bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can service providing NGOs build democracy? Five contingent features
Authors: Herrold Catherine E. , AbouAssi Khaldoun
Published: June 2022

This article studies the role of service providing NGOs in the Middle East in promoting democracy. Challenging the assumption that service providing NGOs are apolitical, the authors argue that service providing NGOs play important roles in promoting democracy. They do so by serving as public arenas, or spaces in which members and beneficiaries practice democratic habits such as discussion and debate, collective problem solving, free expression, rights claiming, and the like—all of which contribute to the cultivation of a participatory form of democracy. Drawing upon existing literature, interviews, and participant observation of NGOs in Egypt, Lebanon, and Palestine, the authors argue that five features shape the role of service providing NGOs in promoting democracy. These include: (1) organizational readiness, or the organization's embeddedness in its beneficiary community and its organizational capacity; (2) organizational governance, or organization's commitment to participatory representation and transparency; (3) the nature of service an organization provides; (4) an NGOs' collaboration with other NGOs and the government; and (5) donor risk tolerance. The article's analysis contributes to our understanding of the varied, and often overlooked, roles of service providing NGOs, advancing the literature on NGO‐state relations, NGO‐donor relations, and democracy promotion.
Effect of surface modification of SiO2 particles on the interfacial and mechanical properties of PBS composites
Authors: Hou Hongbo , Pu Zejun , Wang Xu , Zhu Rongli , Li Xianyong , Zhong Jiachun
Published: June 2022

In this study, WPU@SiO2 nanoparticles were obtained by grafting waterborne polyurethane (WPU) on the surface of silicon dioxide (SiO2). Then, WPU@SiO2 nanoparticles were introduced into the matrix of polybutylene succinate (PBS) to prepare a series of PBS/WPU@SiO2 composites. The dispersibility and interfacial compatibility of filler and matrix can be improved obviously by grafting a layer of WPU onto the surface of SiO2 nanoparticles. The FTIR and TGA results showed that WPU was successfully grafted onto the surface of SiO2. According to polarizing microscope images, it is clear that the size of the pure PBS crystals is much larger than that of the PBS/WPU@SiO2, and a large number of crystals are evenly distributed in the PBS/WPU@SiO2 composite. In addition, DSC and TGA results indicated that PBS/WPU@SiO2 composite films show excellent thermal properties. Meanwhile, the initial thermal decomposition temperature of PBS/WPU@SiO2 composite films is about 366–374°C. For the 10 wt% WPU@SiO2 reinforced PBS‐based composite films, the tensile strength reached the ultimate value (38.49 MPa), which is 32.04% higher than that of pure PBS. Based on its excellent mechanical and thermal properties, the PBS/WPU@SiO2 composites have a broad application prospect in the field of biodegradable materials.
Free volume expansion in some polybutadiene–acrylonitrile rubbers: comparison between theory and experiments
Authors: Consolati Giovanni , Nichetti Dario , Quasso Fiorenza
Published: June 2022

The dependence of free volume on temperature was investigated in three butadiene–acrylonitrile copolymers and in a butadiene–acrylonitrile–isoprene terpolymer, above the glass transition in order to apply the lattice‐hole model. Macroscopic behaviour was highlighted by dilatometry; positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy was used to shed light on the free volume microstructure. Coupling of the two techniques allowed us to obtain the number density of holes under specific geometrical assumptions about cavities. Comparison with the theoretical free volume fraction suggests hole shapes more similar to discs than to spheres, but with aspect ratio decreasing at increasing temperature. Such preferential growth in the radial direction is not influenced by the presence of acrylonitrile, contrarily to that recently found in butadiene–isoprene blends, where an increasing amount of isoprene makes such expansion less anisotropic. © 2022 The Authors. Polymer International published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Industrial Chemistry.
College students' grit, autonomous learning, and well‐being: Self‐control as a mediator
Authors: Ramos Salazar Leslie , Meador Audrey
Published: June 2022

Objective(s)

To use self‐control and self‐determination theories in a grit model with self‐control as a mediator of autonomous learning and well‐being.

Method

A cross‐sectional online survey using a convenience sampling approach was employed to recruit 511 university students (70.6% female) with an average age of 25.

Results

Grit was positively related to self‐control, autonomous learning, and grade point average (GPA). Additionally, self‐control had a mediated effect on the relationship between grit and autonomous learning, and between grit and well‐being.

Conclusions

Findings offer insights on the role of self‐control in enhancing autonomous learning and GPA among gritty students. Implications are also offered for research and practice in higher education settings.
Habitat manipulation for sustainable management of Philaenus spumarius, the main vector of Xylella fastidiosa in Europe
Authors: Morente Marina , Ramírez Marcos , Lago Clara , de las Heras‐Bravo Daniel , Benito Alejandro , Moreno Aránzazu , Fereres Alberto
Published: June 2022

Background

The unexpected Xylella fastidiosa (Xf) outbreak in Europe has led to aggressive management of the disease in recent years. As there is no cure for infected plants, management of vector populations is mandatory to contain the spread of Xf in infected areas. We aimed to assess the suitability of plant species commonly used as cover crops for the population growth of Philaenus spumarius L. (Aphrophoridae). Thus, we conducted a series of no‐choice and multiple‐choice assays to assess the oviposition preference of P. spumarius adults as well as the development and mortality rate of nymphs on 10 candidate plant species under laboratory and semi‐field conditions. Our results will help to design ecological infrastructures, including a pull‐push strategy for effective management of Xf vectors in olive groves.

