bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of the perioperative nutrition screen for prediction of postoperative outcomes
Authors: Williams David GA , Aronson Solomon , Murray Sutton , Fuller Matt , Villalta Elizabeth , Haines Krista L , Wischmeyer Paul E
Published: December 2021

Background

Preoperative nutrition risk is often underrecognized and undertreated. The perioperative nutrition screen (PONS) was recently introduced as an efficient tool to rapidly screen for preoperative nutrition risk. The relationship between identification of “nutrition risk” via PONS and adverse postoperative outcomes remains undescribed.

Methods

Preoperative nutrition risk was assessed via PONS from 01/01/2019 to 09/30/2020. Key clinical outcomes were compared with individual and composite PONS components.

Results

A total of 3151 patients with PONS evaluations were analyzed. Multivariate regression adjusted for key covariates demonstrated positive responses for specific PONS questions was associated with adverse clinical outcomes as follows. (1) Unplanned weight loss (>10% in 6‐months preoperatively) associated with a 22.4% increased length of stay (LOS) (P < 0.0001) and increased 30‐day readmission rate (odds ratio [OR], 2.44, 95% CI, 1.73–3.44, P < 0.001). (2) History of <50% of previous oral intake in past week associated with a 25% increased LOS (P < 0.001). (3) Preoperative serum albumin level <3.0 g/L associated with a 29.9% increased LOS (P < 0.001) and increased 30‐day readmission rate (OR, 2.66, 95% CI, 1.63–4.35, P < 0.001). (4) Low body mass index was not associated with increased LOS by adjusted analysis although was predictive by univariate analysis.

Conclusions

The PONS and its individual components appear to predict risk of adverse postoperative outcomes, even independent of a validated malnutrition diagnosis. Further studies are needed to assess the impact of specific preoperative nutrition interventions on adverse outcomes predicted by PONS when delivered to patients identified via PONS screen.
Do constraint negotiation and self‐construal affect solo travel intention? The case of Australia
Authors: Yang Elaine Chiao Ling , Lai Mun Yee , Nimri Rawan
Published: December 2021

Drawing on an Australian sample (n = 944), this study used PLS‐SEM modeling approach to test the effect of motivations and constraints on solo travel intention by considering constraint negotiation. The study also examined the influence of self‐construal and perceived behavioral control (PBC) on solo travel intention. The findings identify self‐actualization, self‐construal, and PBC as key drivers of solo travel intention. While interpersonal constraints negatively affect solo travel intention, negotiating structural constraints is more crucial in enabling the intention. Recommendations informed by the findings are provided to the travel industry for it to harness the full potential of the solo travel market.
Binding of the kringle‐2 domain of human plasminogen to streptococcal PAM‐type M‐protein causes dissociation of PAM dimers
Authors: Ayinuola Olawole , Ayinuola Yetunde A. , Qiu Cunjia , Lee Shaun W. , Ploplis Victoria A. , Castellino Francis J.
Published: December 2021

The direct binding of human plasminogen (hPg), via its kringle‐2 domain (K2hPg), to streptococcal M‐protein (PAM), largely contributes to the pathogenesis of Pattern D Group A Streptococcus pyogenes (GAS). However, the mechanism of complex formation is unknown. In a system consisting of a Class II PAM from Pattern D GAS isolate NS88.2 (PAMNS88.2), with one K2hPg binding a‐repeat in its A‐domain, we employed biophysical techniques to analyze the mechanism of the K2hPg/PAMNS88.2 interaction. We show that apo‐PAMNS88.2 is a coiled‐coil homodimer (M.Wt. ~80 kDa) at 4°C–25°C, and is monomeric (M.Wt. ~40 kDa) at 37°C, demonstrating a temperature‐dependent dissociation of PAMNS88.2 over a narrow temperature range. PAMNS88.2 displayed a single tight binding site for K2hPg at 4°C, which progressively increased at 25°C through 37°C. We isolated the K2hPg/PAMNS88.2 complexes at 4°C, 25°C, and 37°C and found molecular weights of ~50 kDa at each temperature, corresponding to a 1:1 (m:m) K2hPg/PAMNS88.2 monomer complex. hPg activation experiments by streptokinase demonstrated that the hPg/PAMNS88.2 monomer complexes are fully functional. The data show that PAM dimers dissociate into functional monomers at physiological temperatures or when presented with the active hPg module (K2hPg) showing that PAM is a functional monomer at 37°C.
Towards operational impact forecasting of building damage from winter windstorms in Switzerland
Authors: Röösli Thomas , Appenzeller Christof , Bresch David N.
Published: December 2021

