight, metabolic health, mood, and sleep in adherent completers: A secondary analysis
Authors: Steger Felicia L. , Jamshed Humaira , Bryan David R. , Richman Joshua S. , Warriner Amy H. , Hanick Cody J. , Martin Corby K. , Salvy Sarah‐Jeanne , Peterson Courtney M.
Published: December 2022

Objective

Data are mixed on whether intermittent fasting improves weight loss and cardiometabolic health. Here, the effects of time‐restricted eating (TRE) in participants who consistently adhered ≥5 d/wk every week were analyzed.

Methods

Ninety patients aged 25 to 75 years old with obesity were randomized to early TRE (eTRE; 8‐hour eating window from 07:00 to 15:00) or a control schedule (≥12‐hour window) for 14 weeks. A per‐protocol analysis of weight loss, body composition, cardiometabolic health, and other end points was performed.

Results

Participants who adhered to eTRE ≥5 d/wk every week had greater improvements in body weight (−3.7 ± 1.2 kg; p = 0.003), body fat (−2.8 ± 1.3 kg; p = 0.04), heart rate (−7 ± 3 beats/min; p = 0.02), insulin resistance (−2.80 ± 1.36; p = 0.047), and glucose (−9 ± 5 mg/dL; p = 0.047) relative to adherers in the control group. They also experienced greater improvements in mood, including fatigue and anger; however, they self‐reported sleeping less and taking longer to fall asleep.

Conclusions

For those who can consistently adhere at least 5 d/wk, eTRE is a valuable approach for improving body weight, body fat, cardiometabolic health, and mood. Further research is needed to determine whether eTRE's effects of shortening sleep but reducing fatigue are healthful or not.
Waist‐to‐height ratio for the prediction of gallstone disease among different obesity indicators
Authors: Chou Tien‐Shin , Lin Chih‐Lang , Chen Li‐Wei , Hu Ching‐Chih , Chang Jia‐Jang , Yen Cho‐Li , Chen Shuo‐Wei , Liu Ching‐Jung , Chien Cheng‐Hung
Published: December 2022

Background

Factors of metabolic syndrome such as obesity are well‐known risk factors for gallstone disease (GSD). There are different indicators of obesity, including weight, body mass index, waist circumference, and waist‐to‐height ratio. The predictive ability of different obesity indicators for GSD remains unclear.

Objective

To explore the most efficient predictor of GSD among the different anthropometric indicators of obesity.

Methods

This population‐based cross‐sectional study included 2263 participants who completed a questionnaire detailing their demographics, medical history, and lifestyle between 2014 and 2017 in Taiwan. Blood samples were collected and physical examinations, including anthropometric measurements, were performed. Gallstone disease was ascertained using ultrasonography. Multivariate analyses were performed to identify independent risk factors for GSD.

Results

The overall prevalence of GSD was 8.8%. According to the multivariate analysis, individuals with a waist‐to‐height ratio ≥0.5 (odds ratio|odds ratios (OR) = 1.65, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.10−2.48, p = 0.017) had an increased risk of GSD. Diabetes was the main risk factor for GSD in men (OR = 2.06, 95% CI = 1.17−3.65, p = 0.013). Among women, waist‐to‐height ratio >0.5 (OR = 1.76, 95% CI = 1.03−3.02, p = 0.040) and current hormone drug use (OR = 2.73, 95% CI = 1.09−6.84, p = 0.033) were significant risk factors for gallstones.

Conclusion

GSD was independently associated with central obesity and exogenous hormone intake in women. Among the anthropometric indicators used to assess central obesity, waist‐to‐height ratio was the most accurate predictor of GSD.
Self‐resistance heating forming and performance analysis of Al/PEEK/CFRP laminates
Authors: Zhang Yong , Li Yibo , Lu Yan , Liu Jinsong
Published: December 2022

To shorten the preparation cycle of Al/PEEK/CFRP laminates fabricated by Al sheets, peek films, and CFRP prepreg and reduce energy consumption during the preparation process to ensure the highest quality laminates, a novel forming process based on self‐resistance electric (SRE) heating was proposed. Considering the tensile properties, fracture morphology, and void content comprehensively, the influence of current intensity (11.5, 12.5, 13.5 A) on the forming quality of laminates was explored. This optimized electric heating process was compared with the traditional heating process with respect to forming time, energy consumption, and the performance of the prepared samples. The results show that when the current is 12.5 A, the molding quality of the samples prepared by the SRE process is better than that of the traditional process. In addition, the SRE process significantly reduces forming times and saves energy. This SRE heating method provides a new process optimization pathway for the preparation and formation of fiber metal laminates and exhibits great prospects for future research.
The limiting effect of genome size on xylem vessel diameter is shifted by environmental pressures in seed plants
Authors: Feng Xiangyan , Zhong Linfei , Zhou Hai , Bi Jingwen , Batool Huma , Zhang Xintan , Zhao Wenzhi
Published: December 2022