Results

Results showed that Anthriscus cerefolium is a suitable plant to enhance oviposition but has a lethal effect on the first nymphal instars of P. spumarius. Moreover, Diplotaxis tenuifolia is not suitable for oviposition or nymphal development. Sinapis alba does not enhance oviposition but is suitable for nymphal development with a medium‐high cumulative mortality of the nymphs. Conversely, adults and nymphs had a high preference and low mortality on Taraxacum officinale, and nymphs showed a medium‐high preference on Lavandula angustifolia, suggesting that these two species should be avoided as ground cover plants on Xf‐susceptible crops.

Conclusion

The results obtained in our study open new ways to manage the vectors of Xf by using specific plant species as ground cover, which in turn will reduce the spread and prevalence of Xf. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Resistance to dicyclanil and imidacloprid in the sheep blowfly, Lucilia cuprina, in Australia
Authors: Kotze Andrew C , Bagnall Neil H , Ruffell Angela P , George Sarah D , Rolls Nicholas M
Published: June 2022

Background

The sheep blowfly, Lucila cuprina, is a myiasis‐causing parasite responsible for significant production losses and welfare issues for the Australian sheep industry. Control relies largely on the use of insecticides. The pyrimidine compound, dicyclanil, is the predominant control chemical, although other insecticides also are used, including imidacloprid, ivermectin, cyromazine and spinosad. We investigated in vitro resistance patterns and mechanisms in field‐collected blowfly strains.

Results

The Walgett 2019 strain showed significant levels of resistance to both dicyclanil and imidacloprid, with resistance factors at the IC50 of 26‐ and 17‐fold, respectively, in in vitro bioassays. Co‐treatment with the cytochrome P450 inhibitor, aminobenzotriazole, resulted in significant levels of synergism for dicyclanil and imidacloprid (synergism ratios of 7.2‐ and 6.1‐fold, respectively), implicating cytochrome P450 in resistance to both insecticides. Cyp12d1 transcription levels were increased up to 40‐fold throughout the larval life stages in the resistant strain compared to a reference susceptible strain, whereas transcription levels of some other cyp genes (6g1, 4d1, 28d1) did not differ between the strains. Similar resistance levels also were observed in flies collected from the same property in two subsequent years.

Conclusion

This study indicates that in vitro resistance to both dicyclanil and imidacloprid in this field‐collected blowfly strain is likely mediated by cytochrome P450, with Cyp12d1 implicated as the enzyme responsible; however, it remains possible that another P450 also may be involved. A common resistance mechanism for the two drugs has important implications for drug rotation strategies designed to prolong the useful life of flystrike control chemicals. © 2022 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Simultaneous monitoring of mean vector and covariance matrix of auto‐correlated multivariate multiple linear profiles
Authors: Rahimi Sajede Baratian , Amiri Amirhossein , Khoo Michael B.C. , Shadman Alireza
Published: June 2022

The aim of this paper is to develop control charts for a simultaneous monitoring of the mean vector and covariance matrix of multivariate multiple linear regression profiles in phase II, when the independence assumption of the observations within each profile is violated, and there is multivariate autoregressive moving average (MARMA)(1,1) autocorrelation structure within each profile. A transformation method is applied to eliminate the autocorrelation, and six control charts for a simultaneous monitoring of the mean vector and covariance matrix of auto‐correlated multivariate multiple linear regression profiles are proposed. Then, through simulation runs, in terms of the average run length (ARL) criterion, it is shown that the proposed methods have better performance in comparison with the competing methods in detecting shifts in the parameters of regression profiles. Finally, the application of the proposed control charts is shown using real data in a machining process.
Accelerating the theoretical study of Li‐polysulfide adsorption on single‐atom catalysts via machine learning approaches
Authors: Andritsos Eleftherios I. , Rossi Kevin
Published: June 2022

Li–S batteries are a promising alternative to Li‐ion batteries, offering large energy storage capacity and wide operating temperature range. However, their performance is heavily affected by the Li‐polysulfide (LiPS) shuttling. Computational screening of LiPS adsorption on single‐atom catalyst (SAC) substrates is of great aid to the design of Li–S batteries which are robust against the LiPS shuttling from the cathode to the anode and the electrolyte. To facilitate this process, we develop a machine learning (ML) protocol to accelerate the systematic mapping of dominant local energy minima found with calculations based on the density functional theory (DFT), and, in turn, fast screening of LiPS adsorption properties on SACs. We first validate the approach by probing the potential energy surface for LiPS adsorbed on graphene decorated with a Fe–N4–C SAC. We identify minima whose binding energies are better or on par with the one previously reported in the literature. We then move to analyze the adsorption trends on Zn–N4–C SAC and observe similar adsorption strength and behavior with the Fe–N4–C SAC, highlighting the good predictive power of our protocol. Our approach offers a comprehensive and computationally efficient alternative to conventional approaches studying LiPS adsorption.
The Tutte polynomial of phenylene systems with given number of branching hexagons
Authors: Chen Hanlin , Li Chao
Published: June 2022