National meteorological and hydrological services issue warnings for severe weather events, typically based on stakeholder‐agreed fixed thresholds of meteorological parameters such as wind speeds or precipitation amounts. Yet societal decisions on preventive actions depend on the expected impacts of the weather event. In order to better inform such preventive actions, meteorological services are currently working towards including expected impacts into their warnings. We develop an open‐source impact forecasting system for building damage due to winter windstorms in Switzerland. It combines a numerical ensemble weather prediction model with exposure and vulnerability data. This system forecasts expected building damage in Swiss Francs with a 2‐day lead time on a 500‐m grid or aggregated to administrative regions. We compare the forecasted building damage with insurance claims in the canton of Zurich. The uncertainty of the impact forecasts is large. For the majority of days with severe winter windstorm damage, the mean forecasted damage was in the right order of magnitude, with one missed event and one false alarm. For thunderstorms and foehn storms, the rate of missed events and false alarms is much higher, most likely related to the limited meteorological forecast skill. Such impact forecasts can inform decision makers on preventive actions, such as allocating emergency response and other assets. Additionally, impact forecasts could also help communicating the severity of the upcoming event to the general public as well as indirectly help meteorological forecasters with taking warning decisions.
Administration Time Significantly Affects Plasma Bioavailability of Grape Seed Proanthocyanidins Extract in Healthy and Obese Fischer 344 Rats
Authors: Escobar‐Martínez Iván , Arreaza‐Gil Verónica , Muguerza Begoña , Arola‐Arnal Anna , Bravo Francisca Isabel , Torres‐Fuentes Cristina , Suárez Manuel
Published: December 2021

Scope

Phenolic compounds are bioactive molecules that are associated with several health benefits. Metabolization and absorption are the main determinants of their bioavailability and bioactivity. Thus, the study of the factors that modulate these processes, such as sex or diet is essential. Recently, it has been shown that biological rhythms may also play a key role. Hence, the aim of this study is to evaluate if the bioavailability of a grape proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) is affected by the administration time in an animal model of metabolic syndrome (MetS).

Methods and Results

Female and male Fischer 344 rats are fed either a standard or a cafeteria diet (CAF) for 9 weeks, and an oral dose of GSPE (25 mg kg−1) is daily administered either at 8:00 am (zeitgeber time (ZT)‐0) or at 8:00 pm (ZT‐12) during the last 4 weeks. Plasma phenolic compounds are then quantified by liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS). Phase‐II and gut microbiota‐derived phenolic metabolites are affected by ZT in all conditions or only in obese rats, respectively. CAF feeding affected the bioavailability of phenolic acids and free flavan‐3‐ols. Differences due to sex are also observed.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate that ZT, diet, and sex are key factors influencing phenolic compounds bioavailability.
Die Auflösung der Chemischen Gesellschaft der DDR
Authors: Kießling Renate
Published: December 2021

Mit dem Fall der Mauer und dem Ende der DDR begann für deren wissenschaftliche Gesellschaften eine turbulente Zeit. Zum Jahreswechsel 1990/1991 löste sich die Chemische Gesellschaft der DDR auf – und die GDCh hatte mehrere Tausend Mitglieder mehr.
24. Tag der Organischen Chemie an der Universität Stuttgart
Authors: Richert Clemens
Published: December 2021

Nach pandemiebedingter Pause im Jahr 2020 fand Mitte Oktober 2021 wieder ein Tag der Organischen Chemie an der Universität Stuttgart (Tocus) statt. Das Programm umfasste zwölf Doktorandenvorträge und die 24. Thieme Lecture in Organic and Bioorganic Chemistry, die Thorsten Bach (Professor für Organische Chemie an der TU München) hielt. Die Veranstaltung war eine Leistungsschau der organischen Chemie aus dem Südwesten und Süden Deutschlands und eine der in diesem Jahr seltenen Möglichkeiten, in Präsenz zu diskutieren.
Einstellungsstopp in Berlin
Authors: Nakhjavan Shaghayegh
Published: December 2021

Ende September trat die Novelle zum Berliner Hochschulgesetz in Kraft und löste damit Kritik bei den Universitätsleitungen aus.
Windeln statt Wissenschaft
Authors: Nakhjavan Shaghayegh
Published: December 2021

Naturwissenschaftlerinnen geraten in der Forschung unter Druck, sobald sie Kinder bekommen.
Unterstützung: Staat und Forschung
Authors: Nakhjavan Shaghayegh
Published: December 2021

Bürger:innen wollen, dass der Staat die Forschung fördert.
Antibody responses to BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine: Infection‐naïve individuals with abdominal obesity warrant attention
Authors: Malavazos Alexis Elias , Basilico Sara , Iacobellis Gianluca , Milani Valentina , Cardani Rosanna , Boniardi Federico , Dubini Carola , Prandoni Ilaria , Capitanio Gloria , Renna Laura Valentina , Boveri Sara , Rigolini Roberta , Carrara Matteo , Spuria Giovanni , Cuppone Teresa , D’acquisto Aurelia , Carpinelli Luca , Sacchi Marta , Morricone Lelio , Secchi Francesco , Costa Elena , Menicanti Lorenzo , Nisoli Enzo , Carruba Michele , Ambrogi Federico , Corsi Romanelli Massimiliano Marco
Published: December 2021

Objective

The excess of visceral adipose tissue might hinder and delay immune response. How people with abdominal obesity (AO) will respond to mRNA vaccines against SARS‐CoV‐2 is yet to be established. SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific antibody responses were evaluated after the first and second dose of the BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine, comparing the response of individuals with AO with the response of those without, and discerning between individuals with or without prior infection.

