bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generation of dual anion vacancies on CeO2/Co4N interfaces to facilitate hydrogen evolution reaction in alkaline solution
Authors: Zhou Min , Zou Tingyan , Wang Zixun , Zeng YiFeng , Khan Muhammad Afsar , Zhou Yuxue , Lu Fei , Zeng Xianghua
Published: July 2023

Dual anion vacancies were introduced on the interfaces of CeO2/Co4N heterostructure by applying a mild plasma treatment, which accelerated the Volmer and Heyrovsky steps of alkaline HER performance in the water splitting process.
Photon localization effect and surface oxygen vacancy enhanced photocatalytic nitrogen fixation performance for nanocrystalline titanium dioxide films
Authors: Chen Sheng , Xu Ying-Min , He Ji-Nan , Chen Sheng-Li , Wang Ai-Jun
Published: July 2023

The synergistic enhancement effect of photonic crystals and surface oxygen vacancies was achieved. A possible nitrogen reduction reaction mechanism was proposed through DFT calculations.
Mechanical behaviour and microstructure evolution of wrought magnesium alloys under dynamic compression loading: a review
Authors: Li Yong-Hua , Yin Bo-Wen , Li Jun-Hui
Published: July 2023

As one of the lightest structural metals, magnesium alloys have attracted enormous attention owing to its attributes of high specific strength and specific stiffness, superior damping capacity and shock absorbency and so on. The wide application fields of wrought magnesium alloys include aerospace, transportation, and so on. It is critical to understand the correlation between dynamic mechanical response and microstructure evolution of wrought magnesium alloys in stringent impact service environment. Split Hopkinson pressure bar has become the universal and common apparatus to investigate the dynamic compression mechanical behaviour of materials under impact loading state. The recent development of dynamic (high strain rate) compression mechanical behaviour and microstructure evolution of common wrought magnesium alloys are summarized in this paper. The research directions in the future are also suggested.
Mittelfristige Ergebnisse nach perkutaner Nadelfasziotomie bei Morbus
Dupuytren
Authors: Nichlos Emmanouil , Wölfle Olaf , Marzi Ingo , Frank Johannes , Sommer Katharina
Published: July 2023

Hintergrund Der Morbus Dupuytren führt bei betroffenen Patienten
häufig zu einer zunehmenden Extensionseinschränkung der Finger.
Da die Inzidenz im Alter zunimmt, ist auf Grund des demographischen Wandels mit
einer Zunahme von diesen Dupuytren’schen Kontrakturen zu rechnen.
Deshalb besteht weiterhin der Bedarf an einer einfachen und
patientenorientierten Behandlung.In dieser Studie wurden die kurz- und
mittelfristigen Ergebnisse nach perkutaner Nadelfasziotomie (PNF)
untersucht.

Patienten und Methoden An der Studie nahmen insgesamt 40 Patienten teil,
bei denen 65 Finger mittels PNF behandelt wurden. Es wurde das totale passive
Extensionsdefizit (TPED), das passive Extensionsdefizit der einzelnen Gelenke
(PED), der Buck-Gramcko-Score, die Rezidivrate, der DASH-score und die
Patientenzufriedenheit untersucht. Hierbei wurde ein Rezidiv als
Verschlechterung des TPED um 30° oder mehr definiert. Das mittlere
Patientenalter betrug 65,9 Jahre. Die Mehrzahl der Patienten war
männlich (82%).

Ergebnisse Direkt nach der Intervention zeigt sich eine signifikante
Verbesserung der Streckfähigkeit (TPED vor PNF
74,6°±41,1 Standardabweichung (SD) auf
32,8°±29,0 SD nach Intervention), die sich bei der
Nachuntersuchung nach 30,2±13,9 SD Monaten im Durchschnitt
wieder leicht verschlechtert zeigte (TPED
52,7°±40,2 SD). Die Rezidivrate betrug 29,7%,
wobei ein höheres Tubiana-Stadium vor der Prozedur mit einer signifikant
höheren Redzivrate einherging. Trotzdem zeigte sich eine hohe
Patientenzufriedenheit und fast alle Patienten würden retrospektiv die
PNF erneut durchführen lassen.

Schlussfolgerung Die PNF stellt weiterhin trotz relativ hoher Redzidivrate
eine effektive und patientenorientierte Behandlung der Dupuytren’schen
Kontraktur dar.
Eliminating root defect in Al/Ti dissimilar friction stir welded via the double-side process
Authors: Zhang Xiankun , Wang Xue , Li Yang , Shi Lei , Wu Chuansong
Published: July 2023

The root defect is easy to occur in the conventional friction stir welded (C-FSW) Ti/Al dissimilar joints because of the thermophysical properties of titanium alloy. Double-side friction stir welding (DS-FSW) may be a solution to eliminate root defects. This work performed microstructure analyses of the Al/Ti interface for both C-FSW and DS-FSW joints and comprehensively investigated the effects of root defects. The results show that the mechanical properties of the Al/Ti C-FSW joints are severely weakened by root defects. Tensile strength of the DS-FSW joints was 310.8 MPa, which is 73 MPa high than the C-FSW joints. The DS-FSW process can effectively remove the root defects which offers a novel approach to achieve high-quality joining of Al/Ti dissimilar structures.
Targeted hydrolysis and decrepitation of Mn3AlC precipitates: a route to a novel precursor of rare earth free MnAl–C permanent magnets
Authors: Jürries Florian , Beyer Lukas , Nielsch Kornelius , Woodcock Thomas George
Published: July 2023

