bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nine‐year organic fertilization enhances poorly crystalline iron hydroxide formation and phosphorus availability in a temperate rice–wheat cropping system
Authors: Qin Jiali , Han Xinci , Jia Zhixin , Li Yunyan , Zhang Dandan , Li Lina , Xie Junyu , Li Li , Li Tingliang , Huang Xiaolei , Ling Ning , Yu Guanghui
Published: March 2023

Phosphorus (P) is typically associated with iron (Fe) hydroxides in paddy soils. Our study investigated the impact of different fertilization treatments on the availability of P regulated by Fe redox transformation in a rice (Oryza sativa L.)–wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cropping system in the mid‐low reaches of the Yangtze River. Five fertilization treatments were examined: control (CK), chemical fertilizer (CF), 35% CF (P) plus pig manure compost (CFM), 100% CF (P) plus straw (CFS), and 35% CF (P) plus pig manure compost and straw (CFMS). Nine‐year rice–wheat rotations increased the oxalate‐extractable poorly crystalline Fe hydroxides (i.e., Feo) by 33%–87% compared with the initial soil, while fertilization further accelerated this process. Compost application increased the proportion of labile P by 75%–108% and decreased the proportion of non‐labile P by 14%–22% compared with the single chemical fertilization treatment. Furthermore, organic fertilization increased the mass proportions of macroaggregates and macroaggregate‐associated labile P. The Feo was positively correlated with the content of labile P but negatively correlated with the proportion of non‐labile P. Moreover, the reductive dissolution of Fe hydroxides was accompanied by the transformation of P from NaOH‐extractable to NaHCO3‐ and H2O‐extractable phases. These results indicate that seasonal alternation of drying and wetting can progressively drive the redox transformation of Fe hydroxides and promote the formation of Feo, thereby affecting the availability of P. Therefore, we suggested that P fertilizer should be reduced in the rice season due to the reduction of Fe hydroxides, particularly in the compost‐amended soils in the temperate rice–wheat cropping system.
Pyrrole‐Based Schiff‐Bases: Synthesis, Fluorescent Properties, Molecular Docking and in silico ADME/Tox Profiling Studies
Authors: Özcan Hafize
Published: March 2023

Condensation reactions of methyl 5‐formyl‐1H‐pyrrole‐2‐carboxylate with 4‐aminobenzonitrile and N, N‐dimethyl‐p‐phenylenediamine yielded two conjugated Schiff bases with pyrrole rings. Fluorescence spectroscopy was used to examine the molecules′ selectivity for different metal salts, and it was discovered that the PL1 molecule was selective for the Pb2+ ion. In addition, the interactions of the same molecules with the polo‐like kinase 1 (PLK1) enzyme were investigated by molecular docking with the Autock Tools 1.5.6 program, and the synthesized Schiff bases formed stable complexes with the PLK1 with binding affinity values of −6.5 and −6.4 kcal/mol for PL1 and PL2 respectively. The SwissADME and ADMET web tools were used to calculate in silico ADME/Tox profiles of the synthesized molecules.
Synthesis, Optimization, and Evaluation of the Inclusion Complex of Ibuprofen‐Hydroxypropyl‐beta‐cyclodextrin: An in Vitro and in Silico Study“
Authors: Amirinejad Mostafa , Haghighizadeh Atoosa , Nejabat Mojgan , Etemad Leila , Rajabi Omid
Published: March 2023

Ibuprofen is a widely‐used non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug, which belongs to class II of Biopharmaceutics classification system with low aqueous solubility and dissolution rate and bioavailability problems. This study was conducted to synthesis, optimization, and evaluation of the inclusion complex of ibuprofen‐hydroxypropyl‐beta‐cyclodextrin to overcome the challenges. Complex of ibuprofen and hydroxypropyl‐beta‐cyclodextrin (HPβCD) was prepared by co‐evaporation method in different ratios of solvents (methanol, ethanol, and distilled water were used as solvent systems). In order to find out the optimum solvent ratio, molecular dynamics simulations were performed by NAMD 2.9 software. Differential scanning calorimetry was applied to assess the complexes crystallinity and thermal behaviors. Also, Fourier transform infrared was used to monitor structural changes. Furthermore, the solubility and dissolution profiles of complexes were evaluated and compared. Complexation with HPβCD was able to reduce crystallinity and improve the thermal stability, water solubility, and dissolution profile of all synthesized complexes. HPβCD complexation using ethanol and water solvents in the ratio of 9 : 1 and 3 : 1, increased the aqueous solubility of ibuprofen by 1155 % and 874 %, respectively that was considered as the optimum approach. The results indicated that complexation with HPβCD may be of potential use for improving the ibuprofen dissolution rate and bioavailability.
Design and Synthesis of New Triazole‐Benzimidazole Derivatives as Potential PRMT5 Inhibitors
Authors: Rao Katharu Srinivasa , Nalla Kirankumar , Ramachandraiah Chennuru , Chandrasekhar Kothapalli Bannoth , Kanade Santosh Raja , Saha Sanjay
Published: March 2023