Methods

Immunoglobulin G (IgG)‐neutralizing antibodies against the Trimeric complex (IgG‐TrimericS) were measured at four time points: at baseline, at day 21 after vaccine dose 1, and at 1 and 3 months after dose 2. Nucleocapsid antibodies were assessed to detect prior SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Waist circumference was measured to determine AO.

Results

Between the first and third month after vaccine dose 2, the drop in IgG‐TrimericS levels was more remarkable in individuals with AO compared with those without AO (2.44‐fold [95% CI: 2.22‐2.63] vs. 1.82‐fold [95% CI: 1.69‐1.92], respectively, p < 0.001). Multivariable linear regression confirmed this result after inclusion of assessed confounders (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The waning antibody levels in individuals with AO may further support recent recommendations to offer booster vaccines to adults with high‐risk medical conditions, including obesity, and particularly to those with a more prevalent AO phenotype.
UV assisted photo reactive polyether‐polyesteramide resin for future applications in 3D printing
Authors: Macías Steffi I. , Ruano Guillem , Borràs Núria , Alemán Carlos , Armelin Elaine
Published: December 2021

Among additive manufacturing, photocuring 3D printing technologies are very relevant because of its high printing speed and high precision. However, the limited performance of photosensitive thermoset polymers is the bottleneck for the application of photocuring 3D printing in some fields, particularly in the biomedical sector. Thus, the development of biodegradable and biocompatible materials is highly desirable and of utmost importance. In this work, a biodegradable and non‐cytotoxic thermoset polymer for photocuring 3D printing is reported. It consists of an unsaturated polyesteramide bearing phenylalanine, 2‐butene‐1,4‐diol and fumarate building blocks, which is photocured under UV irradiation using a low molecular weight poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate as crosslinker. The main characteristics of the new thermoset are: (1) very high volumetric and mechanical integrity stabilities, comparable to that of photocured epoxides; (2) very high degradation temperature; (3) very low water absorption capacity; (4) relatively fast enzymatic degradation, reaching 16.5% after 3 months; and (5) non‐cytotoxic response in presence of epithelial cells, even when soluble molecular fragments coming from biodegradation are considered. These properties favor the future utilization of the new polyether‐polyesteramide resin in the manufacturing of more sustainable products via 3D printing methods, such as stereolithography, that uses UV sources.
Unveiling Mechanism of Organic Photogenerator for Hydroxyl Radicals Generation by Molecular Modulation
Authors: Wang Shengnan , Rong Mengtao , Li Hao , Xu Tianren , Bu Yingcui , Chen Lei , Chen Xiaoqin , Yu Zhi‐Peng , Zhu Xiaojiao , Lu Zhou , Zhou Hongping
Published: December 2021

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) with organic photosensitizers generally goes through the oxygen‐dependent process, generating singlet oxygen and/or superoxide anion. However, the generation of reactive oxygen species is often suppressed as a result of hypoxia, one of the common features in tumors, therefore limiting the effectiveness of the tumor treatments. Consequently, it is urgent and significant to develop an oxygen‐independent hydroxyl radical photogenerator and unveil the mechanism. In this work, a hydroxyl radical (·OH) photogenerator originating from the electron transfer process is engineered. Detailed mechanism studies reveal that the optimized photosensitizer, WS2D, which contains a bithiophene unit, could both promote charge carrier generation and accelerate reaction efficiency, resulting in the efficient production of ·OH. In addition, WS2D nanoparticles are constructed to improve the polydispersity and stability in aqueous solution, which exhibit excellent biocompatibility and mitochondrial targeting. Bearing the above advantages, WS2D is employed in phototheranostics, which could release ·OH effectively and damage mitochondria precisely, achieving high PDT efficiency in vitro and in vivo. Overall, this work successfully provides valuable insights into the structural design of a hydroxyl radicals (·OH) photogenerator with great practical perspectives.
Supramolecular Polymer Network Membranes with Molecular‐Sieving Nanocavities for Efficient Pre‐Combustion CO2 Capture
Authors: Wu Ji , Chung Tai‐Shung
Published: December 2021

Pre‐combustion membrane CO2 capture from syngas before utilizing the clean hydrogen fuel, demands very challenging membrane materials with simultaneous high thermal resistance, precise subnanometer size‐selectivity, and robust processability. Here, an unconventional yet ultra‐facile nanocomposite membrane design using 4‐sulfocalix[4]arene (SCA4) molecules, a highly interactive member of soluble organic macrocyclic cavitands (OMCs) with a precise ≈3.0Å open cavity, is reported, to effectively sieve CO2 (3.3Å) from H2 (2.89Å). By simply infiltrating dissolved SCA4 molecules into prefabricated polymer membranes, they form extensive 3D supramolecular polymer networks (SPNs) with the polymer backbones through multi‐site ionic interactions. Bearing distinctly molecular‐sieving nanocavities, these otherwise amorphous SPN membranes deliver drastically enhanced mixed‐gas H2/CO2 separation under an industrial high‐temperature‐and‐pressure environment with 4.35 times higher selectivity being achieved, allowing them to well outperform most existing polymer‐based materials and even rival many state‐of‐the‐art but delicate inorganic and framework‐based membranes. They also demonstrate enhanced mechanical properties and long‐term operation stability. Most attractively, the SPN membranes obtain a molecularly homogeneous, single‐phase composite structure that can significantly surpass conventional phase‐segregated mixed‐matrix membranes in processability. Accompanied by the widely tunable OMC structures, this work can provide a versatile toolbox for designing advanced molecular‐sieving membranes with an optimal balance of performance, robust properties, and scalability.
A two‐stage structural optimization‐based design procedure of structural systems
Authors: Sotiropoulos Stefanos , Lagaros Nikos D.
Published: December 2021