In this work, Mn–Al–C alloys consisting of ϵ-MnAl and carbides of the types Mn3AlC and Al4C3 were produced and exposed to water at 80 °C for 35 d. This led to the hydrolysis and decrepitation of the carbides and ultimately, of the material. The hydrolysis behaviour was studied by combined mass spectrometry, thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry. Microstructural studies with scanning electron microscopy and x-ray diffraction were carried out. X-ray computed tomography was used to study the evolution of cracks on a macroscopic scale. As the Mn3AlC precipitates were present as parallel platelets inside the ϵ-grains, the hydrolysis resulted in parallel voids separating regions of ϵ with the same orientation. This ϵ-skeleton could be easily milled into ϵ-flakes, which could be mechanically aligned so that their <001> directions were parallel. The ϵ-powder was transformed into the ferromagnetic τ-phase via heat treatment and is therefore suitable as a novel precursor material for the production of anisotropic τ-MnAl–C-based permanent magnets. Employing such a textured, ϵ-phase, precursor powder in an extrusion process could result in increased texture quality of the τ-phase with correspondingly enhanced magnetic properties.
Constructing multi-interface-structured FeNi/Fe2O3@Al2O3@C rod-like nanocomposites for superior microwave-absorption performance
Authors: Li Xinhui , Cheng Hang , Yu Menglin , Shen Fengyuan , Li Hongyan , Liu Xianguo
Published: July 2023

Constructing multi-interfaces is an effective strategy for realizing thin, wide, strong, and stable microwave absorbers. In this work, FeNi/Fe2O3@Al2O3@C nanocomposites have been prepared; in their microstructure, FeNi nanoparticles with a diameter of ∼20 nm and Fe2O3 nanoparticles with a size of ∼5 nm are dispersed in an Al2O3
µm scale rod covered by a carbon layer, in which the multi-interfaces of FeNi–Al2O3, FeNi–Fe2O3, Fe2O3–Al2O3, and Al2O3–C are constructed. Proper impedance matching, quarter-wavelength interference cancellation, and integrated electromagnetic (EM) loss capacity can be realized through optimization of the EM parameters accompanied with a multi-interface structure, resulting in good microwave-absorption behaviors with the merits of being broad, strong, thin, and stable. The nanocomposites have −49.6 dB of minimal reflection loss (RLm) at 3.2 mm 5.44 GHz (12.56–18 GHz) of effective absorption bandwidth at 2.1 mm and a RLm exceeding −10 dB at 1.6–10 mm and −20 dB at 1.8–10 mm. These results demonstrate that constructing multi-interfaces plays a guiding role in obtaining superior microwave absorbers.
Reference velocity demodulation method for accelerometer shock testing based on enhanced CEEMD and threshold correction
Authors: Zhang Wenyi , Zhang Zhenhai , Song Qianqian , Sun Haolin , Yang Jun , Hu Hongbo , Yang Xiaowei , Ji Jianrong , Su Jianjun , Zhang Zhenshan
Published: July 2023

High-G accelerometers are critical for measuring high shock signals and must be calibrated to improve measurement accuracy. A laser Doppler velocimeter (LDV) is required to calibrate a high-G accelerometer to provide a high-precision reference velocity. The LDV signal must be demodulated to obtain the velocity. However, the phase method is susceptible to noise interference, while the conventional periodic distribution method is challenging to demodulate and severely affected by signal oscillations. We propose a novel periodic distribution method based on enhanced complementary ensemble empirical mode decomposition (CEEMD) and threshold correction to demodulate the LDV signal. First, the LDV signal is processed with CEEMD to obtain multiple intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) and the residual. Next, each IMF is partially zeroed to obtain the noise-reduced LDV signal. Then, the over-threshold peak of the noise-reduced LDV signal is calculated. Finally, the demodulated velocity of the LDV signal is obtained by correcting the noise-reduced LDV signal according to the over-threshold peak point and calculating all the zero points. Simulation and experimental results show that the proposed method outperforms the phase method based on enhanced CEEMD and the periodic distribution method based on enhanced CEEMD and can significantly reduce noise interference. The results show that the proposed method can accurately demodulate the LDV signal to obtain a highly accurate reference velocity, improving the reliability of accelerometer shock testing.
Research on defect detection method of bearing dust cover based on machine vision and multi-feature fusion algorithm
Authors: Hao Yong , Zhang Chengxiang , Li Xiyan
Published: July 2023