Polynomial graph invariants have been confirmed to have important applications in quantum chemistry and biological information. One of the famous polynomial graph invariants is the Tutte polynomial which gives abundant graph‐theoretical information of the underlying graph. In this paper, we first give a simpler and more efficient method to get the Tutte polynomials of alternating polycyclic chains. Then we obtain the explicit expressions for the Tutte polynomials and the number of spanning trees of phenylene systems with given number of branching hexagons. Moreover, we determine the extremal values of the number of spanning trees among the phenylene systems with given one branching hexagon and two branching hexagons. The corresponding extremal phenylene systems are characterized, respectively.
Carbon Nitride with Rationally Designed π‐Conjugated Structure for Bright Blue‐Violet Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: He Xingchen , Meng Lingqiang , Liu Yanliang , Zhang Xue , Cheng Ziqiang , Huang Hao , He Rui , Pan Hao , Kang Yihong , Li Jia , Wang Yiqing , Chu Paul K. , Xu Baomin , Wang Jiahong , Yu Xue‐Feng
Published: June 2022

Carbon nitride consisting of the broken π‐conjugated structure (bc‐CN) is designed as the emitting layer in a blue‐violet light emitting diode (LED). The bc‐CN is prepared by a metal‐oxide (MgO) template‐assisted method, in which the low reaction temperature and nano MgO jointly control the degree of polymerization to form cyano groups and broken π‐conjugation in the bc‐CN nanosheets (bc‐CN NS) which emit intense blue‐violet photoluminescence at 412 nm. The broken π‐conjugated heptazine‐ring structure in the bc‐CN NS mitigates non‐radiation energy loss and promotes the d*–LP transition. As a result, a high quantum efficiency of 73.1% is achieved. The excellent dispersing ability of the bc‐CN NS enables solution‐based fabrication of the light emitting diode (LED). The LED exhibits intense electroluminescence of 236 cd m−2 at 412 nm with an external quantum efficiency of 0.46%. The broken π‐conjugation modulates the optical properties of the polymerized carbon nitride semiconductor giving rise to intense blue‐violet electroluminescence, which is very desirable for printable and wide‐color‐gamut display devices.
Noble Metal‐Decorated Nanostructured Zinc Oxide: Strategies to Advance Chemiresistive Hydrogen Gas Sensing
Authors: Kamal Hossain Mohammad , Ahmed Drmosh Qasem
Published: June 2022

Hydrogen (H2) is known as the key player in the alternative and renewable energy revolution and henceforth H2production, transportation, storage and usage have been a major interest of current research. However, due to severe safety concerns, strategies are indispensable to devise superior H2sensors, particularly selective and sensitive H2sensors. In this personal account, three specific gas sensing constructs; zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructures‐, noble metal nanoparticles‐decorated ZnO‐ and noble metal nanoparticles‐decorated ZnO nanostructures on reduced graphene oxide (rGO)‐based H2sensors have been demonstrated. The dynamic response and H2sensing characteristics of ZnO nanostructures‐based H2sensors were found to be improved compared to those of pristine ZnO. High‐resolution field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) confirmed the flower‐like nanostructures that had higher surface area around the nanoscale petals. The mechanism behind the superior sensing characteristics of ZnO nanostructures‐based H2sensor has been demonstrated. Decoration of ZnO nanostructures with noble metal nanoparticles, particularly platinum (Pt) and gold (Au) was observed to be useful in achieving better H2sensing performance compared to that of ZnO nanostructures. The Pt‐ and Au‐decorated ZnO nanostructures followed the well‐known “Spill‐over” mechanism in enhancing the H2sensing characteristics. Abundant free electrons/holes generation and higher conductivity are two important parameters for designing selective and sensitive gas sensors. In this context, a hybrid nanocomposite, rGO−ZnO has been developed and decorated with noble metal nanoparticles, particularly Pt and Au. The ultimate sensing material has been characterized and compared to those of pristine ZnO, ZnO nanostructures and Pt‐ and Au‐decorated ZnO for H2gas sensing applications. Such systemic and focus strategies is critical not only for developing efficient H2gas sensors but also for better understanding the mechanisms underlying such superior performance.
Recent Advances in Synthesis of Multiply Arylated/Alkylated Pyridines
Authors: Reza Annisa Indah , Iwai Kento , Nishiwaki Nagatoshi
Published: June 2022

Multiply aryl/alkyl‐substituted pyridines are some of the untapped synthetic targets because of the challenge in regioselectively introducing less polar aryl/alkyl groups at the desired positions in the pyridine framework. Interestingly, the importance of this family of compounds has increased annually, particularly in biological and materials engineering applications. The syntheses of such pyridines have been extensively reported, but there is a lack of comprehensive review articles. Hence, this review discusses recent advances by grouping reaction patterns that generally deliver tri‐, tetra‐, and penta‐aryl/alkyl pyridines.
Valvular endocarditis in a 10‐month‐old ewe lamb: The diagnostic benefits of on‐farm ultrasound examination
Authors: Kelly Robert F. , Morrison Linda R. , Castro Alberto Luque , Scott Philip R.
Published: June 2022

Valvular endocarditis was diagnosed during a routine flock screen for ovine pulmonary adenocarcinoma (OPA) in a 10‐month‐old ewe lamb with a 2‐month history of weight loss. Ultrasound examination demonstrated right caudoventral pleuritis presenting as hyperechoic thickening of the pleura and irregular hyperechoic lesions measuring approximately 12–15 mm, replacing the normal tricuspid and mitral valves. The sheep was euthanased for welfare reasons, with ultrasound findings confirmed on postmortem examination. Considering the poor prognosis and welfare concerns associated with the condition, this case report demonstrates the practicality of ultrasound to diagnose valvular endocarditis on‐farm and facilitate prompt euthanasia.
Non‐ and sub‐state climate action after Paris: From a facilitative regime to a contested governance landscape
Authors: Marquardt Jens , Fast Cornelia , Grimm Julia
Published: June 2022