In this work, a combined ground structure topology–sizing optimization‐based methodology is presented, for supporting the design phases of moment‐resisting braced frames (MRBFs) for tall buildings, from the conceptual design phase to the final one. The mathematical problem is formulated as a minimum material volume problem subject to compliance and design check constraints imposed by the serviceability and ultimate limit states of the Eurocode design provisions, while the optimized designs achieved are composed of standardized section properties of the Euronorm. Most of the studies that rely on ground structure topology optimization formulation are limited to truss structures, while compliance is used as the objective to be minimized. Considering structural systems composed of elements that develop both axial and flexural stress, together with topology optimization problem formulation where the material volume is to be minimized, describe the major challenges of this study. The minimum material volume problem initially is dealt with by a frame structural topology optimization (FSTO) approach representing the conceptual design phase followed by a sizing structural design optimization procedure referring to the final design phase. In order to test the efficiency of the methodology, it is implemented for designing the structural system of MRBFs for mid‐ and high‐rise building structures. For the case of the real‐world structural systems examined, a variant of the methodology is used where its second design phase is implemented by means of the optimization computing platform (OCP) integrated with the commercial software ETABS v18.
Parametric system identification of large‐scale structure using decoupled synchronized signals
Authors: Kord Sadeq , Taghikhany Touraj
Published: December 2021

Large‐scale structures are subjected to environmental loads or frequent seismic motion with irremediable effect. These loads have often multidirectional actions on structures, and it couples their responses and leads to multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) problem. The complexity of MIMO model and the relative time‐delays in sensing networks are among major sources of error in dynamic properties identification in large scale structures. This study proposed a parametric‐time domain method to reduce the negative effect of these problems. For this purpose, the contribution of each input in the output signals is determined using QR decomposition and converts a MIMO problem into multiple single‐input multiple‐output (SIMO) ones. In this regard, an Autoregressive Moving Average with eXogenous (ARMAX) model is implemented on decoupled signals for modal identification. Further, for time synchronization of records, a cross‐correlation function has been used to achieve more precise results. The method was employed real strong‐motion response recorded by different sensors at a high rise 64‐story concrete building. Results demonstrate the promising precision of the proposed algorithm for identifying current structural modal properties under real earthquake excitations. Hence, structures can be monitored efficiently along seismic experiences to detect any possible variations in their structural features. The comparison between the output of the proposed method and previous study indicates a considerable improvement on accuracy of the estimated model property particularly on mode shapes.
CircSmg5 stimulates the osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells by targeting the miR‐194‐5p/Fzd6 axis and beta‐catenin signaling
Authors: Lu Yue , Liu Ya Ke , Wan Fu Yin , Shi Song , Tao Ran
Published: December 2021

Background

Osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) is closely associated with bone diseases. Circular RNAs are reported to be involved in BMSC differentiation. CircSmg5 (circ_0001145) has been identified to be downregulated in an osteoporosis mouse model. In this study, we aimed to explore the function and regulatory mechanism of circSmg5 in BMSC osteogenic differentiation.

Methods

The Alizarin Red staining and alkaline phosphatase staining assays were performed to explore the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. The interaction between circ_0001145, miR‐194‐5p, and frizzled class receptor 6 (Fzd6) was analyzed by luciferase reporter assay. The nuclear translocation of β‐catenin was assessed using immunofluorescence staining.

Results

CircSmg5 is in stable circular structure. CircSmg5 expression was elevated in the process of BMSC osteogenic differentiation. CircSmg5 overexpression promoted the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. CircSmg5 bound with miR‐194‐5p, whose expression was decreased in the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. MiR‐194‐5p directly targeted the 3'UTR of Fzd6. The mRNA and protein levels of Fzd6 were positively modulated by circSmg5 and negatively regulated by miR‐194‐5p in BMSCs.

Conclusion

CircSmg5 was demonstrated to promote the BMSC osteogenic differentiation by targeting the miR‐194‐5p/Fzd6 axis to activate the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling.
Unsteady flow of Williamson fluid under the impact of prescribed surface temperature (PST) and prescribed heat flux (PHF) heating conditions over a stretching surface in a porous enclosure
Authors: Chandel Shikha , Sood Shilpa
Published: December 2021

