bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liquid Crystals as Multifunctional Interfaces for Trapping and Characterizing Colloidal Microplastics
Authors: Mukherjee Fiona , Shi Anye , Wang Xin , You Fengqi , Abbott Nicholas L.
Published: March 2023

Identifying and removing microplastics (MPs) from the environment is a global challenge. This study explores how the colloidal fraction of MPs assemble into distinct 2D patterns at aqueous interfaces of liquid crystal (LC) films with the goal of developing surface‐sensitive methods for identifying MPs. Polyethylene (PE) and polystyrene (PS) microparticles are measured to exhibit distinct aggregation patterns, with addition of anionic surfactant amplifying differences in PS/PE aggregation patterns: PS changes from a linear chain‐like morphology to a singly dispersed state with increasing surfactant concentration whereas PE forms dense clusters at all surfactant concentrations. Statistical analysis of assembly patterns using deep learning image recognition models yields accurate classification, with feature importance analysis confirming that dense, multibranched assemblies are unique features of PE relative to PS. Microscopic characterization of LC ordering at the microparticle surfaces leads to predict LC‐mediated interactions (due to elastic strain) with a dipolar symmetry, a prediction consistent with the interfacial organization of PS but not PE. Further analysis leads to conclude that PE microparticles, due to their polycrystalline nature, possess rough surfaces that lead to weak LC elastic interactions and enhanced capillary forces. Overall, the results highlight the potential utility of LC interfaces for rapid identification of colloidal MPs based on their surface properties.
Electrolysis Synthesis of Carbides and Carbon Dioxide Capture in Molten Salts
Authors: Ren Yiwen , Li Shaolong , Lv Zepeng , Fan Yong , He Jilin , Song Jianxun
Published: March 2023

The application of carbides in catalysis, batteries, aerospace fields, etc. has been continuously expanded and deepened, which is attributed to the diversified physicochemical properties of carbides via a tune‐up of their morphology, composition, and microstructure. The emergence of MAX phases and high entropy carbides with unparalleled application potential undoubtedly further stimulates the research upsurge of carbides. The traditional pyrometallurgical or hydrometallurgical synthesis of carbides inevitably faces the shortcomings of complex process, unacceptable energy consumption, extreme environmental pollution, and beyond. The molten salt electrolysis synthesis method with the superiorities of straightforward route, high efficiency, and environmental friendliness has demonstrated its validity in the synthesis of various carbides, which naturally initiates more research. In particular, the process can achieve CO2 capture while synthesizing carbides based on the excellent CO2 capture capability of some molten salts, which is of great significance for carbon neutralization. In this paper, the synthesis mechanism of carbide by molten salt electrolysis, the process of CO2 capture and carbides conversion, the latest research progress in the synthesis of binary, ternary, multi‐component, and composite carbides are reviewed. Finally, the challenges, development perspectives, and research directions of electrolysis synthesis of carbides in molten salts are featured.
The Inducement and “Rejuvenation” of Li Dendrites by Space Confinement and Positive Fe/Co‐Sites
Authors: Liu Ziqin , Dong Xin , Wen Jing , Hu Pu , Shang Chaoqun
Published: March 2023

The high reactivity of Li metal and the inhomogeneous Li deposition leads to the formation of Li dendrites and “dead” Li, which impedes the performance of Li metal batteries (LMBs) with high energy density. The regulating and guiding the Li dendrite nucleation is a desirable tactic to realize concentrated distribution of Li dendrites instead of completely inhibiting dendrite formation. Here, a Fe‐Co‐based Prussian blue analog with hollow and open framework (H‐PBA) is employed to modify the commercial polypropylene separator (PP@H‐PBA). This functional PP@H‐PBA can guide the lithium dendrite growth to form uniform lithium deposition and activate the inactive Li. In details, the H‐PBA with macroporous structure and open framework can induce the growth of lithium dendrites via space confinement, while the positive Fe/Co‐sites lowered by polar cyanide (−CN) of PBA can reactivate the inactive Li. Thus, the Li|PP@H‐PBA|Li symmetric cells exhibit long‐term stability at 1 mA cm−2 for 1 mAh cm−2 over 500 h. And the Li‐S batteries with PP@H‐PBA deliver favorable cycling performance at 500 mA g−1 for 200 cycles.
The accuracy of ultrasound compared to magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of deep infiltrating endometriosis: A narrative review
Authors: Hansen Taylor , Hanchard Tracey , Alphonse Jennifer
Published: March 2023

