bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semilinear Li and Yau inequalities
Authors: Castorina Daniele , Catino Giovanni , Mantegazza Carlo
Published: September 2022

We derive an adaptation of Li and Yau estimates for positive solutions of semilinear heat equations on Riemannian manifolds with nonnegative Ricci tensor. We then apply these estimates to obtain a Harnack inequality and to discuss monotonicity, convexity, decay estimates and triviality of ancient and eternal solutions.
Seasonal Changes in Boundary-Layer Flow Over a Forested Escarpment Measured by an Uncrewed Aircraft System
Authors: zum Berge Kjell , Gaiser Annika , Knaus Hermann , Platis Andreas , Bange Jens
Published: September 2022

The uncrewed airborne measurement platform MASC-3 (Multi-Purpose Airborne Sensor Carrier) is used to measure the influence of a forested escarpment with differing leaf area indices (LAI) onto the wind field. Data from flight legs between 30 and 200 m above ground with uphill (westerly) wind during summer (July–September) and winter (October–March) seasons between 2018 and 2021 are analyzed. Compared with a low value of LAI, it is found that the mean wind speed acceleration is stronger for a high values of LAI, and the turbulence is enhanced in the lee of the trees in the lowest 20–60 m above ground. During summer with a high LAI, the inclination angle is more clearly defined into an upward motion above the slope and downward motion above the plateau. The results of the airborne dataset fits well into the theoretical and analytical models established in the 1970s and 1980s.
Ecosystem services provided by freshwater and marine diatoms
Authors: B-Béres Viktória , Stenger-Kovács Csilla , Buczkó Krisztina , Padisák Judit , Selmeczy Géza B. , Lengyel Edina , Tapolczai Kálmán
Published: September 2022

Diatoms, a unique group of algae colonising a wide range of aquatic habitats and contributing to human well-being in many ways. We list and summarise these services using the classification of the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MEA), i.e. supporting, regulating, provisioning and cultural services. The most relevant supporting services are photosynthesis and primary production, as well as sediment formation. They also play a key role in nutrient cycling and habitat provisioning and serve as food for many organisms. Regulating services as oxygen production, climate control or sediment stabilisation are difficult to discuss without diatoms. Many provisioning services, directly used by humans, can be obtained from diatoms. These are tangible products such as medicines and immunostimulants but direct technologies such as wastewater treatment, micro- and nanotechnologies were also developed using diatoms. Studying of the past, present, and future linked to diatoms as a tool for palaeolimnology, ecological status assessment of waters and climate modelling is essential. Finally, the impressive morphology and ornaments of diatom frustules make them one of the most spectacular microorganisms, inspiring artists or providing a number of educational opportunities. Therefore, protecting aquatic habitats they inhabit is not simply a nature conservation issue but the key for human well-being in the future.
Influence of Giant Reed Fibers on Mechanical, Thermal, and Disintegration Behavior of Rotomolded PLA and PE Composites
Authors: Suárez Luis , Ortega Zaida , Romero Francisco , Paz Rubén , Marrero María D.
Published: September 2022

This paper assesses the modifications in the properties of rotomolded polyethylene (PE) and polylactic acid (PLA) composites obtained with 5 and 10% giant reed fibers, mainly focusing on the alterations due to a bio-disintegration process. Thermal properties (melting temperature and crystallinity degree), morphology (via optical and scanning electron microscopy), and chemical changes (by Fourier Transformed Infrared spectroscopy) were studied. Composites with untreated and NaOH-treated fibers were obtained, finding that this treatment does not improve the mechanical performance of composites due to increased porosity. The introduction of natural fibers into a PE matrix does not significantly modify the thermal and bio-disintegration properties of the rotomolded material. Regarding mechanical properties, PE-composites show increased tensile modulus and reduced impact and tensile strength than the matrix. On the other hand, PLA composites show lower impact and flexural strength than neat PLA, remaining the rest of the mechanical properties unchanged regardless of the fibers' addition. The incorporation of Arundo fibers modifies to a great extent the thermal and degradation behavior of the PLA matrix.
Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry analysis of isotopically heterogeneous uranium materials
Authors: Varga Zsolt , Wallenius Maria , Nicholl Adrian , Mayer Klaus
Published: September 2022

A reliable and accurate laser ablation multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-MC-ICP-MS) method was developed for analysis of inhomogeneous samples containing uranium particles or aggregates of various enrichments. For the method development, a mixed solid standard was prepared using 1% and 3% 235U enriched certified reference materials. After screening and localization of the particles of interest, the U isotopic composition was analysed for a 5-µm sample spot determining accurately and precisely the various constituents. Besides the LA-MC-ICP-MS, the standard was also measured by large-geometry secondary ion mass spectrometry (LG-SIMS) for additional verification.
A methodology for the analysis of continuous time-series of automatic inclinometers for slow-moving landslides monitoring in Piemonte region, northern Italy
Authors: Bordoni Massimiliano , Vivaldi Valerio , Bonì Roberta , Spanò Simone , Tararbra Mauro , Lanteri Luca , Parnigoni Matteo , Grossi Alessandra , Figini Silvia , Meisina Claudia
Published: September 2022

