bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of air toxicity in the megalopolis of Krasnoyarsk using long-term monitoring of suburban pine forests
Authors: Polyakova Galina G. , Senashova Vera A. , Podolyak Natalia M. , Kolovskaya Alla V. , Kudryasheva Nadezhda S.
Published: August 2022

The present study develops the application of suburban forests as bioindicators, with the industrial metropolis of Krasnoyarsk (Central Siberia, Russia) taken as an example. Huge forests, such as those found in large Siberian territories, are climate-forming for the entire planet. Hence, their conservation is essential at both the local and global scales. During the period 2002–2021, the vigor state of two pine forests was evaluated using several inventory and morphological parameters: needle damage, deterioration in tree condition, increased entropy, and tree mortality. Additionally, an original bioindication parameter was applied: episodic increase in the size of needles was analyzed. We hypothesized that this increase in needle size was related to the activation of tree protection at the initial stage of tree damage; the mechanism assumes a redirection of sugar transport into the crown to aid tree regeneration. All parameters were measured annually on six permanent sample plots; each plot included 200–300 numbered trees of similar age (approximately 60–80 years). The long-term parameter changes were analyzed and attributed to chronic exposure to industrial air pollution. Significant changes in pine-forest parameters observed over the past few years (2019–2021) may indicate an approaching stage of irreversible toxic damage that is the destruction of the entire forest system. The results encourage involving forest-based bioindication in the regional system of ecological monitoring. Forest-based bioindication can be used as a tool for evaluating the efficiency of long-term governmental activity on air quality in industrial metropolises. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2023;19:980–987. © 2022 SETAC
Structural VAR and financial networks: A minimum distance approach to spatial modeling
Authors: Scidá Daniela
Published: August 2022

In this paper, I interpret a time series spatial model (T‐SAR) as a constrained structural vector autoregressive (SVAR) model. Based on these restrictions, I propose a minimum distance approach to estimate the (row‐standardized) network matrix and the overall network influence parameter of the T‐SAR from the SVAR estimates. I also develop a Wald‐type test to assess the distance between these two models. To implement the methodology, I discuss machine learning methods as one possible identification strategy of SVAR models. Finally, I illustrate the methodology through an application to volatility spillovers across major stock markets using daily realized volatility data for 2004–2018.
Application value of contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography in the treatment of uterine fibroids by high‐intensity focused ultrasound ablation: A retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Miao , Yin Chengkun , Jiang Jing , Chen Yan , Wang Juan , Wang Qi , Zeng Yuhua , Zhou Honggui
Published: August 2022

Purpose

To determine efficacy and safety of contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) in high‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) ablation of uterine fibroids (UFs).

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed women undergoing HIFU ablation for UFs between June 2018 and January 2020. Before and after HIFU, patients underwent CEUS and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations. The relationship between CEUS features and ablation rate was analyzed. The time–intensity curves on CEUS were measured before and after HIFU ablation, and compared with those obtained using MRI. Adverse reactions were recorded.

Results

A total of 64 patients were included. The immediate HIFU ablation rate significantly differed between low‐, iso‐, and high‐enhancement UFs (87.2% ± 1.6%, 83.3% ± 2.1%, and 72.9% ± 3.1%, respectively; p < 0.05). On CEUS, the peak time of the time–intensity curve was significantly longer after treatment than before treatment (32.2 ± 9.7 and 26.7 ± 9.4 s, respectively; p < 0.05). Peak intensity was significantly lower after treatment than before treatment (13.7 ± 7.5 and 30.9 ± 11.2 dB, respectively; p < 0.05). All measurements were comparable between CEUS and MRI. The most common peri‐ and post‐procedure adverse reaction was pain, which was temporary.

Conclusion

CEUS could dynamically and safely evaluate the immediate effects of the HIFU ablation of UFs.
Humoral and cellular immune response in patients with hematological disorders after two doses of BNT162b2 mRNA COVID‐19 vaccine: A single‐center prospective observational study (NCT05074706)
Authors: Bossi Elisa , Aroldi Andrea , Borin Lorenza Maria , Verga Luisa , Fontana Diletta , Cocito Federica , Manghisi Beatrice , Rindone Giovanni , Cavalca Fabrizio , Ripamonti Alessia , Raggi Monica , Malandrin Sergio Maria Ivano , Cavallero Annalisa , Antolini Laura , Bonardi Diego , Piazza Rocco Giovanni , Gambacorti‐Passerini Carlo
Published: August 2022