Current and previous studies have extensively studied the physiological and ecological consequences of genome size (GS) on plants because of the limiting effect of GS on cell size. However, it is still obscure whether such limiting effect could be shifted by environmental pressures, or not. Here, we compiled a global dataset comprised of GS, xylem vessel diameter (Vdia), xylem hydraulic conductivity (KS), P50 (xylem water potential at the loss of 50% maximum KS), and climate factors of 251 phylogeny and habitat divergent species from 59 families. The results showed that GS could limit the Vdia of the species from the same family sampled in the similar climate conditions. But the expected positive relationship between GS and Vdia became uncertain and even negative across different environmental conditions. Vdia was strongly positively coordinated with mean annual temperature (MAT), mean annual precipitation (MAP), and potential evapotranspiration (PET). Furthermore, Vdia as the anatomic foundation of plant hydraulic performance was strongly positively coordinated with KS and negatively coordinated with −P50. The strong environmental selection on KS and P50 explained the concerted regulation of Vdia by environmental factors. The findings revealed the combined regulation of GS and environmental pressures on xylem cell size and thus affected plant eco‐physiological performance. The shifted cell size limiting effect of GS by environmental factors manifests plants great plasticity under changed environmental conditions.
Molecular docking and A DFT study on the antiradical activity of naringenin and hesperetin with nitric oxide, peroxy, and methoxy radicals
Authors: Erdoğan Şaban , Özbakır Işın Dilara
Published: December 2022

Naturally occurring flavonoids, naringenin (N) and hesperetin (H), were theoretically investigated for their ability to scavenge nitric oxide, peroxy, and methoxy radicals in gas, water, and benzene solvent media. BMK/6‐311+G(d,p) level of theory was used to for determine antiradical activity of the selected compounds and the calculation of reaction enthalpies related to three possible mechanisms of free radical scavenging activity, namely, hydrogen atom transfer (HAT), single electron transfer–proton transfer (SET‐PT), and sequential proton loss electron transfer (SPLET). When the results were examined, it was seen that the SET‐PT mechanism was not an effective antioxidant effect mechanism in any solvent medium. In addition, in the absence of any radicals, HAT in the gas phase, SPLET in the water phase, and HAT and SPLET in the benzene phase are in competition. When the investigated antioxidants were examined in the presence of various radicals in terms of their antiradical scavenging properties, it was observed that the SET‐PT mechanism was not possible in all radicals and all solvent phases due to positive ionization potential (IP) values. In addition, it was determined that the SPLET mechanism pathway was the most likely mechanism pathway with all the radicals examined. In addition, molecular docking calculations of the studied molecules were made to compare the activities against to human peroxiredoxin‐5 (HP5), a protein with antioxidant properties.
The MECP2‐TRD domain interacts with the DNMT3A‐ADD domain at the H3‐tail binding site
Authors: Kunert Stefan , Linhard Verena , Weirich Sara , Choudalakis Michel , Osswald Florian , Krämer Lisa , Köhler Anja R. , Bröhm Alexander , Wollenhaupt Jan , Schwalbe Harald , Jeltsch Albert
Published: December 2022

The DNMT3A DNA methyltransferase and MECP2 methylation reader are highly expressed in neurons. Both proteins interact via their DNMT3A‐ADD and MECP2‐TRD domains, and the MECP2 interaction regulates the activity and subnuclear localization of DNMT3A. Here, we mapped the interface of both domains using peptide SPOT array binding, protein pull‐down, equilibrium peptide binding assays, and structural analyses. The region D529‐D531 on the surface of the ADD domain was identified as interaction point with the TRD domain. This includes important residues of the histone H3 N‐terminal tail binding site to the ADD domain, explaining why TRD and H3 binding to the ADD domain is competitive. On the TRD domain, residues 214–228 containing K219 and K223 were found to be essential for the ADD interaction. This part represents a folded patch within the otherwise largely disordered TRD domain. A crystal structure analysis of ADD revealed that the identified H3/TDR lysine binding pocket is occupied by an arginine residue from a crystallographic neighbor in the ADD apoprotein structure. Finally, we show that mutations in the interface of ADD and TRD domains disrupt the cellular interaction of both proteins in NIH3T3 cells. In summary, our data show that the H3 peptide binding cleft of the ADD domain also mediates the interaction with the MECP2‐TRD domain suggesting that this binding site may have a broader role also in the interaction of DNMT3A with other proteins leading to complex regulation options by competitive and PTM specific binding.
Insecticidal potential of extracts, fractions, and molecules ofAconitum heterophyllumWall ex. Royle against aphidAphis craccivoraKoch (Hemiptera: Aphididae)
Authors: Kumar Sandeep , Anmol  , Sharma Upendra , Reddy SG Eswara
Published: December 2022

BACKGROUND

Aphis craccivorais the major sap‐sucking pest of leguminous crops and vector of plant viruses that cause damage to plants and reduce yield. Indiscriminate and nonjudicious use of synthetic insecticides led to resistance development and harmful to environment. Therefore, it is important to discover plant‐based lead(s) which can replace synthetic insecticides. In the current study the residual toxicity of extracts, fractions, and isolated compounds ofAconitum heterophyllumwere evaluated againstA. craccivorato identify lead(s) for further development of botanical formulation.

