bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From input–output analysis to the quantification of metabolic patterns: David Pimentel’s contribution to the analysis of complex environmental problems
Authors: Giampietro Mario
Published: January 2024

This paper revisits David Pimentel’s work on input–output analysis of agricultural production systems with the objective of demonstrating its (continued) relevance for the analysis of complex environmental issues. It is shown that his unique accounting procedure is grounded in complexity theory and that it effectively links expected relations over primary inputs and outputs exchanged with the ecosphere and secondary inputs and outputs exchanged with the anthroposphere (including labor). New conceptual building blocks are introduced to demonstrate that Pimentel’s analysis can be extended across different hierarchical levels (crop typologies, commodity supply systems, agricultural regions, etc.) and dimensions of analysis to obtain a formal representation of the metabolic pattern of social–ecological systems. These concepts include: (i) state–pressure relation (extensive properties); (ii) flow–fund ratios (intensive properties), i.e., qualitative benchmarks to define typologies of agricultural production in relation to both the socioeconomic process (e.g., land productivity, labor productivity) and the environmental pressure exerted on the environment (e.g., water consumption, GHG emission and pesticide load per hectare); and (iii) relational analysis to scale up the analysis to higher hierarchical levels so as to acquire policy relevance. Examples of the pertinence of this formalization are illustrated using Pimentel’s original data on grain cultivation in the USA. It is concluded that Pimentel’s work has set an example for a holistic approach to complex environmental problems and has paved the way for a more general conceptualization of social–ecological systems as metabolic systems.
Urokinase Plasminogen Activator Receptor: An Important Focal Player in Chronic Subdural Hematoma?
Authors: Jensen Thorbjørn Søren Rønn , Olsen Markus Harboe , Lelkaitis Giedrius , Kjaer Andreas , Binderup Tina , Fugleholm Kåre
Published: January 2024

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) development involves inflammatory, angiogenetic, and fibrinolytic mechanisms, several components of which are now unraveled through intensive research. The urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) is part of the plasminogen activator system and possesses inflammatory, angiogenetic, and fibrinolytic capabilities. As a first, this study aims to identify uPAR in the hematoma fluid, hematoma membrane, dura mater, and systemic blood from patients with CSDH and, if present, to investigate if the uPAR level at the time of surgery may be a predictor for later developing recurrent CSDH. uPAR expression in the hematoma membrane and dura mater was analyzed using immunohistochemistry and presented as the H-score of the positive immunostaining. The uPAR levels in the hematoma fluid and systemic blood were determined using a multiplex antibody bead kit (Luminex). Samples were collected at the time of the first CSDH surgery, and in the case of recurrent CSDH within 90 days, the samples were again collected at reoperation. A comparison of uPAR expression between the hematoma membrane and dura mater, as well as uPAR levels in systemic blood and hematoma fluid, was performed using the Wilcoxon rank sum test. We included 112 patients, 26 of whom had recurrent CSDH. The median hematoma uPAR level was 22,125 (14,845–33,237) and significantly higher than the median systemic blood level of 789 pg/L (465–2,088) (p < 0.001). Similarly, the uPAR level of the hematoma membrane was 14.3 (7.54–44.8) and significantly higher than the dural uPAR level of 0.81 (0.3–1.98) (p < 0.001). For the first time, we identified uPAR in the subdural fluid, hematoma membrane, dura mater, and systemic blood from patients with CSDH. The high expression of uPAR in the subdural fluid and hematoma membrane indicates that the mechanisms of CSDH are predominantly in the subdural fluid collection and surrounding hematoma membrane.
Enhancing English Language Proficiency and Well-being in EAL International PhD Students: The Impact of Personalised Autonomous Learning
Authors: Kim Mira , Clifton Jemma , Strutt Anneli
Published: January 2024

Research has shown that English language proficiency (ELP) plays a crucial role in the psychological well-being of international students (e.g. Li et al., Journal of International Students, 4(4), 301-313, 2014). However, few studies have reported positive correlations between their improved English skills and well-being. The present study examines how a new pedagogy called personalised autonomous (PA) model can induce a virtuous cycle in international PhD students to enhance their English language proficiency and consequently, their well-being. We collected both quantitative and qualitative data from two groups of students: those who experienced the PA model in a course entitled Personalised English Language Enhancement (PELE) and those who did not. We conducted surveys at the beginning and end of the term to compare entry and exit data. Comparison of the entry and exit survey data for PELE students showed significant improvements across almost all dependent variables including self-efficacy, well-being and a sense of belonging to the university community. In contrast, the non-PELE students did not significantly improve in any variable. In focus groups, students indicated how their improved communicative confidence sparked a virtuous cycle leading to greater well-being and a stronger sense of community. Our data strongly suggests that ELP extends beyond mere linguistic ability; it embodies a dynamic interplay between one’s language skills and their self-confidence. Diminished confidence may trigger a vicious cycle of fear of communication, unwillingness to engage, unproductive research, and estranged relationships with supervisors. Therefore, it is imperative for educators and policymakers to critically review and enhance their approaches to supporting the ELP of international PhD students.
Multi-scale investigation of microstructure and texture evolution during equal channel angular pressing of silver
Authors: Suwas Satyam , Skrotzki Werner , Scheerbaum Nils , Grosdidier Thierry , Fundenberger Jean-Jacques , Tóth Laszlo S. , Brokmeier Heinz-Günter
Published: January 2024