The art of developing potential anticancer molecules involves a reasonable selection of core moiety and tethering with biologically active pharmacophores. We report a library of rationally designed twelve triazole tethered benzimidazole molecules as novel potential inhibitors for cancer. Their synthesis followed a facile copper‐catalysed cycloaddition reaction with good yields. Although in‐silico molecular docking studies of the synthesized compounds with epigenetic protein viz., PRMTs showed inhibition, the compounds bearing amino acid and aryl groups exhibited excellent performance. The potential anticancer activity of the library of molecules are further evaluated in vitro against the selected cancer cell lines (MCF‐7, DU145, PC3 and HepG2) besides methylation assays. In vitro results revealed that the compounds bearing amino acid and aryl groups exhibited better activity and particularly, 3‐CF3‐phenyl derivative (IC50=4.11 μm against MCF‐7) exerted prominent anticancer potency against all the tested cell lines. The observed strong anticancer potency of lead compound is supported by its strong binding nature noted in in‐silico molecular docking studies.
A Selective and Reversible Fluorescent Probe for Cu2+ and GSH Detection in Aqueous Environments
Authors: Wang Zaiwu , Li Zuyao , Huang Junhao , Han Shu , Li Xueming , Wang Zizhou
Published: March 2023

Cu2+ and Biothiols play a critical role in diverse biological processes in organisms. Herein, we reported using a well‐known ESPT molecule 2‐(2’‐Pyridyl)benzimidazol(PBI) as a fluorescent probe to detect Cu2+ and GSH in aqueous solution. PBI presented a rapid fluorescence “ON‐OFF” response on Cu2+ over other metal cations, with a low detection limit (39.4 nM), and also been applied in real water samples detection. Through mass spectroscopy, single crystal X‐ray diffraction and DFT calculation, we confirmed that two PBI molecules would form a stable complex with one Cu2+. After adding GSH, PBI‐Cu2+ complex would release the free probe, and the “on‐off‐on” recognition process to achieve continuous detection of Cu2+ and GSH.
Controlling the Molecular Shuttling of pH‐Responsive [2]Rotaxanes with Two Different Stations
Authors: Takiguchi Nanami , Yamazaki Shohei , Murata Michihisa , Kawano Shintaro , Shizuma Motohiro , Muraoka Masahiro
Published: March 2023

A novel synthesis of degenerate [2]rotaxanes with two different amine stations is presented. Variable‐temperature 1H NMR and rotating‐frame nuclear Overhauser effect correlation spectroscopy experiments revealed that the addition of trifluoroacetic acid initiates molecular shuttling. The activation barrier for the motion remained constant even when the amine in the outer station was changed. Conversely, the addition of camphorsulfonic acid caused a rotational motion, which was demonstrated by synthesizing a new [2]rotaxane without an outer station and examining its molecular behavior in the presence of acid.
A Plasmonic Fluor‐Lightened Microneedle Array Enables Ultrasensitive Multitarget Whole Blood Diagnosis of Anemia in A Paper Origami‐Based Device
Authors: Wu Jing , Liu Yong , Peng Lijun , Liu Qisijing , Wang Dawei , Jing Xu , Hu Yaozhong , Lin Jing , Fu Hanyue , Ji Xuemeng , Liu Jingmin , Lv Huan , Peng Bo , Zhang Bowei , Guo Liqiong , Wang Shuo
Published: March 2023

This work reports a portable, origami‐type paper device with a plasmonic fluor‐labeled microneedle sensing module for the multiplexed quantification of anemia biomarkers in whole blood. Sequential steps, including serum separation, target enrichment, and multiplexed readout by a gel imager, are rapidly accomplished with the flexible and highly integrated device. The microneedle array enabled efficient sampling of trace targets from ng mL−1 to pg mL−1 level. Combined with the plasmonic fluor label, the signal is improved by ≈7.6 folds compared with the flat substrate‐based assay. The device is applied to simultaneously quantify hemoglobin (Hb), ferritin, folic acid (FA), and vitamin B12 (VB12), which are four anemia biomarkers distributed in different environments with different concentration ranges. Featured by the small sample volume (150 µL), short assay time (20 min), low cost (2 $), robust stability, and user‐friendliness, the device is promising for the rapid and accurate diagnosis of anemia in real practice.
Synthesis of Bitten Gold Nanoparticles with Single‐Particle Chiroptical Responses
Authors: Zhang Han , Chen Yang , Chui Ka Kit , Zheng Jiapeng , Ma Yicong , Liu Danjun , Huang Zhifeng , Lei Dangyuan , Wang Jianfang
Published: March 2023

The introduction of structural complexity to nanoparticles brings them interesting properties. Regularity breaking has been challenging in the chemical synthesis of nanoparticles. Most reported chemical methods for synthesizing irregular nanoparticles are complicated and laborious, largely hindering the exploration of structural irregularity in nanoscience. In this study, the authors have combined seed‐mediated growth and Pt(IV)‐induced etching to synthesize two types of unprecedented Au nanoparticles, bitten nanospheres and nanodecahedrons, with size control. Each nanoparticle has an irregular cavity on it. They exhibit distinct single‐particle chiroptical responses. Perfect Au nanospheres and nanorods without any cavity do not show optical chirality, which demonstrates that the geometrical structure of the bitten opening plays a decisive role in the generation of chiroptical responses.
Chemical and Electronic Structure at the Interface between a Sputter‐Deposited Zn(O,S) Buffer and a Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2Solar Cell Absorber
Authors: Hauschild Dirk , Blankenship Mary , Hua Amandee , Steininger Ralph , Eraerds Patrick , Niesen Thomas , Dalibor Thomas , Yang Wanli , Heske Clemens , Weinhardt Lothar
Published: March 2023

