bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent trends, challenges, and perspectives in piezoelectric‐driven self‐chargeable electrochemical supercapacitors
Authors: Krishnamoorthy Karthikeyan , Pazhamalai Parthiban , Manoharan Sindhuja , Liyakath Ali Noor Ul Haq , Kim Sang‐Jae
Published: May 2022

The increasing demand for wearable electronic devices has resulted in tremendous progress in research on energy harvesting and storage devices/technologies. Energy storage devices require a power source to charge them, whereas energy harvesting devices require a storage compartment to store the harvested energy for sustainable delivery. Recently, a piezoelectrically driven self‐charging supercapacitor power cell (SCSPC) was developed to harvest and store electrical energy in a solitary system to determine the potential impact of these two types of energy devices for wearable electronic applications. This review describes the recent advances in piezoelectric‐driven SCSPCs in terms of device configuration, piezoelectric separator, electrolyte types, electrode materials, current collectors, and system integration. This review focuses specifically on the principles and mechanism of the self‐charging process that occurred in the SCSPCs and the use of a promising piezo electrochemical spectroscopic tool to realize the piezo electrochemical energy transfer and storage process in the SCSPCs. Further, the current challenges and new perspectives for future developments in the emerging area of SCSPCs or integrated energy devices are discussed.
Understanding the Interaction between Inorganic and Organic Excitonic Components of an Inorganic‐Organic Nanohybrid Associate
Authors: Banerjee Somnath , Chakraborty Debabrata , Preeyanka Naupada , Sarkar Moloy
Published: May 2022

The present study deals with the design, formation, and photophysical studies on light‐harvesting inorganic‐organic nanohybrid associates comprising a less‐toxic, inorganic core‐shell QD (Cu−In−S/ZnS) and an organic S0041 dye aggregate. One of the main objectives of this study is to understand the interaction between the inorganic and organic excitonic components of the hybrid system and its implication on the photophysical response of the system. The nanohybrid associate have been obtained through the self‐assembly of S0041 dye molecules (organic exciton) onto Cu−In−S/ZnS QD (inorganic exciton). The characterization of as‐synthesized QD have been done by conventional microscopic and spectroscopic measurements. The exciton domain length for the organic dye aggregates is estimated to be 24 nm. Steady‐state absorption, emission, and time‐resolved photoluminescence (PL) intensity decay measurements have been carried out to understand the interaction mechanism between inorganic and organic excitonic components and the overall photophysical behaviour of the hybrid system. The studies have revealed that the formation of hybrid associate is electrostatically driven and thermodynamically feasible. Interestingly, steady‐state and time‐resolved PL decay measurements and their analysis have revealed that the interaction between inorganic QD and organic aggregate is mediated through dipole‐dipole Förster energy transfer (ET) mechanism and the ET efficiency is found to be as high as 95%. The present system is expected to be used in fabrication of less‐toxic nanoscale light‐harvesting system.
A new catalyst for HER: Tin‐Cobalt Co‐deposited nickel matrix
Authors: Ağfındık Orhan , Aydın Özkan , Farsak Murat , Kardaş Gülfeza
Published: May 2022

Hydrogen, called the energy source of the future, is a superb energy carrier. Electrolysis of water is the only method in the production of hydrogen classified with the green category. However, although the cost of hydrogen production by electrolysis has decreased considerably in recent years, it still has not reached reasonable levels. It is necessary to develop economical catalysts instead of precious metals with high catalytic efficiency such as platinum to reduce the electrolysis costs and increase the hydrogen evolution efficiency. In this study, the cathode electrode was prepared by depositing Ni, Sn, and Co on the nickel mesh support material using the electrochemical method. The efficiency of the prepared electrodes in terms of hydrogen evolution reaction abilities was investigated. Therefore, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, linear sweep voltammetry, cyclic voltammetry, and potentiodynamic polarization measurements were taken with a three‐electrode technique in a 1.0 M KOH electrolyte medium. The lowest overvoltage for the hydrogen evolution was determined as 0.1911 V with the SnCo#Ni electrode. The surface characterizations of the prepared electrodes were made using scanning electron microscope‐energy‐disperse X‐ray.
Estimating willingness to pay for public health insurance while accounting for protest responses: A further step towards universal health coverage in Tunisia?
Authors: Abu‐Zaineh Mohammad , Chanel Olivier , Makhloufi Khaled
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Developing countries face major challenges in implementing universal health coverage (UHC): a widespread informal sector, general discontent with rising economic insecurity and inequality and the rollback of state and public welfare. Under such conditions, estimating the demand for a health insurance scheme (HIS) on voluntary basis can be of interest to accelerate the progress of UHC‐oriented reforms. However, a major challenge that needs to be addressed in such context is related to protest attitudes that may reflect, inter alia, a null valuation of the expected utility or unexpressed demand.

Methods

We propose to tackle this by applying a contingent valuation survey to a non‐healthcare‐covered Tunisian sample vis‐à‐vis joining and paying for a formal HIS. Our design pays particular attention to identifying the nature of the willingness‐to‐pay (WTP) values obtained, distinguishing genuine null values from protest values. To correct for potential selection issues arising from protest answers, we estimate an ordered‐Probit‐selection model and compare it with the standard Tobit and Heckman sample selection models.