In-place automatic inclinometers are typical devices used to monitor displacements of extremely slow to slow-moving landslides. The significance of these measurements requires methodologies able to distinguish real measures from anomalous ones, to quantify significant moments of acceleration in deformation trends and to determine the main factors that influence the kinematic behavior measured by an automatic inclinometer. This work aimed at developing a novel method, which allows to cover all the steps of analysis of data acquired by automatic inclinometers. The methodology is composed by five steps: (I) evaluation of the reliability of the instruments; (II) identification and elimination of anomalous measures from displacement time-series; (III) recognition of significant moments of acceleration in the rate of displacement, through thresholds based on the mean rate of displacement and on the cumulated amount of the deformation; (IV) clustering of the events of significant acceleration, to characterize different typologies of events according to different landslides kinematic behaviors; (V) identification of the main meteorological and groundwater parameters influencing the deformation pattern measured by an automatic inclinometer. The methodology was developed and tested using displacement time-series of 89 automatic inclinometers, belonging to the regional monitoring network of Piemonte region (northern Italy), managed by Arpa Piemonte. Two representative inclinometric time-series were selected to validate all the steps of the methodology for different types of monitored slow-moving landslides. The developed method is reliable in the estimation of anomalous measures and in the identification of significant accelerations, helping in the comprehension of the response of displacement trends during activity phases. Moreover, it is able to identify the factors which influence more the deformation pattern measured in correspondence of an automatic inclinometer.
Epoxidation of methyl oleate over various amorphous Ti–SiO2 catalysts
Authors: Kim Kyunghoon , Venschott Moritz , Hoelderich Wolfgang F.
Published: September 2022

The epoxidation reaction of the vegetable oil derivative methyl oleate with tert-butyl hydroperoxide in the presence of amorphous Ti–SiO2 catalysts prepared by different methods using various silica sources was carried out. The reaction conditions were optimized. The relation between the properties of the catalysts such as specific surface area as well as titanium dispersion and the catalytic performance was in focus of the investigation. Based on the catalytic results in small batch reactors, the reaction was scaled up in a larger 4 L batch-reactor. Thereby similar conversions and selectivities were obtained in comparison with the small scale experiments.
Exploring temporal patterns in fish feeding ecology: Are ontogenetic dietary shifts stable over time?
Authors: Sánchez-Hernández Javier , Prati Sebastian , Henriksen Eirik Haugstvedt , Smalås Aslak , Knudsen Rune , Klemetsen Anders , Amundsen Per-Arne
Published: September 2022

Disentangling the causes and consequences of ontogenetic niche shifts has been a pivotal challenge in ecology, aiming to enhance the understanding of biological processes that function at the individual, population, and community levels. Studies on ontogenetic dietary shifts have traditionally focused on short time scales, mostly including sampling covering just one or a few consecutive years, thus neglecting possible aspects of temporal variation and ecosystem stability that can only be revealed on long-term scales. We address ontogenetic dietary shifts of two fish predators in an intraguild system (Arctic charr and brown trout) using a long-term dataset spanning 20 consecutive years. Our study revealed distinct ontogenetic niche shifts of the two intraguild predators and demonstrated that these patterns were stable over time, suggesting large stability in prey acquisition and resource partitioning despite changes in their abundances and relative species composition. Some interannual variation was observed, but this was primarily due to sampling bias from low observation numbers for some ontogenetic stages, reflecting a common methodical challenge for ontogenetic niche shift studies. The persistent patterns in the trophic ontogeny of intraguild predators likely facilitate population and community stability by reducing inter- and/or intraspecific competition, thereby having important consequences for ecosystem functioning and resilience. Our study provides a strong rationale for performing ontogenetic niche shift studies over several consecutive years, enabling important insights into temporal variation, enhancement of observation numbers by merging data from multiple years, and the facilitation of a less intrusive sampling scheme for more vulnerable populations.
Impact of Physical Heterogeneity and Transport Conditions on Effective Reaction Rates in Dissolution
Authors: Oliveira Rodolfo , Blunt Martin J. , Bijeljic Branko
Published: September 2022

A continuous-time random walk (CTRW) reactive transport model is used to study the impact of physical heterogeneity on the effective reaction rates in porous media in a sample of length 15 cm over timescales up to 10$$^8$$