A multi-scale investigation was carried out on pure silver subjected to equal channel angular pressing up to 3 passes. Microstructure and texture were examined using scanning and transmission electron microscopy as well as diffraction of neutron and high-energy synchrotron radiation. The evolution of the deformation substructure in the material is in accordance with its low stacking fault energy followed by restoration mechanisms leading to overall microstructural refinement. The restoration mechanism sets in as early as after 3 passes. Twinning involved in the deformation process supports grain refinement through mechanisms of dynamic recrystallization involving strain-induced boundary migration contributing to a steady-state grain size. The global texture, as measured by neutron diffraction, forms through a twin-assisted deformation mechanism. The texture is found heterogeneous through thickness.

Graphical abstract
Importance of habitat area, quality and landscape context for heteropteran diversity in shrub ecotones
Authors: Klimm Fabian S. , Bräu Markus , König Sebastian , Mandery Klaus , Sommer Carolin , Zhang Jie , Krauss Jochen
Published: January 2024

Context

Habitat loss and degradation impose serious threats on biodiversity. However, not all habitats receive the attention commensurate with their ecological importance. Shrub ecotones (successional stages between grasslands and forests) can be highly species-diverse but are often restricted to small areas as prevalent management practices either promote open grassland or forest habitats, threatening the effective conservation of ecotone species.

Objectives

In this study, we assessed the importance of habitat and landscape features of shrub ecotones for the rarely studied true bugs (Heteroptera), a functionally diverse taxon that comprises highly specialized species and broad generalists.

Methods

True bugs were sampled with a beating tray in 118 spatially independent shrub ecotones in a region of 45,000 square kilometers in Germany. In addition to habitat area and landscape context, we used a hedge index to evaluate habitat quality.

Results

Shrub ecotones in open habitats harbored a greater species richness and abundance compared to shaded ones in later seral stages, and species composition differed. Richness and abundance were positively affected by increasing habitat area and quality, whereas an increase in the proportion of semi-natural habitats within 1 km only enhanced richness. While feeding and habitat specialists were more sensitive to habitat area reduction than generalists, this was not the case for weak dispersers and carnivores.

Conclusions

Our findings emphasize the importance of large and high-quality ecotones that form a patchy mosaic of shrubs and herbaceous plants. Such ecotones can benefit both grassland species and species depending on woody plants. Conservation authorities should balance between promoting shrubs and keeping such habitats open to maximize species diversity.
Impacts of COVID-19 on Medically Assisted Live Birth Rates in the United States in 2020 and 2021
Authors: Tierney Katherine , Lazzari Ester
Published: January 2024

Initial declines in births due to medically assisted reproduction (MAR) in December 2020 have been documented. However, the longer-term impact of COVID-19 on U.S. MAR birth rates has not yet been evaluated. Negative-binomial regression analyses were employed using counts of MAR births from the National Vital Statistics System and female population counts from the Current Population Survey as the exposure variable. Interaction terms were used to investigate whether trends varied by sociodemographic groups. The descriptive analyses showed sharp declines in the percentage of births due to MAR in December 2020 (1.05%) and January 2021 (1.08%). Multivariable negative-binomial regression showed the incident rates of MAR births were lower in December 2020 relative to all other periods with the exception of January 2021 (IRR = 0.97, 95% Confidence Interval: 0.77–1.22). Negative-binomial regression analyses with interaction terms found the decline and rebound in MAR births differed by educational attainment. Overall, however, the yearly incidence rates of MAR births in 2020 and 2021 were not different from rates from prior years (2017–2019). Thus, COVID-19 service suspension likely had a substantive effect on U.S. MAR birth rates, but this reduction quickly rebounded to pre-pandemic levels. This study extends prior research, which focused on data from 2020, and sheds further light on behavior related to MAR use and its potential demographic implications during the pandemic.
Mean arterial pressure to norepinephrine equivalent dose ratio for predicting renal replacement therapy requirement: a retrospective analysis from the MIMIC-IV
Authors: Liu Qiang , Fu Yawen , Zhang Zhuo , Li Ping , Nie Hu
Published: January 2024

Background

This study aimed to assess the predictive value of the ratio of mean arterial pressure (MAP) to the corresponding peak rate of norepinephrine equivalent dose (NEQ) within the first day in patients with shock for the subsequent renal replacement therapy (RRT) requirement.

Methods

Patients were identified using the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) database. The relationship was investigated using a restricted cubic spline curve, and propensity score matching(PSM) was used to eliminate differences between groups. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using logistic regression. Variable significance was assessed using extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated.