During the assembly process of deep groove ball bearings, due to defective parts and unqualified assembly process, various indentations and scratches on the dust cover will often result in reducing the service life and reliability of the bearing. Therefore, the online monitoring of the assembly quality of the dust cover ensures the necessary detection process of the bearing surface quality. This paper proposed a bearing dust cover defect detection method based on machine vision and multi-feature fusion algorithm, which can effectively detect bearings with dust cover defects. The algorithm first performs Laplace transform and Sobel operator image enhancement on the collected bearing images. Extract and fuse multi-source fault feature with the scale-invariant feature transform (SIFT), bag-of-visual-words (BoVW) and GLCM-Hu methods. Machine learning and deep learning models were constructed, and the performance of each model was compared through feature visualization and misclassified analysis. The results show that the extracted multi-source features are more representative and robust. The SIFT-BoVW-GS-SVM model achieved the best detection results in detecting bearing dust cover defects with an accuracy of 91.11%. The processing and program detection time for each bearing image is about 0.019 s. The accuracy and speed of detection and judgment meet the needs of online defect detection of bearing dust cover.
NOx emissions estimation of boiler based on mutual information feature reconstruction and optimization of extreme learning machine
Authors: Jiang Wei , Dong Ze , Sun Ming , Liu Lei , He Guosong
Published: July 2023

The measurement of NOx emissions in the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system of boilers has problems with poor real-time performance and abnormal measurements during purging. It is necessary to accurately estimate NOx emissions. For this reason, the NOx emissions prediction method of boiler based on mutual information feature reconstruction and optimization of extreme learning machine (ELM) is proposed: firstly, delay estimation and data space reconstruction of input features are performed based on mutual information; Then the conditional mutual information based on greedy selection strategy is adopted to rank and choose the input features; Finally, the hybrid quantum sparrow search algorithm (QSSA) was proposed by combining Lévy flight strategy and quantum strategy in the sparrow search algorithm, and QSSA is used to optimize the weights and biases of the ELM. Taking the operation data of the SCR system of a 1000 MW thermal power unit as an example for verification. The results show that the proposed method can effectively improve the accuracy and generalization ability of the ELM, and provide a new method for NOx emissions estimation of boilers.
GPU-accelerated calculation of proton microdosimetric spectra as a function of target size, proton energy, and bounding volume size
Authors: DeCunha Joseph M , Newpower Mark , Mohan Radhe
Published: July 2023

Objective. Shortcomings of dose-averaged linear energy transfer (LETD), the quantity which is most commonly used to quantify proton relative biological effectiveness, have long been recognized. Microdosimetric spectra may overcome the limitations of LETD but are extremely computationally demanding to calculate. A systematic library of lineal energy spectra for monoenergetic protons could enable rapid determination of microdosimetric spectra in a clinical environment. The objective of this work was to calculate and validate such a library of lineal energy spectra. Approach. SuperTrack, a GPU-accelerated CUDA/C++ based application, was developed to superimpose tracks calculated using Geant4 onto targets of interest and to compute microdosimetric spectra. Lineal energy spectra of protons with energies from 0.1 to 100 MeV were determined in spherical targets of diameters from 1 nm to 10 μm and in bounding voxels with side lengths of 5 μm and 3 mm. Main results. Compared to an analogous Geant4-based application, SuperTrack is up to 3500 times more computationally efficient if each track is resampled 1000 times. Dose spectra of lineal energy and dose-mean lineal energy calculated with SuperTrack were consistent with values published in the literature and with comparison to a Geant4 simulation. Using SuperTrack, we developed the largest known library of proton microdosimetric spectra as a function of primary proton energy, target size, and bounding volume size. Significance. SuperTrack greatly increases the computational efficiency of the calculation of microdosimetric spectra. The elevated lineal energy observed in a 3 mm side length bounding volume suggests that lineal energy spectra determined experimentally or computed in small bounding volumes may not be representative of the lineal energy spectra in voxels of a dose calculation grid. The library of lineal energy spectra calculated in this work could be integrated with a treatment planning system for rapid determination of lineal energy spectra in patient geometries.
Optically excited artificial synapse based on α-In2Se3 FETs on Ta2O5
Authors: Mohta Neha , Rao Ankit , Suri Priyanka , Nath Digbijoy N
Published: July 2023

Materials and devices for artificial synapses are being increasingly investigated owing to their promise for brain-inspired computing. Here, we demonstrate an optoelectronic synapse with a light-modulated memory capability in back-gated ferroelectric channel field-effect transistors made of multi-layered 2D α-In2Se3 on Ta2O5. The optical tunability is achieved by exploiting the frequency of the optical signal in vertically stacked layers of In2Se3, which generates a unique persistent photoresponse due to trapping at the In2Se3/Ta2O5 interface. For the 527 nm source wavelengths at intensities of 15 mW cm−2 the In2Se3-FET exhibits a high photoresponsivity at 850 AW−1. These devices can replicate synaptic functions such as photo-induced short-term memory, long-term memory and paired-pulse facilitation—all via optical modulation. We also demonstrate common memory effects that occur in the brain, such as memory loss and memory transitions that depend upon the stimulation rate (i.e., the interval between stimulation pulses). These demonstrations provide a simple and effective strategy for fabricating light-stimulated synaptic transistors with memory and learning abilities which are attractive for building vision-inspired neuromorphic systems.
Experimental investigation of vibration control of flexible rotors using shape memory alloys
Authors: Preto Eduardo , de Abreu Gustavo Luiz Chagas Manhães , Gonçalves Aparecido Carlos , Chavarette Fábio Roberto , Savi Marcelo A
Published: July 2023