The Paris Agreement marks a significant milestone in international climate politics. With its adoption, Parties call for non‐ and sub‐state actors to contribute to the global climate agenda and close the emissions gap left by states. Such a facilitative setting embraces non‐state climate action through joint efforts, synergies, and different modes of collaboration. At the same time, non‐state actors have always played a critical and confrontational role in international climate governance. Based on a systematic literature review, we identify and critically assess the role of non‐state climate action in a facilitative post‐Paris climate governance regime. We thereby highlight three constitutive themes, namely different state‐non‐state relations, competing level of ambition, and a variety of knowledge foundations. We substantiate these themes, derived from an inductive analysis of existing literature, with illustrative examples and propose three paradigmatic non‐state actor roles in post‐Paris climate governance on a continuum between compliance and critique. We thereby highlight four particular threats of a facilitative setting, namely substitution of state action, co‐optation, tokenism, and depoliticization. Future research should not limit itself to an effective integration of NSSAs into a facilitative climate regime, but also engage with the merits of contestation.

This article is categorized under:

Policy and Governance > Multilevel and Transnational Climate Change Governance
On the Effect of Fast Rotation and Vertical Viscosity on the Lifespan of the 3D Primitive Equations
Authors: Lin Quyuan , Liu Xin , Titi Edriss S.
Published: June 2022

We study the effect of the fast rotation and vertical viscosity on the lifespan of solutions to the three-dimensional primitive equations (also known as the hydrostatic Navier-Stokes equations) with impermeable and stress-free boundary conditions. Firstly, for a short time interval, independent of the rate of rotation $$|\Omega |$$

|
Ω
|

, we establish the local well-posedness of solutions with initial data that is analytic in the horizontal variables and only $$L^2$$

L
2

in the vertical variable. Moreover, it is shown that the solutions immediately become analytic in all the variables with increasing-in-time (at least linearly) radius of analyticity in the vertical variable for as long as the solutions exist. On the other hand, the radius of analyticity in the horizontal variables might decrease with time, but as long as it remains positive the solution exists. Secondly, with fast rotation, i.e., large $$|\Omega |$$

|
Ω
|

, we show that the existence time of the solution can be prolonged, with “well-prepared” initial data. Finally, in the case of two spatial dimensions with $$\Omega =0$$

Ω
=
0

, we establish the global well-posedness provided that the initial data is small enough. The smallness condition on the initial data depends on the vertical viscosity and the initial radius of analyticity in the horizontal variables.
ERC-ESICM-Leitlinien zur Temperaturkontrolle nach Herz-Kreislauf-Stillstand
Authors: Fischer Marlene , Kainz Elena
Published: June 2022

Die Leitlinien des European Resuscitation Council (ERC), die 2021 veröffentlicht wurden, empfehlen eine aktive Temperaturkontrolle zwischen 32 und 36 °C für alle erwachsenen Patient:innen, die nach Wiedererlangen des Spontankreislaufs nach prä- oder innerklinischer Reanimation das Bewusstsein nicht wiedererlangen.

Wenige Wochen nach Veröffentlichung der Leitlinien 2021 wurde die TTM2-Studie publiziert, in der kein signifikanter Unterschied im Hinblick auf das Überleben oder das funktionelle Outcome nach sechs Monaten zwischen einer Zieltemperatur von 33 °C und einer Fiebervermeidung nach außerklinischem Herz-Kreislauf-Stillstand festgestellt worden war.

Als Antwort auf die zusätzliche Evidenz durch die TTM2-Studie nahm die Advanced Life Support Task Force des International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) eine Reevaluation der aktuellen Datenlage vor, die in einer überarbeiteten Empfehlung zur Temperaturkontrolle nach Herz-Kreislauf-Stillstand bei Erwachsenen resultierte. Der aktuelle Artikel fasst die aktualisierten Leitlinien zusammen und diskutiert kritische Aspekte der neuen Empfehlungen.
A new approach to the classification of carcinogenicity
Authors: Doe John E. , Boobis Alan R. , Cohen Samuel M. , Dellarco Vicki L. , Fenner-Crisp Penelope A. , Moretto Angelo , Pastoor Timothy P. , Schoeny Rita S. , Seed Jennifer G. , Wolf Douglas C.
Published: June 2022

Concern over substances that may cause cancer has led to various classification schemes to recognize carcinogenic threats and provide a basis to manage those threats. The least useful schemes have a binary choice that declares a substance carcinogenic or not. This overly simplistic approach ignores the complexity of cancer causation by considering neither how the substance causes cancer, nor the potency of that mode of action. Consequently, substances are classified simply as “carcinogenic”, compromising the opportunity to properly manage these kinds of substances. It will likely be very difficult, if not impossible, to incorporate New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) into binary schemes. In this paper we propose a new approach cancer classification scheme that segregates substances by both mode of action and potency into three categories and, as a consequence, provides useful guidance in the regulation and management of substances with carcinogenic potential. Examples are given, including aflatoxin (category A), trichlorethylene (category B), and titanium dioxide (category C), which demonstrate the clear differentiation among these substances that generate appropriate levels of concern and management options.
Advanced‐Stage Melanoma at Presentation Following the Peak of the Pandemic: A COVID‐19 Cancer Canary in a Coal Mine
Authors: Lamm Ryan , Lyons Walker , So Winnie , Willis Alliric I.
Published: June 2022

Background

For melanoma patients, timely identification and tumor thickness are directly correlated with outcomes. COVID‐19 impacted both patients’ ability and desire to see physicians. We sought to identify whether the pandemic correlated with changes in melanoma thickness at presentation and subsequent treatment timeline.