Results

Of the 5775 patients, 301 (5.2%) received RRT. The MAP/NEQ index showed a declining L-shaped relationship for RRT. After PSM, the adjusted OR per 100 mmHg/mcg/kg/min for RRT was 0.93(95% CI 0.88–0.98). The most influential factors for RRT were fluid balance, baseline creatinine, and the MAP/NEQ index. The threshold for the MAP/NEQ index predicting RRT was 161.7 mmHg/mcg/kg/min (specificity: 65.8%, sensitivity: 74.8%) with an area under the ROC curve of 75.9% (95% CI 73.1–78.8).

Conclusions

The MAP/NEQ index served as an alternative predictor of RRT necessity based on the NEQ for adult patients who received at least one vasopressor over 6 h within the first 24 h of intensive care unit(ICU) admission. Dynamic modulation of the MAP/NEQ index by the synergistic use of various low-dose vasopressors targeting urine output may be beneficial for exploring individualized optimization of MAP.
The impact and safety of encapsulated nanomaterials as a new alternative against carbapenem resistant bacteria. a systematic review
Authors: Abdallah Omnia M. , Shebl Heba R. , Abdelsalam Eman , Mehrez Shereen I.
Published: January 2024

The emergence of multi drug resistant bacterial infections has caused a critical problem with implication on hospitalization and mortality rates. This systematic review aims to review the combined antimicrobial effect of nanoparticles attached to the traditionally used antibiotics, to overcome the antibiotic resistance crisis. In this systematic search we focused on preclinical studies that have used animal models, to test and evaluate the effect of nanomaterials added to antibiotics against gram negative bacteria with carbapenem resistance. Where, this newly formed structure has led to significant decrease in bacterial load in animal model serum. Furthermore, by evaluating nanomaterial cytotoxicity and inflammatory markers, promising results were established, where low toxicity indices were presented, supporting the ability of this new pathway to be used as an alternative to abused antibiotics. Our research collected the various data and showed encouraging preclinical one for using nanomaterials with antibiotics. This undeniable route should be considered, due to its ability to contribute to the treatment of multi drug resistant bacterial infections. These findings provide base for future studies and reinforce the need for more evaluation and testing on the safety of nanomaterials against bacterial infections.
The impact of clean energy demonstration province policies on carbon intensity in Chinese counties based on the multi-phase PSM-DID method
Authors: Chen Lei , Liu Cunjing , Li Zhezhou , Wu Difan
Published: January 2024

Based on China’s empirical data from 2000 to 2020 of 1875 county-level administrative units, combined with the multi-phase by the propensity score matching and difference-in-difference (PSM-DID) model, this paper studies the impact of clean energy demonstration province policies on the carbon intensity of pilot counties, and its further impact on carbon emissions and economic development level. The results showed that 1. from a county-level perspective, although the economic development level of the pilot areas of clean energy demonstration provinces has improved as the carbon emissions have also increased, what is more, the carbon intensity has also significantly improved in this process; 2. there is no time lag in the impact of policies on the carbon intensity of counties, and the impact effects gradually increase over time along with strong regional heterogeneity; 3. the clean energy demonstration policy has weakened the technological level of the county and reduced the proportion of industrial-added value to GDP, thereby increasing the carbon intensity of the county through these intermediaries.
What Counts as Cheating? Deducibility, Imagination, and the Mary Case
Authors: Kind Amy
Published: January 2024

In The Matter of Consciousness, in the course of his extended discussion and defense of Frank Jackson’s famous knowledge argument, Torin Alter dismisses some objections on the grounds that they are cases of cheating. Though some opponents of the knowledge argument offer various scenarios in which Mary might come to know what seeing red is like while still in the room, Alter argues that the proposed scenarios are irrelevant. In his view, the Mary case is offered to defend the claim that phenomenal facts cannot be a priori deduced from physical facts. Thus, a proposed scenario constitutes an objection to the knowledge argument only if it presents a case in which Mary’s learning inside the room comes about via a priori deduction from physical facts. Call this the deducibility standard. In what follows, I’ll explore a series of relevant cases in an effort to clarify this standard. Doing so enables us to better understand how cheating should be assessed in this context and thereby also to get clearer on the argumentative dialectic surrounding the Mary case.
When Vegas Comes to Wall Street: Associations Between Stock Price Volatility and Trading Frequency Amongst Gamblers
Authors: Weiss-Cohen Leonardo , Newall Philip , Bart Yakov , Zloteanu Mircea , Peacey Mike , Ayton Peter , Clacher Iain
Published: January 2024