An unsteady mixed convection flow of Williamson nanofluid over a stretchable surface embedded in a porous medium is scrutinized numerically. Here the porous medium is characterized by Darcy Forchheimer model under the influence of a magnetic field. Heat transfer analysis with two different conditions namely, prescribed surface temperature (PST) and prescribed heat flux (PHF) are taken into account. The evolved mathematical model is numerically solved by utilizing the Keller box method and bvp4c solver in MATLAB. The significance of diverse non‐dimensional physical parameters on the considered flow problem is thoroughly demonstrated and discussed for velocity, temperature and concentration profiles through graphs and tables. From the outcomes, it is stipulated that the velocity of fluid enhances with mixed convection and buoyancy ratio parameter whereas switch pattern is spotted for temperature and concentration distributions in both including conditions.
Modeling approach for nanomaterial convective migration with inclusion of Lorentz force
Authors: Rothan Yahya Ali
Published: December 2021

Hybrid nanomaterial migration through a permeable container has been simulated in current article with considering buoyancy effect. The inner surface absorbs constant heat flux and horizontal magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) is imposed. To employ the role of new fluid, homogeneous approach formulation was applied definition of stream function creates simpler form of equations. CVFEM was incorporated to model the equations. Entropy generations owing to various factors were examined with reporting contour plots. Variations of Be and Nu were reported by using 3D plots. Growing Ra, power of eddy rises and circular wall temperature decreases about 40%. Besides, Nu augments about 129.8% with growth of Ra while Be declines about 70.8%. As permeability augments, Nu enhances by 11.01% but Be decreases about 8.36%. Existence of Lorentz force make the hybrid nanofluid to move with lower velocity and Nu reduces about 24.5% while Be augments with impose of greater magnetic force.
Nonlocalized thermal behavior of rotating micromachined beams under dynamic and thermodynamic loads
Authors: Abouelregal Ahmed E. , Sedighi Hamid M. , Malikan Mohammad , Eremeyev Victor A.
Published: December 2021

Rotating micromachined beams are one of the most practical devices with several applications from power generation to aerospace industries. Moreover, recent advances in micromachining technology have led to huge interests in fabricating miniature turbines, gyroscopes and microsensors thanks to their high quality/reliability performances. To this end, this article is organized to examine the axial dynamic reaction of a rotating thermoelastic nanobeam under a constant‐velocity moving load. Using Eringen's nonlocal elasticity in conjunction with Euler–Bernoulli theory and Hamilton's principle, the governing equations are derived. It is assumed that the nanobeam is affected by thermal load and the boundary condition is simply supported. The Laplace transform approach is employed to solve the partial differential equations. A numerical example is presented to analyze the effects of the nonlocal parameter, rotation speed and velocity of the static moving load on the dynamic behavior of the system. The numerical results are graphically illustrated and analyzed to recognize the variations of field variables. Finally, in some special cases, our results are compared to those reported in the literature to demonstrate the reliability of the current model.
Painting Outside the Lines: Transgressing the Managerial University, Avoiding Forced Creativity
Authors: Leitheiser Stephen , Vezzoni Rubén , Hakkarainen Viola
Published: December 2021

This chapter aims to put creative methods into the context of wider trends in university institutions. As managerialism—here understood as the application of corporate values and practices into all sectors of society—continues to play a large role in the production and creation of knowledge, we argue that creative methods have the potential to either subvert or reinforce these trends. We see the entrenchment of managerialism as contradictory to the stated aims of the application of creative methods in knowledge production. In an attempt to avoid this, we provide a picture and discuss the institutional framework in which creative methods are deployed to understand and critique the values and practices of managerialism in academia. We point towards the constraints it places on those who wish to take a creative approach. First, we provide an historical accounting of how managerial values have contributed to de-politicization in the wider public sphere, with a particular focus on academia. Second, we outline the fundamental properties of the managerial university, summarized as: (i) accountability, (ii) competition, and (iii) obedience. Third, we sketch out a definition offorced creativityand illustrate two applied cases of how it might look in practice: “artwashing” and “funding tricks”. This section is meant to contribute to defining “truly” creative methods by spelling out what they are not. Finally, we summarize our main points and provide future directions of discussion.
Participative and Decolonial Approaches in Environmental History
Authors: De la Rosa Solano Sofía , Franklin Alex , Owen Luke
Published: December 2021

This chapter explores the relationship and use of decolonial participative approaches in environmental history. The main argument is that decolonial and participative methods are useful tools to build environmental histories that are more inclusive and communicate better with today’s society. Furthermore, it is argued that using participative and decolonial approaches contribute to environmental awareness and political action, making environmental history a powerful discipline in contributing to a decolonial environmental justice. To explore this argument, we first review how the discipline of history has understood participative methods. We then trace the development of participative approaches to research, and finally, give an overview of how environmental history in Latin America has been enriched from these discussions. The chapter finishes by discussing the usefulness of the concept of “memory” to facilitate this approach in research. We conclude that decoloniality and participation can be powerful allies of environmental history research. Specifically, the decolonial approach helps to read the past through a critical lens that connects specific cases with larger phenomena, such as imperialism and capitalism, highlighting the spaces for change within them. Similarly, participation challenges historical research to go beyond inclusion and place people’s knowledge at the centre of scientific work.
Handedness and midsagittal corpus callosum morphology: a meta-analytic evaluation
Authors: Westerhausen René , Papadatou-Pastou Marietta
Published: December 2021