Hematological patients at higher risk of severe COVID‐19 were excluded from the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) vaccine trials. In this single‐center observational prospective study (NCT05074706), we evaluate immune response in the hematological patients followed at the Hematological Division of San Gerardo Hospital, Monza (Italy) deemed to be severely immunosuppressed after vaccination with two doses of the BNT162b2 vaccine. Anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 immunoglobulin G titers above the cutoff value of 33.8 BAU/ml were detected in 303 (80.2%) out of the 378 patients enrolled. Patients with lymphoproliferative disorders had a significant lower probability of immunization (43.2% vs. 88.4%, p < 0.001). Patients treated with anti‐CD20 showed a significantly lower probability of immunization compared to all other treatments (21.4%, p < 0.0001). Among 69 patients who failed seroconversion, 15 patients (22.7%) showed a positive T‐cell response. Patients previously treated with anti‐CD20 were 2.4 times more likely to test positive for T‐cell responses (p = 0.014). Within a follow‐up of 9 months from the second COVID‐19 vaccination, symptomatic SARS‐CoV‐2 infections were reported by 20 patients (5.3%) and four of them required hospitalization. Successful serological or T‐cell‐mediated immunization conferred protection from symptomatic COVID‐19. Patients treated with anti‐CD20 who were not seroconverted after vaccination might still be protected from COVID‐19 due to the T‐cell immune response.
Emancipatory technology and developing‐world supply chains: A case study of African women gemstone miners
Authors: George Jordana , Whitten Dwayne , Metters Richard , Abbey James
Published: August 2022

Artisanal and small‐scale mining (ASM) make up roughly 90% of the colored gemstone trade, a still untamed industry where money laundering, cartels, arms purchases, and crime run rampant while many miners prospect and dream of finding “the big one.” Women make up to 30% to 50% of ASM, often in developing regions. Struggling to make a living and support their families, women miners are subject to discrimination, unfair labor practices, and poor access to rich foreign markets. Grounded in a longitudinal case study in Africa, this qualitative research examines the journey of an organization seeking to emancipate women miners through supply chains that embrace technology, provenance, and disintermediation. This research demonstrates the strategic value of emancipatory technologies for firms. Secondly, we find evidence that combinations of storytelling and digital records create multidimensional provenance that mitigates a number of supply chain risks, particularly in tainted chains. Lastly, this research extends Tang's framework for engaging marginalized populations as suppliers and producers.
Interactions involved in heat‐induced gelatin gel containing hsian‐tsao gum, and mechanisms to improve its properties
Authors: You Gang , Niu Gaigai , Zhou Xinyi , Fan Heliang , Liu Xiaoling
Published: August 2022

Background

Hsian‐tsao gum (HG) has unique gel‐promoting and nutritional properties; however, its use in processed foods is limited to starchy foods, partially due to a lack of knowledge related to its interaction with proteins. This study elucidated the interaction mechanism of heat‐induced gelatin (G) (50 g kg−1) gel fortified with HG (0 ~ 20 g kg−1) using rheology, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), large deformation tests, low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF‐NMR), and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Results

Heating promoted synergistic interactions between G and more HG molecules with enhanced apparent viscosity and higher storage modulus G′ than loss modulus G″, thus shortening the gel time (tg) of G‐HG sols into gels. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy and DSC also confirmed the chemical interactions that occurred, facilitating the formation of β‐sheet structures of G. The microstructure of G gradually formed separate, coarse strands, and aggregated as HG was added, as observed by CLSM and SEM. This accelerated the gel formation rate and changed the textural properties. Although HG caused a disruptive decrease in the helix structure of G, it was possible to compensate for this by accelerating synergistic interactions, including depletion attractions and Maillard reactions, by heating.

Conclusion

Hsian‐tsao gum interacted synergistically with G as a result of heating and this accelerated the gel formation rate and improved the gel properties. Novel complex gels could be designed by blending HG to improve the gel properties of G in the heat processing of the food gel formulation. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Effects of Primary Structure of Reactive Polymers on Network Structure and Mechanical Properties of Gels
Authors: Furuya Tsutomu , Koga Tsuyoshi
Published: August 2022

The effects of the primary structure of multifunctional reactive polymers on the network structure and the mechanical properties of gels formed by crosslinking the reactive polymers with crosslinkers are studied by a coarse‐grained molecular dynamics simulation. When functional groups are randomly arranged on the polymers, the network structure, such as the number densities of elastically effective chains and entanglements, and the mechanical properties depend on the number average molecular weight of the polymers; however, these properties are almost independent of the molecular weight distribution and the functional group number distribution of the polymers. The control of the arrangement of functional groups on the polymers improves the uniformity and the mechanical properties. By changing the arrangement from a random one to a periodic one, the number of elastically effective chains and the shear modulus increase, and the occurrence of entanglement is suppressed. The detailed analysis of the network structure reveals that the improvement of the mechanical properties is mainly due to the reduction of intramolecular crosslinking.
An affine Birkhoff–Kellogg‐type result in cones with applications to functional differential equations
Authors: Calamai Alessandro , Infante Gennaro
Published: August 2022