Both gambling and trading involve risk-taking in exchange for potential financial gains. In particular, speculative high-risk high-frequency trading closely resembles disordered gambling behaviour by attracting the same individuals who tend to be overconfident, sensation-seekers, and attracted to quick large potential payoffs. We build on these studies via an incentivised experiment, in which we examine how manipulated levels of market volatility affected trading frequency. Gamblers (N=604) were screened based on the existence of household investments and recruited across the four categories of the Problem Gambling Severity Index. The volatility of stocks was manipulated between-participants (high vs. low). Participants traded fictitious stocks and were provided bonuses based on the results of their trading activity (M=US$4.77, range=[0, 16.99]). Participants traded more often in the high-volatility market, and this finding remained robust after controlling for financial literacy, overconfidence, age, and gender. Many investors trade more frequently than personal finance guides advise, and these results suggest that individuals are more likely to commit this error in more volatile markets. Exploratory analyses suggest that the effect of the volatility manipulation was strongest amongst gamblers who were at low-risk of experiencing gambling harms. As they might be otherwise considered low-risk, these individuals could be overlooked by protective gambling interventions yet nonetheless suffer unmitigated financial harms due to unchecked excessive trading.
Doxycycline-Loaded Calcium Phosphate Nanoparticles with a Pectin Coat Can Ameliorate Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Neuroinflammation Via Enhancing AMPK
Authors: Morsy Suzan Awad AbdelGhany , Fathelbab Mona Hassan , El-Sayed Norhan S. , El-Habashy Salma E. , Aly Rania G. , Harby Sahar A.
Published: January 2024

Neuroinflammation occurs in response to different injurious triggers to limit their hazardous effects. However, failure to stop this process can end in multiple neurological diseases. Doxycycline (DX) is a tetracycline, with potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The current study tested the effects of free DX, DX-loaded calcium phosphate (DX@CaP), and pectin-coated DX@CaP (Pec/DX@CaP) nanoparticles on the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neuroinflammation in mice and to identify the role of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in this effect. The present study was conducted on 48 mice, divided into 6 groups, eight mice each. Group 1 (normal control), Group 2 (blank nanoparticles-treated), Group 3 (LPS (untreated)), Groups 4, 5, and 6 received LPS, then Group 4 received free DX, Group 5 received DX-loaded calcium phosphate nanoparticles (DX@CaP), and Group 6 received DX-loaded calcium phosphate nanoparticles with a pectin coat (Pec/DX@CaP). At the end of the experimentation period, behavioral tests were carried out. Then, mice were sacrificed, and brain tissue was extracted and used for histological examination, and assessment of interleukin-6 positive cells in different brain areas, in addition to biochemical measurement of SOD activity, TLR-4, AMPK and Nrf2. LPS can induce prominent neuroinflammation. Treatment with (Pec/DX@CaP) can reverse most behavioral, histopathological, and biochemical changes caused by LPS. The findings of the current study suggest that (Pec/DX@CaP) exerts a significant reverse of LPS-induced neuroinflammation by enhancing SOD activity, AMPK, and Nrf2 expression, in addition to suppression of TLR-4.

Graphical Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 and its Multifaceted Impact on Bone Health: Mechanisms and Clinical Evidence
Authors: Harris Alexander , Creecy Amy , Awosanya Olatundun D. , McCune Thomas , Ozanne Marie V. , Toepp Angela J. , Kacena Melissa A. , Qiao Xian
Published: January 2024

Purpose of Review

SARS-CoV-2 infection, the culprit of the COVID-19 pandemic, has been associated with significant long-term effects on various organ systems, including bone health. This review explores the current understanding of the impacts of SARS-CoV-2 infection on bone health and its potential long-term consequences.

Recent Findings

As part of the post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection, bone health changes are affected by COVID-19 both directly and indirectly, with multiple potential mechanisms and risk factors involved. In vitro and preclinical studies suggest that SARS-CoV-2 may directly infect bone marrow cells, leading to alterations in bone structure and osteoclast numbers. The virus can also trigger a robust inflammatory response, often referred to as a "cytokine storm", which can stimulate osteoclast activity and contribute to bone loss. Clinical evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 may lead to hypocalcemia, altered bone turnover markers, and a high prevalence of vertebral fractures. Furthermore, disease severity has been correlated with a decrease in bone mineral density. Indirect effects of SARS-CoV-2 on bone health, mediated through muscle weakness, mechanical unloading, nutritional deficiencies, and corticosteroid use, also contribute to the long-term consequences. The interplay of concurrent conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and kidney dysfunction with SARS-CoV-2 infection further complicates the disease's impact on bone health.

SARS-CoV-2 infection directly and indirectly affects bone health, leading to potential long-term consequences. This review article is part of a series of multiple manuscripts designed to determine the utility of using artificial intelligence for writing scientific reviews.
Role of the Neurologic System in Fracture Healing: An Extensive Review
Authors: Parker Reginald S. , Nazzal Murad K. , Morris Ashlyn J. , Fehrenbacher Jill C. , White Fletcher A. , Kacena Melissa A. , Natoli Roman M.
Published: January 2024

Purpose of Review

Despite advances in orthopedics, there remains a need for therapeutics to hasten fracture healing. However, little focus is given to the role the nervous system plays in regulating fracture healing. This paucity of information has led to an incomplete understanding of fracture healing and has limited the development of fracture therapies that integrate the importance of the nervous system. This review seeks to illuminate the integral roles that the nervous system plays in fracture healing.