The chemical and electronic structure of the interface between a sputter‐deposited Zn(O,S) buffer layer and an industrial Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2(CIGSSe) absorber for thin‐film solar cells is investigated with X‐ray and UV photoelectron spectroscopy, inverse photoemission spectroscopy, and X‐ray emission spectroscopy. We find a CIGSSe absorber surface band gap of 1.61 (±0.14) eV, which is significantly increased as compared to the minimal value derived with bulk‐sensitive methods (≈1.1 eV). We find no indication for diffusion of absorber elements into the buffer layer. Surface‐ and bulk‐sensitive measurements of the buffer layer suggest the presence of S‐Zn and S‐O bonds in the Zn(O,S) layer. We find that the naturally existing downward band bending toward the CIGSSe absorber surface is increased by the formation of the interface, likely enhancing carrier separation under illumination. We also derive a flat conduction band alignment, in line with the reported high conversion efficiencies of corresponding large‐area solar cells.
Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells with Efficiency over 36% under Ambient Light Achieved by Cosensitized Tandem Structure
Authors: Venkatesan Shanmuganathan , Hsu Tzu-Hsien , Teng Hsisheng , Lee Yuh-Lang
Published: March 2023

The cosensitization process is an effective way to improve the performance of dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), especially for tandem cells that employ the complementary light harvest ranges of different dyes. Herein, various cosensitized DSSCs are prepared using D35, XY1b, and Y123 dyes and employed to construct cobalt tandem DSSCs. First, the performance of single cells with and without scattering layers is studied. The results show that the cosensitized cells using D35 + XY1b and XY1b + Y123 dyes have higher power conversion efficiency (PCE) than the others, attributed to their longer light absorption wavelength and higher charge recombination resistance. Furthermore, the XY1b + Y123 cell has significantly higher open circuit voltage (Voc) but slightly lower current density (Jsc) than those of the D35 + XY1b cell. The cosensitized systems are further utilized to prepare tandem cells. Photoelectrodes without and with scattering layers are used as top and bottom cells, respectively. It shows that by using D35 + XY1b (higher Jsc) and XY1b + Y123 (higher Voc) as sensitizers of top and bottom cells, respectively, a PCE as high as 36.27% can be achieved under fluorescent lighting. The cells using these dyes have high long‐term stability at room temperature.
Few‐Layer Ag‐Coated Ordered Mesoporous Pt Nanocrystals for Ethanol Oxidation
Authors: Wang Xian , Zhang Zhe , Ge Yongjie , Shen Kui , Qian Jinjie
Published: March 2023

Direct ethanol fuel cells have broad application prospects, but there are still some issues such as slow oxidation kinetics and poisoning effects of intermediates in the anodic ethanol reduction reaction (EOR). Herein, a series of few‐layer Ag‐coated ordered mesoporous Pt nanocrystals (Meso‐Pt@Ag) with different Ag shell thicknesses are prepared by combining hard templating and in situ reduction methods. Benefiting from the ordered mesoporous structure, the lattice strain, and the electronic synergistic effect induced by the core–shell structure, Meso‐Pt@Ag2 nanocrystals exhibit the best EOR performance with a mass activity of 10.01 A mgPt−1, which is 8.40‐fold of commercial Pt/C and 4.45‐fold of Meso‐Pt, respectively. And, Meso‐Pt@Ag2 nanocrystals also show the favorable toxicity resistance to carbonaceous intermediates and stability for EOR. Furthermore, theoretical calculations demonstrate that the Ag‐coated Pt core has more optimized deprotonation reaction kinetics and lower CO adsorption energy, indicating its better resistance to CO toxicity for EOR.
Untersuchung eines Ingenieurmodells zur Abschätzung des seismischen Verhaltens mobiler Großgeräte
Authors: Kloos, geb. Groß Mirjam , Sadegh‐Azar Hamid
Published: March 2023

Für mobile Großgeräte in seismisch aktiven Regionen ist die seismische Standsicherheit ein wesentliches und oft maßgebliches Auslegungskriterium. Das seismische Verhalten dieser Großgeräte ist i. d. R. durch komplexe nichtlineare Verhaltensarten (Abheben, Kippen, Schaukeln) geprägt, welche in der Praxis schwer berechnet und bewertet werden können. In dieser Studie wird schrittweise ein stark vereinfachtes Ingenieurmodell für die Praxis vorgestellt bzw. entwickelt, das die wesentlichen Grundzüge des nichtlinearen Verhaltens von mobilen Großgeräten quer zur Schiene unter seismischer Anregung abbilden soll. Die in vorangegangenen Untersuchungen festgestellte typische Schaukelbewegung der Großgeräte bei Erdbeben soll sich im vereinfachten Modell widerspiegeln. Das Ingenieurmodell wird derart ausgebildet, dass es in der Lage ist, mit einfachen Berechnungen qualitative Aussagen über Abheben und Schaukeln bzw. Kippen in Abhängigkeit von wesentlichen Modellparametern und der seismischen Anregung wiederzugeben. Hierfür werden vereinfachte seismische Kippspektren hergeleitet. Die Tauglichkeit und Anwendbarkeit dieser Kippspektren zur Beurteilung von Abhebe‐ und Schaukeltendenzen für mobile Großgeräte wird am Beispiel von repräsentativen Reihen von Schaufelradgeräten und Absetzern überprüft. Darüber hinaus werden Parameter zur quantitativen Anwendung der Kippspektren für weitere typische mobile Großgeräte bestimmt und die Anwendungsgrenzen ermittelt.
[11C]PBB3 binding in Aβ(–) or Aβ(+) corticobasal syndrome
Authors: Cselényi Zsolt , Wallin Johan , Tjerkaski Jonathan , Bloth Björn , Svensson Samuel , Nennesmo Inger , Sunnemark Dan , Jelic Vesna , Farde Lars , Svenningsson Per
Published: March 2023