Following a series of seminal studies in the 1980s, left or mixed hand preference is widely thought to be associated with a larger corpus callosum than right handedness, influencing the interpretation of findings and various theories related to interhemispheric processing, brain lateralisation, and hand preference. Recent reviews, however, find inconsistencies in the literature and cast doubt on the existence of such an association. The present study was conducted to clarify the relationship between hand preference and callosal morphology in a series of meta-analyses. For this purpose, articles were identified via a search in PubMed and Web Of Science databases. Studies reporting findings relating to handedness (assessed as hand preference) and corpus-callosum morphology in healthy participants were considered eligible. On the basis of a total of k = 24 identified studies and databases, random-effects meta-analyses were conducted considering four different group comparisons: (a) dominantly right- (dRH) and left-hand preference (dLH), (b) consistent right (cRH) and non-cRH preference, (c) cRH with mixed-hand preference (MH), and (d) cRH with consistent left-hand hand preference (cLH). For none of these meta-analyses did we find a significant effect of hand preference, and narrow confidence intervals suggest that the existence of population effects larger than 1% explained variance could be excluded. For example, considering the comparison of dRH and dLH (k = 14 studies; 1910 dRH and 646 dLH participants) the mean effect size was Hedge’s g = 0.016 (95% confidence interval: − 0.12 to 0.15; explained variance: < 0.001%). Thus, the common practice of assuming an increase in callosal connectivity based on mixed or left hand preference is likely invalid.
Experimental Investigation on the Effect of Carbon Fiber Reinforcements in the Mechanical Resistance of 3D Printed Specimens
Authors: Calles A. F. , Carou D. , Ferreira R. T. Luiz
Published: December 2021

In the last years, fiber-reinforced polymer composites have been under study for additive manufacturing. For this purpose, it is important to assess the behavior of these materials in terms of mechanical properties. The present experimental study evaluates the mechanical resistance of both PLA and carbon fiber reinforced PLA. The work used a full factorial Design of Experiments (108 tests) selecting as factors the infill density, infill pattern, material, number of perimeters and printing orientation. The main results highlight that the most influential factors on the tensile strength are both type of material and number of perimeters. In this study, the use of reinforcements did not improve the mechanical resistance attained by the corresponding virgin material. Particularly, for some selected specimens, the porosity measured in the fracture section is larger for the reinforced PLA specimens, so they showed a smaller cross-section.
Spruce forest afforestation leading to increased Fe mobilization from soils
Authors: Škerlep Martin , Nehzati Susan , Johansson Ulf , Kleja Dan B. , Persson Per , Kritzberg Emma S.
Published: December 2021

Increasing exports of Fe and DOC from soils, causing browning of freshwaters, have been reported in recent decades in many regions of the northern hemisphere. Afforestation, and in particular an increase of Norway spruce forest in certain regions, is suggested as a driver behind these trends in water chemistry. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that the gradual accumulation of organic soil layers in spruce forests, and subsequent increase in organic acid concentrations and acidity enhances mobilization of Fe. First generation Norway spruce stands of different ages (35, 61, 90 years) and adjacent arable control plots were selected to represent the effects of aging forest. Soil solutions were sampled from suction lysimeters at two depths (below organic soil layer and in mineral soil) during two years, and analyzed for Fe concentration, Fe speciation (XAS analysis), DOC, metals, major anions and cations. Solution Fe concentrations were significantly higher in shallow soils under older spruce stands (by 5- and 6-fold) than in control plots and the youngest forest. Variation in Fe concentration was best explained by variation in DOC concentration and pH. Moreover, Fe in all soil solutions was present as mononuclear Fe(III)-OM complexes, showing that this phase is dominating Fe translocation. Fe speciation in the soil was also analyzed, and found to be dominated by Fe oxides with minor differences between plots. These results confirmed that Fe mobilization, by Fe(III)-OM complexes, was higher from mature spruce stands, which supports that afforestation with spruce may contribute to rising concentrations of Fe in surface waters.
Green entrepreneurship and SME performance: the moderating effect of firm age
Authors: Yin Chenli , Salmador Maria Paz , Li Dan , Lloria M. Begoña
Published: December 2021

Green entrepreneurship has been increasing with growing attention to environment protection by a variety of stakeholders. Green innovation, as the essence of green entrepreneurship, has attracted a broad range of scholarly attention with yet inconclusive findings regarding its effect on firm performance. According to our analyses of 1667 firms listed on SME board and GEM in China during the period from 2010 to 2019, we find interesting results regarding the type of green innovation involved and the moderating effect of firm age on the link between green innovation and SME performance. More precisely, we find green utility-model innovation positively influences firm performance for SMEs, whereas green invention innovation does not contribute to firm performance overall. More interesting, our empirical results suggest that older firms benefit more from both green invention innovation and green utility-model innovation than younger firms. This research contributes to the literature on green entrepreneurship as well as green innovation.
Friction and Wear Behavior of Deep Drawing Tools Using Volatile Lubricants Injected Through Laser-Drilled Micro-Holes
Authors: Reichardt Gerd , Henn Manuel , Reichle Paul , Umlauf Georg , Riedmüller Kim , Weber Rudolf , Barz Jakob , Liewald Mathias , Graf Thomas , Tovar Günter E. M.
Published: December 2021