Endometriosis is defined as the presence of endometrium‐like epithelial cells and/or stroma located outside the uterus, generally with associated inflammatory response. Commonly located on the ovaries and peritoneum, endometriosis can also infiltrate the retroperitoneal space and pelvic organs, known as deep endometriosis (DE). This narrative review aims to compare the accuracy of transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for detecting deep endometriosis. A literature search was performed mid‐2021 and again in December 2022 using PubMed, SAGE and Wiley databases, and limited to studies published between 2011 and 2021. Key words deep infiltrating endometriosis, transvaginal ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging and diagnostic accuracy identified 16 studies which addressed the aim. The authenticity and reliability were determined by the Standards for Reporting of Diagnostic Accuracy. When the studies were analysed, the diagnosis of DE mean sensitivity values ranged from 40% to 100% for TVUS and 50% to 100% for MRI. Mean specificity values ranged from 81.5% to 99.9% and 84.4% to 97.5%, respectively. This indicates that both MRI and TVUS have similarly accurate performance in the detection of DE. Endometriosis detection is possible with TVUS and MRI, however accuracy is dependent on the location and severity as well as limitations due to operator and image interpretation reliability. In the presence of a correctly performed dynamic TVUS examination for the diagnosis of DE, MRI adds little diagnostic value. Further research is recommended using a standardised protocol in a wider study of affected patients, including accurate clinical assessments for each location of endometriosis to inform the choice of imaging for that region.
Container‐based data‐intensive application scheduling in hybrid cloud‐edge collaborative environment
Authors: Tang Bing , Luo Jincheng , Zhang Jiaming
Published: March 2023

Container virtualization technology represented by Docker has been widely used in the industry due to its advantages of lightweight, fast deployment, and easy portability. It can bring convenience to system deployment, operation, and maintenance. This article considers the implementation of AI‐based IoT applications based on Docker and container technology in a cloud‐edge collaborative environment. Three typical data‐intensive applications, preprocessing, training, and inference in machine learning, are deployed using Docker containers. For these three types of tasks, this article proposes a container‐based data‐intensive application scheduling framework. Using an attribute‐based data‐driven method, a new scheduling approach considering multiple weighting factors is proposed, which is called DICS‐OPT. The cloud nodes and edge nodes are scored and sorted uniformly. The container is scheduled to the node with the highest score, and then the task data is transmitted to the node to execute the task. NSGA‐III‐based genetic algorithm has been proposed to search for the optimal weighting factors. This article introduces the implementation of the prototype system and builds a cloud‐edge collaborative testbed consisting of Raspberry Pis and PCs. The performance evaluation results indicates that the proposed scheduling approach outperforms existing approaches. Compared with existing approaches, DICS‐OPT improves the average edge resource utilization by 10.05% to 69.04%, and saves the cloud resource cost by 16.02% to 36.68%.
Directed Energy Deposition of Low‐Alloyed Steels: An Insight on Microstructural and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Bartels Dominic , von Lattre-Hertel Andrea , Novotny Tobias , Mohr Andreas , Hill Horst , Merklein Carsten , Schmidt Michael
Published: March 2023

Low‐alloyed steels are used for a variety of different applications like bearings or gears. Additive manufacturing technologies like directed energy deposition (DED‐LB/M) allow for a fast and close‐to‐contour fabrication of sophisticated products without excessive waste of material. However, the DED‐LB/M process cannot be considered as state‐of‐the‐art for this group of materials. This study presents findings on the material properties of the additively manufactured low‐alloyed steel Bainidur AM by means of DED‐LB/M. This includes studies on the mechanical properties (hardness, compression strength) as well as the microstructural properties (scanning electron microscopy [SEM]). The microstructure in the as‐built state appears like a bainitic–martensitic one with shares of retained austenite which is not fully transformed during cooling. As a differentiation is barely possible from the SEM images, a plethora of investigations is further used to assess the microstructure. As‐built samples possess a good combination of ductility and hardness. Furthermore, the specimens are characterized by a good tempering stability up to 600 °C. This tempering stability is characterized by a homogeneous hardness of around 400 HV1 for all temperatures. In contrast, the conventionally hardened specimens show a drop‐off in material hardness, further indicating the excellent material properties of additively manufactured Bainidur AM.
Di(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate and microplastics cause necroptosis and apoptosis in hepatocytes of mice by inducing oxidative stress
Authors: Chen Lu , Qi Meng , Zhang Linlin , Yu Fuchang , Tao Dayong , Xu Chunyan , Xu Shiwen
Published: March 2023

Di(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a plasticizer and an endocrine disruptor. Microplastics (MPs) are pathogenic small plastic particles and abundant in the aqueous environment. The problem of residual hazards of plastic products is worthy of study, especially the joint exposure of a variety of plastic‐related products to the toxic effect. We used 200 mg/kg DEHP and 10 mg/L MPs to establish exposure model in vivo and 2 mM DEHP and 200 μg/L MPs to establish AML12 cell exposure model in vitro. In vivo study results showed that compared with the control group (NC) group, DEHP and MPs significantly increased the contents of malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide, and significantly decreased the contents of glutathione and the activity of superoxide dismutase, total antioxidant capacity, catalase and glutathione peroxidase. The level of oxidative stress was further aggravated after combined exposure. The reactive oxygen species level of AML12 exposed to DEHP and MPs in vitro was significantly higher than NC group, and the combined exposure was significantly higher than the single exposure. The in vivo and in vitro also confirmed that DEHP and MPs could significantly increase the mRNA and protein levels of apoptosis markers and necroptosis markers and there was an additive effect. After N‐acetylcysteine treatment in vitro, the above‐mentioned oxidative stress level and cell damage decreased significantly. This study provided a reference for advocating the reduction of the mixed use of plastic products, and provided a basis for preventing the harm of plastic products residues.
Current technical advancements in plant epitranscriptomic studies
Authors: Xie Yichun , Chan Long‐Yiu , Cheung Ming‐Yan , Li Man‐Wah , Lam Hon‐Ming
Published: March 2023