Vibration is an essential subject for the design of rotordynamic systems, being responsible for compromising the integrity and causing risks to operational functioning. This work deals with an experimental investigation of the semi-active vibration controller for a rotordynamic system using shape memory alloy (SMA) elements. SMAs are smart materials that present thermomechanical coupling represented by solid phase transformations that promote either stiffness change or hysteretic dissipation. In this regard, they are useful in controllers employing thermal actuation from electric current through the Joule effect. This paper presents a proof of concept of a controller using SMA elements. An experimental apparatus is proposed considering a typical rotor system using SMA wires at the bearings. In this regard, proper temperature variations allow the system to cross critical resonant conditions.
Anomaly in the electron orbital gyromagnetic factor: QED and radiative interactions
Authors: Awobode M
Published: July 2023

Using standard Quantum Electrodynamics (QED), we have calculated the anomaly in the electron orbital g-factor, which is in reasonable agreement with experimental data. For second-order corrections, the anomaly in the orbital g-factor

g

L

−
1

is of the order α/3π, while for approximations to the same order, the well-known anomaly in the electron spin g-factor

g

S

−
2

/
2
=
α
/
2
π
,

where α = 1/137 is the structure constant. Unlike the spin-g anomaly, the orbital-g anomaly is not intrinsic, but depends on the atomic state, and on Z, the atomic mass. Thus, the orbital anomaly is actually (α/3π)D, where D includes the effect of the magnetic field and/or the atomic properties. Hence, we have shown that radiative interactions, which are the sources of the spin-g anomaly, also produce an orbital anomaly. It is physically reasonable to expect that radiative interactions that modify many physical properties of electrons in electromagnetic fields will also modify the orbital magnetic moment of the electron.
Effect of calcination temperature on phase composition and optical properties of Al-ZnO nanocrystalline films
Authors: Bayan E M , Petrov V V , Ignatieva I O , Volkova M G , Ivanishcheva A P , Chernyshev A V
Published: July 2023

Nanocrystalline Al-ZnO films were successfully synthesized by thermal decomposition method. The method includes two stages: synthesis from the melt of organic salts and the films production. The effect of the calcination temperature varying from 600 to 800 °C on the crystallite sizes, phase composition and optical properties of the synthesized films was also investigated. X-ray diffraction (XRD) showed the formation of a hexagonal wurtzite crystal structure with a distorted lattice upon the introduction of Al3+ ions. Based on calculations and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images, the crystallites size increased from 18 to 28 nm with the calcination temperature increasing. Optical properties of Al-ZnO films were studied by optical transmission spectra. An increase in the calcination temperature leads to a decrease in the ZnO band gap. It was shown that the proposed method makes it possible to obtain optically transparent Al-ZnO films consisting of nanocrystallites. By varying the calcination temperature, the optical properties can be adjusted, which will significantly expand the application range of these materials.
Long-term effects of incubation temperature on growth and thermal physiology in a small ectotherm
Authors: De Jong Madeleine J. , Alton Lesley A. , White Craig R. , O'Bryan Moira K. , Chapple David G. , Wong Bob B. M.
Published: July 2023

Thermal conditions in the developmental environment can substantially affect an individual's phenotype, particularly in egg-laying ectotherms. However, whether these effects persist into adulthood is rarely examined. To investigate this, we incubated delicate skink,Lampropholis delicata, eggs at either cool (22°C), mild (26°C) or hot (30°C) temperatures. After hatching, we measured growth, thermal performance curves of locomotor activity, and thermal sensitivity of resting metabolic rate of offspring as juveniles (4–6 weeks of age), sub-adults (approx. 200 days of age), and adults (approx. 2 years of age), and then measured developmental temperature impacts on male fertility. Incubation temperature had a lasting effect on growth and locomotor performance, with cool and hot incubation temperatures resulting in faster growth and larger maximum size, and hot incubation temperatures reducing locomotor performance at all timepoints. Effects on resting metabolic rate were only present in sub-adults, with a higher metabolic rate at high and average body mass and negative metabolic scaling exponent in cool-incubated lizards. Additionally, cool and hot incubation treatments resulted in shorter sperm midpieces and heads. Incubation temperature did not affect testis mass or sperm count. Overall, our results demonstrate that incubation temperature can have lasting effects on later life stages, highlighting the importance of maternal nest-site selection, but that some effects are age dependent.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘The evolutionary ecology of nests: a cross-taxon approach’.
Bird nest building: visions for the future
Authors: Healy Susan D. , Tello-Ramos Maria Cristina , Hébert Marie
Published: July 2023

Successful reproduction for most birds requires them to have built ‘good’ nests. The remarkable diversity of nests across approximately 10 000 species of living birds suggests that ‘good’ nest design depends critically on a species' microhabitat, life history and behaviour. Unravelling the key drivers of nest diversity remains a key research priority—bolstered by renewed appreciation for nest museum collections and increasing correlational field and experimental laboratory data. Phylogenetic analyses—coupled with powerful datasets of nest traits—are increasingly shedding light on the evolution of nest morphology and there are functional questions yet to be addressed. For birds, at least, developmental and mechanistic analyses ofbuilding(behaviour, hormones, neuroscience) itself, rather than measurements and analyses of nestmorphology,are already becoming the next major challenge. We are moving towards a holistic picture in which Tinbergen's four levels of explanation: evolution, function, development, and mechanism, are being used to explain variation and convergence in nest design—and, in turn, could shed light on the question of how birds know how to build ‘good’ nests.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘The evolutionary ecology of nests: a cross-taxon approach’.
Accelerating bioinformatics implementation in public health
Authors: Libuit Kevin G. , Doughty Emma L. , Otieno James R. , Ambrosio Frank , Kapsak Curtis J. , Smith Emily A. , Wright Sage M. , Scribner Michelle R. , Petit III Robert A. , Mendes Catarina Inês , Huergo Marcela , Legacki Gregory , Loreth Christine , Park Daniel J. , Sevinsky Joel R.
Published: July 2023