In this short note, we prove, by means of classical fixed point index, an affine version of a Birkhoff–Kellogg‐type theorem in cones. We apply our result to discuss the solvability of a class of boundary value problems for functional differential equations subject to functional boundary conditions. We illustrate our theoretical results in an example.
A variety of new soliton structures and various dynamical behaviors of a discrete electrical lattice with nonlinear dispersion via variety of analytical architectures
Authors: El‐Ganaini Shoukry , Kumar Hitender
Published: August 2022

Nonlinear electrical lattices are powerful experimental tool for studying nonlinear dispersive media and creating opportunities for the realistic modeling of electrical solitons. In this work, we adopt the generalized auxiliary equation methods, the first integral method, and the Möbius transformation approach to extract a variety of traveling and solitary wave solutions of the nonlinear Salerno equation describing the nonlinear discrete electrical lattice with nonlinear dispersion. The kink, antikink, dark, bright, peakons, antipeakons, and periodic wave solutions are all derived. The existence criteria of solitons are described. It has been shown that for the selective values of arbitrary constants in an auxiliary equation, the generalized auxiliary equation method II is reduced to the new
‐model expansion method as well as the new extended auxiliary equation method. The impact of free parameters on the obtained solutions is investigated and graphically depicted using physical descriptions. The acquired results are important for the validity of numerical and experimental results and further understanding of the wave propagation in the nonlinear discrete electrical lattice. In addition, the stability analysis of the obtained solitary wave solutions is studied. Furthermore, using the maple software, all derived solutions were checked by re‐entering them into the considered equation.
Polyvinylidene fluoride‐poly(vinyl acetate)‐natural graphite blend nanocomposites: Investigations of electroactive phase formation, electrical, thermal, and wetting properties
Authors: Haridas Menon Niranjan , Sabu Aleena , B. T. S. Ramanujam
Published: August 2022

Solution blended polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)‐20 wt% poly(vinyl acetate) (PVAc)‐natural graphite (NtGr) blend nanocomposites exhibit a very low electrical percolation threshold of less than 0.5 wt% NtGr due to the formation of graphite nanosheets. The electroactive gamma phase induced with and without NtGr in PVDF‐20 wt% PVAc blend film is confirmed by X‐ray diffraction, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry analyzes. The onset degradation temperature corresponding to PVDF in PVDF‐20 wt% PVAc blend nanocomposites is increased by 27°C when 1 wt% NtGr is incorporated into the blend, suggesting enhanced thermal stability of blend nanocomposites. Due to an increase in surface roughness of PVDF‐20 wt% PVAc‐3 wt% NtGr as evidence by field emission scanning electron microscopy analysis, the water contact angle increases to 141.6° from 83.44° for PVDF‐20 wt% PVAc blend. AC conductivity analysis suggests hopping conduction in PVDF‐20 wt% PVAc‐x wt% NtGr (x = 1, 3, 5) blend nanocomposites. The interjunction capacitance increases with graphite loading in the blend.
Crystallinity and chain stem length dependence of yield kinetics in polyethylene
Authors: Furmanski Jevan , Govaert Leon , Schaefer Jonathan , Throckmorton Joseph A. , van Dommelen Johannes A. W.
Published: August 2022

Researchers have long sought to predict the mechanical behavior of polyethylene from its microstructure. In particular, the yield strength and yield kinetics have been reported to be dependent on crystallinity and crystal thickness, but the relative importance of these two microstructural attributes has not been shown. In the present work, a series of microstructures was obtained through a combination of controlled quench rates from the melt and inclusion of various amounts of hexene comonomer. The yield strength for a wide range of strain‐rates was linearly dependent on the crystallinity, and independent of crystal thickness (chain stem length), both measured by Raman spectroscopy. Similarly, yield kinetics described by a Ree‐Eyring two‐process stress activated model showed linear dependence on crystallinity and no dependence on crystal thickness. The results of the present work call into question models of yield kinetics dependent on screw dislocation nucleation, which depend on crystal thickness.
Differential effects of omega‐3 PUFAS on tumor progression at early and advanced stages in TRAMP mice
Authors: Amaro Gustavo M. , da Silva Alana D. T. , Tamarindo Guilherme H. , Lamas Celina de A. , Taboga Sebastião R. , Cagnon Valéria Helena Alves , Góes Rejane M.
Published: August 2022

Background

In vitro studies evidenced antitumor effects of omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids ([n−3] PUFAs), but their effects on prostate cancer (PCa) remain controversial in epidemiological studies. Here we investigated whether an (n−3) PUFA‐enriched diet affects tumor progression in transgenic adenocarcinoma of the mouse prostate (TRAMP), at early (12 weeks age) and advanced stages (20 weeks age).