Results

Our results support the presence of self‐selection and, by predicting protesters' WTP, allow the “true” sample mean WTP to be computed. This appears to be about 14% higher than the elicited mean WTP.

Conclusion

The WTP of the poorest non‐covered respondents represents about one and a half times the current contributions of the poorest formal sector enrolees, suggesting that voluntary participation in the formal HIS is feasible.
Laparoscopy has better performance than laparotomy in the treatment of stable penetrating abdominal trauma: A retrospective cross‐sectional study in a trauma referral hospital in Colombia
Authors: Gómez Efrain J. I. , Vargas Luis F. C. , Lozada‐Martinez Ivan D. , Reyes Mariana , Pedraza Mauricio , Forero Nicolas , Guardo‐Carmona Daniela , Narvaez‐Rojas Alexis R.
Published: May 2022

Background

Abdominal trauma is one of the leading causes of death. In Colombia, few studies have evaluated the results on related factors and outcomes when comparing laparotomy versus laparoscopy in the management of penetrating abdominal trauma. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility and safety of laparoscopy in the treatment of stable penetrating abdominal trauma in a limited resources environment in a middle‐income country.

Methods

Retrospective cross‐sectional study was conducted in Bogota, Colombia from January 2018 to October 2020. Patients over 18 years old, hemodynamically stable with penetrating abdominal trauma without other body parts injuries, that underwent laparoscopy and/or laparotomy surgical exploration and treatment were included. Frequencies, percentages, correlations, and odds ratio were calculated.

Results

A total of 52 patients were analyzed (26 laparoscopy vs. 26 laparotomy). Stabbing injuries were more frequent in both groups (76.9%), as well as involvement of the anterior abdomen. None missed enterotomies were reported in the laparoscopy group. Surgical time and bleeding were significantly lower in the laparoscopic approach group (63 vs. 115 min and 65 vs. 992 cc, respectively). The time to oral intake and length of stay in the intensive care unit was significantly shorter in the laparoscopic management group (2 vs. 3 days and 1 vs. 4 days, respectively).

Conclusions

Surgical results found a safe scenario in a limited resources environment for the application of the laparoscopic technique to approach penetrating abdominal trauma in stable patients without missed injuries, low threshold of conversion to open approach, and additionally not presenting a higher percentage of complications compared with the laparotomy group in Colombia. Operative time, oral intake, and length of hospital stay were lower in the fully therapeutic laparoscopy group.
Monitoring phosphorus in the tributaries of a deep lake from the perspective of the receiving water body
Authors: Valerio Giulia , Pilotti Marco , Scibona Alessandro , Nizzoli Daniele
Published: May 2022

Deep lakes under climate change are experiencing reduced deep mixing, with a consequent increase in nutrients concentration and oxygen deficit in the hypolimnion. From this perspective, greater efforts should be made to reduce the phosphorus load delivered to these lakes by their tributaries. An essential precondition for this action is a reliable estimate of the loads, which is challenging due to the marked temporal variability of the hydrologically‐driven diffuse sources. In this article, we used a high‐resolution phosphorus time series measured at the mouth of the main tributary of Lake Iseo and a machine learning algorithm to show the dominant role played by the acute, storm‐dependent transport. The results emphasize the need to control loads strictly linked to precipitation and runoff in the drained watershed, representing 31% of the observed events but responsible for 64% of the overall load to the lake. We also proved evidence that the current obligations on nutrients monitoring miss the total phosphorus dynamics, leading to a systematic underestimation of the load conveyed by the inflows. Accordingly, we propose a sampling methodology where the timing and the methods for data interpolation are established according to the hydrological conditions in the drained watershed. Accounting for the economical and practical constraints imposed by the monitoring authorities, we propose to integrate, at the mouth of lake tributaries, a monthly manual sampling with an auto‐sampler programmed to fill 2 bottles in correspondence of each high flow event. Our simulations showed that in this case the load estimation error was reduced below 1%, implying, on average, 13 field surveys/year and 21 laboratory analyses/year only. It is reasonable to expect comparable performances in hydrologically similar watersheds.
Systematic analysis of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS)‐associated herpesvirus genomes from a KS case‐control study in Cameroon: Evidence of dual infections but no association between viral sequence variation and KS risk
Authors: Marshall Vickie A. , Fisher Nicholas C. , Goodman Charles A. , Cornejo Castro Elena M. , Liu Isabella , Khanal Sirish , Holdridge Benjamin M. , Thorpe Abigail L. , Labo Nazzarena , Stolka Kristen B. , Hemingway‐Foday Jennifer J. , Abassora Mahamat , N'Dom Paul , Smith Jennifer S. , Sallah Neneh , Palser Anne L. , Kellam Paul , Keele Brandon F. , Whitby Denise
Published: May 2022