Corticobasal syndrome (CBS) is associated with 4‐repeat tauopathy and/or Alzheimer's disease pathologies. To examine tau and amyloid‐β (Aβ) deposits in CBS patients using positron emission tomography (PET). Eight CBS patients and three healthy individuals lacking amyloid pathology underwent PET with [11C]PBB3 for tau imaging, and [11C]AZD2184 for Aβ. Subcortical and cortical binding of [11C]PBB3 was compared between Aβ(–) and Aβ(+) CBS patients and reference group. Postmortem analysis was done in one CBS patient. Three CBS patients were considered Aβ(+). Total binding was higher in all patients compared to the reference group. Similar regional binding profiles of [11C]PBB3 in Aβ(+) and Aβ(–) CBS patients were found. Elevated [11C]PBB3 binding in pallidum was observed in all CBS patients. Cortical [11C]PBB3 binding was higher in Aβ(+) compared to Aβ(–) patients. Postmortem analysis of a CBS patient revealed corticobasal degeneration neuropathology and [11C]PBB3 autofluorescence in some tau‐positive structures. [11C]PBB3 is elevated in CBS patients with binding in relevant areas capturing some, but not all, 4‐repeat tauopathy in CBS.
Exploiting graphene oxide as a potential additive to improve the performance of cold‐mixed epoxy asphalt binder
Authors: Si Jingjing , Shao Xiaoyang , Li Jie , Ma Hui , Wang Junyan , Ruan Wei , Yu Xin
Published: March 2023

As a green material for high‐performance paving, cold‐mixed epoxy asphalt (CEA) should be improved in compatibility, mechanical performance, and thermal stability. This work is going to estimate the potential of graphene oxide (GO) as an additive for preparing GO/CEA composites with different GO content from 0 to 0.2 wt%. The influences of GO on the structure and performances of CEA were evaluated by Fourier transform‐infrared spectrum, fluorescence microscopy, viscosity, thermogravimetric analysis, tensile test, and dynamic mechanical analysis. Results showed that the functional groups on GO reacted with CEA and improved the compatibility of epoxy resin and asphalt. The viscosity of the GO/CEA composites increased slightly and the pot life decreased significantly, with GO loading increasing. The cured GO/CEA composite with 0.1 wt% GO had the best heat resistance and showed a gentle thermal decomposition. GO improved the toughness of the cured CEA and had a certain weakening effect on its strength. The introduction of GO lowered the glass transition temperature of the cured CEA from 51.4 to 47.1 °C and decreased its storage modulus. The preliminary exploration of this study shows that the modification of GO for CEA is feasible, and it is expected to prolong the service life of CEA.
The Interplay of Organisational and Individual Bounded Agency in Workplace Learning: A Framework Approach
Authors: Hefler Günter , Studená Ivana
Published: March 2023

This chapter sets out the framework used in 17 organisational case studies (across three economic sectors in nine countries) to investigate ‘organisational’ and individual agency in workplace learning. Agency is key to explaining why individuals take up learning opportunities in different dimensions of their lives over the life course. It is relational: actors’ choices are bound by their environments. The framework treats both individuals and organisations as actors with agency: whether workplace learning actually occurs results from how they interact. Those who find their workplace offers limited learning opportunities may seek more learning-conducive jobs, or to learn outside work. Policies should promote meaningful learning across society, but poor workplace organisation is a barrier to making lifelong learning a reality for all.
Organisational and Individual Agency in Workplace Learning in the European Metal Sector
Authors: Kirov Vassil , Estevez-Gutierrez Ana Isabel , Elexpuru-Albizuri Iciar , Díez Fernando , Villardón-Gallego Lourdes , Aurrekoetxea-Casaus Maite
Published: March 2023

This chapter compares the evolution of day-to-day, informal, workplace learning and work-based training arrangements in the metals sector in Bulgaria and Spain’s Basque region. The latter’s advanced, industrialised economic model is rather different from other Spanish regions. Basque country institutions successfully link vocational education with labour market needs; Bulgaria’s state educational system is poor at delivering skills. The Basque studies are both in the region’s important cooperative sector. The Bulgarian companies (both domestic subsidiaries of multinationals) developed in global value chains; they have recently introduced in-house training to cope with a shortage of qualified labour. Using qualitative methods, the chapter shows how organisational and individual agency provide space for informal workplace learning and what outcomes this has for early career workers.
Vulnerability in European Lifelong Learning Policies 1992–2018: Seeing Young People as a Problem to Be Fixed?
Authors: Maiztegui-Oñate Concepción , Roosalu Triin , Moro-Inchaurtieta Alvaro , Taru Marti
Published: March 2023

Adopting a dynamic view of vulnerability and using a critical discourse analysis based on a corpus of 68 European documents (25 years) on lifelong learning, this chapter explores the conceptual underpinnings of how lifelong learning has addressed the challenges of vulnerability among young people. The results show that youth, especially those in vulnerable situations, have been constructed primarily as a category that is, or should be, economically active and in need of lifelong learning to develop their skills in the labour market. Other visions implicit in lifelong learning (e.g., citizenship, social participation) have been marginalised. Thus, human capital perspectives dominate European lifelong learning policies, underpinning a narrow vision that misunderstands the causes of vulnerability and generates incomplete policy objectives for socially excluded youth.
Four-dimensional differential equations for the leading divergences of dimensionally-regulated loop integrals
Authors: Henn Johannes , Ma Rourou , Yan Kai , Zhang Yang
Published: March 2023