RESULTS

In residual contact assay, ethanolic (LC50 = 2837.17 mg L−1) and aqueous methanolic extracts (LC50 = 2971.59 mg L−1) were effective againstA. craccivora. Among fractions, then‐butanol fraction of the aqueous methanolic extract (LC50 = 986.96 mg L−1) was found to be most effective, followed by the ethyl acetate fraction of the ethanolic extract (LC50 = 1037.52 mg L−1) and then‐hexane fraction of both extracts (LC50 = 1113.85 to 1233.11 mg L−1). Among pure molecules, aconitic acid was found to be the most effective (68% mortality; LC50 = 1313.19 mg L−1) and was on a par with azadirachtin 0.15% EC (66% mortality; LC50 = 1921.10 mg L−1). Furthermore, from the effect of ethanoic extract on detoxification enzyme inhibition inA. craccivorawe concluded that the target site of action of this extract inA. craccivoramight be glutathione S‐transferase.

CONCLUSIONS

The parent extract/fractions ofA. heterophylumshowed promising activity againstA. craccivora. Among phytoconstituents of the active extract and fractions, aconitic acid was found to be on a par with azadirachtin 0.15% EC. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Successful treatment with dupilumab for mucus plugs in severe asthma
Authors: Anai Moriyasu , Yoshida Chieko , Izumi Hiroki , Muramoto Kei , Saruwatari Koichi , Tomita Yusuke , Ichiyasu Hidenori , Sakagami Takuro
Published: December 2022

A 29‐year‐old man presented to our hospital with severe eosinophilic asthma. He needed a short OCS burst for exacerbation of asthma once every 1 or 2 months, although he used a high dose of inhaled corticosteroids and a long‐acting beta‐2 agonists. Chest CT showed multiple mucous plugs with bronchiectasis, but further examination found that he did not meet the diagnostic criteria for allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis. After starting dupilumab for his severe eosinophilic asthma, his asthma control improved without exacerbation. Furthermore, most mucus plugs disappeared on chest CT after 16 weeks from initiating dupilumab. This case suggests that dupilumab may be an effective treatment against mucus plugs associated with severe eosinophilic asthma.
Toward Smart Sensing by MXene
Authors: Li Yufen , Huang Shirong , Peng Songang , Jia Hao , Pang Jinbo , Ibarlucea Bergoi , Hou Chongyang , Cao Yu , Zhou Weijia , Liu Hong , Cuniberti Gianaurelio
Published: December 2022

The Internet of Things era has promoted enormous research on sensors, communications, data fusion, and actuators. Among them, sensors are a prerequisite for acquiring the environmental information for delivering to an artificial data center to make decisions. The MXene‐based sensors have aroused tremendous interest because of their extraordinary performances. In this review, the electrical, electronic, and optical properties of MXenes are first introduced. Next, the MXene‐based sensors are discussed according to the sensing mechanisms such as electronic, electrochemical, and optical methods. Initially, biosensors are introduced based on chemiresistors and field‐effect transistors. Besides, the wearable pressure sensor is demonstrated with piezoresistive devices. Third, the electrochemical methods include amperometry and electrochemiluminescence as examples. In addition, the optical approaches refer to surface plasmonic resonance and fluorescence resonance energy transfer. Moreover, the prospects are delivered of multimodal data fusion toward complicated human‐like senses. Eventually, future opportunities for MXene research are conveyed in the new material discovery, structure design, and proof‐of‐concept devices.
Porcine antibody profiles of 33Mycoplasma hyopneumoniaefusion proteins fromM. hyopneumoniaenatural infection but not vaccination
Authors: Ning Yaru , Yang Yujiao , Tian Yaqin , Zhang Yun , Luo Wenyi , Wen Yukang , Zhou Yaoqin , Ding Honglei
Published: December 2022

Background

Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, the primary pathogen responsible for porcine enzootic pneumonia, reduces average daily weight gain and causes substantial economic losses to the pig industry worldwide. Vaccination is the most common strategy to control this disease but offers partial protection. Therefore, developing next‐generation vaccines by screening protective antigens is crucial.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibody response to 33 recombinant proteins in pigs naturally infected withM. hyopneumoniae.