In sub‐Saharan Africa, Kaposi's sarcoma‐associated herpesvirus (KSHV) is endemic, and Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) is a significant public health problem. Until recently, KSHV genotype analysis was performed using variable gene regions, representing a small fraction of the genome, and thus the contribution of sequence variation to viral transmission or pathogenesis are understudied. We performed near full‐length KSHV genome sequence analysis on samples from 43 individuals selected from a large Cameroonian KS case‐control study. KSHV genomes were obtained from 21 KS patients and 22 control participants. Phylogenetic analysis of the K1 region indicated the majority of sequences were A5 or B1 subtypes and all three K15 alleles were represented. Unique polymorphisms in the KSHV genome were observed including large gene deletions. We found evidence of multiple distinct KSHV genotypes in three individuals. Additionally, our analyses indicate that recombination is prevalent suggesting that multiple KSHV infections may not be uncommon overall. Most importantly, a detailed analysis of KSHV genomes from KS patients and control participants did not find a correlation between viral sequence variations and disease. Our study is the first to systematically compare near full‐length KSHV genome sequences between KS cases and controls in the same endemic region to identify possible sequence variations associated with disease risk.
Insomnia affects patient‐reported outcome in sleep apnea treated with hypoglossal nerve stimulation
Authors: Steffen Armin , Baptista Peter , Ebner Eva‐Maria , Jeschke Stephanie , König Inke R. , Bruchhage Karl‐Ludwig
Published: May 2022

Objective

Comorbid insomnia may impact outcomes of patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) receiving hypoglossal nerve stimulation with respiratory sensing (HNS) therapy. To examine whether the presence of insomnia measured using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) is associated with patient‐reported outcomes and objective OSA measures in patients receiving HNS therapy.

Methods

In this retrospective chart review, patients with an HNS implant and ISI score at follow‐up assessment were categorized as having moderate/severe insomnia or no/subthreshold insomnia. OSA‐related data (Apnea Hypopnea Index, AHI; Oxygen Desaturation Index, ODI), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire (FOSQ), and overall patient satisfaction was compared between these patient categories. Correlations between ISI scores and each of these variables were examined.

Results

Of the 132 patients, 26% had moderate/severe insomnia at follow‐up assessment. ESS and FOSQ scores were worse in the insomnia group at baseline, follow‐up, and in the change from baseline, but AHI and ODI scores did not differ between patients with and without insomnia. Frequency of overall satisfaction at follow‐up was lower in the insomnia group (58.8% vs. 92.8% with no insomnia, P < .001). Patients with insomnia were more likely to have depression (56% vs. 27% without insomnia, P < .002).

Conclusions

Insomnia is associated with worse patient‐reported outcomes of daytime sleepiness and sleep‐related quality of life in patients with OSA receiving HNS therapy. Depression is more prevalent in patients with comorbid insomnia. The ISI may help physicians to address comorbid insomnia and achieve high patient satisfaction and adherence to HNS therapy.

Level of Evidence

4
The monkey microbial biobank brings previously uncultivated bioresources for nonhuman primate and human gut microbiomes
Authors: Li Danhua , Liu Chang , Abuduaini Rexiding , Du Mengxuan , Wang Yujing , Zhu Haizhen , Chen Honghe , Zhou Nan , Xin Yuhua , Wu Linhuan , Ma Juncai , Zhou Yuguang , Lu Yong , Jiang Chengying , Sun Qiang , Liu Shuang‐Jiang
Published: May 2022

Impact statement

Nonhuman primates (NHPs) such as monkeys are the closest living relatives to humans and are the best available models for causative studies of human health and diseases. Gut microbiomes are intensively involved in host health. In this study, by large‐scale cultivation of microbes from fecal samples of monkeys, we obtained previously uncultured bacterial species and constructed a Macaca fascicularis Gut Microbial Biobank (MfGMB). The MfGMB consisted of 250 strains that represent 97 species of 63 genera, 25 families, and 4 phyla. The information of the 250 strains and the genomes of 97 cultured species are publicly accessible. The MfGMB represented nearly 50% of core gut microbial compositions at the genus level and covered over 80% of the KO‐based known gut microbiome functions of M. fascicularis. Data mining showed that the bacterial species in the MfGMB were prevalent not only in NHPs gut microbiomes but also in human gut microbiomes. This study will help the understanding and future investigations on how gut microbiomes interact with their mammalian hosts.
The “Spin‐3/2 Bloch Equation”: System matrix formalism of excitation, relaxation, and off‐resonance effects in biological tissue
Authors: Wu Chengchuan , Blunck Yasmin , Johnston Leigh A.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This work proposes “Spin‐3/2 Bloch Equation” (SBE), a consolidated formalism for spin‐3/2 dynamics in biological environments. The formalism encapsulates excitation, relaxation, and off‐resonance with accessible matrix representation for a straightforward implementation with high computational efficiency.

Theory

The SBE is derived using spherical tensor operators to encapsulate the spin‐3/2 dynamics in biological systems in a single system matrix, a formalism akin to the well‐known Bloch Equations (BE).

Methods

Using the proposed SBE, simulations of three classical 23Na pulse sequences were performed to demonstrate the versatility and applicability of the model, returning the evolution of the 23Na spin system during these experiments: soft rectangular and adiabatic inversion recovery (IR) and triple‐quantum filtering. IR simulations were compared with two existing spin‐3/2 simulators and the adaptive BE as a first‐order approximation.