Methods

TRAMP mice were fed with standard rodent diet (C12, C20) or (n−3) PUFA‐enriched diet containing 10% fish oil (T12, T20). A group of 8 weeks age animals fed standard diet was also used for comparison (C8). The ventral prostate was processed for histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses and serum samples submitted to biochemical assays.

Results

At early stages, (n−3) PUFA increased the frequency of normal epithelium (3.8‐fold) and decreased the frequency of high‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia (3.3‐fold) and in situ carcinoma (1.9‐fold) in the gland, maintaining prostate pathological status similar to C8 group. At advanced stages, 50% of the animals developed a large primary tumor in both C20 and T20, and tumor weight did not differ (C20: 2.2 ± 2.4; T20: 2.8 ± 2.9 g). The ventral prostate of T12 and of T20 animals that did not develop primary tumors showed lower cell proliferation, tissue expressions of androgen (AR) and glucocorticoid (GR) receptors, than their respective controls. For these animals, (n−3) PUFA also avoided an increase in the number of T‐lymphocytes, collagen fibers, and αSMA immunoreactivity, and preserved stromal gland microenvironment. (n−3) PUFA also lowered serum triglycerides and cholesterol, regulating the lipid metabolism of TRAMP mice.

Conclusions

(n−3) PUFAs had a protective effect at early stages of PCa, delaying tumor progression in TRAMP mice, in parallel with reductions in cell proliferation, AR, and GR and maintenance of the stromal compartment of the gland. However, (n−3) PUFAs did not prevent the development of primary tumors for the T20 group, reinforcing the need for further investigation at advanced stages of disease.
Effect of oil‐based emulsion on air bubbles in the spray sheet produced through the air‐induction nozzle
Authors: Gong Chen , Li Dongyang , Kang Can
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

The air‐induction spray featured by air bubbles involved in the spray sheet has attracted great attention in applications of agricultural spray due to its advantages of alleviating spray drift and promoting deposition. The objective of the presented study is to deepen the understanding of the mechanism of the air‐induction spray through elucidating the effect of sprayed liquid on characteristics of air bubbles in the spray sheet.

RESULTS

The air bubbles with relatively large sizes are stable for a long time span. As velocity of the water spray increases from 6.85 m s−1 to 17.87 m s−1, average size of the air bubbles decreases from 383.21 μm to 236.47 μm. With the introduction of organosilicone surfactant, the surface tension of the sprayed liquid decreases from 67.38 mN m−1 to 31.32 mN m−1; accordingly, average size of the bubbles decreases from 383.21 μm to 160.9 μm. Compared to aqueous solutions spray, the oil‐based emulsion spray is responsible for relatively small average size of air bubbles as the surface tension and spray velocity are respectively similar.

CONCLUSION

Low drainage rate of the bubble lamella contributes to high stability of large air bubbles. The decrease of the average size of air bubbles is responsible for small volumetric median diameter of oil‐based emulsion spray compared with water spray. Besides the increase of the spray velocity and the decrease of the surface tension, the Marangoni effect caused by dynamics of oil droplets at air–liquid interface also contributes to the decrease of average size of air bubbles. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Top ten public health challenges to track in 2022
Authors: Lucero‐Prisno Don Eliseo III , Kouwenhoven M. B. N. , Adebisi Yusuff Adebayo , Miranda Adriana Viola , Gyeltshen Dawa , Suleman Mohamed Hoosen , Chiumia Isabel Kazanga , Lowe Mat , Dorji Thinley , Huang Junjie , Gacutno‐Evardone Angelica Joyce , Lin Xu , Dzhusupov Kenesh , Abordo Gacutno Kristine Joy , Budhathoki Shyam Sundar , Jensen Olaf , Amnatsatsue Kwanjai , Fessehaye Sium Abraham , Ikeda Takaaki , Wong Martin C. S.
Published: August 2022