8

s (3 years). The model has previously been validated using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) measurements during dissolution of a limestone. The model assumes first-order reaction. We construct three domains with increasing physical heterogeneity and study dissolution at four Péclet numbers, Pe = 0.0542, 0.542, 5.42 and 54.2. We characterize signatures of physical heterogeneity in the three porous media using velocity distributions and show how these imprint on the signatures of particle displacement, namely particle propagator distributions. In addition, we demonstrate the ability of our CTRW model to capture the impact of physical heterogeneity on the longitudinal dispersion coefficient over several orders of magnitude in space and time. Reactive transport simulations show that the effective reaction rates depend on (i) initial physical heterogeneity and (ii) transport conditions. For all heterogeneities and Pe, the late-time reaction rate exhibits a time dependence $$t^{-a}$$

t

-
a

with $$a \ne 0.5$$

a
≠
0.5

that indicates the persistence of incomplete mixing. We show that the higher the initial heterogeneity, the lower the late-time reaction rate. A decrease in Pe promotes mixing by diffusion over advection, resulting in higher reaction rates. The post-dissolution propagators indicate an increase in the degree of non-Fickian transport. Overall, we establish a framework to demonstrate and quantify the impact of physical heterogeneity on transport and effective reaction rates in porous media.
Rebalancing with transaction costs: theory, simulations, and actual data
Authors: El Bernoussi Rim , Rockinger Michael
Published: September 2022

In the absence of transaction costs and the presence of independent returns, a buy-and-hold strategy theoretically generates higher expected returns than a fixed-weight strategy, where the portfolio weights are regularly readjusted/rebalanced to some initial level. This higher expected return comes with higher volatility. The resulting trade-off leads to different rankings of the Sharpe ratio depending on the statistical moments of the assets. We also focus on Maximum Drawdown. We theoretically discuss causes affecting the ranking of the Sharpe ratio, and we introduce an easy-to-implement methodology to deal with proportional transaction costs. Under transaction costs, the buy-and-hold strategy as the cheaper approach should be the winner. In various simulation experiments, we investigate the relevance of transaction costs on rebalancing strategies. Eventually, we consider several realistic portfolios with a risk-free asset, bonds, stock indices, commodities and real estate that allow us to demonstrate that in practice rebalancing has value.
On Processing Potato 2. Survey of Products, Processes and Operations in Manufacturing
Authors: Haverkort A. J. , Linnemann A. R. , Struik P. C. , Wiskerke J. S. C.
Published: September 2022

In supermarkets in the Netherlands, well over 150 potato products are displayed. They can be distinguished by heating characteristics (boiled or fried), appearance (e.g., intact tuber pieces or formed hash browns), dehydrated (e.g., snacks and flour) and storage temperature (e.g., ambient and frozen). Fancier products (frozen formed versus chilled blanched) require more processes and operations in factories and are more expensive; consumers appreciate them because they offer more convenience. Heatmapping and hierarchical clustering were carried out twice within the domain of classes of products and their attributes. In a theoretical triangulation, consumers give high scores to low prices and a wide range of products, tastes and sizes where processors give these attributes a low score. Processes in factories include dehydration, heating, cooling and transformation. Examples of the latter are modification of starch to increase the range of applications in the food industry, forming of mash and shreds to produce croquettes and hash browns and expansion to make snacks. Processes require operations such as washing, cutting, blanching and packing. In total, between the arrival of the tubers at the gate and leaving as packed products to outlets, 66 operations are distinguished. French fries undergo some 30 operations and to produce flakes, 8 suffice. Heatmapping and hierarchical clustering differentiate a group of physical operations (with attributes associated with heating and cooling that require much energy) and mechanical ones (related to separation, grading, sorting for instance and size reduction of which shredding is an example that require little energy). The wide range of operations in large factories, reducing the moisture content and longtime storage at low temperatures, distinguishes potato from wheat that has fewer operations while increasing the moisture content in relatively small bakeries and the product, bread, stored for about one day in ambient conditions.
Voices of Women Veterans with Lower Limb Prostheses: a Qualitative Study
Authors: Lehavot Keren , Young Jessica P. , Thomas Rachel M. , Williams Rhonda M. , Turner Aaron P. , Norvell Daniel C. , Czerniecki Joseph M. , Korpak Anna , Littman Alyson J.
Published: September 2022

Background

Women Veterans with amputation are a group with unique needs whose numbers have grown over the last 5 years, accounting for nearly 3% of all Veterans with amputation in 2019. Although identified as a national priority by the Veterans Health Administration, the needs of this population have remained largely underrepresented in amputation research.

Objective

To describe the experiences of women Veterans with lower extremity amputation (LEA) related to prosthetic care provision and devices.

Design

National qualitative study using semi-structured individual interviews.

Participants

Thirty women Veterans with LEA who had been prescribed a prosthesis at least 12 months prior.

Approach

Inductive content analysis.

Key Results

Four key themes emerged: (1) a sense of “feeling invisible” and lacking a connection with other women Veterans with amputation; (2) the desire for prosthetic devices that meet their biological and social needs; (3) the need for individualized assessment and a prosthetic limb prescription process that is tailored to women Veterans; the current process was often perceived as biased and either dismissive of women’s concerns or failing to adequately solicit them; and (4) the desire for prosthetists who listen to and understand women’s needs.