Results

The proposed SBE is straightforward to implement and facilitates accurate and fast simulations of the underlying higher order coherence in sodium experiments of biological tissues. SBE simulations and comparison spin‐3/2 simulators outperform the BE simulations as expected, with the SBE offering superior computational efficiency achieved by the single system matrix formalism.

Conclusion

The proposed SBE enables comprehensive and accurate simulations for spin‐3/2 systems in biological tissue. With a one‐line call to an ordinary differential equation solver, it offers a computationally efficient and accessible method for use in 23Na pulse sequence design.
The impact of manual patient handling on work ability: A cross‐sectional study in a Brazilian hospital
Authors: Bernardes João Marcos , Spröesser Alonso Melissa , Gómez‐Salgado Juan , Ruiz‐Frutos Carlos , García‐Navarro Esperanza Begoña , Dias Adriano
Published: May 2022

Aim

To investigate the level of self‐reported work ability and its association with manual patient handling in healthcare workers.

Design

Cross‐sectional study adhering to the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines.

Methods

A total of 320 healthcare workers answered a self‐administered questionnaire regarding manual patient handling, work ability, occupational factors, occurrence of low back pain and sociodemographic and lifestyle factors from November 2016 to March 2017. The association between manual patient handling and low back pain was analysed with Poisson regression models.

Results

The prevalence ratio of inadequate work ability was 43.42%. Manual patient handling (PR 1.375, 95% CI 1.038–1.821), bachelor education (PR 2.150, 95% CI 1.272–3.632), less than bachelor education (PR 2.166, 95% CI 1.218–3.855), seniority (PR 1.049, 95% CI 1.024–1.086), poor sleep quality (PR 1.425, 95% CI 1.13–1.796) and presence of low back pain (PR 2.003, 95% CI 1.314–3.052) were all positively associated with an inadequate work ability.
Affinity Chromatography‐Based Assays for the Screening of Potential Ligands Selective for G‐Quadruplex Structures
Authors: Platella Chiara , Napolitano Ettore , Riccardi Claudia , Musumeci Domenica , Montesarchio Daniela
Published: May 2022

DNA G‐quadruplexes (G4s) are key structures for the development of targeted anticancer therapies. In this context, ligands selectively interacting with G4s can represent valuable anticancer drugs. Aiming at speeding up the identification of G4‐targeting synthetic or natural compounds, we developed an affinity chromatography‐based assay, named G‐quadruplex on Oligo Affinity Support (G4‐OAS), by synthesizing G4‐forming sequences on commercially available polystyrene OAS. Then, due to unspecific binding of several hydrophobic ligands on nude OAS, we moved to Controlled Pore Glass (CPG). We thus conceived an ad hoc functionalized, universal support on which both the on‐support elongation and deprotection of the G4‐forming oligonucleotides can be performed, along with the successive affinity chromatography‐based assay, renamed as G‐quadruplex on Controlled Pore Glass (G4‐CPG) assay. Here we describe these assays and their applications to the screening of several libraries of chemically different putative G4 ligands. Finally, ongoing studies and outlook of our G4‐CPG assay are reported.
Structural, thermal, and viscoelastic response of nanoclay reinforced polylactic acid/thermoplastic polyurethane shape‐memory nanocomposites of low transition temperature
Authors: Jafari Horastani Sahar , Karevan Mehdi , Ghane Mohammad
Published: May 2022

Shape memory polymers are strong competitors against shape memory alloys in many similar applications due to their inherent properties. Numerous studies have already reported shape memory properties of pure and blended polymer systems. However, further research is required to address property–structure interplays in nano‐reinforced shape memory composites of low programming temperature with specialty applications including wearing smart cloths, advanced medical devices and biomedical shape memory scaffolds. This research aims to evaluate the overall interplay amongst thermal, structural and viscoelastic properties of nanoclay reinforced polylactic acid (PLA)/thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) shape memory blends whilst the use of a plasticizer is hypothesized to modify the programming temperature of the fabricated parts. To achieve this, the melt mixing method was utilized in fabrication of nanoclay filled PLA/TPU blends of 60/40 ratio as the optimized reference system. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) was used to reduce the stimulation temperature down to around 42°C. The results showed that the optimal thermal, structural and shape memory properties are obtained when 5 wt% of nanoclay and 10 wt% of PEG are incorporated into the reference blend exhibiting the targeted stimulus temperature as supported by the thermal, structural and shape memory response of the parts. The contact angles, surface energy values and transmission electron microscopy analysis further confirmed the improvement in the miscibility of PLA/TPU blends correlated to the overall shape memory response of the fabricated parts.
Sustainable agricultural practices contribute significantly to One Health
Authors: Yan Zhenzhen , Xiong Chao , Liu Hongwei , Singh Brajesh K.
Published: May 2022