The growth and development of plants are the result of the interplay between the internal developmental programming and plant–environment interactions. Gene expression regulations in plants are made up of multi‐level networks. In the past few years, many studies were carried out on co‐ and post‐transcriptional RNA modifications, which, together with the RNA community, are collectively known as the “epitranscriptome.” The epitranscriptomic machineries were identified and their functional impacts characterized in a broad range of physiological processes in diverse plant species. There is mounting evidence to suggest that the epitranscriptome provides an additional layer in the gene regulatory network for plant development and stress responses. In the present review, we summarized the epitranscriptomic modifications found so far in plants, including chemical modifications, RNA editing, and transcript isoforms. The various approaches to RNA modification detection were described, with special emphasis on the recent development and application potential of third‐generation sequencing. The roles of epitranscriptomic changes in gene regulation during plant–environment interactions were discussed in case studies. This review aims to highlight the importance of epitranscriptomics in the study of gene regulatory networks in plants and to encourage multi‐omics investigations using the recent technical advancements.
Non‐destructive and contactless defect detection inside leading edge coatings for wind turbine blades using mid‐infrared optical coherence tomography
Authors: Petersen Christian Rosenberg , Fæster Søren , Bech Jakob Ilsted , Jespersen Kristine Munk , Israelsen Niels Møller , Bang Ole
Published: March 2023

Leading edge erosion of wind turbine blades is one of the most critical issues in wind energy production, resulting in lower efficiency, as well as increased maintenance costs and downtime. Erosion is initiated by impacts from rain droplets and other atmospheric particles, so to protect the blades, special protective coatings are applied to increase their lifetime without adding significantly to the weight or friction of the blade. These coatings should ideally absorb and distribute the force away from the point of impact; however, microscopic defects, such as bubbles, reduce the mechanical performance of the coating, leading to cracks and eventually erosion. In this work, mid‐infrared (MIR) Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is investigated for non‐destructive, contactless inspection of coated glass‐fiber composite samples to identify subsurface coating defects. The samples were tested using rubber projectiles to simulate rain droplet and particle impacts. The samples were subsequently imaged using OCT, optical microscopy, and X‐ray tomography. OCT scanning revealed both bubbles and cracks below the surface, which would not have been detected using ultrasonic or similar non‐destructive methods. In this way, OCT can complement the existing quality control in turbine blade manufacturing, help improve the blade lifetime, and reduce the environmental impact from erosion.
Male Experience(s)
Authors: Vermeulen Joeri , Luts Evelien , Fobelets Maaike
Published: March 2023

In the Western World, the man’s role in pregnancy has long appeared somewhat limited. After the joint activity of creating the pregnancy, the man barely got attention till the birth, and even then, he was often portrayed as nervously smoking in the waiting room. Nowadays, that has become very different in some parts of the world, where men participate in birth, antenatal classes, and parenting courses. This chapter addresses the male partner’s reality, going beyond only his role during the birth or as a father-to-be. It will also look into the psychological and existential changes he faces throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum and discuss the physical (and even hormonal) changes that can happen to him and affect his sexuality. It also elaborates on the man’s sexual life during and after this life-changing experience. One reason to pay good attention to this area is that postpartum, the difference between the man’s and the woman’s sexuality can become a hot topic and even a severe couple problem.

The other reason to address this area is that, in many places, midwifery is a nearly complete female profession that hence almost exclusively deals with women’s issues. However, for good, family-focused care, the midwife needs some understanding of the ‘male perspective’, as addressed in this chapter.

This chapter is part of ‘Midwifery and Sexuality’, a Springer Nature open-access textbook for midwives and related healthcare professionals.
Relevant Aspects of Female Genital Mutilation
Authors: Abdulrehman Suaad
Published: March 2023

This chapter deals with FGM, female genital mutilation, also named female genital cutting or female circumcision. Though mainly practised in African and Middle East countries, it is still the reality for many women and girls who migrated from those countries to Europe and other parts of the world. In 2022, UNICEF estimated that, globally, at least 200 million women and girls had undergone this procedure.

The physical damage and consequences of FGM depend on the extent of the procedure and the medical and hygienic conditions during the event. Circumcised women deserve proper care regarding their medical and obstetrical side effects. This chapter will address some of the expected urological, gynaecological, and obstetrical consequences for the midwife who meets women with FGM throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. On the other hand, this chapter will address various aspects of FGM’s psychological, sexual, and social impact on the woman and the couple.

It can be confusing for the midwife who doesn’t work (or doesn’t yet work) in a multicultural setting when confronted with women after FGM. So the chapter will elaborate on ‘How to approach the woman after FGM in a respectful and caring manner?’