We have adopted an open bioinformatics ecosystem to address the challenges of bioinformatics implementation in public health laboratories (PHLs). Bioinformatics implementation for public health requires practitioners to undertake standardized bioinformatic analyses and generate reproducible, validated and auditable results. It is essential that data storage and analysis are scalable, portable and secure, and that implementation of bioinformatics fits within the operational constraints of the laboratory. We address these requirements using Terra, a web-based data analysis platform with a graphical user interface connecting users to bioinformatics analyses without the use of code. We have developed bioinformatics workflows for use with Terra that specifically meet the needs of public health practitioners. These Theiagen workflows perform genome assembly, quality control, and characterization, as well as construction of phylogeny for insights into genomic epidemiology. Additonally, these workflows use open-source containerized software and the WDL workflow language to ensure standardization and interoperability with other bioinformatics solutions, whilst being adaptable by the user. They are all open source and publicly available in Dockstore with the version-controlled code available in public GitHub repositories. They have been written to generate outputs in standardized file formats to allow for further downstream analysis and visualization with separate genomic epidemiology software. Testament to this solution meeting the requirements for bioinformatic implementation in public health, Theiagen workflows have collectively been used for over 5 million sample analyses in the last 2 years by over 90 public health laboratories in at least 40 different countries. Continued adoption of technological innovations and development of further workflows will ensure that this ecosystem continues to benefit PHLs.
Structural properties in ruptured mitral chordae tendineae measured by synchrotron-based X-ray phase computed tomography
Authors: Koda Yojiro , Tsukube Takuro , Hoshino Masato , Yagi Naoto , Ishibashi-Ueda Hatsue , Okada Kenji
Published: July 2023

The link between the structural properties and the rupturing of chordae tendineae in the mitral valve complex is still unclear. Synchrotron-radiation-based X-ray phase computed tomography (SR-XPCT) imaging is an innovative way to quantitatively analyze three-dimensional morphology. XPCT has been employed in this study to evaluate the chordae tendineae from patients with mitral regurgitation and to analyze structural changes in the ruptured chordae tendineae in patients with this condition. Six ruptured mitral chordae tendineae were obtained during surgical repairs for mitral regurgitation and were fixed with formalin. In addition, 12 healthy chordae tendineae were obtained from autopsies. Employing XPCT (effective pixel size, 3.5 µm; density resolution, 1 mg cm−3), the density of the chordae tendineae in each sample was measured. The specimens were subsequently analyzed pathologically. The mean age was 70.2 ± 3.0 in the rupture group and 67.2 ± 14.1 years old in the control group (p = 0.4927). All scans of chorda tendineae with SR-XPCT were performed successfully. The mean densities were 1.029 ± 0.004 in the rupture group and 1.085 ± 0.015 g cm−3 in the control group (p < 0.0001). Density based on SR-XPCT in the ruptured mitral chordae tendineae was significantly lower compared with the healthy chorda tendinea. Histological examination revealed a change in the components of the connective tissues in ruptured chorda tendinea, in accordance with the low density measured by SR-XPCT. SR-XPCT made it possible to measure tissue density in mitral chordae tendineae. Low density in mitral chordae tendineae is associated with a greater fragility in ruptured mitral chordae tendineae.
Navigating the “performing-organizing” paradox: tensions between supply chain transparency, coordination, and scope 3 GHG emissions performance
Authors: Dahlmann Frederik , Brammer Stephen , Roehrich Jens K.
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Drawing on paradox theory and the category of the “performing-organizing” paradox, the study investigates the tensions firms experience in the context of organizing the processes involved in managing their indirect GHG emissions.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors develop hypotheses to explain why the paradox elements of supply chain transparency and supply chain coordination affect firms' ability to reduce their indirect supply chains GHG emissions. Using a two-stage method based on data from Refinitiv and CDP for 2002 to 2021, the authors test this study’s hypotheses through panel regression analyses.

Findings

While greater transparency experience with scope 3 emissions disclosure, GSCM practices and broader supply chain engagement are all associated with higher levels of scope 3 emissions levels, both long-term transparency experience and GSCM practices are also associated with relative reductions in scope 3 emissions over time.

Practical implications

Given growing pressures on firms to demonstrate both transparency and legitimacy regarding their scope 3 emissions, firms must understand the characteristics of this paradox as this has implications for how emissions performance is perceived and managed. This study's results suggested that firms need to take both a long-term perspective and effectively communicate the differences involved in reporting their emissions performance to avoid unwarranted criticism.