The One Health concept proposes that the health of humans, animals, and the environment are interconnected. Agricultural production is a critical component of One Health as food links the environment to human health. Food not only provides nutrients to humans but also represents an important pathway for human exposure to environmental microbes as well as potentially harmful agrochemicals. In addition, inappropriate agronomic practices can cause damage to the environment which can have unintended adverse impacts on human health. Therefore, improving agricultural production systems and protecting environmental health should not be viewed as isolated goals as they are strongly interlinked. Here, we used the nexus of soil, plant, and human microbiomes to discuss sustainable agricultural production from the One Health perspective. We highlighted three interconnected challenges faced by current agronomic practices: the transmissions of pathogens in soil‐human microbial loops, the dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes in agroecosystems, and the impacts of chemical pesticides on humans and environmental health. Finally, we propose the potential of utilising microbiomes for better sustainable agronomic practices to contribute to key goals of the One Health concept.
3D‐gedruckte Stützen mit außergewöhnlicher Geometrie
Authors: Lange Jörg , Waldschmitt Benedikt , Borg Costanzi Christopher
Published: May 2022

Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) ist ein Schweißverfahren, mit dem dreidimensionale Strukturen aus Stahl hergestellt werden können. Wie andere additive Fertigungstechnologien ermöglicht es die Herstellung geometrisch komplexer Strukturen, die mit herkömmlichen Methoden nicht oder nur sehr aufwendig realisierbar sind. In diesem Beitrag wird ein Arbeitsablauf vom Entwurf bis zur Fertigung für den Einsatz von WAAM im Rahmen der Herstellung von Stützen mit außergewöhnlicher Geometrie vorgestellt. Hierbei wird die Erforschung von Materialverhalten und Prozessparametern mit dem Ziel kombiniert, ein digitales Werkzeug für den Entwurf und die Fertigung von Bauteilen mittels WAAM bereitzustellen. Um die gewünschten Geometrien zu erreichen, werden die erforderlichen Schweißparameter erfasst und in einem rudimentären Digitalen Zwilling gespeichert. Ergänzt wird dies durch mehrere Prozesskontrollen, die während des Druckprozesses durchgeführt werden, um sicherzustellen, dass das Objekt wie geplant erzeugt wird. Schließlich werden die Strukturen hergestellt und einer kritischen Bewertung unterzogen, um das Potenzial für zukünftige Anwendungen zu ermitteln. Die Herausforderung, geometrische Komplexität mit der Fertigung in großem Maßstab zu verbinden, stellt einen nächsten Schritt in der Integration von WAAM in den Stahlbau dar.
Experimental evaluation on mechanical and thermal insulation properties of shotcrete under constant‐variable temperature
Authors: Chen Lianjun , Zhao Jipeng , Meng Xiangrui , Liu Zhaoxia , Liu Guoming
Published: May 2022

One of the commonly used stabilization systems for rock tunnel is shotcrete. However, the hydration of shotcrete is usually accompanied by the development of internal defects and micro damage under high temperature. Additionally, in the actual high‐temperature engineering, the temperature of the rock tunnel exhibits irregular changes. Therefore, in this study, the curing conditions of constant temperature (23°C, 40°C, 60°C, 80°C) and variable temperature (23–40–60–80°C, 80–60–40–23°C) are set, respectively. The mechanical properties and structural properties of polyurethane shotcrete and ordinary Portland shotcrete are introduced. It is determined that the limit temperature for inhibiting the development of sprayed concrete's compressive and splitting strength is between 60°C and 80°C, and the limit temperature for inhibiting the development of bond strength is about 40°C. Meanwhile, the influence of high temperature on the thermal insulation performance of shotcrete is considered. The results that the self‐foaming performance of polymer(polyurethane) reduces the thermal conductivity of shotcrete. Based on this phenomenon, the heat transfer model of shotcrete at room and high temperature is established to clarify the heat transfer process of shotcrete. Results will provide theoretical basis for further research of durability and heat insulation performance of protective spraying material for tunnel under high temperature.
PM2.5 exposure‐induced ferroptosis in neuronal cells via inhibiting ERK/CREB pathway
Authors: Xiong Qi , Tian Xiang , Xu Congyue , Ma Baomiao , Liu Wei , Sun Binlian , Ru Qin , Shu Xiji
Published: May 2022

PM2.5 exposure has been demonstrated to correlate with neurological disorders recently. Ferroptosis is recognized as a newly found programmed form of cell death associated with neurodegenerative diseases, while glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) is a key regulator of ferroptosis. However, the relationship between PM2.5‐induced neurotoxicity and ferroptosis is still unclear. The current study aims to investigate if ferroptosis is involved in neurotoxicity post PM2.5 exposure and its underlying mechanism. The PM2.5‐treated neuronal Neuro‐2a (N2A) and SH‐SY5Y cells were applied to the current study. The results showed that PM2.5 significantly increased the neuronal cell death, yet the ferroptosis antagonist Ferrostain‐1 (Fer‐1) markedly decreased the cell death induced by PM2.5. Western blot further confirmed that ferroptosis was triggered post PM2.5 treatment in N2A cells by decreasing expressions of GPX4 and ferritin heavy chain (FTH), as well as enhancing expressions of ferritin light chain (FTL) and transferrin receptor protein (TFRC). Meanwhile, PM2.5 treatment augmented neuronal oxidative damage and mitochondrial dysfunction. The bioinformatic analysis indicated that CREB could be the regulator of GPX4, and our results showed that ERK/CREB pathway was down‐regulated in N2A cells post PM2.5 treatment. The addition of ERK1/2 agonist post PM2.5 treatment significantly inhibit ferroptosis via increasing the expression of GPX4. Taken together, the present study demonstrated that PM2.5‐induced ferroptosis via inhibiting ERK/CREB pathway, and these findings will advance our knowledge of PM2.5‐induced cytotoxicity in the nervous system.
Connecting workplace attachment and pro‐environmental behaviors in zoo and aquarium professionals
Authors: Murphy Brittany , Maynard Lily
Published: May 2022