Recent Findings

Preclinical studies explored several methodologies for ablating peripheral nerves to demonstrate ablation-induced deficits in fracture healing. Conversely, activation of peripheral nerves via the use of dorsal root ganglion electrical stimulation enhanced fracture healing via calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP). Investigations into TLR-4, TrkB agonists, and nerve growth factor (NGF) expression provide valuable insights into molecular pathways influencing bone mesenchymal stem cells and fracture repair. Finally, there is continued research into the connections between pain and fracture healing with findings suggesting that anti-NGF may be able to block pain without affecting healing.

This review underscores the critical roles of the central nervous system (CNS), peripheral nervous system (PNS), and autonomic nervous system (ANS) in fracture healing, emphasizing their influence on bone cells, neuropeptide release, and endochondral ossification. The use of TBI models contributes to understanding neural regulation, though the complex influence of TBI on fracture healing requires further exploration. The review concludes by addressing the neural connection to fracture pain. This review article is part of a series of multiple manuscripts designed to determine the utility of using artificial intelligence for writing scientific reviews.
Cracking the Code: The Role of Peripheral Nervous System Signaling in Fracture Repair
Authors: Morris Ashlyn J. , Parker Reginald S. , Nazzal Murad K. , Natoli Roman M. , Fehrenbacher Jill C. , Kacena Melissa A. , White Fletcher A.
Published: January 2024

Purpose of Review

The traditionally understated role of neural regulation in fracture healing is gaining prominence, as recent findings underscore the peripheral nervous system’s critical contribution to bone repair. Indeed, it is becoming more evident that the nervous system modulates every stage of fracture healing, from the onset of inflammation to repair and eventual remodeling.

Recent Findings

Essential to this process are neurotrophins and neuropeptides, such as substance P, calcitonin gene-related peptide, and neuropeptide Y. These molecules fulfill key roles in promoting osteogenesis, influencing inflammation, and mediating pain. The sympathetic nervous system also plays an important role in the healing process: while local sympathectomies may improve fracture healing, systemic sympathetic denervation impairs fracture healing. Furthermore, chronic activation of the sympathetic nervous system, often triggered by stress, is a potential impediment to effective fracture healing, marking an important area for further investigation.

The potential to manipulate aspects of the nervous system offers promising therapeutic possibilities for improving outcomes in fracture healing. This review article is part of a series of multiple manuscripts designed to determine the utility of using artificial intelligence for writing scientific reviews.
Mind Gaps and Bone Snaps: Exploring the Connection Between Alzheimer’s Disease and Osteoporosis
Authors: Wang Hannah S. , Karnik Sonali J. , Margetts Tyler J. , Plotkin Lilian I. , Movila Alexandru , Fehrenbacher Jill C. , Kacena Melissa A. , Oblak Adrian L.
Published: January 2024

Purpose of Review

This comprehensive review discusses the complex relationship between Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and osteoporosis, two conditions that are prevalent in the aging population and result in adverse complications on quality of life. The purpose of this review is to succinctly elucidate the many commonalities between the two conditions, including shared pathways, inflammatory and oxidative mechanisms, and hormonal deficiencies.

Recent Findings

AD and osteoporosis share many aspects of their respective disease-defining pathophysiology. These commonalities include amyloid beta deposition, the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, and estrogen deficiency. The shared mechanisms and risk factors associated with AD and osteoporosis result in a large percentage of patients that develop both diseases. Previous literature has established that the progression of AD increases the risk of sustaining a fracture. Recent findings demonstrate that the reverse may also be true, suggesting that a fracture early in the life course can predispose one to developing AD due to the activation of these shared mechanisms. The discovery of these commonalities further guides the development of novel therapeutics in which both conditions are targeted.

This detailed review delves into the commonalities between AD and osteoporosis to uncover the shared players that bring these two seemingly unrelated conditions together. The discussion throughout this review ultimately posits that the occurrence of fractures and the mechanism behind fracture healing can predispose one to developing AD later on in life, similar to how AD patients are at an increased risk of developing fractures. By focusing on the shared mechanisms between AD and osteoporosis, one can better understand the conditions individually and as a unit, thus informing therapeutic approaches and further research. This review article is part of a series of multiple manuscripts designed to determine the utility of using artificial intelligence for writing scientific reviews.
Integration of unmodified kraft lignin powder in waterborne coatings and investigation of antifouling properties
Authors: Butschle Marcel , Schlautek Richard , Kunschert Lisa , Schackmann Markus , Weinell Claus Erik , Dam-Johansen Kim
Published: January 2024

Antifouling properties of unmodified kraft lignin for potential use in marine coatings were investigated. The study was based on preliminary findings that pointed toward lignin’s efficacy against seawater organisms during laboratory tests. Coatings were formulated that contained lignin as a filler and had a pigment volume concentration above the critical pigment volume concentration. This ensured direct interaction between lignin and seawater organisms, as the lignin particles remained incompletely wetted by the binder. Moreover, all formulations were waterborne to mitigate the release of volatile organic compounds. Despite the initial promise, the antifouling performance of the formulated lignin coatings during field experiments at the CoaST Maritime Test Center was limited, and the anticipated mechanism must be reconsidered. Additionally, it was found that high lignin concentrations, while facilitating organism interaction, compromised the coating's mechanical properties. Nevertheless, the waterborne coating formulation introduced here might provide a foundation for other researchers to further investigate lignin’s potential as a bio-based pigment or a filler in coatings.
Rlm-tracking: online multi-pedestrian tracking supported by relative location mapping
Authors: Ren Kai , Hu Chuanping , Xi Hao
Published: January 2024