In deep drawing processes, the use of lubricants is mandatory in order to prevent wear on tools and surface damage to the formed sheet metal components. Here, frequently used lubricants are synthetic and mineral oils, emulsions, and waxes. However, these conventional lubricants have to be applied to the sheet material prior to the forming operation and removed afterwards by cleaning processes. Additionally, the lubricants often contain substances that are harmful to the environment and to human health. To counteract these economic and ecological disadvantages, research is currently being conducted on a novel tribological system. For this, volatile media such as liquid carbon dioxide and gaseous nitrogen are being used, and are introduced directly into the friction zones between the tool and the sheet metal material during deep drawing under high pressure through special laser-drilled micro-holes. This paper covers the latest investigations and findings regarding the design of flow-optimized micro-holes, the laser drilling process, the friction characterization on tool radii, and the tool wear to be expected when using the lubrication medium CO2.
Sri Lanka's First Election Commission: Strengthening Electoral Management or Advancing Electoral Integrity?
Authors: Samararatne Dinesha
Published: December 2021

The undisputed success of Sri Lanka's first Election Commission (2015–2020) was the conduct of free and fair elections, that is to say, electoral management. I argue in this article that, by design and in practice, it was unable to or failed to advance electoral integrity that is urgently required for the health of Sri Lanka's constitutional democracy. At critical points when electoral integrity and constitutional democracy were threatened, it was the Court, the traditional institutional check on the Executive and the Legislature, that prevented its further erosion. The Commission, therefore, was an institutional innovation that addressed symptoms of Sri Lanka's ailing constitutional democracy but not its root causes. The Commission has been a necessary but insufficient fix for the electoral pathologies of Sri Lanka's constitutional democracy. Its ‘guarantor’ function, as I illustrate in this article, is narrowly conceived, perceived and lived out.
Default options: a powerful behavioral tool to increase COVID-19 contact tracing app acceptance in Latin America?
Authors: Boruchowicz Cynthia , Lopez Boo Florencia , Roseth Benjamin , Tejerina Luis
Published: December 2021

Given the rates of transmission of COVID-19, relying only on manual contact tracing might be infeasible to control the epidemic without sustained costly lockdowns or rapid vaccination efforts. In the first study of its kind in Latin America, we find through a phone survey of a nationally representative sample of ten countries that an opt-out regime (automatic installation) increases self-reported intention to accept a contact tracing app with exposure notification by 22 percentage points compared to an opt-in regime (voluntary installation). This effect is triple the size and of opposite sign of the effect found in Europe and the United States, potentially due to lower concerns regarding privacy and lower levels of interpersonal trust. We see that an opt-out regime is more effective in increasing willingness to accept for those who do not trust the government or do not use their smartphones for financial transactions. The local severity of the pandemic does not affect our results, but feeling personally at risk increases intent to accept such apps in general. These results can shed light on the use of default options not only for contact tracing apps but in public health overall in the context of a pandemic in Latin America.
Fifty Years of Motor Unit Number Estimation
Authors: Wright Regan D. , Sivak Allison , Abrahão Agessandro , Jones Kelvin E.
Published: December 2021

The objective was to use bibliometric analysis to create an infographic of motor unit number estimation methods over the past 50 years. The original method was published in 1971, but secondary and tertiary waves of research using alternative methods occurred in the early 2000s and a decade later. A metric of influence was used to determine if different methods had clear peaks of use over the past 50 years. While the original method continues to register influence, the MUNIX method introduced in 2004 stands out as the most influential method to estimate the innervation status of skeletal muscles.
AVERHAM, ST MICHAEL, NOTTINGHAMSHIRE: A NEWLY IDENTIFIED PRE-CONQUEST CHURCH
Authors: Brooke Christopher J , Ryder Peter F
Published: December 2021

The church of St Michael and All Angels, Averham, is largely constructed of counter-pitched rubble and has long been interpreted as being of the early Norman period. Recent archaeological investigations by the authors have revealed conclusive evidence that the date of part of the fabric is pre-Conquest and that the west tower was originally a possible two-storey porch. Ground-based remote sensing has further revealed complex anomalies in the south and east walls of the tower.
Superior semi-circular canal dehiscence syndrome: quantifying the effectiveness of treatment from the patient's perspective
Authors: Mehta N , Arram E , Rouhani M J , Dimitrov L , Ubhi H K , Khalil S , Saeed S R
Published: December 2021

Background

Superior semi-circular canal dehiscence syndrome is a disorder characterised by auditory and vestibular symptoms that can significantly impact quality of life, and yet it has no disease-specific quality of life instrument.

Method

Thirty-six patients who underwent transmastoid superior semicircular canal resurfacing and plugging were included from an initial cohort of 60 surgically managed patients. A sub-cohort of 19 consecutive patients completed validated symptom and quality of life questionnaires before and after surgery. Of the 36 patients, 31 participated in a telephone semi-structured interview post-operatively.

Results

Following surgery, there was a statistically significant improvement in autophony index score (p = 0.02), symptom severity score (p < 0.001) and sound hypersensitivity (p = 0.01). Thematic analysis of telephone interviews suggested three main symptom themes: auditory hypersensitivity, dysequilibrium, headache and concentration difficulties. Dysequilibrium was found to persist post-operatively.