Conclusions

Women Veterans with LEA articulated themes reminiscent of those previously reported by male Veterans with LEA, such as the importance of prostheses and the central role of the provider-patient relationship. However, they also articulated unique needs that could translate into specific strategies to improve prosthetic care, such as integrating formal opportunities for social support and peer interaction for women Veterans with LEA, advocating for administrative changes and research efforts to expand available prosthetic component options, and ensuring that clinical interactions are gender-sensitive and free of bias.
Paragastric Autonomic Neural Blockade to Prevent Early Visceral Pain and Associated Symptoms After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Daes Jorge , Morrell David J. , Hanssen Andrés , Caballero Melissa , Luque Elika , Pantoja Rafael , Luquetta Jorge , Pauli Eric M.
Published: September 2022

Background

Visceral pain (VP) following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy remains a substantial problem. VP is associated with autonomic symptoms, especially nausea and vomiting, and is unresponsive to traditional pain management algorithms aimed at alleviating somatic (incisional) pain. The present study was performed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of laparoscopic paragastric autonomic neural blockade (PG-ANB) in managing the symptoms associated with VP following sleeve gastrectomy.

Study Design

This prospective, double-blinded, randomized clinical trial involved patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy at two high-volume institutions. The patients were randomized to laparoscopic transversus abdominis plane block with or without PG-ANB. The primary outcome was patient-reported pain scores assessed at 1, 8, and 24 h postoperatively. The secondary outcome measures were analgesic requirements, nausea, vomiting, hiccups, and hemodynamic changes immediately after PG-ANB and postoperatively.

Results

In total, 145 patients (block group, n = 72; control group, n = 73) were included in the study. The heart rate and mean arterial pressure significantly decreased 10 min after PG-ANB. The visual analog scale score for pain was significantly lower in the PG-ANB than in the control group at 1 h postoperatively (p < 0.001) and 8 h postoperatively (p < 0.001). Vomiting, nausea, sialorrhea, and hiccups were significantly less prevalent in the PG-ANB group. Patients in the PG-ANB group received fewer cumulative doses of analgesics at 1 h postoperatively (p = 0.003) and 8 h postoperatively (p < 0.001). No differences between the groups were detected at 24 h (p = 0.298). No complications related to PG-ANB occurred.

Conclusion

PG-ANB safely and effectively reduces early VP, associated autonomic symptoms, and analgesic requirements after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.

Graphical abstract
Tumor Microenvironment and Immune Escape in the Time Course of Glioblastoma
Authors: Virtuoso Assunta , De Luca Ciro , Cirillo Giovanni , Riva Matteo , Romano Gabriele , Bentivegna Angela , Lavitrano Marialuisa , Papa Michele , Giovannoni Roberto
Published: September 2022

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive primary brain tumor with a malignant prognosis. GBM is characterized by high cellular heterogeneity and its progression relies on the interaction with the central nervous system, which ensures the immune-escape and tumor promotion. This interplay induces metabolic, (epi)-genetic and molecular rewiring in both domains. In the present study, we aim to characterize the time-related changes in the GBM landscape, using a syngeneic mouse model of primary GBM. GL261 glioma cells were injected in the right striatum of immuno-competent C57Bl/6 mice and animals were sacrificed after 7, 14, and 21 days (7D, 14D, 21D). The tumor development was assessed through 3D tomographic imaging and brains were processed for immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and western blotting. A human transcriptomic database was inquired to support the translational value of the experimental data. Our results showed the dynamic of the tumor progression, being established as a bulk at 14D and surrounded by a dense scar of reactive astrocytes. The GBM growth was paralleled by the impairment in the microglial/macrophagic recruitment and antigen-presenting functions, while the invasive phase was characterized by changes in the extracellular matrix, as shown by the analysis of tenascin C and metalloproteinase-9. The present study emphasizes the role of the molecular changes in the microenvironment during the GBM progression, fostering the development of novel multi-targeted, time-dependent therapies in an experimental model similar to the human disease.
Key Drivers for Non-Centrifugal Sugar Cane Research, Technological Development, and Market Linkage: A Technological Roadmap Approach for Colombia
Authors: Flórez-Martínez Diego Hernando , Contreras-Pedraza Carlos Alberto , Escobar-Parra Sebastian , Rodríguez-Cortina Jader
Published: September 2022

Food science innovation depends on consumers’ needs and is currently seeking functional food with health effects. Non-centrifugal cane sugar (NCS) is known for its potential health effects, but there is a lack of holistic analysis on technological advancement and socio-economic and market trends for decision-making in the development of the technology. The aim of this article was to analyse the research trends, recent patents, and market trends and niches for NCS to structure an NCS technological roadmap. Scientometric, bibliometric methods, and global and local market information on NCS were used. Comprehensive analysis of the worldwide research trends and patents on NCS processing and of the growth of the main niche markets for Colombian NCS exports in the last five years was conducted. Finally, with the information obtained, an NCS technological roadmap was structured, which can be used as a tool for planning innovation processes and supporting the development of new research using market information and new norms forged by the COVID-19 pandemic for Colombian case. Furthermore, the methodological design could be used for other NCS producer countries.
Numerical Whirl–Flutter analysis of a tiltrotor semi-span wind tunnel model
Authors: Cocco Alessandro , Mazzetti Stefano , Masarati Pierangelo , Hoff Stefan van’t , Timmerman Bart
Published: September 2022