The challenge of multi-object tracking stands as a fundamental focus in computer vision research, finding widespread applications in areas such as public safety, transportation, autonomous vehicles, robotics, and other domains involving artificial intelligence. Given the intricate nature of natural scenes, the occurrence of object occlusion and semi-occlusion is commonplace in basic tracking tasks. These factors often result in challenges such as ID switching, object loss, detection errors, and misaligned bounding boxes, thereby significantly impacting the precision of multi-object tracking.This paper aims to address the aforementioned issues and proposes a novel multi-object tracker, incorporating Relative location mapping (RLM) and Target region density (TRD) modeling. The new tracker is more sensitive to differences in the spatial relationships between targets, allowing it to dynamically introduce low-scoring detection boxes into different regions based on the density of target regions in the image. This improves the accuracy of target tracking while avoiding the consumption of a significant amount of computational resources.Our research results indicate that when applying this method to state-of-the-art multi-object tracking approaches, the proposed model achieves improvements of 0.4 to 0.8 points in the HOTA and IDF1 metrics on the MOT17 and MOT20 datasets. This demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed method in enhancing multi-object tracking performance.
Early Childhood Education and Care Teachers’ Gaze Behavior Across Pedagogical Episodes in Toddler Groups in Finland
Authors: Isotalo Susanna , Ukkonen-Mikkola Tuulikki , Lämsä Joni , Rutanen Niina
Published: January 2024

Teacher–child interaction is central in pedagogical activities in early childhood education and care (ECEC). In these activities, teachers’ visual gaze is a valuable tool for communication, but this has received little attention in ECEC research. Recent technological advancements in eye-tracking provide an approach to take a deeper look at how teachers focus their visual gaze during activities. Our study focused on three ECEC teachers’ visual gaze behavior during pedagogical activities in a group of children under three years of age (later toddlers) in Finland, to gain understanding of how teachers use their gaze to facilitate interactions and pedagogy. The data were collected using eye-tracking glasses in two types of activities: play and guided activity. From these eye-tracking recordings, we identified pedagogical episodes (e.g., guidance). To analyze teachers’ visual gaze behavior, we also coded the fixations to the different areas of interest (e.g., teaching materials). The findings showed that the teachers’ aim for interaction with children was associated with their visual gaze behavior on teacher- and child-initiated episodes. Moreover, the activity's structure and the teacher's position also played a role in how teachers focus their visual gaze. In this article, we also discuss the potential of eye-tracking technology in reflection of practices implemented in ECEC and we argue that the use of eye-tracking technology is an area that merits further exploration.
Detection of Fusarium euwallaceae and its vector Euwallacea fornicatus on pear (Pyrus communis) and in deciduous fruit orchards in South Africa
Authors: Engelbrecht Karyn , Raubenheimer Inge , Paap Trudy , Neethling Emma , Roets Francois
Published: January 2024

We present the first report of Fusarium euwallaceae and its ambrosia beetle vector Euwallacea fornicatus in deciduous fruit tree orchards in South Africa. Fusarium euwallaceae, is shown to be pathogenic to pear (Pyrus communis) and the beetle can establish viable colonies in this host.
Up-regulated mRNA expression of VEGFA receptors (FLT1 and KDR) in placentas after assisted reproductive technology fertilization
Authors: Mrozikiewicz Aleksandra E. , Kurzawińska Grażyna , Walczak Michał , Skrzypczak-Zielińska Marzena , Ożarowski Marcin , Jędrzejczak Piotr
Published: January 2024

Placental angiogenesis is a pivotal process for feto-maternal circulation and ensures efficient development of the placenta throughout pregnancy. Many factors during in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer procedures may affect placental gene expression and fetus development. The present study aimed to identify differences in angiogenesis-related gene (VEGFA, FGF2, FLT1, and KDR) expression profiles in placentas after assisted reproductive technology fertilization and natural conception in healthy women. In a case-control study, term placentas were collected from Caucasian women after assisted reproductive technology fertilization (N = 20) and after natural conception in women with uncomplicated pregnancy (N = 9). The mRNA expression in placentas was examined for VEGFA, FGF2, FLT1, and KDR genes by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Group stratification was performed for comparison of investigated genes between the type of embryo transferred (fresh/frozen), place of tissue donation (center/margin), and newborns’ gender (male/female). In the ART placentas, significant down-regulation of VEGFA gene (p = 0.016) and up-regulation of FLT1 (p = 0.026) and KDR (p < 0.001) gene receptors were observed. Genes encoding VEGFA receptors were up-regulated in both fresh (ET) and frozen (FET) embryo transfer groups compared to controls. For the FLT1 gene, a statistically significant difference was observed between the frozen embryo transfer group and the controls (p = 0.032). Relative expression of KDR was significantly higher for both embryo transfer groups compared to controls (p < 0.001) and between ET and FET (p = 0.002). No statistically significant differences were observed between placental expression in different places of tissue donation and newborns’ gender. We observed differences in the placental expression of VEGFA and its receptors FLT1 and KDR in pregnancies after assisted reproductive technology compared to naturally conceived pregnancies. More research is needed to clarify these alterations that may affect placental development and fetal health.
Advance care planning for patients with end-stage kidney disease on dialysis: narrative review of the current evidence, and future considerations
Authors: Adenwalla S. F. , O’Halloran P. , Faull C. , Murtagh F. E. M. , Graham-Brown M. P. M.
Published: January 2024

Patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) have a high symptom-burden and high rates of morbidity and mortality. Despite this, evidence has shown that this patient group does not have timely discussions to plan for deterioration and death, and at the end of life there are unmet palliative care needs. Advance care planning is a process that can help patients share their personal values and preferences for their future care and prepare for declining health. Earlier, more integrated and holistic advance care planning has the potential to improve access to care services, communication, and preparedness for future decision-making and changing circumstances. However, there are many barriers to successful implementation of advance care planning in this population. In this narrative review we discuss the current evidence for advance care planning in patients on dialysis, the data around the barriers to advance care planning implementation, and interventions that have been trialled. The review explores whether the concepts and approaches to advance care planning in this population need to be updated to encompass current and future care. It suggests that a shift from a problem-orientated approach to a goal-orientated approach may lead to better engagement, with more patient-centred and satisfying outcomes.

Graphical abstract
Geopolitics of Digital Heritage
Authors: Grincheva Natalia , Stainforth Elizabeth
Published: January 2024

Geopolitics of Digital Heritage analyzes and discusses the political implications of the largest digital heritage aggregators across different scales of governance, from the city-state governed Singapore Memory Project, to a national aggregator like Australia's Trove, to supranational digital heritage platforms, such as Europeana, to the global heritage aggregator, Google Arts & Culture. These four dedicated case studies provide focused, exploratory sites for critical investigation of digital heritage aggregators from the perspective of their geopolitical motivations and interests, the economic and cultural agendas of involved stakeholders, as well as their foreign policy strategies and objectives. The Element employs an interdisciplinary approach and combines critical heritage studies with the study of digital politics and communications. Drawing from empirical case study analysis, it investigates how political imperatives manifest in the development of digital heritage platforms to serve different actors in a highly saturated global information space, ranging from national governments to transnational corporations.
Just as Essential: The Mental Health of Educators During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Carlson Alyssa Schneider , Stegall Manny S. , Sirotiak Zoe , Herrmann Felipe , Thomas Emily B. K.
Published: January 2024

Objective:

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic deleteriously impacted physical and mental health. In the summer of 2020, return-to-learn plans were enacted, including virtual, hybrid, and in-person plans, impacting educators and students. We examined (1) how return-to-learn plan was related to depressive and social anxiety symptoms among educators and (2) how psychological flexibility related to symptoms.

Methods:

Educators (N = 853) completed a survey via Qualtrics that assessed internalizing symptoms, psychological flexibility, and occupational characteristics. Two one-way analyses of variance (ANOVAs) examined between-group differences in return-to-learn plans across depression and social anxiety. Two hierarchical linear regressions examined the relation between psychological flexibility components and depressive and social anxiety symptoms.

Results:

Median T-scores were well above the national normative means for General Depression (median T-score: 81) and Social Anxiety (median T-score: 67). There were no significant differences between reopening plans in general depression nor social anxiety T-scores. Psychological flexibility accounted for 33% of the variance in depressive symptoms and 24% of the variance in social anxiety symptoms.

Conclusions:

Results indicated high levels of psychiatric symptoms among educators during COVID-19, and psychological flexibility was associated with lower symptoms. Addressing educator mental health is of utmost importance in future research.
The discovery of a Romano-Punic tomb in the region of Msallata
Authors: Elmayer Abdulhafid Fadil
Published: January 2024

A mixed Romano-Punic tomb discovered on private property to the west of Msallata contains many small stone chests containing cremated human remains. Some of these chests carry the name of the deceased written in the Latin or neo-Punic alphabet. Besides the stone chests, there are pottery jars containing animal remains. Figurative relief and religious symbols suggest the practice of rituals associated with the Tophet (sanctuary-necropolis) of Carthage. In addition to the stone chests and pottery urns there are many other objects that are typical of the grave goods usually buried with the Phoenician dead: oil lamps, tableware, coins, medals.
A NEW READING AND A PROBABLE INTERPOLATION IN LACTANTIUS PLACIDUS’ COMMENTARY ON STATIUS, THEBAID 5.16
Authors: Martínez Zepeda Baruch
Published: January 2024

This paper analyses the probability of a reading so far neglected by editors in Lactantius Placidus’ late antique commentary on Stat. Theb. 5.16. Next, the article argues that, regardless of the accepted reading, this part of the scholium is likely an interpolation.
Effect of cell wall compositions on lodging resistance of cereal crops: review
Authors: Mengistie E. , McDonald A. G.
Published: January 2024