Methods

The genes encoding 33 (hypothetical) membrane proteins or secretory proteins were ligated into pGEX‐6P‐1, pGEX‐6P‐2, pGEX‐5X‐3 or pGEX‐4T‐3 vectors and transformed intoEscherichia coliBL21(DE3) orE. coliXL‐1 Blue to construct recombinant bacteria and to express the recombinant proteins. The recombinant bacteria expressing the target proteins reacted with porcine convalescent sera and negative sera to screen immunodominant proteins by ELISA. Then, recombinant bacteria expressing immunodominant proteins were used to identify the discriminating immunodominant proteins that were recognised by convalescent sera nut not hyperimmune sera.

Results

All recombinant bacteria could express the target recombinant proteins in soluble form. Twenty‐one proteins were shown to present immunodominant antigens, and four proteins were not recognised by convalescent sera. Moreover, six proteins were considered discriminating and reacted with convalescent sera but not with hyperimmune sera.

Conclusions

The identified immunodominant proteins were antigenic and expressed during bacterial infection, suggesting that these proteins, especially those capable of discriminating between sera, can be used to identify protective antigens with the view to develop more effective vaccines againstM. hyopneumoniaeinfection.
Drain Versus No Drain in Open Mesh Repair for Incisional Hernia, Results of a Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Willemin Mélissa , Schaffer Clara , Kefleyesus Amaniel , Dayer Anna , Demartines Nicolas , Schäfer Markus , Allemann Pierre
Published: December 2022

Background

Open mesh repair of incisional hernia is associated with different local complications, particularly bleeding and seroma formation. Traditionally, drains have been placed perioperatively to prevent these complications, despite the lack of scientific evidence or expert consensus. We formulated the hypothesis that the absence of drainage would reduce number of patients presenting collections or complications. The present study aimed to compare postoperative complication rates after open mesh repair for incisional hernia with or without prophylactic wound drainage.

Methods

Prospective randomized study using standardized surgical technique and drain placement. The primary endpoint was the evaluation of residual fluid collection with ultrasound on postoperative day 30. Other complications, subdivided into medical and surgical, were analyzed as secondary endpoints.

Results

There were 144 patients randomized (70 with drain, 74 without drain). No difference was identified between both groups for fluid collection at 30 days (60.3% vs. 62%, p = 0.844). However, less surgical complications were identified in the drain group (21.7% vs. 42.7%, p = 0.007), with a lower wound dehiscence rate (1.5% vs. 9.3%, p = 0.041).

Conclusions

Prophylactic drainage in open incisional hernia repair does not objectively reduce the rate of postoperative fluid collections. Therefore, our results do not support the use of routine drainage in incisional hernia repair.

Trial registration

Trial registration on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT00478348).
A question of rite—pearl millet consumption at Nok culture sites, Nigeria (second/first millennium BC)
Authors: Champion Louis , Höhn Alexa , Neumann Katharina , Franke Gabriele , Breunig Peter
Published: December 2022

The Nok culture in central Nigeria, dated 1500–1 calbc, is known for its famous terracotta sculptures. We here present a study on > 11,000 botanical macro-remains from 50 sites, including 343 samples from Nok contexts and 22 samples dating between calad100 and 400, after the end of the Nok culture. With 9,220 remains, pearl millet (Cenchrus americanus(L.) Morrone, syn.Pennisetum glaucum(L.) R.Br.) is dominant in the Nok samples, followed by cowpea (Vigna unguiculata(L.) Walp.),Canarium schweinfurthiiEngl.,Nauclea latifoliaSm. (syn.Sarcocephalus latifolius(Sm.) E.A.Bruce), wild fruit trees and wild Poaceae. The pearl millet remains consist exclusively of charred caryopses; chaff remains are completely absent. Because we studied all size fractions, including the small 0.5 mm fractions usually containing the involucres, bristles and husks, the absence of pearl millet chaff is real, excluding a methodological explanation, and distinguishes Nok from contemporary other West African sites. We propose that most excavated Nok sites were consumer sites where clean grain was brought in from outside and consumed in a ritual context connected with feasting. This is in line with the archaeological evidence from the larger excavated sites with stone-pot arrangements that are interpreted as ritual places related to mortuary practices. In addition to the known southward branches of pearl millet diffusion from the Sahara we propose a new, hitherto unknown branch directly from the central Sahara to the central Nigerian savannas.
Renal angiotensin I-converting enzyme-deficient mice are protected against aristolochic acid nephropathy
Authors: Juretzko Annett , Steinbach Antje , Witte Jeannine , Hannemann Anke , Miehe Bärbel , Siegerist Florian , Wolke Carmen , Stracke Sylvia , Rettig Rainer
Published: December 2022