This work presents the modeling and preliminary Whirl–Flutter stability results achieved within the Advanced Testbed for TILtrotor Aeroelastics (ATTILA) CleanSky2 project. The project addresses the design, manufacturing, and testing of a semi-span wind-tunnel model of the Next Generation Civil TiltRotor. The preliminary multibody models developed in support of the wind-tunnel testbed design are described, illustrating the modeling technique of each subcomponent of the model, namely the wing, the rotor, the blades, and the yoke. The methodologies used to analyze the stability of systems subjected to periodic aerodynamic excitation when the problem is modeled using full-featured multibody solvers are presented in support of Whirl–Flutter identification during wind-tunnel testing.
Structural optimization of an aeroelastic wind tunnel model for unsteady transonic testing
Authors: Dillinger Johannes , Meddaikar Yasser M. , Lepage Arnaud , Fabbiane Nicolo
Published: September 2022

The reduction of loads, ultimately leading to a weight reduction and thus an increase in aircraft performance, plays an important role in the design of modern aircraft. To this end, two aeroelastic tailoring methodologies, independently developed at ONERA and DLR and aiming at load reduction by means of a sophisticated application of composite materials, were applied to a common model geometry. A choice was made in favor of the publicly available NASA Common Research Model (CRM) wing, featuring a comprehensive database with respect to geometry, as well as analytical and experimental research results. The span of the wing half to be investigated was set to 0.55 m, limited by the test section dimensions. While wind tunnel testing was part of ONERA’s workshare, the model building was performed by DLR. This paper at hand focuses on the structural, aeroelastic optimization of the DLR wing. It is based on an optimization framework developed and constantly being enhanced and extended at the DLR - Institute of Aeroelasticity (DLR-AE). The paper describes the consideration of different structural objective functions, structural and aeroelastic constraint combinations, design field considerations, as well as the application of an aero load correction applied in the course of the optimization. The final results consist of the selection of an appropriate fiber type, optimized fiber layers represented as stacking sequence tables for the upper and lower wing skins, and the corresponding optimized jig twist distribution, required for manufacturing the lamination molds; in summary, all data required to start the construction of the wind tunnel model.
Illuminating the hepatotoxic mechanism of norcantharidin in rats using metabolomics analysis
Authors: Cheng Weina , Chen Qihong , Wang Xiaoning , Liu Liu , Li Xiaofei , Duan Cancan , Zhang Jianyong
Published: September 2022

Background

Norcantharidin (NCTD) has multiple antitumor effects. However, NCTD can induce significant hepatotoxicity and the mechanism of hepatotoxicity is not clear for now.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the hepatotoxicity of NCTD in rat by ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) quadrupole time-of-flight (Q-TOF)-MS (UPLC/Q-TOF-MS) metabolomics.

Results

Serum biochemical indices including alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and total bilirubin (T-BIL) were significantly increased. Histopathological and ultrastructure results revealed that hepatocytes were damaged. Furthermore, the metabolomics results showed that 11 metabolites in serum and 8 metabolites in liver were differential metabolites for NCTD hepatotoxicity. Four metabolic pathways including the sphingolipid metabolism, purine metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, and glycerophospholipid metabolism were the key metabolic pathways related to NCTD hepatotoxicity.

Conclusion

The metabolomics analysis in this study reveal new clues on the hepatotoxicity mechanism of NCTD in rats. These findings have potential applications in the toxicity study of NCTD.
Relationships in context and contexts of relationship: a normative transition at the end of Secondary Education
Authors: Maya-Jariego Isidro , Holgado-Ramos Daniel
Published: September 2022

High school is an institution where teens spend a large part of their time. Consequently, in this context, a dense network of relationships tends to be formed during the period of study at the institute. However, at the end of secondary school, this set of contextualized relationships begins to disintegrate. In this study, we analyze the transition from high school to university of a cohort of high school students. First, we interviewed all the students who were in their last year of high school at an institute in the province of Seville (n = 69). A year and a half later, we interviewed them again when many of them were already studying at university (n = 57). Using a hybrid research design, we collected personal network data from each interviewee in the context of a longitudinal whole network design of the entire cohort analyzed. The results show a decrease in the structural cohesion of the networks, both for personal networks and for the complete network. Furthermore, less cohesive personal networks seem more likely to experience short-term changes in ecological transition processes. In the discussion we reflect on the impact of educational transitions on friendship relationships.
SQSTM1/p62 promotes miR-198 loading into extracellular vesicles and its autophagy-related secretion
Authors: Yu Xiaojie , Eischeid-Scholz Hannah , Meder Lydia , Kondylis Vangelis , Büttner Reinhard , Odenthal Margarete
Published: September 2022

MicroRNA dysregulation is a hallmark of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), leading to tumor growth and metastasis. Previous screening on patient specimens identified miR-198 as the most downregulated miRNA in HCC. Here, we show that miR-198 compensation leads to self-release into extracellular vesicles (EVs). Importantly, the vesicular secretion is mediated by autophagy-related pathway, initiated by sequestration of p62/miR-198 complexes in autophagosome-associated vesicle fractions. miR-198 is selectively recognized and loaded by p62 into autophagosomal fractions, whereas mutated miR-198 forms neither induce autophagy and nor interact with p62. Gain and loss of function experiments, using a CRIPR/Cas knockout (KO) and transgenic site-specific p62 mutants, identified p62 as an essential repressor of cellular miR-198 abundancy. Notably, EVs, harboring miR-198/p62 protein complexes, can be uptaken by cells in the close vicinity, leading to change of gene expression in recipient cells. In conclusion, miR-198 enhances autophagy; conversely autophagic protein p62 reduces the miR-198 levels by sorting into extracellular space.