Abstract

We invent an automated method for computing the divergent part of Feynman integrals in dimensional regularization. Our method exploits simplifications from four-dimensional integration-by-parts identities. Leveraging algorithms from the literature, we show how to find simple differential equations for the divergent part of Feynman integrals that are free of subdivergences. We illustrate the method by an application to heavy quark effective theory at three loops.
Non-standard neutrino interactions in light mediator models at reactor experiments
Authors: Dutta Bhaskar , Ghosh Sumit , Li Tianjun , Thompson Adrian , Verma Ankur
Published: March 2023

Abstract

Compared to other neutrino sources, the huge anti-neutrino fluxes at nuclear reactor based experiments empower us to derive stronger bounds on non-standard interactions of neutrinos with electrons mediated by light scalar/vector mediators. At neutrino energy around 200 keV reactor anti-neutrino flux is at least an order of magnitude larger compared to the solar flux. The atomic and crystal form factors of the detector materials related to the details of the atomic structure becomes relevant at this energy scale as the momentum transfers would be small. Non-standard neutrino-electron interaction mediated by light scalar/vector mediator arises naturally in many low-scale models. We also propose one such new model with a light scalar mediator. Here, we investigate the parameter space of such low-scale models in reactor based neutrino experiments with low threshold Ge and Si detectors, and find the prospect of probing/ruling out the relevant parameter space by finding the projected sensitivity at 90% confidence level by performing a χ2-analysis. We find that a detector capable of discriminating between electron recoil and nuclear recoil signal down to a very low threshold such as 5 eV placed in reactor based experiment would be able to probe a larger region in parameter space compared to the previously explored region. A Ge (Si) detector with 10 kg-yr exposure and 1 MW reactor anti-neutrino flux would be able to probe the scalar and vector mediators with masses below 1 keV for coupling products $$ \sqrt{g_{\nu }{g}_e} $$

g
ν

g
e

∼ 1 × 10−6 (9.5 × 10−7) and 1 × 10−7 (8 × 10−8), respectively.
The Excitation Spectrum of Two-Dimensional Bose Gases in the Gross–Pitaevskii Regime
Authors: Caraci Cristina , Cenatiempo Serena , Schlein Benjamin
Published: March 2023

We consider a system of N bosons, in the two-dimensional unit torus. We assume particles to interact through a repulsive two-body potential, with a scattering length that is exponentially small in N (Gross–Pitaevskii regime). In this setting, we establish the validity of the predictions of Bogoliubov theory, determining the ground state energy of the Hamilton operator and its low-energy excitation spectrum, up to errors that vanish in the limit $$N \rightarrow \infty $$

N
→
∞

.
Moral distance, AI, and the ethics of care
Authors: Villegas-Galaviz Carolina , Martin Kirsten
Published: March 2023

This paper investigates how the introduction of AI to decision making increases moral distance and recommends the ethics of care to augment the ethical examination of AI decision making. With AI decision making, face-to-face interactions are minimized, and decisions are part of a more opaque process that humans do not always understand. Within decision-making research, the concept of moral distance is used to explain why individuals behave unethically towards those who are not seen. Moral distance abstracts those who are impacted by the decision and leads to less ethical decisions. The goal of this paper is to identify and analyze the moral distance created by AI through both proximity distance (in space, time, and culture) and bureaucratic distance (derived from hierarchy, complex processes, and principlism). We then propose the ethics of care as a moral framework to analyze the moral implications of AI. The ethics of care brings to the forefront circumstances and context, interdependence, and vulnerability in analyzing algorithmic decision making.
Prognostic value of metabolic tumor volume of extranodal involvement in diffuse large B cell lymphoma
Authors: Oiwa Kana , Fujita Kei , Lee Shin , Morishita Tetsuji , Tsujikawa Tetsuya , Negoro Eiju , Hara Takeshi , Tsurumi Hisashi , Ueda Takanori , Yamauchi Takahiro
Published: March 2023

Extranodal involvement predicts poor outcomes of diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL), but the impact of the metabolic tumor burden (MTV) of extranodal sites using positron emission tomography has not been clarified. This study aimed to assess the impact of extranodal MTV on overall survival (OS). We retrospectively analyzed 145 newly diagnosed DLBCL patients and verified the prognostic impact of each extranodal and nodal MTV. Multivariate Cox hazards modelling using both extranodal and nodal MTV as covariables identified extranodal MTV as a significant factor for OS (hazard ratio [HR] 1.072, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.019–1.129, P = 0.008), but not nodal MTV. Multivariate Cox modelling using restricted cubic splines demonstrated that the impact of total MTV depends on the MTV of extranodal sites, not of nodal sites. When both the number and MTV of extranodal involvements were used as covariables, extranodal MTV remained a significant predictor of OS (HR 1.070, 95%CI 1.017–1.127, P = 0.009), but the number of extranodal sites did not. Extranodal MTV potentially had a more significant role on prognosis than nodal MTV. When considering prognostic impacts, the MTV of extranodal involvement is significantly more important than the number.
Placement of EVD in pediatric posterior fossa tumors: safe and efficient or old-fashioned? The Vienna experience
Authors: Hedrich Cora , Gojo Johannes , Azizi Amedeo , Peyrl Andreas , Slavc Irene , Winter Fabian , Czech Thomas , Dorfer Christian
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The perioperative treatment of hydrocephalus in pediatric posterior fossa tumors with an external ventricular drain (EVD) is the treatment of choice in our center. We analyzed our experience in using EVD concerning safety and effectivity.