Originality/value

Filling a gap in sustainable OSCM studies by providing large-scale quantitative insights into the relationships between organizing and performing, the authors demonstrate that the processes involved in firms' efforts of measuring and managing their indirect scope 3 emissions are paradoxically affected by whether performance outcomes are specified as annual absolute levels of scope 3 emissions, or relative changes over time.
Knock‐out of multidrug efflux pump MexXY‐OprM results in increased susceptibility to antimicrobial peptides in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Neidig Anke , Strempel Nikola , Waeber Nadine Bianca , Nizer Waleska Stephanie da Cruz , Overhage Joerg
Published: July 2023

Multidrug efflux systems of the resistance‐nodulation‐cell division family play a crucial role in resistance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to a large variety of antibiotics. Here, we investigated the role of clinically relevant efflux pumps MexAB−OprM, MexCD−OprJ, and MexXY−OprM in resistance against different cationic antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). Our results indicate that a knock‐out in efflux pump MexXY‐OprM increased susceptibility to some AMPs by two‐ to eightfold. Our data suggest a contribution of MexXY‐OprM in resistance to certain AMPs in P. aeruginosa, which should be considered in the future development of new and highly active antimicrobial peptides to fight multidrug resistant infections.
The study of the effect of HLA‐B27 on THP‐1 monocytic cells survival and its mechanism
Authors: Gui Lian , Gu Jieruo
Published: July 2023

Objective

Previous studies have shown that human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐B27 induces the accumulation of unfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to cause ER stress, resulting in the unfold protein response (UPR), apoptosis and autophagy. However, it is still unknown whether it affects the survival of monocytes. In this study, we attempted to examine the effect of HLA‐B27 gene knockout on the proliferation and apoptosis of THP‐1 monocytic cell line and its potential mechanism.

Methods

HLA‐B27 gene knockout THP‐1 cell line was constructed by lentivirus infection, and knockout efficiency was detected by immunofluorescence, quantitative reverse transcription ‐ polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and western blot. Cell Counting Kit‐8 (CCK‐8) method and Annexin‐V/PI double staining were used to detect the proliferation and apoptosis of the constructed THP‐1 cell line, respectively. qRT‐PCR was used to detect the effect of HLA‐B27 inhibition on the expressions of ER molecular chaperone binding immunoglobulin protein (BiP) and genes about the UPR pathway. The proliferation rate of human BiP protein‐stimulated THP‐1 cells was detected by CCK‐8 method.

Results

HLA‐B27 gene knockout THP‐1 cells were successfully constructed by lentivirus infection. Knockout of HLA‐B27 effectively promoted the proliferation of THP‐1 cells and inhibited the apoptosis induced by cisplatin. qRT‐PCR showed that BiP was synchronously increased, while activation of UPR pathway was inhibited. Stimulation with human BiP promoted the proliferation of THP‐1 cells in a concentration‐dependent manner.

Conclusions

HLA‐B27 inhibition can promote the proliferation and inhibit the apoptosis of THP‐1 cells. The inhibition function may be achieved through promotion of BiP and inhibition of UPR pathway activation.
The trauma experiences of children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders: Developmental outcomes utilizing a threat/deprivation child adversity framework
Authors: Rockhold Madeline N. , Kautz‐Turnbull Carson , Handley Elizabeth D. , Petrenko Christie L. M.
Published: July 2023

Background

Individuals with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) experience heightened rates of childhood trauma and adversity. Research has examined the negative impact adverse childhood experiences have on developmental outcomes. This study aims to take the field a step further by examining the details of traumatic events, including duration, perpetrator, whether the event significantly impacted the child, and trauma subtype. Subtype is examined using threat/deprivation dimensions and their relation to child behavior and the caregiver‐child relationship.

Methods

A sample of 84 children aged 4–12 with FASD, all in out‐of‐home placements, and their families took part in an emotion coaching intervention study. At baseline, caregivers completed questionnaires assessing child trauma, child emotion regulation and behavior, caregiver emotion socialization, and caregiver‐child relationships. We used analysis of covariance to examine the differing impacts of threat, deprivation, and a combination of the two on behavioral outcomes, while controlling for age. We also used Pearson's r correlations, controlling for age, to examine whether the duration of threat or deprivation exposure was related to child outcomes.

Results

Descriptive statistics showed that 87.5% of individuals experienced three or more subtypes of trauma. The average duration of all subtypes was 1.62 years, with a mean onset of 3.94 years. Biological parents were the most common perpetrator. There were significantly worse behavioral and caregiver‐child relationship outcomes for children experiencing a combination of threat and deprivation trauma. Arcorrelations, controlling for age, demonstrated longer duration of deprivation was associated with greater cognitive difficulties.

Conclusions

We found unique patterns of behavior in children with FASD when analyzing the impact of traumatic experiences through a threat/deprivation framework. The combination of both threat and deprivation experiences leads to worse outcomes overall. Additionally, vital details surrounding the traumatic experiences point to crucial areas for intervention, including caregiver‐child relationships.
Indigo reduction by using microorganism: Comparison of reducing power between Dietzia sp. KDB1 and yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae)
Authors: Jung Chanhee , Rhee Jong Il , Shin Younsook , Yoo Dong Il
Published: July 2023