Emerging conservation psychology literature shows that there is a strong link between positive attachment to a workplace and the performance of pro‐environmental behaviors by employees at work. The present study explores the validity of a pilot survey based in previous literature that explores these constructs to determine whether a relationship between the two exists among zoo and aquarium professionals. The survey was distributed to employees of the Wildlife Conservation Society's city zoos—Prospect Park, Central Park, and Queens Zoos—during the first year of the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic. Two of the survey scales used had a high internal consistency and data from these responses informed this case study to show that there is a weak, positive correlation between workplace attachment (WPA) and self‐reported frequency of performance of pro‐environmental behaviors (PEBs) among the respondents. Isolating the responses by department revealed that staff working in Operations departments (1) exhibit lower frequencies of PEB than those in Education and Animal departments and (2) have a very strong, positive correlation between WPA and PEB. The results suggest that zoo and aquarium employees who are positively attached to their workplace are more likely to perform PEBs, especially those working in Operations departments. These findings help support that workplace practices seeking to increase WPA could increase the performance of PEBs at work by all employees.
Mathematical Modeling in Circadian Rhythmicity
Authors: Olmo Marta del , Grabe Saskia , Herzel Hanspeter
Published: May 2022

Circadian clocks are autonomous systems able to oscillate in a self-sustained manner in the absence of external cues, although such Zeitgebers are typically present. At the cellular level, the molecular clockwork consists of a complex network of interlocked feedback loops. This chapter discusses self-sustained circadian oscillators in the context of nonlinear dynamics theory. We suggest basic steps that can help in constructing a mathematical model and introduce how self-sustained generations can be modeled using ordinary differential equations. Moreover, we discuss how coupled oscillators synchronize among themselves or entrain to periodic signals. The development of mathematical models over the last years has helped to understand such complex network systems and to highlight the basic building blocks in which oscillating systems are built upon. We argue that, through theoretical predictions, the use of simple models can guide experimental research and is thus suitable to model biological systems qualitatively.
Citizen Journalism and Health Communication in Pandemics’ Prevention and Control
Authors: Ugbo Gregory Obinna , Chinedu-Okeke Chinonye Faith , Ogbodo Jude Nwakpoke
Published: May 2022

Citizen journalism has introduced new ways of communicating and engaging the public. It has further created a shift in technology that enabled individuals to create and access more news faster than before. Thus, communicating health crisis no longer depends on the use of conventional media. The disruption in the communication landscape means that more people are now more conversant with the use of social media to create or access news. Citizen journalism has unlocked the information gateway and made pandemic reporting more viral and instantaneous, although with some shortcomings. Thus, news about the prevention and control of the COVID-19 pandemic is readily available on the Internet and social media. This chapter, therefore, examines the impact of citizen journalism and health communication in pandemics’ prevention and control. Underpinned by the Health Belief Model and Theory of Reasoned Action, the chapter offers an insight into how citizen journalism could be effectively employed to communicate the prevention and control of pandemics. Relevant literature was systematically reviewed, and it shows that access to pandemic messages no longer follows the conventional process of news making and consumption as many people now actively albeit, unprofessionally, participate in these processes. Howbeit, the dangers of such unprofessional practice are admitted.
Framing the AIDS Discourse: A Critic of Journalistic Source Norms in Uganda’s HIV and AIDS Print News
Authors: Napakol Angella
Published: May 2022

Through reportage, media have played a key role in HIV/AIDS prevention and awareness in Uganda. Uganda’s success in reducing the percentage of HIV infection together with key supportive factors such as political will have been discussed internationally. Media have been credited with relaying information about HIV/AIDS to different groups of people in the public and acting as change agents. This study looks at media as key players in the HIV and AIDS prevention journey in Uganda and therefore seeks to investigate how two major newspaper outlets; New Vision and Daily Monitor framed the issue of HIV/AIDS—looking particularly at the who, between authority and none authority sources contributed most to the HIV/AIDS narrative as news stories’ sources. A quantitative content analysis was carried out of New Vision and Daily Monitor newspapers’ articles spanning 20 years of coverage. Results indicate that despite the important role played, media depended more on authority sources of information compared to none authority sources. This paper argues that lay people such as PLWHA or their caregivers have lived experiences which if shared, could affect the adoption of recommended HIV/AIDS preventive measures.
Introduction: Exploring Landscapes of Lifelong Learning Policies across Europe
Authors: Benasso Sebastiano , Bouillet Dejana , Neves Tiago , do Amaral Marcelo Parreira
Published: May 2022