Methods

This is a single-center retrospective cohort study of 100 consecutive pediatric patients who underwent resection for a newly diagnosed tumor in the posterior fossa between 2011 and 2022.

Results

Of the 100 patients with posterior fossa tumors, 80 patients (80%) had radiological signs of hydrocephalus at presentation, 49 patients (49%) of whom underwent placement of an EVD. In 40 patients, the EVD was inserted at a mean of 2.25 days prior to the tumor resection; 9 had the EVD inserted during tumor resection (frontal trajectory in 7 patients, occipital trajectory in 2 patients). Histology revealed pilocytic astrocytoma in 48 patients, medulloblastoma in 32, ependymoma in 11, and other histologic entities in 9 patients. Gross total/near-total resection was achieved in 46 (95.83%) of the 48 pilocytic astrocytomas, 30 (93.75%) of the 32 medulloblastomas, and 11 (100%) of the 11 ependymomas. The mean number of total days with the EVD in place was 8.61 ± 3.82 (range 2–16 days). The mean number of days with an EVD after tumor resection was 6.35 ± 3.8 (range 0–16 days). EVD-associated complications were seen in 6 patients (12.24%) including one infection. None of these resulted in a worse clinical course or any long-term sequelae. Permanent CSF diversion at 6 months after surgery was necessary in 13 patients (13%), including two VP shunt, two SD-shunt, six endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV), and three combined VP shunt and ETV procedures. Patients with a medulloblastoma or ependymoma had a higher rate of permanent CSF diversion needed than the group of pilocytic astrocytoma patients (27.9% versus 2.13%, p < 0.001). In patients with metastatic disease, 7 of 17 patients (41.18%) needed a permanent CSF diversion, compared to 6 of 83 patients (7.23%) in the group without metastasis (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

The treatment of hydrocephalus in pediatric posterior fossa tumors with an EVD as a temporary measure is safe and effective, provided that a multi-professional understanding for its handling is given and there is no need for a long transport of the children.
Decompression strain in parachute jumpmasters during simulated high-altitude missions: a special reference to preoxygenation strategies
Authors: Eiken Ola , Elia Antonis , Gottschalk Frode , Gennser Mikael , Ånell Rickard
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Military parachute operations are often executed at high altitude, from an unpressurized aircraft compartment. Parachute jumpmasters (JM) are thus regularly exposed to 29,500 ft for 60 min. The aim was to investigate the decompression strain during a simulated JM mission at high altitude and to compare two strategies of preoxygenation, conducted either at sea-level or below 10,000 ft, during ascent to mission altitude.

Methods

Ten JM completed, on separate occasions, a 45-min preoxygenation either at sea-level (normobaric: N) or 8200ft (hypobaric: H), followed by exposure to 28,000 ft for 60 min, whilst laying supine and breathing 100% oxygen. At min 45 of the exposure to 28,000 ft, the JM performed 10 weighted squats. Decompression strain was determined from ultrasound assessment of venous gas emboli (VGE) during supine rest (5-min intervals), after three unloaded knee-bends (15-min intervals) and immediately following the weighted squats. The VGE were scored using a six-graded scale (0–5).

Results

In condition H, two JM experienced decompression sickness (DCS), whereas no DCS incidents were reported in condition N. The prevalence of VGE was higher in the H than the N condition, at rest [median(range), 3(0–4) vs 0(0–3); p = 0.017], after unloaded knee-bends [3(0–4) vs 0(0–3); p = 0.014] and after the 10 weighted squats [3(0–4) vs 0(0–3); p = 0.014]. VGE were detected earlier in the H (28 ± 20 min, p = 0.018) than the N condition (50 ± 19 min).

Conclusions

A preoxygenation/altitude procedure commonly used by JM, with a 60-min exposure to 28,000 ft after pre-oxygenation for 45 min at 8200 ft is associated with high risk of DCS. The decompression strain can be reduced by preoxygenating at sea level.
Robot-assisted pelvic floor reconstructive surgery: an international Delphi study of expert users
Authors: Simoncini Tommaso , Panattoni Andrea , Aktas Mustafa , Ampe Jozef , Betschart Cornelia , Bloemendaal Alexander L. A. , Buse Stephan , Campagna Giuseppe , Caretto Marta , Cervigni Mauro , Consten Esther C. J. , Davila Hugo H. , Dubuisson Jean , Espin-Basany Eloy , Fabiani Bernardina , Faucheron Jean-Luc , Giannini Andrea , Gurland Brooke , Hahnloser Dieter , Joukhadar Ralf , Mannella Paolo , Mereu Liliana , Martellucci Jacopo , Meurette Guillaume , Montt Guevara Maria Magdalena , Ratto Carlo , O’Reilly Barry A. , Reisenauer Christl , Russo Eleonora , Schraffordt Koops Steven , Siddiqi Shahab , Sturiale Alessandro , Naldini Gabriele
Published: March 2023

Background

Robotic surgery has gained popularity for the reconstruction of pelvic floor defects. Nonetheless, there is no evidence that robot-assisted reconstructive surgery is either appropriate or superior to standard laparoscopy for the performance of pelvic floor reconstructive procedures or that it is sustainable. The aim of this project was to address the proper role of robotic pelvic floor reconstructive procedures using expert opinion.