Conclusion

Surgery improves overall symptoms and quality of life. However, important symptom themes may be overlooked using the outcome measures that are currently available. A unified disease-specific outcome measure is urgently required to better understand the impact of symptoms and measure treatment effects.
The Promise of the Green New Deal
Authors: Osborne Elizabeth A.
Published: December 2021

US theatre suffers from insufficient funding, mass unemployment, and widespread structural inequities. The Green New Deal, with its calls to create millions of highwage jobs and promote equity, offers a solution: establish a Green Federal Theatre. This examination of two historical Federal Theatre Project structures — the National Service Bureau and the Community Drama Program — culminates in a manifesto for a Green Federal Theatre.
Yvonne Rainer’s Archive
Authors: Coates Emily
Published: December 2021

A close reading of Yvonne Rainer’s archival papers reveals new insights into the postmodern iconoclast. Revivifying Rainer’s early choreographic practice and verbalembodied explorations, Rainer’s own notes and journals illuminate and challenge reductive interpretations of a writing dance artist’s work over time.
TWISTED DOUBLING INTEGRALS FOR BRYLINSKI–DELIGNE EXTENSIONS OF CLASSICAL GROUPS
Authors: Cai Yuanqing
Published: December 2021

We explain how to develop the twisted doubling integrals for Brylinski–Deligne extensions of connected classical groups. This gives a family of global integrals which represent Euler products for this class of nonlinear extensions.
Counterterrorism policies in the Middle East and North Africa: A regional perspective
Authors: Mansour-Ille Dina
Published: December 2021

The 9/11 attacks and the “War on Terror” brought terrorism and counterterrorism to the forefront of politics. Today, terrorism remains one of the most serious threats to national and international security. Yet, amid the surge of scholarly and policy interest in terrorism and counterterrorism, the literature on counterterrorism policies and strategies in the Middle East at the local and regional levels is sparse, limited and predominantly Western.

The experience of political terrorism and violence in the Middle East throughout the 1980s and 1990s, which led to the introduction of a securitization process and the adoption of counterterrorism measures in the region long before the 9/11 attacks, offers important lessons. This paper takes its point of departure from the definitional conundrum of the concepts of “terrorism” and “(national) security” within the Middle East context. It examines the evolution of the securitization process in the Middle East in response to terrorism, with reference to the experiences of countries in the region. As it analyzes the different counterterrorism models and methods employed, it argues that counterterrorism strategies in much of the Middle East have not been effective and have at times been counterproductive.
New Sensor Aids Rare Earth Extraction from Acid Mine Drainage
Authors: Duncombe Jenessa
Published: December 2021

Rare earth elements appear in more than 200 consumer products. The race is on to source these elements from abundant and environmentally damaging mining waste.
Warm Phase of AMV Damps ENSO Through Weakened Thermocline Feedback
Authors: Trascasa‐Castro Paloma , Ruprich‐Robert Yohan , Castruccio Frederic , Maycock Amanda C.
Published: December 2021

Interactions between ocean basins affect El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), altering its impacts on society. Here, we explore the effect of Atlantic Multidecadal Variability (AMV) on ENSO behavior using idealized experiments performed with the NCAR‐CESM1 model. Comparing warm (AMV+) to cold (AMV−) AMV conditions, we find that ENSO sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies are reduced by ∼10% and ENSO precipitation anomalies are shifted to the west during El Niño and east during La Niña. Using the Bjerknes stability index, we attribute the reduction in ENSO variability to a weakened thermocline feedback in boreal autumn. In AMV+, the Walker circulation and trade winds strengthen over the tropical Pacific, increasing the background zonal SST gradient. The background changes shift ENSO anomalies westwards, with wind stress anomalies more confined to the west. We suggest the changes in ENSO‐wind stress decrease the strength of the thermocline feedback in the east, eventually reducing ENSO growth rate.
Origin of Frequency‐Doubling and Shoulder‐Like Magnetic Pulsations in ULF Waves
Authors: Li Li , Zhou Xu‐Zhi , Zong Qiu‐Gang , Chen Xing‐Ran , Liu Ying , Hao Yi‐Xin , Yue Chao , Omura Yoshiharu , Rankin Robert , Fu Sui‐Yan
Published: December 2021

We present Van Allen Probes observations of a long‐lasting ultralow frequency (ULF) wave event with frequency doubling features in the compressional wave component. The azimuthal magnetic field, on the other hand, shows shoulder‐like pulsations characterized by the presence of two bumps between the crests and troughs within each wave cycle. A wavelet analysis suggests that the shoulder‐like pulsations originate from a secondary peak of the wave power at a frequency of three times the dominant wave frequency. Shoulder‐like pulsations have been observed in many ULF wave events with frequency doubling features, although this phenomenon has never been reported or explained. Here, we propose that these features can be caused by monochromatic oscillations of the magnetic flux tubes in a ballooning‐mirror mode structure. Then, a simple model is developed to reproduce these signatures, which also has the potential to yield uneven bumps in shoulder‐like pulsations depending on the spacecraft location.