Methods

Retrospective chart review was performed on patients who underwent surgery for melanoma in an academic center surgical oncology practice from May 2019 to September 2021. Patients were split into two cohorts: “pre‐pandemic” from May 2019 to May 2020 and “pandemic,” after May 2020, representing when these patients received their initial diagnostic biopsy. Demographic and melanoma‐specific variables were recorded and analyzed.

Results

A total of 112 patients were identified: 51 patients from the “pre‐pandemic” and 61 from the “pandemic” time period. The pandemic cohort more frequently presented with lesions greater than 1 mm thickness compared to pre‐pandemic (68.8% v 49%, p = 0.033) and were found to have significantly more advanced T stage (p = 0.02) and overall stage disease (p = 0.022). Additionally, trends show that for pandemic patients more time passed from patient‐reported lesion appearance/change to diagnostic biopsy (5.7 ± 2.0 v 7.1 ± 1.5 months, p = 0.581), but less time from biopsy to operation (42.9 ± 2.4 v 52.9 ± 5.0 days, p = 0.06).

Conclusions

“Pandemic” patients presented with thicker melanoma lesions and more advanced‐stage disease. These results may portend a dangerous trend toward later stage at presentation, for melanoma and other cancers with rapid growth patterns, that will emerge as the prolonged effects of the pandemic continue to impact patients’ presentation for medical care.
Photobacterium arenosum WH24, Isolated from the Gill of Pacific Oyster Crassostrea gigas from the North Sea of Germany: Co-cultivation and Prediction of Virulence
Authors: Pira Hani , Risdian Chandra , Müsken Mathias , Schupp Peter J. , Wink Joachim
Published: June 2022

Cream colored bacteria from marine agar, strain WH24, WH77, and WH80 were isolated from the gill of the Crassostrea gigas a Pacific oyster with a filter-feeding habit that compels accompanying bacteria to demonstrate a high metabolic capacity, has proven able to colonize locations with changing circumstances. Based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence, all strains had high similarity to Photobacterium arenosum CAU 1568T (99.72%). This study involved phenotypic traits, phylogenetic analysis, antimicrobial activity evaluation, genome mining, Co-cultivation experiments, and chemical studies of crude extracts using HPLC and LC-HRESIMS. Photobacterium arenosum WH24 and Zooshikella harenae WH53Twere co-cultivated for 3 days in a rotary shaker at 160 rpm at 30 °C, and LC-MS monitored the chemical profiles of the co-cultures on the third day. The UV chromatograms of the extracts of the co-cultivation experiments show that Zooshikella harenae WH53T could be inhibited by strain WH24. The high virulence of Photobacterium arenosum WH24 was confirmed by genome analysis. Gene groups with high virulence potential were detected: tssA (ImpA), tssB (ImpB/vipA), tssC (ImpC/vipB), tssE, tssF (ImpG/vasA), tssG (ImpH/vasB), tssM (IcmF/vasK), tssJ (vasD), tssK (ImpJ/vasE), tssL (ImpK/vasF), clpV (tssH), vasH, hcp, lapP, plpD, and tpsB family.
A lifestyle score in childhood and adolescence was positively associated with subsequently measured fluid intelligence in the DONALD cohort study
Authors: Schnermann Maike Elena , Schulz Christina-Alexandra , Ludwig Christine , Alexy Ute , Nöthlings Ute
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Lifestyle scores which combine single factors such as diet, activity, or sleep duration showed associations with cognitive decline in adults. However, the role of a favourable lifestyle in younger age and the build-up of cognitive reserve is less clear, which is why we investigated longitudinal associations between a lifestyle score in childhood and adolescence and fluid intelligence obtained on average 6 years later.

Methods

In the DONALD cohort, a lifestyle score of 0 to 4 points including healthy diet and duration of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep was repeatedly assessed in participants aged 5 and 19 years. Data on fluid intelligence were assessed via a German version of the culture fair intelligence test (CFT), using CFT 1-R in children 8.5 years of age or younger (n = 62) or CFT 20-R in participants older than 8.5 years (n = 192). Multivariable linear regression models were used to investigate prospective associations between the lifestyle score and the fluid intelligence score.

Results

Mean lifestyle score of all participants was 2.2 (0.7–4) points. A one-point increase in the lifestyle score was associated with a higher fluid intelligence score (4.8 points [0.3–7.3], p = 0.0343) for participants completing the CFT 20-R. Furthermore, each additional hour of sedentary behaviour was associated with a lower fluid intelligence score (− 3.0 points [− 5.7 to − 0.3], p = 0.0313). For younger participants (CFT 1-R), no association was found in any analysis (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

A healthy lifestyle was positively associated with fluid intelligence, whereby sedentary behaviour itself seemed to play a prominent role.
Cardiovascular medication seems to promote recovery of autonomic dysfunction after stroke
Authors: Wang Ruihao , Köhrmann Martin , Kollmar Rainer , Koehn Julia , Schwab Stefan , Kallmünzer Bernd , Hilz Max J.
Published: June 2022

Background

Stroke may compromise cardiovascular–autonomic modulation (CAM). The longitudinal post-stroke CAM alterations remain unclear as previous studies excluded patients with cardiovascular medication. This study evaluated whether CAM dysfunction improves after several months in patients under typical clinical conditions, i.e., without excluding patients with cardiovascular medication.