The renal renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is involved in the development of chronic kidney disease. Here, we investigated whether mice with reduced renal angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE−/−) are protected against aristolochic acid nephropathy (AAN). To further elucidate potential molecular mechanisms, we assessed the renal abundances of several major RAS components. AAN was induced using aristolochic acid I (AAI). Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was determined using inulin clearance and renal protein abundances of renin, angiotensinogen, angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) 2, and Mas receptor (Mas) were determined in ACE−/− and C57BL/6J control mice by Western blot analyses. Renal ACE activity was determined using a colorimetric assay and renal angiotensin (Ang) (1–7) concentration was determined by ELISA. GFR was similar in vehicle-treated mice of both strains. AAI decreased GFR in controls but not in ACE−/− mice. Furthermore, AAI decreased renal ACE activity in controls but not in ACE−/− mice. Vehicle-treated ACE−/− mice had significantly higher renal ACE2 and Mas protein abundances than controls. AAI decreased renal ACE2 protein abundance in both strains. Furthermore, AAI increased renal Mas protein abundance, although the latter effect did not reach statistical significance in the ACE−/− mice. Renal Ang(1–7) concentration was similar in vehicle-treated mice of both strains. AAI increased renal Ang(1–7) concentration in the ACE−/− mice but not in the controls. Mice with reduced renal ACE are protected against AAN. Our data suggest that in the face of renal ACE deficiency, AAI may activate the ACE2/Ang(1–7)/Mas axis, which in turn may deploy its reno-protective effects.
Biogeochemical dynamics during snowmelt and in summer in the Alps
Authors: Rindt Oscar , Rosinger Christoph , Bonkowski Michael , Rixen Christian , Brüggemann Nicolas , Urich Tim , Fiore-Donno Anna Maria
Published: December 2022

In alpine zones, soil microbial biomass and activity are strongly dependent on the seasonal snow cover. Current models assume that microbial biomass reaches an annual peak in winter under the insulating snowpack with a subsequent sharp decline during snowmelt. In this study, we investigated the seasonal dynamics of the soil microbial biomass in the Central Alps, where usually early snowfall buffers winter soil temperatures. We conducted a large-scale survey in three mountains around Davos (Switzerland) along altitudinal gradients from approximately 1900 to 2800 m above sea level. Using a space-for-time approach during snowmelt, soil samples were taken (1) under, (2) at the edge of, and (3) one meter away from remaining snow patches. One additional sample per site was taken in summer to further evaluate the seasonal dynamics. In total, 184 soil samples from 46 different sites were analyzed. We measured microbial biomass C and N, enzymatic activity and dissolved C and N. We observed an increase of microbial biomass and dissolved C during and immediately after snowmelt, as well as an increase from spring to summer. We suggest that the absence of soil freezing in winter and the growing amounts of dissolved C supported a continued growth, without a sudden collapse of the microbial biomass. Our results underline the importance of the insulating effect of the seasonal snow cover for the microbial dynamics. Global warming is modifying the timing and abundance of the seasonal snow cover, and our results will help to refine models for the dynamics of soil microbes in alpine ecosystems.
Online learning challenges in Thailand and strategies to overcome the challenges from the students’ perspectives
Authors: Aroonsrimarakot Sayam , Laiphrakpam Meena , Chathiphot Pokkasina , Saengsai Prayoon , Prasri Sirorat
Published: December 2022

Recently, at the end of 2019, the whole world was affected by the outbreak of COVID − 19 disease, which has caused massive disruption of the normal teaching and learning process worldwide, including Thailand’s educational system. This sudden shift of the educational processes to online learning and teaching has caused many challenges as teachers, learners, and educational institutes are not well-prepared, especially in developing countries like Thailand. This research used a mixed-methods approach, quantitative and qualitative data, in which a google form survey questionnaire was designed in both English and Thai language to 1). investigate Thai students’ perceptions of the online learning experience; 2). assess factors that cause challenges in online learning in Thailand; 3). find out strategies for improvement and overcome the challenges. For the sample of the study, 465 students were selected purposively from two public Universities in Thailand due to convenience for collecting data as two co-researchers were teaching in these universities. Results identified major challenges such as the temptation to see other sites, difficulty in understanding the lesson context, poor internet connectivity, difficulty in time management, difficulty in attending the online examination, poor quality of learning experience, low interest/motivation, difficulty in selecting the area at home, difficulty in doing work assignment/task, and distraction at home learning environment. Among the identified factors for these challenges were distraction due to noise and poor learning environment at home, teacher’s incompetency due to technical, poor teaching skills, unstructured content or no follow-up, and technological constraint affecting the quality of audio/video uploaded connectivity, technical issue or data limit. Students also suggested strategies to overcome online learning challenges such as improvement in evaluation, connectivity, interactivity, content and accessing materials. The study concluded that all these factors and strategies should be considered for the effective implementation of the online education system in Thailand.
In situ and ex situ conservation gap analyses of West African priority crop wild relatives
Authors: Nduche M. U. , Magos Brehm J. , Parra-Quijano M. , Maxted N.
Published: December 2022