Lodging is the permanent displacement of stalks due to disrupted secondary cell walls caused by external factors, plant characters and their interaction. Anatomical, morphological and compositional traits are among lodging-inducing plant traits. In comparison with morphological and anatomical features, the correlation of lodging resistance and cell wall composition is not frequently reviewed. In this review, the relation between cell wall composition and lodging resistance of cereal stalks is comprehensively reviewed based on major cell wall components (lignin, cellulose and hemicellulose) and trace minerals. From the body of literatures reviewed across all cereal crops, lignin and cellulose were found to have significant positive correlation with lodging resistance. However, the effect of structural features of cellulose and lignin on lodging resistance was not investigated in most of the studies. This review also highlights the importance of biomass recalcitrance and lodging resistance trade-offs in the spectrum of genetic cell wall modifications.
The lichen genus Pseudopyrenula (Trypetheliaceae) in India
Authors: Ingle Komal K. , Nayaka Sanjeeva , Upreti Dalip K.
Published: January 2024

A survey of the lichen genus Pseudopyrenula in India is presented, with morphotaxonomic accounts of all six accepted species. Two species, P. himalayana and P. megaspora, are new to science. Both species resemble P. staphyleae but have a lichenized thallus and eccentric ostiole. Furthermore, P. himalayana differs from P. staphyleae in having immersed perithecia and narrower ascospores, while P. megaspora differs in the larger ascospores. Detailed descriptions of the new species are presented, together with notes on their chemistry, distribution, ecology and taxonomy. A key to all known species of Pseudopyrenula from India is also presented.
Contested Past, Contested Future: Identity Politics and Liberal Democracy
Authors: Pippenger Nathan
Published: January 2024

Events in recent years have underscored the dependence of the liberal international order (LIO) on the domestic fate of liberalism in countries like the United States—where, according to critics such as Mark Lilla and Francis Fukuyama, liberals have imperiled themselves through an unwise embrace of identity politics. These critics argue that identity politics undermines solidarity and empowers the illiberal right, and that it should be rejected in favor of a unifying creedal nationalism based on common liberal values. This analysis, I argue, overlooks the fact that “common” creedal values have expanded in American history when their meanings were being controversially reinterpreted from identity-based perspectives. If American liberalism is to emerge from its current crisis, it will need to incorporate the claims of identity into a sense of national belonging that can resist the authoritarian, ethnoracial nationalism promoted by the LIO's enemies. The likelihood that such a process will be controversial is reason for liberal critics of identity politics to consider how the claims of identity might be an asset, not an obstacle, to revitalizing liberal democracy against its challengers.
Voluntariness and Migration: A Restatement
Authors: Ottonelli Valeria , Torresi Tiziana
Published: January 2024

A key question in the theory of migration and in public debates on immigration policies is when migration can be said to be voluntary and when, conversely, it should be seen as nonvoluntary. In a previous article, we tried to answer this crucial question by providing a list of conditions we view as sufficient for migration to be considered nonvoluntary. According to our account, one condition that makes migration nonvoluntary is when people migrate because they lack acceptable alternatives to doing so. In this article, we take the opportunity to further explore and clarify this crucial condition. More specifically, we focus on two main sets of questions. First, we ask whether migration is always voluntary when it serves goals that are voluntarily chosen, and whether those who decide to migrate voluntarily but only have the option of choosing among a limited set of dangerous, harmful, or illegal means for doing so, can be said to be forced to choose those means. Second, we ask whether what counts as “nonacceptable” alternatives should also include cases in which people could have their needs and fundamental rights met, but at the cost of betraying their moral principles or conceptions of the good.
Aston Cantlow v Wallbank: a twenty-year retrospective
Authors: Hill Mark
Published: January 2024

To mark the passing of two decades since the Judicial Committee of the House of Lords handed down their judgment in the appeal of Aston Cantlow and Wilmcote with Billesley Parochial Church Council v Wallbank this article considers the enduring impact of the decision in terms of the constitutional position of the Church of England as a national church and analyses the public and private functions which it undertakes. In the altered landscape of the new Carolean era, with a decline in church attendance and a rise in secularism, it examines the reasoning of the five separate opinions delivered by the Law Lords and evaluates in retrospect various of the issues raised.
Episcopacy, law and government
Authors: Warner Martin
Published: January 2024

This Comment, based substantially on a lecture delivered to the Ecclesiastical Law Society on 5 July 2023, will explore how bishops engage with the legislature, comparing the example of Bishop George Bell in the last century with a rather different example in the present century, namely Pope Benedict XVI and his address to members of Parliament in Westminster Hall in 2010. The comparison will, I hope, indicate some historic dimensions to the issues of episcopacy, law and government that are pertinent today.
June to September 2023
Authors: Cranmer Frank
Published: January 2024

The Bill of Rights Bill was withdrawn on 27 June, signalling what appears to be a major change of policy. After the withdrawal announcement had been made, The Times quoted Dominic Raab as suggesting that ‘All the wrong people will celebrate’ – among whom is your correspondent.