This study aims to develop microbial indigo reduction by comparing the reducing power between Dietzia sp. KDB1 and yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) at some reduction conditions. Oxidation–reduction potential (ORP), colour strength (K/S), and fluorescence intensity (FI) were applied to evaluate the reduction level as a function of microorganism concentration, pH, and glucose addition at 30°C. For both of the microbial systems, ORP decreased further −20 mV and K/S increased more than two by adding glucose. The reduction level became higher slightly by adding glucose, which played a role of metabolite in both of the reduction systems. Overall, reduction level of the yeast system was about a half of KDB1 system at the same reduction condition of 45 mL volume, 15 g/L natural indigo, 6 g/L reducing agents, pH 10.0, 30°C and glucose added.
Education, Extremism, and Aversion to Compromise
Authors: Hand Michael
Published: July 2023

Schools plausibly have a role to play in countering radicalization by taking steps to prevent the acquisition of extremist beliefs, dispositions, and attitudes. A core component of the extremist mindset is aversion to compromise. Michael Hand inquires here into the possibility, desirability, and means of educating against this attitude. He argues that aversion to compromise is demonstrably undesirable and readiness to compromise demonstrably desirable, so discursive teaching of these attitudes should guide pupils toward these verdicts. And he identifies three methods of formative teaching by which readiness to compromise can be cultivated in pupils.
Analysis of IL‐10 and IL‐35 in dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor‐related bullous pemphigoid
Authors: Kokubu Hiraku , Takahashi Toshifumi , Kabuto Miho , Kouzaki Hideaki , Fujimoto Noriki
Published: July 2023

The association between immunoregulatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)‐10 or IL‐35, and dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor (DPP4i)‐related bullous pemphigoid (BP) has not been evaluated. Serum IL‐10 and IL‐35 levels were measured in 39 patients with BP (24 males and 15 females; 6 DPP4i‐related and 33 DPP4i‐unrelated BP patients) and 10 healthy controls. The number of CD26+ cells in the dermis around bulla on sections was counted immunohistochemically for 12 patients (six patients with DPP4i‐related BP and six randomly sampled patients with DPP4i‐unrelated BP). Patients with DPP4i‐related BP had lower levels of serum eosinophils (DPP4i‐related vs. DPP4i‐unrelated BP: 476.1 ± 234.0 vs. 911.3 ± 948.8/μL; p = 0.537) and a higher rate of infiltrating CD26+ cells (32.9 ± 7.1% vs. 15.7 ± 4.4%; p = 0.01). There were no significant differences in serum IL‐10 (6.77 ± 0.24 vs. 6.84 ± 0.20 pg/mL), serum IL‐35 (2.63 ± 0.17 vs. 2.63 ± 0.21 pg/mL), serum anti‐BP180NC16a antibodies (67.31 ± 37.4 vs. 76.18 ± 54.59 U/mL) and Bullous Pemphigoid Disease Area Index before treatment in this study. Serum IL‐10 and IL‐35 levels do not increase in patients with BP and may not be a candidate for a therapeutic target for BP. An increase in CD26+ cells might be associated with DPP4i‐related BP.
Reproductive behavior of Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus) interpreted from electronic tags
Authors: Marshall Rachel C. , Fisher Jonathan A. D. , Einfeldt Anthony L. , Gatti Paul , Robert Dominique , Le Bris Arnault
Published: July 2023

Reproductive timing, location, and behavior are important characteristics that determine marine population dynamics, structure, and resilience to threats, including fishing and climate change. It is challenging to evaluate factors driving variability in these reproductive traits in wild fishes because of the difficulty observing individuals in their natural environments. In the present study, we used high‐resolution depth, temperature, and acceleration time series recorded by pop‐up satellite archival tags to (1) identify and characterize patterns in depth and acceleration that may be indicative of spawning events in large Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus), and (2) estimate the effects of individual traits (body size and sex) and environmental factors (location and temperature) on spawning time and frequency. Unique rapid rises observed in the winter depth profiles were interpreted as spawning events. The initiation of the first presumed spawning rise was negatively correlated to water temperature experienced during the prespawning season, suggesting that currently increasing water temperature in the Gulf of St. Lawrence may induce phenological change in halibut spawning time. The number of rises of batch‐spawning females was unrelated to female body size. The present study demonstrates how electronic tagging can be used for in‐depth characterization of timing, location, and behaviors associated with spawning in a large flatfish species. Such information can inform spatiotemporal management and conservation measures aiming to protect species from directed fishing and by‐catch during spawning.
Sharing Baraka in an Unexpected Place: The Emergence of Ziyāra Culture Among Sufi and ‘Alawi Muslims in Argentina1
Authors: Montenegro Silvia
Published: July 2023

In Argentina some branches of Islam have their own ziyāra circuits, building a local diasporic shrine culture. This paper examines sacred geographies created by ‘Alawis descendants of Syrian immigrants, who arrived in the early decades of the twentieth century, and Naqshbandi‐Haqqani sufis, Muslims who have converted from a Christian background. Based on ethnographic fieldwork conducted in Sufi and ‘Alawi communities, in Shaykh Ahmed Merhej's shrine and in the Naqshbandiyya‐Haqqaniyya dergāhs where there are maqāms ‐ cenotaphs erected in honor of Shaykh ‘Abdullah Daghestani‐ this article analyzes the configuration of two shrine cultures and their recent contact, showing the local rooting of a global practice among Muslims.
Neutrophil reactive oxygen formation, bacterial infections and mortality in malnourished hemodialysis patients: Evaluation of clinical outcomes
Authors: Mudrik‐Zohar Hadar , Alon Danny , Nacasch Naomi , Sternschuss Aviad , Greenberg Meidad , Benchetrit Sydney , Gavrieli Ronit , Zitman‐Gal Tali , Cohen‐Hagai Keren
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Patients with end stage kidney disease undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) are prone to malnutrition and infections.