Graphical abstract

miR-198 is at first transcribed as primary miRNA, after being processed into single stranded mature miR-198 form, it is transported into cytoplasm ①. By interaction with p62 protein, miR-198 conglomerates and forms a binding complex ②. Since LC3 protein is an interaction partner of p62 protein, hence miR-198 is included into autophagosomes ③. By fusion with multivesicular bodies (MVB), miR-198-binding complex was recruited into amphisomes ④, the latter of which quickly turns into secretory MVB containing intraluminal vesicles⑤. By fusion with cell membrane, intraluminal vesicles were released into extracellular space as EVs ⑥.
On the approximation of derivative values using a WENO algorithm with progressive order of accuracy close to discontinuities
Authors: Amat Sergio , Ruiz-Álvarez Juan , Shu Chi-Wang , Yáñez Dionisio F.
Published: September 2022

In this article, we introduce a new WENO algorithm that aims to calculate an approximation to derivative values of a function in a non-regular grid. We adapt the ideas presented in [Amat et al., SIAM J. Numer. Anal. (2020)] to design the nonlinear weights in a manner such that the order of accuracy is maximum in the intervals close to the discontinuities. Some proofs, remarks on the choice of the stencils and explicit formulas for the weights and smoothness indicators are given. We also present some numerical experiments to confirm the theoretical results.
A Consideration of Alternative Sample Spaces Used in Coin-Toss Problems
Authors: Renelle Amy , Budgett Stephanie , Jones Rhys
Published: September 2022

This paper examines coin-toss comparison questions from two recent studies involving undergraduate students and high school teachers and connects to findings from two prior studies in the literature. Considering possible sample spaces employed by participants, this is a reflection on whether one sequence could be more likely depending on the interpretation of the question. To critique the choice of sequences and determine possible scenarios in which one sequence may be more likely than the other, three alternative sample spaces were explored. It was determined that different sample spaces can lead to one sequence being more likely to occur than the other. Further evaluation discusses whether alternative sample spaces may have been utilised by the participants in each of the studies, and hence, the paper concludes with an advocacy to enquire deeper into participants’ reasoning when investigating coin-toss questions.
Impact of COVID-19 on financial returns: a spatial dynamic panel data model with random effects
Authors: Billé Anna Gloria , Caporin Massimiliano
Published: September 2022

Using a dataset including financial market returns and volatility proxies for several countries, we analyzed the impact of Covid-19 deaths on the financial economy. From the modeling perspective, we consider a spatial panel data model for returns and a spatial dynamic panel data for volatilities. Proper marginal effects are calculated to exploit information on short- and long-term effects. A Chow test is used to identify the existence of a structural break in each series. Our empirical evidence shows that in the first weeks of the Covid-19 outbreak, until mid-March 2020, the identified break date, the spatial effect of Covid-19 deaths was statistically significant, leading to a contraction in returns and an increase in risk. Moreover, the effects disappeared in the remaining months as the financial markets moved back to pre-crisis levels, causing a decrease in the overall risk. Our evidence supports the behavioral impact of the pandemic on financial markets.
Emerging Technologies Supporting the Transition to a Circular Economy in the Plastic Materials Value Chain
Authors: Aristi Capetillo Alejandro , Bauer Fredric , Chaminade Cristina
Published: September 2022

Plastic waste has come to the forefront of academic and political debates as a global problem that demands an urgent solution. Promoted by policymakers, academia, and corporations alike, the circular economy model presents a viable path to reach more sustainable levels of development. Emerging and disruptive technologies can catalyse the transition to a circular economy, but their application to the transition of the plastic materials realm is not fully understood. Based on a systematic review of the literature, this paper aims to understand the role of key emerging technologies in the transition towards a circular economy in the plastic materials value chain, their potential impact, as well as the barriers of adoption and diffusion. Employing the ReSOLVE framework, the analysis reveals that rather than individual technologies, four technology sets associated with Industry 4.0, distributed economies, bio-based systems, and chemical recycling stand as major enablers of this transition. The complementarity of technologies and the change needed from a systemic perspective are discussed along with a proposal for governance and practical implementation pathway to overcome barriers and resistance to the transition.
Segmentation of ethics, legal, and social issues (ELSI) related to AI in Japan, the United States, and Germany
Authors: Ikkatai Yuko , Hartwig Tilman , Takanashi Naohiro , Yokoyama Hiromi M.
Published: September 2022