Methods

In 82 ischemic stroke patients [33 women, 64.9 ± 8.9 years, NIHSS-scores 2 (interquartile range 1–5)], we evaluated the applications of cardiovascular medication before stroke, during autonomic tests performed within 1 week, 3 and 6 months after stroke onset. We determined resting RR intervals (RRI), systolic, diastolic blood pressures (BPsys), respiration, parameters reflecting total CAM [RRI-standard deviation (RRI-SD), RRI-total powers], sympathetic [RRI-low-frequency powers (RRI-LF), BPsys-LF powers] and parasympathetic CAM [RMSSD, RRI-high-frequency powers (RRI-HF powers)], and baroreflex sensitivity. ANOVA or Friedman tests with post hoc analyses compared patient data with data of 30 healthy controls, significance was assumed forP < 0.05.

Results

More patients had antihypertensive medication after than before stroke. First-week CAM testing showed lower RRIs, RMSSD, RRI-SDs, RRI-total powers, RRI-HF powers, and baroreflex sensitivity, but higher BPsys-LF powers in patients than controls. After 3 and 6 months, patients had significantly higher RRIs, RRI-SDs, RRI-total powers, RMSSDs, RRI-HF powers, and baroreflex sensitivity, but lower BPsys-LF powers than in the 1st week; RMSSDs and RRI-HF powers no longer differed between patients and controls. However, 6-month values of RRIs, RRI-SDs, and baroreflex sensitivity were again lower in patients than controls.

Conclusions

Even mild strokes compromised cardiovagal modulation and baroreflex sensitivity. After 3 months, CAM had almost completely recovered. Recovery might be related to the mild stroke severity. Presumably, CAM recovery was also promoted by the increased application of cardiovascular medication. Yet, slight CAM dysfunction after 6 months suggests continuing autonomic vulnerability.
The Escalation of Organizational Moral Failure in Public Discourse: A Semiotic Analysis of Nokia’s Bochum Plant Closure
Authors: Wessel Lauri , Ruotsalainen Riku , Schildt Henri A. , Wickert Christopher
Published: June 2022

We examine the processes involved in the escalation of a plant closure from a local concern to a perceived organizational moral failure that commands national attention. Our empirical case covers the controversy over the decision of telecommunications giant Nokia to close a plant in Germany, despite having received significant state subsidies, and the relocation of production to Hungary and Romania. We conducted an inductive study that utilizes a semiotic analysis to identify how various actors framed the controversial plant closure and sought to cast it as moral failure. Our analysis uncovered two distinctive moral framings of the plant closure and revealed how key actors used evocative labels to frame these events in moral terms. These moral framings drew in additional stakeholders, generated more widespread media coverage, and turned the case into an organizational moral failure in the eyes of the national public. We contribute to the literature on organizational moral failure by theorizing its escalating process and elaborating why and how local events may become moral issues of interest to broader stakeholder groups.
Beyond Rational Persuasion: How Leaders Change Moral Norms
Authors: Spinosa Charles , Hancocks Matthew , Tsoukas Haridimos , Glennon Billy
Published: June 2022

Scholars are increasingly examining how formal leaders of organizations change moral norms. The prominent accounts over-emphasize the role of rational persuasion. We focus, instead, on how formal leaders successfully break and thereby create moral norms. We draw on Dreyfus’s ontology of cultural paradigms and Williams’s moral luck to develop our framework for viewing leader-driven radical norm the change. We argue that formal leaders, embedded in their practices’ grounding, clarifying, and organizing norms, get captivated by anomalies and respond to them by taking moral risks, which, if practically successful, create a new normative order. We illustrate the framework with Churchill’s actions in 1940 and Anita Roddick’s Body Shop. Last, we discuss normative orders, when ordinary leaders change norms, evil, and further research.
Exploring the mechanical and bacterial prospects of flexible polyurethane foam with chitosan
Authors: Maamoun A. A. , Mahmoud A. A.
Published: June 2022

In this work, chitosan (CT) with different ratios (0–5 wt.%) was utilized as a bio filler in polyurethane flexible (PUF) foam to increase mechanical performance and bacterial inhibition characteristics. The chemical structure of CT and polyurethane flexible foam/ chitosan (PUF/CT) composites was examined using FTIR spectroscopy. Furthermore, the cross-link density of PUF/CT composites was examined using the Flory and Rhener equation. Moreover, the PUF/CT composites’ thermal stability was observed utilizing TGA analysis. Further, the morphology and phase behavior of the PUF/CT composites were investigated using SEM and DSC techniques, respectively. The results showed that the cross-link density, thermal stability, cavities sizes, and the glass transition temperature of soft segments Tg(ss) increased with increased CT wt.% content. Besides, characteristics like apparent density, compressive strength, elongation at break, and tensile strength were tested. The results indicated that the density and compressive strength increased by 128.00% and 305.64% for PUF/CT5%, respectively, compared with unfilled PUF foam. At the same time, the tensile strength and elongation at break enhanced 162.50% and 174.30% for PUF/CT4%, respectively, compared with unfilled PUF foam. Finally, the antibacterial test was carried out for PUF/CT composites using the broth dilution procedure. The results revealed that the bacterial growth was inhibited by increasing CT wt.% content. Thus, the obtained composites are promising for industrial biological applications such as packaging and medical intensive care units.