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of polymorphonuclear (PMN) cell dysfunction on clinical outcomes of MHD patients, in association with nutritional status.

Methods

This prospective study investigated 39 MHD patients by evaluating the oxidative activity of their PMN cells using Phorbol 12‐Myristate‐13‐Acetate (PMA) stimulation. Blood samples were taken from each participant at dialysis initiation. Demographics, laboratory data, and clinical outcomes during a 24‐month follow‐up period were obtained from electronic medical records.

Results

Phagocytic activity was described in percentiles of mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) of PMA levels. There were no differences in comorbidities between patients with low or high MFI‐PMA percentiles. Patients in the lowest (25th) MFI‐PMA percentile (N = 10) had poorer nutritional status and more frequent severe infections compared to the other 29 patients (4.3 ± 3.4 events versus 2 ± 2.2 events, p = 0.017). Furthermore, they had more frequent hospitalizations (>3) due to infections (70% versus 41%, p = 0.073) and their mortality rate was higher (80% versus 31%, p = 0.007). The odds ratio for all‐cause mortality was 8.85. In multivariate analysis, the MFI‐PMA percentile and ischemic heart disease were the strongest predictors of all‐cause mortality (p = 0.02 and p = 0.005, respectively).

Conclusions

Low MFI‐PMA levels were associated with poor nutritional status and adverse clinical outcomes and might serve as a prognostic biomarker, predicting severe infections and mortality among malnourished MHD patients.
Single‐port laparoscopic‐assisted abdominal cryptorchidectomy in 14 dogs
Authors: David Sieglinde , de Rooster Hilde , Van Goethem Bart
Published: July 2023

Objective

To describe a modified laparoscopic‐assisted cryptorchidectomy technique in dogs using a single‐port endoscope and evaluate clinical outcome in abdominal cryptorchid dogs that underwent the procedure.

Study design

Prospective case series.

Animals

A total of 14 client‐owned dogs (19 abdominal cryptorchid testes).

Methods

Dogs scheduled for laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy between January 2019 and April 2022 were enrolled in the study. The dogs underwent single‐port laparoscopic‐assisted cryptorchidectomy (SP‐LAC) performed by a single surgeon using a 10‐mm single‐port endoscope placed in the midline immediately cranial to the prepuce. The abdominal testis was endoscopically located and grasped, the cannula was retracted, the capnoperitoneum was reversed to allow exteriorization of the testis, and the spermatic cord was ligated extracorporeally.

Results

Median age was 13 months (range, 7–29 months) and median bodyweight was 23.0 kg (range, 2.2–55.0 kg). Nine of 14 dogs had unilateral abdominal cryptorchidism (7 right‐sided and 2 left‐sided) and 5/14 dogs had bilateral abdominal cryptorchidism. Median surgical time for unilateral abdominal cryptorchidectomy was 17 min (range, 14–21 min) and for bilateral abdominal cryptorchidectomy 27 min (range, 23–55 min). Ten dogs had additional surgical procedures performed concurrently with SP‐LAC. One major intraoperative complication (testicular artery hemorrhage) occurred that required emergency conversion and two minor entry‐related complications were observed.

Conclusion

The SP‐LAC procedure enabled removal of abdominal testes and was associated with a low morbidity.

Clinical significance

The SP‐LAC procedure can be performed by a single surgeon and represents a less invasive alternative to multi‐port laparoscopic‐assisted or single‐port multi‐access laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy techniques.
Multiplicity of
bla
KPC
Genes and pKpQIL Plasmid Plasticity in the Development of Ceftazidime-Avibactam and Meropenem Coresistance in Klebsiella pneumoniae Sequence Type 307
Authors: Arcari Gabriele , Polani Riccardo , Santilli Stefania , Capitani Valerio , Sacco Federica , Bruno Francesco , Garcia-Fernandez Aurora , Raponi Giammarco , Villa Laura , Gentile Giuseppe , Carattoli Alessandra
Published: July 2023

In 2021,
Klebsiella pneumoniae
sequence type 307 (ST307) strains causing pulmonary and bloodstream infections identified in a hospital in Rome, Italy, reached high levels of resistance to ceftazidime-avibactam (CZA). One of these strains reached high levels of resistance to both CZA and carbapenems and carried two copies of
bla
KPC-3
and one copy of
bla
KPC-31
located on plasmid pKpQIL.
Selective Antagonism of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Pediococcus acidilactici against
Vibrio
and
Aeromonas
in the Bacterial Community of Artemia nauplii
Authors: Xu Weihua , Lv Zhaolin , Guo Qingqi , Deng Zhaojie , Yang Canmin , Cao Zhaozhao , Li Yi , Huang Cuifen , Wu Zizhan , Chen Shijun , He Yuhui , Sun Jijia , Liu Yiying , Gan Lian
Published: July 2023

Over the last decade, the common preventive method for controlling potential pathogens in aquaculture has been the use of probiotics. However, the mechanisms of probiotics are complicated and mostly undefined.