Artificial intelligence (AI) is often accompanied by public concern. In this study, we quantitatively evaluated a source of public concern using the framework for ethics, legal, and social issues (ELSI). Concern was compared among people in Japan, the United States, and Germany using four different scenarios: (1) the use of AI to replicate the voice of a famous deceased singer, (2) the use of AI for customer service, (3) the use of AI for autonomous weapons, and (4) the use of AI for preventing criminal activities. The results show that the most striking difference was in the response to the “weapon” scenario. Respondents from Japan showed greater concern than those in the other two countries. Older respondents had more concerns, and respondents who had a deeper understanding of AI were more likely to have concerns related to the legal aspects of it. We also found that attitudes toward legal issues were the key to segmenting their attitudes toward ELSI related to AI: Positive, Less skeptical of laws, Skeptical of laws, and Negative.
Temporary Migrants from Southeast Asia in Australia
Authors: Pietsch Juliet
Published: September 2022

Much of the scholarship in development studies focuses on developing countries. However, many of the same issues can be seen in developed countries, where migrants now constitute a sizeable proportion of the poor and politically disenfranchised. In immigrant receiving countries such as Australia, temporary migrants in low-income households are most at risk of poor social and health outcomes. This research explores the experiences of temporary migrant workers from Southeast Asia in Australia, demonstrating that migrant workers, on the whole, live without a political voice or clear pathway to permanent residency and citizenship. The research is informed by Amartya Sen and Martha Nussbaum's theoretical framework of capabilities. One of the most critical capabilities is having a sense of political agency and control over one's environment. Given the significant increase in temporary migration flows around the world, this Element draws attention to the necessity of migrants to be provided with political capabilities.
Language and Gender in Children's Animated Films
Authors: Fought Carmen , Eisenhauer Karen
Published: September 2022

Disney and Pixar films are beloved by children and adults alike. However, what linguistic messages, both positive and negative, do these films send to children about gender roles? How do characters of different genders talk, and how are they talked about? And do patterns of representation change over time? Using an accessible mix of statistics and in-depth qualitative analysis, the authors bring their expertise to the study of this very popular media behemoth. Looking closely at five different language features – talkativeness, compliments, directives, insults, and apologies – the authors uncover the biases buried in scripted language, and explore how language is used to construct tropes of femininity, masculinity, and queerness. Working with a large body of films reveals wide-scale patterns that might fly under the radar when the films are viewed individually, as well as demonstrating how different linguistic tools and techniques can be used to better understand popular children's media.
Tax and Government in the 21st Century
Authors: Stewart Miranda
Published: September 2022

With an accessible style and clear structure, Miranda Stewart explains how taxation finances government in the twenty-first century, exploring tax law in its historical, economic, and social context. Today, democratic tax states face an array of challenges, including the changing nature of work, the digitalisation and globalisation of the economy, and rebuilding after the fiscal crisis of the COVID-19 pandemic. Stewart demonstrates the centrality of taxation for government budgets and explains key tax principles of equity, efficiency and administration. Presenting examples from a wide range of jurisdictions and international developments, Stewart shows how tax policy and law operate in our everyday lives, ranging from family and working life to taxing multinational enterprises in the global digital economy. Employing an interdisciplinary approach to the history and future of taxation law and policy, this is a valuable resource for legal scholars, practitioners and policy makers.
Estimate of undetected severe acute respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in acute-care hospital settings using an individual-based microsimulation model
Authors: Jones Kasey , Hadley Emily , Preiss Sandy , Lofgren Eric T. , Rice Donald P. , Stoner Marie C. D. , Rhea Sarah , Adams Joëlla W.
Published: September 2022

Objective:

Current guidance states that asymptomatic screening for severe acute respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) prior to admission to an acute-care setting is at the facility’s discretion. This study’s objective was to estimate the number of undetected cases of SARS-CoV-2 admitted as inpatients under 4 testing approaches and varying assumptions.

Design and setting:

Individual-based microsimulation of 104 North Carolina acute-care hospitals

Patients:

All simulated inpatient admissions to acute-care hospitals from December 15, 2021, to January 13, 2022 [ie, during the SARS-COV-2 ο (omicron) variant surge].

Interventions:

We simulated (1) only testing symptomatic patients, (2) 1-stage antigen testing with no confirmatory polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, (3) 1-stage antigen testing with a confirmatory PCR for negative results, and (4) serial antigen screening (ie, repeat antigen test 2 days after a negative result).

Results:

Over 1 month, there were 77,980 admissions: 13.7% for COVID-19, 4.3% with but not for COVID-19, and 82.0% for non–COVID-19 indications without current infection. Without asymptomatic screening, 1,089 (credible interval [CI], 946–1,253) total SARS-CoV-2 infections (7.72%) went undetected. With 1-stage antigen screening, 734 (CI, 638–845) asymptomatic infections (67.4%) were detected, with 1,277 false positives. With combined antigen and PCR screening, 1,007 (CI, 875–1,159) asymptomatic infections (92.5%) were detected, with 5,578 false positives. A serial antigen testing policy detected 973 (CI, 845–1,120) asymptomatic infections (89.4%), with 2,529 false positives.