This chapter is part of ‘Midwifery and Sexuality’, a Springer Nature open-access textbook for midwives and related healthcare professionals.
How Sexual Problems are Managed (by Other Professionals)
Authors: Pascoal Patrícia M. , Raposo Catarina F.
Published: March 2023

This chapter will address how sexology or sexual medicine professionals deal with sexual problems. There are some essential characteristics of sex therapy that are still commonly used in most clinical interventions aimed at solving sexual problems, and some new elements have been incorporated into traditional sex therapy in the last decades. This chapter will describe these elements to clarify what is going on in the sexologist’s consultation room so that the midwife can explain what the woman or the people she is closely involved with can expect when referred there. Based on a very brief case history, the chapter will introduce the essential steps of a possible sex therapy treatment program.

This chapter is part of ‘Midwifery and Sexuality’, a Springer Nature open-access textbook for midwives and related healthcare professionals.
A phase IV study evaluating QT interval, pharmacokinetics, and safety following fractionated dosing of gemtuzumab ozogamicin in patients with relapsed/refractory CD33-positive acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Montesinos Pau , Kota Vamsi , Brandwein Joseph , Bousset Pierre , Benner Rebecca J. , Vandendries Erik , Chen Ying , McMullin Mary Frances
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Gemtuzumab ozogamicin (GO) is indicated for treatment of relapsed/refractory (R/R) acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The QT interval, pharmacokinetics (PK), and immunogenicity following the fractionated GO dosing regimen have not been previously assessed. This phase IV study was designed to obtain this information in patients with R/R AML.

Methods

Patients aged ≥ 18 years with R/R AML received the fractionated dosing regimen of GO 3 mg/m2 on Days 1, 4, and 7 of each cycle, up to 2 cycles. The primary endpoint was mean change from baseline in QT interval corrected for heart rate (QTc).

Results

Fifty patients received ≥ 1 dose of GO during Cycle 1. The upper limit of the 2-sided 90% confidence interval for least squares mean differences in QTc using Fridericia’s formula (QTcF) was < 10 ms for all time points during Cycle 1. No patients had a post-baseline QTcF > 480 ms or a change from baseline > 60 ms. Treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) occurred in 98% of patients; 54% were grade 3–4. The most common grade 3–4 TEAEs were febrile neutropenia (36%) and thrombocytopenia (18%). The PK profiles of both conjugated and unconjugated calicheamicin mirror that of total hP67.6 antibody. The incidence of antidrug antibodies (ADAs) and neutralizing antibodies was 12% and 2%, respectively.

Conclusion

Fractionated GO dosing regimen (3 mg/m2/dose) is not predicted to pose a clinically significant safety risk for QT interval prolongation in patients with R/R AML. TEAEs are consistent with GO’s known safety profile, and ADA presence appears unassociated with potential safety issues.

Trial registry

Clinicaltrials.gov ID: NCT03727750 (November 1, 2018).
Sparse and smooth functional data clustering
Authors: Centofanti Fabio , Lepore Antonio , Palumbo Biagio
Published: March 2023

A new model-based procedure is developed for sparse clustering of functional data that aims to classify a sample of curves into homogeneous groups while jointly detecting the most informative portions of the domain. The proposed method is referred to as sparse and smooth functional clustering (SaS-Funclust) and relies on a general functional Gaussian mixture model whose parameters are estimated by maximizing a log-likelihood function penalized with a functional adaptive pairwise fusion penalty and a roughness penalty. The former allows identifying the noninformative portion of the domain by shrinking the means of separated clusters to some common values, whereas the latter improves the interpretability by imposing some degree of smoothing to the estimated cluster means. The model is estimated via an expectation-conditional maximization algorithm paired with a cross-validation procedure. Through a Monte Carlo simulation study, the SaS-Funclust method is shown to outperform other methods that already appeared in the literature, both in terms of clustering performance and interpretability. Finally, three real-data examples are presented to demonstrate the favourable performance of the proposed method. The SaS-Funclust method is implemented in the package , available on CRAN.
Redefinition of dementia care in Italy in the era of amyloid-lowering agents for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease: an expert opinion and practical guideline
Authors: Filippi Massimo , Cecchetti Giordano , Cagnin Annachiara , Marra Camillo , Nobili Flavio , Parnetti Lucilla , Agosta Federica
Published: March 2023

No disease-modifying therapies are currently available for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in Europe. Current evidence from clinical trials testing anti-beta amyloid (Aβ) monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) in patients with early AD, though, suggests a likely marketing authorization in the next years. Since the implementation of disease-modifying therapies for AD in the clinical practice will evidently require a huge change of dementia care in all countries, a group of prominent AD clinical experts in Italy met to discuss patients’ selection and management strategies. The current diagnostic–therapeutic standard of care in Italy was taken as the starting point. The prescription of new therapies cannot ignore the definition of a biological diagnosis through the assessment of both amyloid- and tau-related biomarkers. The high risk/benefit ratio of anti-Aβ immunotherapies, moreover, needs a highly specialized diagnostic work-up and a thorough exclusion criteria assessment, which should be provided by a neurology specialist. The Expert Panel also suggests a reorganization of the Centers for dementia and cognitive decline in Italy into 3 levels of increasing complexity: community center, first- and second-level center. Tasks and requirements for each level were defined. Finally, specific characteristics of a center deputed to prescribe anti-Aβ mAbs were discussed.
Regional and seasonal variability in human thermal stress in Poland
Authors: Tomczyk Arkadiusz M. , Bednorz Ewa
Published: March 2023