Crop wild relatives are genetically related wild taxa of crops with unique resources for crop improvement through the transfer of novel and profitable genes. The in situ and ex situ conservation gap analyses for priority crop wild relatives from West Africa were evaluated using species distribution modelling, ecogeographic diversity, and complementary analyses. A total of 20, 125 unique occurrence records were used for the conservation gap analysis, however, 26 taxa had no occurrence data. 64 taxa (62.7%) occurred in protected areas, 56 taxa (55%) were conserved ex situ, while 76.7% (43) of the accessions are underrepresented with less than 50 accessions conserved ex situ. Areas of highest potential diversity were found in the Woroba and Montangnes districts in Cote d’Ivoire, Nzerekore, Faranah, Kindia, and Boke regions of Guinea, South-South, and North-East zones of Nigeria, and Kono and Koinadugu districts in Sierra Leone. Hotspots were found in Atlantique, Littoral, Mono, Kouffo, Atakora, Donga, and Colline provinces of Benin, Accra, and Volta regions of Ghana, North–Central Nigeria, and Lacs district of Cote d’Ivoire and Nzerekore region of Guinea. 29 reserve sites for active in situ conservation were identified, 11 occur in protected areas, while 18 are located outside protected areas. The establishment of the reserve sites will complement existing PAs and ensure long-term active in situ and ex situ conservation and sustainable utilization of priority crop wild relative to underpin food security and mitigate climate change in the region.
How to derive ethically appropriate recommendations for action? A methodology for applied ethics
Authors: Schleidgen Sebastian , Kremling Alexander , Mertz Marcel , Kuehlmeyer Katja , Inthorn Julia , Haltaufderheide Joschka
Published: December 2022

Researchers in applied ethics, and some areas of bioethics particularly, aim to develop concrete and appropriate recommendations for action in morally relevant real-world situations. When proceeding from more abstract levels of ethical reasoning to such concrete recommendations, however, even with regard to the very same normative principle or norm, it seems possible to develop divergent or even contradictory recommendations for action regarding a certain situation. This may give the impression that such recommendations would be arbitrary and, hence, not well justified. Against this background, we, first, aim at showing that ethical recommendations for action, although being contingent in some sense, are not arbitrary if developed appropriately. For this purpose, we examine two types of contingencies arising in applied ethics reasoning based on recent examples of recommendations for action in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. In doing so, we refer to a three-step model of ethical reasoning towards recommendations for actions. This, however, leaves open the question of how applied ethics may cope with contingent recommendations for action. Therefore, in a second step, we analyze the role of bridge principles for developing ethically appropriate recommendations for action, i.e., principles which connect normative claims with relevant empirical information to justify certain recommendations for action in a given morally relevant situation. Finally, we discuss some implications for reasoning and reporting in empirically informed ethics.
Air pollution and mobility patterns in two Ugandan cities during COVID-19 mobility restrictions suggest the validity of air quality data as a measure for human mobility
Authors: Galiwango Ronald , Bainomugisha Engineer , Kivunike Florence , Kateete David Patrick , Jjingo Daudi
Published: December 2022

We explored the viability of using air quality as an alternative to aggregated location data from mobile phones in the two most populated cities in Uganda. We accessed air quality and Google mobility data collected from 15th February 2020 to 10th June 2021 and augmented them with mobility restrictions implemented during the COVID-19 lockdown. We determined whether air quality data depicted similar patterns to mobility data before, during, and after the lockdown and determined associations between air quality and mobility by computing Pearson correlation coefficients ($$R$$
R
), conducting multivariable regression with associated confidence intervals (CIs), and visualized the relationships using scatter plots. Residential mobility increased with the stringency of restrictions while both non-residential mobility and air pollution decreased with the stringency of restrictions. In Kampala, PM2.5 was positively correlated with non-residential mobility and negatively correlated with residential mobility. Only correlations between PM2.5 and movement in work and residential places were statistically significant in Wakiso. After controlling for stringency in restrictions, air quality in Kampala was independently correlated with movement in retail and recreation (− 0.55; 95% CI =  − 1.01– − 0.10), parks (0.29; 95% CI = 0.03–0.54), transit stations (0.29; 95% CI = 0.16–0.42), work (− 0.25; 95% CI =  − 0.43– − 0.08), and residential places (− 1.02; 95% CI =  − 1.4– − 0.64). For Wakiso, only the correlation between air quality and residential mobility was statistically significant (− 0.99; 95% CI =  − 1.34– − 0.65). These findings suggest that air quality is linked to mobility and thus could be used by public health programs in monitoring movement patterns and the spread of infectious diseases without compromising on individuals’ privacy.
Arts, place, and sacrifice zones: restoration of damaged relational values in a Chilean sacrifice zone
Authors: Sanz Teresa , Rodríguez-Labajos Beatriz
Published: December 2022