This chapter introduces the approach to the analysis of lifelong learning policies adopted in the book. Departing from the debate about the meanings and aims of the lifelong learning policies over time, the topic is presented as a multidimensional object to be explored through a multi-method and multi-level analysis. This idea is supported by the introduction of a spatial metaphor, the imagery of landscapes of lifelong learning policies. The reconstruction of the theoretical framework and the methodology for comparative case study analysis provided in the following chapters are here justified according to their capacity to fit the purposes of the exploration of such landscapes. In addition, the chapter illustrates the empirical foundation of the materials analysed in the second part of the book and introduces the main topics of the different chapters.
Youth Aspirations Towards the Future: Agency, Strategy and Life Choices in Different Structural Contexts
Authors: Pandolfini Valeria , Petkova Borislava , Verlage Thomas
Published: May 2022

Through a comparative analysis of three case studies built on the intersection of three young adults’ trajectories and three LLL policies in Germany, Italy and Bulgaria, this chapter aims to explore the interplay between opportunity structures and subjective choices. We focus on the educational and professional dimensions, putting them in relation within the LLL policy young adults accessed with their aspirations, self-representations, the living conditions they face in the local context and the welfare (Esping-Andersen, The three worlds of welfare capitalism. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press, 1990) and transition (Walther, YOUNG, 14(2), 119–139, 2006) regimes characterizing their countries. Relying on the Capability Approach (Sen, Development as freedom. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1999; Nussbaum, Women and human development. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2000), we explore how young people’s capacity to cope with challenges and their ability to actively navigate obstacles are influenced by the wider discursive and institutional opportunity structures in which they unfold their life paths. The analysis reveals how youths make their choices according to their “capacity to aspire” (Appadurai 2004) and the social, cultural and economic factors at play in exercising their navigational capacities; being able (or unable) to define life plans potentially constitutes a “new” factor of inequality. The possibilities of better capturing the complex relationship between structural limits, possibilities and subjective aspirations in shaping individuals’ choices and actions within specific opportunity structures are discussed.
The Assault on Reason: The Major Arguments in Defense of Not Getting Vaccinated for Covid 19
Authors: Mitroff Ian I.
Published: May 2022

This chapter examines the spate of arguments that have constantly been bandied about for NOT getting vaccinated for Covid 19. They range from the utter denial of one’s vulnerabilities to the Virus by virtue of one’s special characteristics and circumstances to outright paranoia due to the Government surreptitiously placing microchips in the vaccines so that it can track our every whereabouts and constantly influence our thoughts. They also embody perverse notions of Freedom, namely that “I and I alone have the sole right to make all important decisions when it comes to my body and that of my children. “While this is indeed the case when it comes to a woman’s fundamental right to choose whether to have an abortion or not, it fails miserably when it comes to curbing highly communicable diseases. In short, the principle of rightfully being in control of one’s body in one special set of circumstances has been taken out of its proper context and thereby hijacked for reprehensible purposes.
Infrastructure Wars: The Politization of Everything
Authors: Mitroff Ian I.
Published: May 2022

While not as deeply rooted in the Psyche as the forces that were analyzed in Chap. 10.1007/978-3-030-99808-0_2, others have just as important a bearing on the arguments/claims that have been advanced in support of not getting vaccinated for Covid 19. They’re most readily seen in terms of their impact on other important issues. Thus, this chapter uses the Myers-Briggs Personality Typology (MBPTI) to analyze the arguments in favor of more traditional notions of Infrastructure, such as Highways and Bridges, versus nontraditional notions such as Greater Access to Broadband, Free Community College, Expanded Child-Care, PreK, etc. It’s the difference between Infrastructure conceived primarily in Physical versus broader Human/Social terms.
Warum Neuroökonomie? Die Ausgangssituation in den Mutterwissenschaften
Authors: Dreher Lena
Published: May 2022

Um zu verstehen, welche Ziele die Neuroökonomie verfolgt und warum, ist es hilfreich, zu Beginn einen Blick auf die Ausgangssituationen der beteiligten Wissenschaften zu werfen. In diesem Kapitel werden wir genau das tun und dabei der Frage nachgehen, warum sich Verhaltensökonomen und kognitive Neurowissenschaftler für die Neuroökonomie interessieren und welche Möglichkeiten sie sich von ihr versprechen.
Gender Perspective in STEM Disciplines in Spain Universities
Authors: Calvo-Iglesias Encina , Epifanio Irene , Estrade Sonia , Mas de les Valls Elisabet
Published: May 2022

In this paper we present different initiatives carried out by Spanish universities for the incorporation of the gender perspective in STEM disciplines. One of these initiatives is the collection of guides of the Vives University Network for university teaching. These guides cover the sections of objectives, contents, evaluation, learning environment, organizational modalities, teaching methods, and didactic resources with the aim of making women scientists visible in the discipline and eliminating the androcentric vision that predominates in science and engineering. In particular, we analyze the fields of engineering, mathematics, and physics. With the aim of being more than just a review of different initiatives, the paper unifies the fundamentals on which these initiatives are based. Thus, the general principles are well defined, and those aspects more related to each university and discipline particular cultures are identified. The comparison between initiatives will allow us to identify both successful strategies and resistances. Sometimes, the confluence of different events allows an action to become relevant or not. As a result, the paper can be used to effectively define the implementation strategy of the incorporation of gender perspective in STEM teaching at university level.
A mobile learning framework for higher education in resource constrained environments
Authors: Okai-Ugbaje Safiya , Ardzejewska Kathie , Imran Ahmed
Published: May 2022