The study objective was to determine the spatial and temporal variability of Poland’s bioclimatic conditions and to designate heat-stress regions with the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) application. The study was based on daily data from the multiannual period 1966–2021 obtained for 37 stations in Poland, provided from the resources of the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management–National Research Institute (IMGW-PIB). The aforementioned data provided the basis for the calculation of the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI). The study revealed high variability of bioclimatic conditions in Poland, both in temporal and spatial terms. Bioclimatic regions characterised by the different occurrence of heat stress were distinguished and characterised. Regions in the south-west and west of Poland proved the most favourable in bioclimatic terms, with the highest number of days with no thermal stress. In these regions, the highest UTCI values were observed, while the lowest were recorded in the northeast of Poland and at the east coast of the Baltic Sea. Among unfavourable biometeorological conditions, the ones causing hypothermia have so far occurred more frequently than the ones causing overheating of the human organism. However, UTCI has increased during the study period; therefore, under proceeding global warming, an increase in the frequency of occurrence of heat stress can be expected. So far, the most intensive increase in UTCI values in Poland was recorded in spring and the weakest in winter.
Time-Averaged Analysis and Numerical Modelling of the Behavior of the Multiphase Flow and Liquid Lamella Thickness Inside an Internal-Mixing ACLR Nozzle
Authors: Ballesteros Martínez Miguel Ángel , Gaukel Volker
Published: March 2023

The Air-Core-Liquid-Ring (ACLR) atomizer is an innovative internal-mixing pneumatic atomization technique, suitable for energy-efficient spray drying of highly viscous liquid feeds, with high solid contents. However, pneumatic atomizers such as the ACLR can suffer from unstable internal flow conditions, which may lead to a wide variation in the droplet diameter obtained. Therefore, the internal flow conditions of an ACLR-atomizer needs to be properly studied and comprehended. With that in mind, a computational fluid dynamic (CFD) model was implemented and tested with experimental data collected for different air pressures and liquid feed viscosities. The model used can predict average lamella thickness with a relative error of less than 10%, when compared to experimental results, although some degree of artificial dampening of the flow instabilities occurs at high viscosities and low pressures. These instabilities have to be investigated in more detail from both the numerical side, by further refining the CFD model to capture the moment-to-moment behavior of the flow, as well as on the experimental side, by studying the instability development at higher recording speeds.
Evaluation of combination treatment with DS-1205c, an AXL kinase inhibitor, and osimertinib in metastatic or unresectable EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer: results from a multicenter, open-label phase 1 study
Authors: Yang James Chih-Hsin , Su Wu-Chou , Chiu Chao-Hua , Shiah Her-Shyong , Lee Kang-Yun , Hsia Te-Chun , Uno Makiko , Crawford Nigel , Terakawa Hiroshi , Chen Wen-Chi , Takayama Gensuke , Hsu Ching , Hong Ying , Saintilien Carline , McGill Joseph , Chang Gee-Chen
Published: March 2023

The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and tolerability of DS-1205c, an oral AXL-receptor inhibitor, in combination with osimertinib in metastatic or unresectable EFGR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients who developed disease progression during EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) treatment. An open-label, non-randomized phase 1 study was conducted in Taiwan, in which 13 patients received DS-1205c monotherapy at a dosage of 200, 400, 800, or 1200 mg twice daily for 7 days, followed by combination treatment with DS-1205c (same doses) plus osimertinib 80 mg once daily in 21-day cycles. Treatment continued until disease progression or other discontinuation criteria were met. At least one treatment-emergent adverse event (TEAE) was reported in all 13 patients treated with DS-1205c plus osimertinib; with ≥ 1 grade 3 TEAE in 6 patients (one of whom also had a grade 4 increased lipase level), and 6 patients having ≥ 1 serious TEAE. Eight patients experienced ≥ 1 treatment-related AE (TRAE). The most common (2 cases each) were anemia, diarrhea, fatigue, increased AST, increased ALT, increased blood creatinine phosphokinase, and increased lipase. All TRAEs were non-serious, with the exception of an overdose of osimertinib in 1 patient. No deaths were reported. Two-thirds of patients achieved stable disease (one-third for > 100 days), but none achieved a complete or partial response. No association between AXL positivity in tumor tissue and clinical efficacy was observed. DS-1205c was well-tolerated with no new safety signals in patients with advanced EGFR-mutant NSCLC when administered in combination with the EFGR TKI osimertinib. ClinicalTrials.gov; NCT03255083.
Efficiency of large-scale aided phytostabilization in a mining pond
Authors: Shahrokh Vajihe , Martínez-Martínez Silvia , Faz Ángel , Zornoza Raúl , Acosta Jose A.
Published: March 2023