Conclusions:

Serial antigen testing identified >85% of asymptomatic infections and resulted in fewer false positives with less cost per identified infection compared to combined antigen plus PCR testing.
Food and nutrient intakes and compliance with recommendations in school-aged children in Ireland: findings from the National Children’s Food Survey II (2017–2018) and changes since 2003–2004.
Authors: Kehoe Laura , Buffini Maria , McNulty Breige A. , Kearney John M. , Flynn Albert , Walton Janette
Published: September 2022

The childhood years represent a period of increased nutrient requirements during which a balanced diet is important to ensure optimal growth and development. The aim of this study was to examine food and nutrient intakes and compliance with recommendations in school-aged children in Ireland and to examine changes over time. Analyses were based on two National Children’s Food Surveys; NCFS (2003–2004) (n 594) and NCFS II (2017–2018) (n 600) which estimated food and nutrient intakes in nationally representative samples of children (5–12 years) using weighed food records (NCFS: 7-d; NCFS II: 4-d). This study found that nutrient intakes among school-aged children in Ireland are generally in compliance with recommendations; however, this population group have higher intakes of saturated fat, free sugars and salt, and lower intakes of dietary fibre than recommended. Furthermore, significant proportions have inadequate intakes of vitamin D, Ca, Fe and folate. Some of the key dietary changes that have occurred since the NCFS (2003–2004) include decreased intakes of sugar-sweetened beverages, fruit juice, milk and potatoes, and increased intakes of wholemeal/brown bread, high-fibre ready-to-eat breakfast cereals, porridge, pasta and whole fruit. Future strategies to address the nutrient gaps identified among this population group could include the continued promotion of healthy food choices (including education around ‘healthy’ lifestyles and food marketing restrictions), improvements of the food supply through reformulation (fat, sugar, salt, dietary fibre), food fortification for micronutrients of concern (voluntary or mandatory) and/or nutritional supplement recommendations (for nutrients unlikely to be sufficient from food intake alone).
Thalamocortical connectivity and its relationship with symptoms and cognition across the psychosis continuum
Authors: Ramsay Ian S. , Mueller Bryon , Ma Yizhou , Shen Chen , Sponheim Scott R.
Published: September 2022

Background

Coordination between the thalamus and cortex is necessary for efficient processing of sensory information and appears disrupted in schizophrenia. The significance of this disrupted coordination (i.e. thalamocortical dysconnectivity) to the symptoms and cognitive deficits of schizophrenia is unclear. It is also unknown whether similar dysconnectivity is observed in other forms of psychotic psychopathology and associated with familial risk for psychosis. Here we examine the relevance of thalamocortical connectivity to the clinical symptoms and cognition of patients with psychotic psychopathology, their first-degree biological relatives, and a group of healthy controls.

Method

Patients with a schizophrenia-spectrum diagnosis (N = 100) or bipolar disorder with a history of psychosis (N = 33), their first-degree relatives (N = 73), and a group of healthy controls (N = 43) underwent resting functional MRI in addition to clinical and cognitive assessments as part of the Psychosis Human Connectome Project. A bilateral mediodorsal thalamus seed-based analysis was used to measure thalamocortical connectivity and test for group differences, as well as associations with symptomatology and cognition.

Results

Reduced connectivity from mediodorsal thalamus to insular, orbitofrontal, and cerebellar regions was seen in schizophrenia. Across groups, greater symptomatology was related to less thalamocortical connectivity to the left middle frontal gyrus, anterior cingulate, right insula, and cerebellum. Poorer cognition was related to less thalamocortical connectivity to bilateral insula. Analyses revealed similar patterns of dysconnectivity across patient groups and their relatives.

Conclusions

Reduced thalamo-prefrontal-cerebellar and thalamo-insular connectivity may contribute to clinical symptomatology and cognitive deficits in patients with psychosis as well as individuals with familial risk for psychotic psychopathology.
Psychological distress in sons as resident carers of older mothers in Japan
Authors: Tanaka Haruna , Greiner Chieko
Published: September 2022

In Japan, care-giving sons are noted for their high rates of abuse of care recipients. This study revealed, for the first time, the difficulties unique to sons caring for their mothers. All sons used long-term care insurance services. However, they provided care that could not be covered by such public services while harbouring psychological distress. In this study, we interviewed 13 sons living with their older mothers as the primary carer and conducted a thematic analysis focusing on their psychological distress. As part of our study findings, we have identified nine themes during analysis: uncomfortable feelings that cannot be mitigated as a son; feeling of futility in being unrecognised as a carer; fear of losing something important; a strong sense of responsibility for one's mother's life; disappointment in being unable to obtain understanding and co-operation from one's siblings in providing care; irritation and anger towards one's wayward mother; guilt about treatment of one's mother; sense of exhaustion due to demanding care; and experiencing hopelessness and despair. Thus, it is important to understand what psychological distress carers experience and to consider possible approaches for their support. The study findings provide suggestions for long-term care support in regions, such as East Asia, where the numbers of son carers are increasing inevitably owing to declining birth rates and ageing population, as in Japan.