Graphical abstract
New phylogenetic insights on some species of Unionidae from Switzerland (Bivalvia, Palaeoheterodonta, Unionidae)
Authors: Pfarrer Beat , Carlevaro Anna , Stucki Pascal , Schwarzer Arno , Vicentini Heinrich , Neubert Eike
Published: June 2022

Switzerland’s drainage systems are divided into three major European river basins, i.e. the Po, the Rhône, and the Rhine basins. Until recently 32 species of freshwater mussel species (i.e. belonging to the genera Anodonta and Unio) were recognized for the country, albeit their identity and number remain uncertain especially, given the recent recognition of Unio mancus Lamarck, 1819 from the Rhône in France, and Unio elongatulus C. Pfeiffer, 1825 and Anodonta exulcerata Porro, 1838 from the Po basin in Italy. In this study, we molecularly assess Swiss populations of freshwater mussels to understand the identity and number of species as well as to characterize their distributions within this geologically differentiated Alpine country. We collected 125 specimens in 42 lakes and rivers representing the three major basins and performed a phylogenetic investigation of the collected specimens using two mitochondrial markers (COI & 16S) and one nuclear marker (28S). COI Haplotype networks are then presented for the identified species. Our new findings show that Unio elongatulus inhabits water bodies north of the main Alpine arc. No living populations of Unio mancus could be detected in Switzerland. Anodonta exulcerata is recorded from two localities north of Lake Maggiore and in the Swiss part of Lake Lugano. Anodonta anatina (Linnaeus, 1758) shows genetic differences between southern alpine and northern alpine populations. Our genetic data from Swiss populations of unionid species provides new records and knowledge concerning freshwater mussels from Central Europe and specifically from the Alpine region.
Gamma-Rays Induced Synthesis of Ag-Decorated ZnCo2O4–MoS2 Heterostructure as Novel Photocatalyst and Effective Antimicrobial Agent for Wastewater Treatment Application
Authors: Abdel Maksoud M. I. A. , El-Sayyad Gharieb S. , Mamdouh Nahla , El Rouby Waleed M. A.
Published: June 2022

The development of novel semiconductors-based-photocatalysts is a promising strategy for addressing environmental pollution. In the present study, gamma irradiation was utilized to induce the synthesis of the exceptionally efficient Ag-decorated ZnCo2O4–MoS2 heterostructure. XRD and EDX analyses were verified the successful synthesis of Ag-decorated ZnCo2O4–MoS2 heterostructure. Also, SEM and HR-TEM images were illustrated the heterostructure nature of the synthesized photocatalyst in the nanoscale regime. The obtained optical bandgap values verified that photocatalyst possesses a narrow semiconductor bandgap. Further, the Ag-decorated ZnCo2O4–MoS2 heterostructure exhibited superior photodegradation potential towards MB (95.4% removal of the MB). The antimicrobial potency of the synthesized samples had been investigated through ZOI, MIC, growth curve assay, and the effect of UV illumination. Also, the antibiofilm behaviour has been studied. The antibacterial reaction mechanism had been estimated by membrane leakage assay and SEM imaging. The tested samples displayed a positive potency to a broad spectrum of bacteria like Proteus mirabilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans. In particular, Ag–MoS2–ZnCo2O4 nanocomposite possessed the highest impact, followed by the spinal ZnCo2O4 NPs towards all the tested pathogenic microbes. In this assessment, the Ag-decorated ZnCo2O4–MoS2 heterostructure has been shown to be a promising candidate for wastewater treatment application.
Fire resistance properties of heavyweight magnetite concrete in comparison with normal basalt- and quartz-based concrete
Authors: Ali Suha Ismail Ahmed , Lublóy Éva
Published: June 2022

Nowadays application of radiation shielding structures grows over the world. Nuclear buildings represent one of the most complicated radiation shielding structures; that is why a particular type of concrete is required to withstand different conditions during their lifespan. Unique properties such as the behaviour under elevated temperatures, radiation shielding, and thermal stability properties are essential to guarantee the fire resistance safety of nuclear buildings. However, some gaps are still there, warranting further investigation, particularly the thermal stability and fire-resistance properties of the heavyweight concrete. The properties are mechanical, physical, and deformation properties of concrete after being subjected to elevated temperature. This paper investigated the fire resistance properties of three concrete mixes. There were magnetite-based concrete, basalt-based concrete, and quartz-based concrete. Compressive and flexural strength, spalling, mass loss, porosity, and scanning electron microscopy were measured for the three concrete types after being subjected to different temperature steps at 20, 150, 300, 500, and 800 °C. The three types of concrete showed different fire resistance properties. Magnetite-based concrete has better heat/fire resistance than basalt- and quartz-based concrete; there was no significant change up to 500 °C, and explosive spalling occurred at 800 °C. Correspondingly, the maximum change in porosity and reduction in the compressive and flexural strength occurred at 300 °C, which indicates the good thermal stability of magnetite-based concrete. Concerning basalt-based and quartz-based concretes, cracks were observed at 500 °C, and cracks with colour change and small spalling were initiated at 800 °C. Therefore, the maximum growth in the porosity and the high reduction in the compressive and flexural strength in basalt-based concrete occurred at 800 °C. Likewise, the extreme change in the porosity occurred at 500 °C, and the drastic reduction in the compressive and the flexural strength in the quartz-based concrete was relatively high at 500 °C and 800 °C. The SEM observations and analysis obtained the appearance of microcracks, voids and degradation of C-S-H in different concrete mixes at 500 and 800℃.
Multivariate return period for different types of flooding in city of Monza, Italy
Authors: Bateni M. Mehdi , Martina Mario L. V. , Arosio ·Marcello
Published: June 2022