It is well documented that learning oppourtunities afforded by mobile technology (m-learning) holds great potential to enhance technology-enhanced learning in countries and communities with low socio-economic conditions where web-based e-learning has failed because of limited infrastructure and resources. Despite the potential for m-learning, its actual uptake has been low. The extant literature in this sphere provides some theoretical insight, with evidence of limited on-the-ground practical studies that often do not progress beyond the pilot phase. Failure to embed sustainable learning opportunities has been attributed to the absence of a contextual framework suitable for the heterogeneous nature of many developing countries. This paper thus presents an m-learning framework that considers the sociocultural and socio-economic contexts of low-income economies. The framework is based on a range of studies conducted over four years, including the outcome of two empirical studies conducted in a Nigerian university. Documenting the research underpinning the design provides practitioners and policymakers with a framework for a potentially sustainable strategy for long-term mainstream m-learning integration in higher education in low-income countries.
Is partial desynapsis in cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis) pollen mother cells linked to aneuploidy in the crop?
Authors: Ji Xianwen , Lelivelt Cilia , Wijnker Erik , de Jong Hans
Published: May 2022

Trisomic cauliflower plants (Brassica oleraceaL. var.botrytis) display abnormal curd phenotypes that seriously decrease commercial value of the crop. Despite extensive breeding efforts, selection of genotypes producing euploid gametes remains unsuccessful due to unknown genetic and environmental factors. To reveal an eventual role of an-euploid gametes, we analyzed chromosome pairing, chiasma formation and chromosome segregation in pollen mother cells of selected cauliflower genotypes. To this end we compared three genotypes exhibiting Low with < 5%, Moderate with 5–10% and High with > 10% aberrant offspring, respectively. Although chromosome pairing at pachytene was regular, cells at diakinesis and metaphase I showed variable numbers of univalents, suggesting partial desynapsis. Cells at anaphase I–telophase II exhibit various degrees of unbalanced chromosome numbers, that may explain the aneuploid offspring. Immunofluorescence probed with an MLH1 antibody demonstrated fluorescent foci in all genotypes, but their lower numbers do not correspond to the number of putative chiasmata. Interchromosomal connections between chromosomes and bivalents are common at diakinesis and metaphase I, and they contain centromeric and 45S rDNA tandem repeats, but such chromatin connections seem not to affect proper disjoin of the half bivalents at anaphase I. Moreover, male meiosis in theArabidopsis APETALA1/CAULIFLOWERdouble mutant with the typical cauliflower phenotype does show interchromosomal connections, but there are no indications for partial desynapsis. The causality of the curd development on the desynapsis in cauliflower is still a matter of debate.
Pursuing the protein challenge 2040: macrophytes protein production in temperate transitional water systems
Authors: Augusto Sfriso Andrea , Tomio Yari , Buosi Alessandro , Juhmani Abdul-Salam , Sfriso Adriano , Munari Cristina , Mistri Michele
Published: May 2022

The in-field protein production of four macroalgae (Gracilariopsis vermiculophylla, Gracilaria gracilis, Gracilariopsis longissima, Ulva australis) and three seagrasses (Cymodocea nodosa, Zostera marina, Zostera noltei) was investigated in four transitional water systems over one year. The protein content in macroalgae ranged from 1.0 to 25.1% and was inversely related with water temperature. The annual protein production was the highest for G. longissima (500 g dw m−2 year−1), followed by G. vermiculophylla (350 g dw m−2 year−1), U. australis (33 g dw m−2 year−1) and G. gracilis (270 g dw m−2 year−1). The most productive months spanned between March and August for G. longissima and between December and May for G. vermiculophylla, reaching 78% and 85% of the annual production, respectively. The protein production was more uniform over the year for the other two macroalgae. The protein production in seagrasses was averagely from 3.4 to 12 times lower than in macroalgae and reached 77.8 g m−2 year−1 in C. nodosa, followed by Z. marina with 55.6 g m−2 year−1 and Z. noltei with 30.6 g m−2 year−1. The peak production between April and August accounted for 63–98% of the annual production. Rhizomes displayed the lowest protein contents (1.2–3.4%), almost half in comparison with leaves (2.3–5.1%) and the lowest protein production with 21.0 g m−2 year−1 for C. nodosa, 6.3 g m−2 year−1 for Z. marina and 9.0 g m−2 year−1 for Z. noltei. Aquatic macrophyte productions proved to be competitive with the main crops currently cultivated on land without competing in terms of land and freshwater destination. The challenge is still open on the front of digestibility and protein extraction but sustainable management and production of macrophytes (especially macroalgae) can significantly contribute to the global protein production in coastal areas.