Mining activities accumulate large quantities of waste in tailing ponds, which results in several environmental impacts. In Cartagena–La Unión mining district (SE Spain), a field experiment was carried out in a tailing pond to evaluate the effect of aided phytostabilization on reducing the bioavailability of zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), copper (Cu) and cadmium (Cd) and enhancing soil quality. Nine native plant species were planted, and pig manure and slurry along with marble waste were used as amendments. After 3 years, the vegetation developed heterogeneously on the pond surface. In order to evaluate the factors affecting this inequality, four areas with different VC and an area without treatment (control area) were sampled. Soil physicochemical properties, total, bioavailable and soluble metals, and metal sequential extraction were determined. Results revealed that pH, organic carbon, calcium carbonate equivalent and total nitrogen increased after the aided phytostabilization, while electrical conductivity, total sulfur and bioavailable metals significantly decreased. In addition, results indicated that differences in VC among sampled areas were mainly owing to differences in pH, EC and concentration of soluble metals, which in turn were modified by the effect of non-restored areas on close restored areas after heavy rains due to a lower elevation of the restored areas compared to the unrestored ones. Therefore, to achieve the most favorable and sustainable long-term results of aided phytostabilization, along with plant species and amendments, micro-topography should be also taken into consideration, which causes different soil characteristics and thus different plant growth and survival.
Climate Change and Anti-Meaning
Authors: Di Paola Marcello , Nyholm Sven
Published: March 2023

In this paper, we propose meaningfulness as one important evaluative criterion in individual climate ethics and suggest that most of our greenhouse gas emitting actions, behaviours, and lives are the opposite of meaningful: anti-meaningful. We explain why such actions etc. score negatively on three important dimensions of the meaningfulness scale, which we call the agential, narrative, and generative dimensions. We suggest that thinking about individual climate ethics also in terms of (anti-) meaningfulness illuminates important aspects of our troubled ethical involvement with CC and can make a fresh and fruitful contribution to existing discussions, which tend to focus on moral responsibility and obligations.
Ownership, governance, and internationalization in family firms: a replication and extension
Authors: Debellis Francesco , Pinelli Michele , Hülsbeck Marcel , Heider Anne
Published: March 2023

In one of the most influential studies on family firm internationalization, Sciascia et al. (2012) advance a curvilinear relationship between family ownership and firm internationalization. We replicate their study adopting a three-step approach. First, we use the same measures on a different sample to test the generalizability of their findings. Second, we change the independent variable and hypothesize a negative relationship between family involvement in the board of directors and firm internationalization. Third, we introduce and measure the moderating role of firm age and firm size in this relationship. Our study advances the family firm internationalization literature both theoretically and methodologically. Theoretically, we show that it is not so much family ownership per se, but the influence the family obtains through board directorship that affects the family firm internationalization strategy. In addition, we show that this effect is moderated by firm age and size. Methodologically, our study is an important step forward toward increasingly transparent and replicable family business research.
Design optimization of multi-functional multi-lobe cryogenic fuel tank structures for hypersonic vehicles
Authors: Rodríguez-Segade Miguel , Steelant Johan , Hernáández Santiago , Díaz Jacobo
Published: March 2023

Hypersonic hydrogen-powered cruise vehicles offer promise for economical and reliable high-speed atmospheric transport. In recent years, several vehicle concepts have been developed in which the integration of fuel tanks is a major challenge, as they feature complex aerodynamic designs. In this work, we explore the viability of multi-lobe hydrogen tanks as a solution to obtain lightweight and volume-efficient structures. To do so, a parametric finite-element model was developed to fit multi-lobe geometries inside hypersonic vehicles. The parametric model was then incorporated into an optimization that minimizes the mass and maximizes the fuel capacity of the tank. The methodology is organized in two steps: the global search is driven by a two-level optimization consisting of a genetic algorithm with a nested gradient-based method; and a local search where each design is further improved to obtain a Pareto front. As presented in the results, this is a promising approach for designing multi-lobe tanks for complex geometries.
Determining the effect of mineral scaling formation under different injection water sources on the performance of Mishrif carbonate reservoir in Halfaya oilfield, Southern Iraq
Authors: Ghalib Hussein B. , Al-Hawash Adnan B. , Muttashar Wisam R. , Bozdag Ayla , Al-Saady Asaad A.
Published: March 2023