The return period is a probabilistic criterion used to measure and communicate the random occurrence of geophysical events such as floods in risk assessment studies. Since an individual risk may be strongly affected by the degree of dependence amongst all risks, the need for the provision of multivariate design quantiles has gained ground. Consequently, several recent studies have focused on estimation of multi-hazard risk resulted from different hazard types. In this study, multi-hazard return periods are derived for riverine and pluvial floods in city of Monza, Italy, based on different copula dependence structures. It is shown that ignoring statistical dependence among different inter-correlated hazards may cause significant misestimation of risks.
Persistence of financial efficiency in indian hospitality and tourism industry: a dynamic panel Approach
Authors: Jaisinghani Dinesh , Joshi Mahesh , Goyal Jatin , Sharma Sharad
Published: June 2022

This paper analyses the degree of persistence of financial efficiency for the hospitality and tourism industry in India. The paper deploys the Data Envelopment Analysis technique to generate overall technical efficiency scores as well as pure technical efficiency scores. Furthermore, a dynamic panel technique proposed by Arellano and Bond (1991), is employed to test the degree of persistence of financial efficiency and its key determinants. The results confirm positive and significant persistence of efficiency for the sample firms from the hospitality industry in India. The overall results indicate that hospitality firms in India can create entry and exit barriers to generate positive persistence of financial efficiency. The study suggests regulators specifically focus on policies that can enhance the competitive dynamics of the industry. Such measures may make it imperative for the management of the firms in the sector to streamline their financial management policies to control costs and devise methods for the enhancement of revenues.
Coronary ostial angioplasty for juvenile Takayasu arteritis involving the coronary artery using external iliac artery grafts
Authors: Iwakura Tomohiro , Takanashi Shuichiro , Masuda Akio , Hayashida Miyu , Haraguchi Go , Nanasato Mamoru , Isobe Mitsuaki , Shimokawa Tomoki
Published: June 2022

Takayasu arteritis can affect the coronary ostia, leading to myocardial ischemia. Coronary ostial angioplasty effectively treats coronary artery ostial lesions associated with Takayasu arteritis. We present a case of juvenile Takayasu arteritis with bilateral subclavian artery occlusions treated with a novel coronary artery ostial angioplasty using the external iliac artery.
Yb- and Er concentration dependence of the upconversion luminescence of highly doped NaYF4:Yb,Er/NaYF4:Lu core/shell nanocrystals prepared by a water-free synthesis
Authors: Würth Christian , Grauel Bettina , Pons Monika , Frenzel Florian , Rissiek Philipp , Rücker Kerstin , Haase Markus , Resch-Genger Ute
Published: June 2022

High sensitizer and activator concentrations have been increasingly examined to improve the performance of multi-color emissive upconversion (UC) nanocrystals (UCNC) like NaYF4:Yb,Er and first strategies were reported to reduce concentration quenching in highly doped UCNC. UC luminescence (UCL) is, however, controlled not only by dopant concentration, yet by an interplay of different parameters including size, crystal and shell quality, and excitation power density (P). Thus, identifying optimum dopant concentrations requires systematic studies of UCNC designed to minimize additional quenching pathways and quantitative spectroscopy. Here, we quantify the dopant concentration dependence of the UCL quantum yield (ΦUC) of solid NaYF4:Yb,Er/NaYF4:Lu upconversion core/shell nanocrystals of varying Yb3+ and Er3+ concentrations (Yb3+ series: 20%–98% Yb3+; 2% Er3+; Er3+ series: 60% Yb3+; 2%–40% Er3+). To circumvent other luminescence quenching processes, an elaborate synthesis yielding OH-free UCNC with record ΦUC of ∼9% and ∼25 nm core particles with a thick surface shell were used. High Yb3+ concentrations barely reduce ΦUC from ∼9% (20% Yb3+) to ∼7% (98% Yb3+) for an Er3+ concentration of 2%, thereby allowing to strongly increase the particle absorption cross section and UCNC brightness. Although an increased Er3+ concentration reduces ΦUC from ∼7% (2% Er3+) to 1% (40%) for 60% Yb3+. Nevertheless, at very high P (> 1 MW/cm2) used for microscopic studies, highly Er3+-doped UCNC display a high brightness because of reduced saturation. These findings underline the importance of synthesis control and will pave the road to many fundamental studies of UC materials.
Is there more than one stickiness criterion?
Authors: Wang Anle , Müser Martin H.
Published: June 2022

Adhesion between an elastic body and a smooth, rigid substrate can lead to large tensile stresses between them. However, most macroscopic objects are microscopically rough, which strongly suppresses adhesion. A fierce debate has unfolded recently as to whether local or global parameters determine the crossover between small and large adhesion. Here, we report simulations revealing that the dependence of the pull-off force Fn on the surface energy γ does not only have two regimes of high and low adhesion but up to four regimes. They are related to contacts, which at the moment of rupture consist of (i) the last individual Hertzian-shaped contact, in which is linear in γ, (ii) a last meso-scale, individual patches with super-linear scaling, (iii) many isolated contact patches with extremely strong scaling, and (iv) a dominating largest contact patch, for which the pull-off stress is no longer negligible compared to the maximum, microscopic pull-off stress. Regime (iii) can be seen as a transition domain. It is located near the point where the surface energy is half the elastic energy per unit area in conformal contact. A criterion for the transition between regimes (i) and (ii) appears difficult to grasp.