Methods

We set up an international, multidisciplinary group of 26 experts to participate in a Delphi process on robotics as applied to pelvic floor reconstructive surgery. The group comprised urogynecologists, urologists, and colorectal surgeons with long-term experience in the performance of pelvic floor reconstructive procedures and with the use of the robot, who were identified primarily based on peer-reviewed publications. Two rounds of the Delphi process were conducted. The first included 63 statements pertaining to surgeons’ characteristics, general questions, indications, surgical technique, and future-oriented questions. A second round including 20 statements was used to reassess those statements where borderline agreement was obtained during the first round. The final step consisted of a face-to-face meeting with all participants to present and discuss the results of the analysis.

Results

The 26 experts agreed that robotics is a suitable indication for pelvic floor reconstructive surgery because of the significant technical advantages that it confers relative to standard laparoscopy. Experts considered these advantages particularly important for the execution of complex reconstructive procedures, although the benefits can be found also during less challenging cases. The experts considered the robot safe and effective for pelvic floor reconstruction and generally thought that the additional costs are offset by the increased surgical efficacy.

Conclusion

Robotics is a suitable choice for pelvic reconstruction, but this Delphi initiative calls for more research to objectively assess the specific settings where robotic surgery would provide the most benefit.
Two invasive Hieracium species’ potential distributions within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem were defined using invasion susceptibility models and habitat typing
Authors: Guetling Christie H. , Jones Lisa C. , Strand Eva K. , Morishita Don W. , Piaskowski Julia , Prather Timothy S.
Published: March 2023

InvasiveHieraciumplant species are invading the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. The potential distribution of orange hawkweed (Hieracium aurantiacum)and meadow hawkweed (Hieracium caespitosum)were estimated using habitat susceptibility models to assist land managers’ management of these invasive plants. The objectives of this study were to: (1) develop models describing susceptibility of ecosystems to hawkweed invasion, (2) identify indicator species of orange hawkweed and meadow hawkweed, (3) determine habitat types where these invasive hawkweeds might occur, and (4) create habitat susceptibility maps for management planning and ground surveys. Models were developed using a Mahalanobis distance similarity technique from remotely sensed biotic and abiotic variables, as well as known location data for orange and meadow hawkweed. Ground validation was conducted to assess model weaknesses and subsequent model modification. Indicator plant species were identified as surrogates to determine the likelihood of hawkweed presence during ground survey. Transect data collected from areas susceptible to invasion also were used to determine habitat types where hawkweed might occur. The best model included eight variables: north–south aspect, east–west aspect, slope, NDVI, NDWI, blue spectral band, green spectral band, and precipitation. High susceptibility (65 + % likelihood of suitable habitat) consisted of 66,000 ha for meadow hawkweed and 35,000 ha for orange hawkweed, 5.0% and 2.7% of the study area, respectively. Meadow hawkweed and orange hawkweed had seven and three indicator plant species, respectively. Predicted hawkweed habitat susceptibility encompassed nine habitat types, ranging from xeric sagebrush steppe to wet forests and they overlapped except at the xeric habitat type. Habitat susceptibility models save costs and allow survey prioritization to those areas most susceptible to invasion.
Cellular microarrays for assessing single-cell phenotypic changes in vascular cell populations
Authors: Smith E. , Zagnoni M. , Sandison M. E.
Published: March 2023

Microengineering technologies provide bespoke tools for single-cell studies, including microarray approaches. There are many challenges when culturing adherent single cells in confined geometries for extended periods, including the ability of migratory cells to overcome confining cell-repellent surfaces with time. Following studies suggesting clonal expansion of only a few vascular smooth muscle cells (vSMCs) contributes to plaque formation, the investigation of vSMCs at the single-cell level is central to furthering our understanding of atherosclerosis. Herein, we present a medium throughput cellular microarray, for the tracking of single, freshly-isolated vSMCs as they undergo phenotypic modulation in vitro. Our solution facilitates long-term cell confinement (> 3 weeks) utilising novel application of surface functionalisation methods to define individual culture microwells. We demonstrate successful tracking of hundreds of native vSMCs isolated from rat aortic and carotid artery tissue, monitoring their proliferative capacity and uptake of oxidised low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) by live-cell microscopy. After 7 days in vitro, the majority of viable SMCs remained as single non-proliferating cells (51% aorta, 78% carotid). However, a sub-population of vSMCs demonstrated high proliferative capacity (≥ 10 progeny; 18% aorta, 5% carotid), in line with reports that a limited number of medial SMCs selectively expand to populate atherosclerotic lesions. Furthermore, we show that, when exposed to oxLDL, proliferative cells uptake higher levels of lipoproteins, whilst also expressing greater levels of galectin-3. Our microwell array approach enables long-term characterisation of multiple phenotypic characteristics and the identification of new cellular sub-populations in migratory, proliferative adherent cell types.