The chief source of the oilfield scale is the mixing of incompatible waters. This study demonstrated that mixing the reservoir of Mishrif formation (Halfaya oilfield) with six types of injection water sources, including Tigris River water, producing water formation, Gulf seawater, Marshes water, Middle Kirkuk formation water, and Main Outfall Drain water (AL-Masab AL-Aam Channel), leads to the formation of salt crusts that cause the reduction of reservoir rock permeability. According to the Piper diagram, the Mishrif formation water of all extant water samples was of the sodium chloride type (NaCl), except for HF-81, which was between (NaCl) and mix (CaMgCl) type. A geochemical simulation model of water alignment (PHREEQC) was used to simulate this problem, and it revealed the mineral scaling from mixing processes. These minerals precipitate in rock pores and clog them, which then cause damage to the petrophysical properties of the reservoir and prevent the passage of liquids. Results showed that the best water types used for injection are Middle Kirkuk formation water, followed by the general downstream, then Gulf seawater, but treatment before injection is needed. The study of geochemical modeling method can help to better understand scaling issues by efficiently identifying the best injection water from various selected types with the lowest possible cost, which in turn improves oil production.
System integration based on packing, piping and harness routing automation using graph-based design languages
Authors: Dinkelacker J. , Kaiser D. , Panzeri M. , Parmentier P. , Neumaier M. , Tonhäuser C. , Rudolph S.
Published: March 2023

The implementation of a fully instrumented, automated and simulation-enabled engineering software platform capable of automating the currently still manual model-based systems engineering (MBSE) design process for physical systems architecture generation and optimization in an aircraft wing is presented. The software platform uses graph-based design languages to integrate and entirely automate the mainly manual packing, piping and harness routing design. This design automation and optimization is achieved by a novel software stack of an optimization software coupled with a design compiler. It is shown that through rule-based model generation by a design compiler in the form of a design graph as a central data model, a cross-domain data consistency is achieved. This allows for automated execution and coupling of engineering tasks over several different domains such as packing, piping and routing design to converge to an optimized wing physical architecture design variant in agreement with given predetermined design constraints.
Foliar Spray of Stigmasterol Regulates Physiological Processes and Antioxidant Mechanisms to Improve Yield and Quality of Sunflower Under Drought Stress
Authors: Hanafy Rania Samy , Sadak Mervat Shamoon
Published: March 2023

Drought stress is an unavoidable challenge limiting plant production and quality. Stigmasterol is a potential compound for plant protection and improvement productivity under drought. Thus, the effects of using stigmasterol as exogenous treatment on improving growth and productivity of sunflower grown under drought were studied. A pot experiment was carried out at two summer seasons, using foliar treatment of stigmasterol 0, 100, 200, and 300 mg L−1 on sunflower plants under different irrigation levels 80% and 50% water irrigation requirement (WIR). Drought stress (50% WIR) provoked significant reductions in growth and yield components; the percentages of decrease in head diameter reached 26.55%, head circumference 26.05%, seed weight per plant 36.26%, and 100 seed weight 29.61%, via decreasing photosynthetic pigments and indole acetic acid while elevating hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), lipid peroxidation (MDA), membrane leakage, lipoxygenase activity, some antioxidant compounds, enzymes, and osmolytes. Stigmasterol has a promotive effect on growth and productivity of sunflower through improving photosynthetic pigments, indole acetic acid, non-enzymatic, enzymatic antioxidant, and osmolytes, while it decreased membrane leakage, H2O2, and MDA, thus, improving yield quality. Moreover, stigmasterol improves the economic importance of sunflower seed oil. About 200 mg L−1 of stigmasterol was the most effective concentration in improving yield parameters, as it causes 19.84% and 25.29% in seed weight per plant and 26.72% and 33.95% of 100 seed weight under 80% and 50% WIR, respectively. Stigmasterol improved growth and productivity of sunflower under normal water conditions and could overcome the reduced impact of drought by improving growth and development and different physiological attributes.
Kant's Late Philosophy of Nature
Authors: Howard Stephen
Published: March 2023

Kant's final drafts, known as his Opus postumum, attempt to make what he calls a 'transition from the metaphysical foundations of natural science to physics.' Interpreters broadly agree that in this project Kant seeks to connect the general a priori principles of natural science, as set out in the major critical works, to the specific results of empirical physics. Beyond this, however, basic interpretative issues remain controversial. This Element outlines a framework that aims to combine the systematic ambition of early twentieth-century readings with the rigor of more recent studies. The author argues that a question that has animated much recent scholarship – which 'gap' in Kant's previous philosophy does the Opus postumum seek to fill? – can be profitably set aside. In its place, renewed attention should be given to a crucial part of the manuscript, fascicles X/XI, and to the problematic 'arrival point' of the transition, namely, Kant's question: What is physics?
How do we ensure safety and effectiveness of bioelectronic devices and judge when they are truly necessary for the rehabilitation of neurological conditions?
Authors: Chakrabarty Samit , Shivdasani Mohit , Yin Heyu
Published: March 2023

Bioelectronics have been gaining popularity in recent years due to their potential use in the field of neurorehabilitation. The aim is to use these technologies to help individuals recover from various neurological conditions such as stroke, spinal cord injury, and traumatic brain injury. The basic principle behind bioelectronics is to use electrical/optical stimulation to activate neurons in the brain and promote functional recovery. One example of bioelectronics use in neurorehabilitation is through the development of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). BCIs are computer systems that use electrodes to detect and interpret electrical signals generated by the brain. These signals can then be used to control external devices such as robotic limbs, exoskeletons, and computer interfaces. The hope is that BCIs will help individuals with paralysis or other conditions regain movement and control over their limbs.
Variability in Newborn Screening Across Canada: Spinal Muscular Atrophy and Beyond
Authors: Groulx-Boivin Emilie , Osman Homira , Chakraborty Pranesh , Lintern Stacey , Oskoui Maryam , Selby Kathryn , Van Caeseele Paul , Wyatt Alexandra , McMillan Hugh J.
Published: March 2023

Background:

Newborn screening (NBS) identifies infants with severe, early-onset diseases, enabling early diagnosis and treatment. In Canada, decisions regarding disease inclusion in NBS programs occur at the provincial level, which leads to variability in patient care. We aimed to determine whether important differences exist in NBS programs across provinces and territories. Given that spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is the most recent disease added to NBS programs, we hypothesized that its inclusion would show interprovincial variability and be more likely in provinces already screening for a greater number of diseases.

Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional survey of all NBS labs in Canada to understand: 1) what conditions were included in their program; 2) what genetic-based testing was performed and; 3) if SMA was included.

Results:

All NBS programs (N = 8) responded to this survey by June 2022. There was a 2.5-fold difference in the number of conditions screened (N = 14 vs N = 36) and a 9-fold difference in the number of conditions screened by gene-based testing. Only nine conditions were common to all provincial NBS programs. NBS for SMA was performed in four provinces at the time of our survey, with BC recently becoming the fifth province to add SMA to their NBS on October 1, 2022. Currently, 72% of Canadian newborns are screened for SMA at birth.

Conclusion:

Although healthcare in Canada is universal, its decentralization gives rise to regional differences in NBS programs which creates inequity in the treatment, care, and potential outcomes of affected children across provincial jurisdictions.
Engulfment of a drop on solids coated by thin and thick fluid films
Authors: Zhao Chunheng , Kern Vanessa R. , Carlson Andreas , Lee Taehun
Published: March 2023

When an aqueous drop contacts an immiscible oil film, it displays complex interfacial dynamics. When the spreading factor is positive, upon contact, the oil spreads onto the drop's liquid–air interface, first forming a liquid bridge whose curvature drives an apparent drop spreading motion and later engulfs the drop. We study this flow using both three-phase lattice Boltzmann simulations based on the conservative phase field model, and experiments. Inertially and viscously limited dynamics are explored using the Ohnesorge number

$Oh$

and the ratio between the film height

$H$

and the initial drop radius

$R$

. Both regimes show that the radial growth of the liquid bridge

$r$

is fairly insensitive to the film height

$H$

, and scales with time

$T$

as

$r\sim T^{1/2}$

for

$Oh\ll 1$

, and as

$r\sim T^{2/5}$

for

$Oh\gg 1$

. For

$Oh\gg 1$

, we show experimentally that this immiscible liquid bridge growth is analogous with the miscible drop–film coalescence case. Contrary to the growth of the liquid bridge, however, we find that the late-time engulfment dynamics and final interface profiles are significantly affected by the ratio

$H/R$

.
Adopting a Global AMR Target within the Pandemic Instrument Will Act as a Catalyst for Action
Authors: Van Katwyk Susan Rogers , Wilson Lindsay , Weldon Isaac , Hoffman Steven J. , Poirier Mathieu J.P.
Published: March 2023

Ensuring that life-saving antimicrobials remain available as effective treatment options in the face of rapidly rising levels of antimicrobial resistance will require a massive and coordinated global effort. Setting a collective direction for progress is the first step towards aligning global efforts on AMR. This process would be greatly accelerated by adopting a unifying global target — a well-defined global target that unites all countries and sectors. The proposed pandemic instrument — with its focus on prevention, preparedness and response — represents an ideal opportunity to develop and adopt a unifying global target that catalyzes global action on AMR. We propose three key characteristics of a unifying global target for AMR that — if embedded within the pandemic preparedness instrument — could rally public support, funding, and political commitment commensurate with the scale of the AMR challenge.
Equitable Access to Antibiotics: A Core Element and Shared Global Responsibility for Pandemic Preparedness and Response
Authors: Ren Mengying , So Anthony D. , Chandy Sujith J. , Mpundu Mirfin , Peralta Arturo Quizhpe , Åkerfeldt Kerstin , Sjöblom Anna Karin , Cars Otto
Published: March 2023

Securing equitable antibiotic access as an essential component for health system resilience and pandemic preparedness requires a systems perspective. This article discusses key components that need to be coordinated and paired with adequate financing and resources to ensure antibiotic effectiveness as a global public good, which should be central while discussing a new global agreement.
An Awkward Fit: Antimicrobial Resistance and the Evolution of International Health Politics (1945-2022)
Authors: Kirchhelle Claas , Podolsky Scott H.
Published: March 2023

Despite being acknowledged as a major global health challenge, growing levels of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in pathogenic and commensal organisms have proven an awkward fit for international health frameworks. This article surveys the history of attempts to coordinate international responses to AMR alongside the origins and evolution of the current international health regulations (IHR). It argues that AMR, which encompasses a vast range of microbial properties and ecological reservoirs, is an awkward fit for the ‘organismal’ philosophies that centre on the rapid control of individual pathogens that have characterised international policy-making since the 19th century.