This paper aims to unpack the relational dimension of place and placemaking by analysing how creative actions underpin relational values towards socio-spatial restoration in the sacrifice zone affecting the communities of Quintero and Puchuncaví (QPSZ) in Chile. Sacrifice zones are places permanently subject to environmental damage and lack of environmental regulation. For affected populations in environmentally degraded areas, creative actions such as murals, music, and street performances have become a way to re-establish connections both among humans, and between humans and the environment. To date, little has been theorized on this connection. With this in mind, we use network analysis to analyze which and how relational values are mobilized by artistic actions, and to examine ensuing socio-spatial transformations. Drawing insights from 35 interviews with activists, artists, and residents in QPSZ, we observed relational effects of arts, especially in creation processes, and in representations of local elements and life histories. The materiality of artistic practices raised as a force of placemaking, and so did artistic spaces as promoters of networking and social cohesion, essential for socio-spatial restoration. By bringing together insights from aesthetic politics, human geography, and relational values, this paper contributes to the emerging literature on art committed to tackling socio-environmental crises, and to political–ecological theories on the transformation of degraded areas.
Cascaded heat merit order for industrial energy systems to evaluate district heating potential
Authors: Kohne Thomas , Scherff Jan Niklas , Weigold Matthias
Published: December 2022

Industrial companies are undergoing a transformation to decrease energy costs and reduce emissions. The integration of renewables, sector coupling technologies, and industrial waste heat lead to complex interconnected industrial energy systems. As district heating systems play a decisive role for the integration of industrial waste heat in the building sector, barriers must be analyzed to overcome the gap between waste heat potential and waste heat use. Although data from production systems and their on-site energy supply are becoming available in the ongoing process of digitization, information deficits can be identified as one of the main barriers to couple industrial energy systems with district heating. We present a data-based methodology to evaluate the potential of industrial energy systems for connecting to district heating systems. Data from production systems, energy converters, thermal networks and necessary parameters of district heating systems are merged into a data model to determine a cascaded heat merit order and indicators for the energetic, economic and ecological potential. To set up the cascaded heat merit order, an algorithm for balancing complex industrial energy systems is integrated within the data model. In a case study, we apply the methodology to data of an industrial site. Besides increasing transparency through visualization of the cascaded heat merit order and corresponding indicators, the results show a base load potential of up to 0.8 MW over a year.
Brazilian Beach-Cast Seaweeds: Antioxidant, Photoprotection and Cytotoxicity Properties
Authors: Harb Talissa Barroco , Vega Julia , Bonomi-Barufi José , Casas Virginia , Abdala-Díaz Roberto , Figueroa Félix L. , Chow Fungyi
Published: December 2022

The potential of seaweed extracts in cosmetic applications have increased with novel development and market. Beneficial biological properties include the ability to struggle aging and anticancer agents. This research aimed to evaluate antioxidant, photoprotective and cytotoxic properties of extracts from beach-cast seaweed species from the Brazilian coast in order to propose an appropriate use of this sustainable resource. Analysis of antioxidant capacity, UV/VIS absorption, quantification of UV photoprotectors, total content of C, N and S, development of cosmetic creams and evaluation of the cytotoxicity activity against tumoral cells lines were performed. The highest antioxidant capacity was found in extracts of brown seaweeds, followed by red seaweeds, with the lowest activity detected in the green seaweed. Same pattern was observed for phenolic compounds. The extracts did not show cytotoxicity activity against healthy human cells. Other forms of extraction and incorporation of the extract into the base creams should be evaluated, the isolation and purification of substances could increase the efficiency of the photoprotective capacity. The species were highly promising and proved to be natural sources of antioxidants and substances with cytotoxicity activity against tumoral cells; therefore, they could be exploited as functional ingredients with specific applications for different types of industries. The application of seaweed extracts in combination with other natural ingredients can help in the design of new cosmetics against the negative effects of UV radiation, in addition to having the great advantage of not presenting toxicity to health or the environment because they are biodegradable.