Graphical abstract
Employees Adhere More to Unethical Instructions from Human Than AI Supervisors: Complementing Experimental Evidence with Machine Learning
Authors: Lanz Lukas , Briker Roman , Gerpott Fabiola H.
Published: March 2023

The role of artificial intelligence (AI) in organizations has fundamentally changed from performing routine tasks to supervising human employees. While prior studies focused on normative perceptions of such AI supervisors, employees’ behavioral reactions towards them remained largely unexplored. We draw from theories on AI aversion and appreciation to tackle the ambiguity within this field and investigate if and why employees might adhere to unethical instructions either from a human or an AI supervisor. In addition, we identify employee characteristics affecting this relationship. To inform this debate, we conducted four experiments (total N = 1701) and used two state-of-the-art machine learning algorithms (causal forest and transformers). We consistently find that employees adhere less to unethical instructions from an AI than a human supervisor. Further, individual characteristics such as the tendency to comply without dissent or age constitute important boundary conditions. In addition, Study 1 identified that the perceived mind of the supervisors serves as an explanatory mechanism. We generate further insights on this mediator via experimental manipulations in two pre-registered studies by manipulating mind between two AI (Study 2) and two human supervisors (Study 3). In (pre-registered) Study 4, we replicate the resistance to unethical instructions from AI supervisors in an incentivized experimental setting. Our research generates insights into the ‘black box’ of human behavior toward AI supervisors, particularly in the moral domain, and showcases how organizational researchers can use machine learning methods as powerful tools to complement experimental research for the generation of more fine-grained insights.
Environmental knowledge is inversely associated with climate change anxiety
Authors: Zacher Hannes , Rudolph Cort W.
Published: March 2023

This study tests the hypotheses that overall environmental knowledge and climate-specific knowledge are inversely related to climate change anxiety, such that people who know more (less) about the environment in general, and about climate in particular, are less (more) anxious about climate change. Time lagged data were collected from N = 2,066 individuals in Germany. Results showed that, even after controlling for demographic characteristics, personality characteristics, and environmental attitudes, overall environmental knowledge and climate-specific knowledge were negatively related to climate change anxiety (both B = -.09, p < .001).
Organized crime as a link between inequality and corruption
Authors: Schwuchow Soeren C.
Published: March 2023

We study a model that establishes a novel theoretical rationale for the empirically well-documented relation between inequality and corruption. According to our model, inequality can nurture corruption by empowering organized crime because collusion between local police forces and criminal organizations is more likely in societies characterized by high inequality or weak security forces. Law enforcement and organized crime have a strong incentive to collude due to efficiency gains from specialization. However, their agreement breaks down when the mobsters can no longer credibly commit to joint rent maximization and thus start to compete with law enforcement for citizens’ wealth. The mobsters then non-violently monopolize the market for extortion by undercutting the police forces, similar to a strategy of predatory pricing. Criminal collusion is thus not very different from its corporate equivalent; hence, similar policy measures should be promising. In addition, our model also suggests that the criminal organization’s higher efficiency in extracting rents has a greater impact when the relative power between law enforcement and organized crime is rather balanced. Accordingly, when violent conflict becomes less predictable, non-violent elements of relative power become more relevant. Our model also allows for the interpretation that in the absence of strong social norms against corruption, organized crime is more difficult to challenge.
Visualising data science workflows to support third-party notebook comprehension: an empirical study
Authors: Ramasamy Dhivyabharathi , Sarasua Cristina , Bacchelli Alberto , Bernstein Abraham
Published: March 2023

Data science is an exploratory and iterative process that often leads to complex and unstructured code. This code is usually poorly documented and, consequently, hard to understand by a third party. In this paper, we first collect empirical evidence for the non-linearity of data science code from real-world Jupyter notebooks, confirming the need for new approaches that aid in data science code interaction and comprehension. Second, we propose a visualisation method that elucidates implicit workflow information in data science code and assists data scientists in navigating the so-calledgarden of forking pathsin non-linear code. The visualisation also provides information such as the rationale and the identification of the data science pipeline step based on cell annotations. We conducted a user experiment with data scientists to evaluate the proposed method, assessing the influence of (i) different workflow visualisations and (ii) cell annotations on code comprehension. Our results show that visualising the exploration helps the users obtain an overview of the notebook, significantly improving code comprehension. Furthermore, our qualitative analysis provides more insights into the difficulties faced during data science code comprehension.
ADHD Symptoms and Educational Level in Adolescents: The Role of the Family, Teachers, and Peers
Authors: Schmengler Heiko , Peeters Margot , Stevens Gonneke W. J. M. , Hartman Catharina A. , Oldehinkel Albertine J. , Vollebergh Wilma A. M.
Published: March 2023

Few studies have explored the contribution of family and school factors to the association between ADHD symptoms and lower education. Possibly, having more ADHD symptoms contributes to poorer family functioning and less social support, and consequently a lower educational level (i.e., mediation). Moreover, the negative effects of ADHD symptoms on education may be stronger for adolescents with poorer family functioning or less social support (i.e., interaction). Using data of the Dutch TRAILS Study (N = 2,229), we evaluated associations between ADHD symptoms around age 11 and educational level around age 14, as well as between ADHD symptoms around age 14 and 16 years and subsequent changes in educational level around age 16 and 19, respectively. We assessed the potential mediating role of family functioning, and social support by teachers and classmates, all measured around ages 11, 14, and 16, while additionally evaluating interactions between ADHD symptoms and these hypothesized mediators. ADHD symptoms were associated with poorer family functioning, less social support by teachers and classmates, and lower education throughout adolescence. No conclusive evidence of mediation was found, because unique associations between family functioning and social support by teachers and classmates and education were largely absent. Furthermore, we found no interactions between ADHD symptoms and family functioning and social support by teachers and classmates. Although social support by teachers and classmates and good family functioning may benefit the wellbeing and mental health of adolescents with high levels of ADHD symptoms, they will not necessarily improve their educational attainment.