Graphical Abstract
Urban sustainability and resilience: What the literature tells us about “lock-ins”?
Authors: Buzási Attila , Csizovszky Anna
Published: December 2022

Inherited system features and challenges that can hinder urban planning initiatives must be taken into consideration before a path towards a sustainable future can be established. By putting the lock-in effect under scrutiny, it is possible to gain valuable insight to emphasize positive lock-ins and to prevent maladaptation and unsustainable solutions. This paper aims to review the current trends of urban studies regarding sustainability, resilience, and the lock-in effect, focusing on both hot topics and mutual integration by following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR protocol) and analyzing the top-cited articles on these topics from 2015 to 2021 in the Web of Science database. Based on the revised literature, the potential lock-ins of climate-friendly and sustainable urban development are not adequately discussed. Moreover, while urban sustainability and resilience are often treated as overlapping areas, there is a lack of publications that carefully examine their interlinked long-term perspectives for any hindering effects.
Hydrogel and Machine Learning for Soft Robots’ Sensing and Signal Processing: A Review
Authors: Wang Shuyu , Sun Zhaojia
Published: December 2022

The soft robotics field is on the rise. The highly adaptive robots provide the opportunity to bridge the gap between machines and people. However, their elastomeric nature poses significant challenges to the perception, control, and signal processing. Hydrogels and machine learning provide promising solutions to the problems above. This review aims to summarize this recent trend by first assessing the current hydrogel-based sensing and actuation methods applied to soft robots. We outlined the mechanisms of perception in response to various external stimuli. Next, recent achievements of machine learning for soft robots’ sensing data processing and optimization are evaluated. Here we list the strategies for implementing machine learning models from the perspective of applications. Last, we discuss the challenges and future opportunities in perception data processing and soft robots’ high level tasks.
The tech industry hijacking of the AI ethics research agenda and why we should reclaim it
Authors: Gerdes Anne
Published: December 2022

This paper reflects on the tech industry’s colonization of the AI ethics research field and addresses conflicts of interest in public policymaking concerning AI. The AI ethics research community faces two intertwined challenges: In the first place, we have a tech industry heavily influencing the AI ethics research agenda. Secondly, cleaning up after the tech industry has implied that we have turned to value-driven design methods to bring ethics to AI design. But by framing research questions relevant to a technical practice, we have facilitated the technological solutionism behind the tech industry’s business model. Therefore, this paper takes the first steps to reshape the AI ethics research agenda by suggesting moving toward an emancipatory framework that brings politics to design while, at the same time, bearing in mind that AI is not to be treated as an inevitability. As a research community, we must focus on the repressive power dynamics exacerbated by AI and address challenges facing the vulnerable groups seldom heard, despite the fact that they are the ones most negatively affected by AI initiatives.
The Climate Crisis
Authors: Aron Adam
Published: December 2022

Why, despite all we know about the causes and harms of global heating, has so little effective action been taken to cut greenhouse gas emissions, and what we can do to change that? This book explains the mechanisms and impacts of the climate crisis, traces the history and reasons behind the lack of serious effort to combat it, describes some people's ongoing scepticism and how to shift it, and motivates an urgent program of action. It argues that the pathway to stopping dangerous global heating will require a much larger mobilization of advocacy and activism to impel decision makers to abandon fossil fuels, and transition to renewable energy and electrification embedded in a political and social framework guided by justice principles. It is an excellent resource for students and researchers on the climate crisis, the need for a renewable energy transition, and the current blocks to progress.
Two-scale interaction of wake and blockage effects in large wind farms
Authors: Kirby Andrew , Nishino Takafumi , Dunstan Thomas D.
Published: December 2022

Turbine wake and farm blockage effects may significantly impact the power produced by large wind farms. In this study, we perform large-eddy simulations (LES) of 50 infinitely large offshore wind farms with different turbine layouts and wind directions. The LES results are combined with the two-scale momentum theory (Nishino & Dunstan, J. Fluid Mech., vol. 894, 2020, p. A2) to investigate the aerodynamic performance of large but finite-sized farms as well. The power of infinitely large farms is found to be a strong function of the array density, whereas the power of large finite-sized farms depends on both the array density and turbine layout. An analytical model derived from the two-scale momentum theory predicts the impact of array density very well for all 50 farms investigated and can therefore be used as an upper limit to farm performance. We also propose a new method to quantify turbine-scale losses (due to turbine–wake interactions) and farm-scale losses (due to the reduction of farm-average wind speed). They both depend on the strength of atmospheric response to the farm, and our results suggest that, for large offshore wind farms, the farm-scale losses are typically more than twice as large as the turbine-scale losses. This is found to be due to a two-scale interaction between turbine wake and farm induction effects, explaining why the impact of turbine layout on farm power varies with the strength of atmospheric response.
Reflection principle for finite-velocity random motions
Authors: Cinque Fabrizio
Published: December 2022

We present a reflection principle for a wide class of symmetric random motions with finite velocities. We propose a deterministic argument which is then applied to trajectories of stochastic processes. In the case of symmetric correlated random walks and the symmetric telegraph process, we provide a probabilistic result recalling the classical reflection principle for Brownian motion, but where the initial velocity has a crucial role. In the case of the telegraph process we also present some consequences which lead to further reflection-type characteristics of the motion.