We identify ten public health challenges that need to be closely tracked in 2022. These challenges are COVID‐19, inadequate human resources for health, poor health systems financing, conflict and humanitarian crises, mental health, poverty, climate change, the health of children, reproductive health issues, and the infodemic. These global priorities, based on opinion of experts and current evidence and literature, need immediate attention and scaled‐up actions. This list of priorities does not discount the existence of other major public health challenges. We forecast and highlight those that may impact global public health in 2022 in order to progress and to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Thus, we advocate for stronger international cooperation, solidarity, and sustainable funding to address these challenges, and improve health across and within populations globally.
Understanding the effect of spatial positioning of coated blade spray devices relative to the mass spectrometry inlet on different instrument platforms and its application to quantitative analysis of fentanyl and related analogs
Authors: Rickert Daniel , Gómez‐Ríos German Augusto , Singh Varoon , Pawliszyn Janusz
Published: August 2022

Rationale

We evaluated the effect that the spatial positioning of coated‐blade spray (CBS) devices with respect to the mass spectrometry (MS) inlet has when coupling to diverse MS platforms (i.e., triple quadrupole, linear ion trap and time of flight). Furthermore, as a proof of concept, we evaluated CBS‐MS as a tool for quantitation of fentanyl and four analogues on said instruments.

Methods

Custom‐made MS interfaces were made to accurately position the blade in front of the MS inlet. CBS devices, coated with hydrophilic–lipophilic balanced particles, were used for both the optimization of the CBS position and the quantitation of fentanyl and analogues in urine and plasma samples on all instruments.

Results

The SCIEX triple quadrupole instrument was the most sensitive to the position of the blade due to the presence of a curtain gas flowing laminarly out of the MS inlet. After optimization, the analytical capabilities of CBS on each instrument were assessed and the results obtained on both SCIEX and Waters platforms matched the performance obtained using a more advanced instrument by ThermoFisher Scientific. Furthermore, excellent figures of merit were attained for the quantitation of fentanyl and analogues on both triple quadrupole and linear ion trap platforms.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that optimization of MS parameters on different instrument vendors and front ends, such as the position of the CBS tip regarding the MS inlet, is vital to exploit the full quantitative potential of this technology. Application of the technology to screen and quantify fentanyl and analogues showed great potential when considering its coupling with portable mass spectrometers for therapeutic drug monitoring and point‐of‐care applications.
Thermo‐solutal Marangoni convective assisting/resisting flow of a nanofluid with radiative heat flux: A model with heat transfer optimization
Authors: Mackolil Joby , Basavarajappa Mahanthesh
Published: August 2022

The mixed Marangoni assisting/resisting flow of a nanofluid with thermal radiative heat flux is analyzed when thermal and solutal buoyant forces are significant. The heat and mass transfer rates are simultaneously optimized by utilizing the Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The face‐centered Central Composite Design (fc‐CCD) is used for the numerical experimental design involved in RSM. The sensitivities of the heat and mass transfer rates are evaluated to compare the impact of the thermal and solutal buoyant forces. Appropriate scaling and similarity transformations are utilized to simplify the problem and then numerical solutions are obtained. The nanoliquid flow, temperature, and concentration profiles are plotted for the buoyancy assisting and opposing Marangoni cases. The Marangoni flow with opposite buoyancy is found to have a greater magnitude of velocity while the flows assisted by the buoyancy have a greater magnitude of temperature and concentration profiles. Thermal buoyancy force has a predominant (0.6%) impact on both heat and mass transfer rates compared to solutal buoyancy force. Buoyancy forces are positively sensitive to heat and mass transfer rates. The thermal radiation aspect augments the temperature profile throughout the domain. The optimized mass and heat transfer rates ( and ) is achieved at the highest level of the buoyancy forces and ratio of Marangoni numbers.
Collaborative Research on Droplet Dynamics Under Extreme Ambient Conditions
Authors: Weigand Bernhard , Schulte Kathrin , Dreizler Andreas , Munz Claus-Dieter , Tropea Cameron
Published: August 2022

A fundamental understanding of droplet dynamics is important for the prediction and optimization of technical systems involving drops and sprays. The Collaborative Research Center (CRC) SFB-TRR 75 was established in January 2010 to focus on the dynamics of basic drop processes, and in particular on processes involving extreme ambient conditions, for example near thermodynamic critical conditions, at very low temperatures, under the influence of strong electric fields, or in situations involving extreme gradients of the boundary conditions. The goal of the CRC was to gain a profound physical understanding of the essential processes, which is the basis for new analytical and numerical descriptions as well as for improved predictive capabilities. This joint initiative involved scientists at the University of Stuttgart, the TU Darmstadt, the TU Berlin, and the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Lampoldshausen. This first chapter provides a brief overview of the overall structure of this CRC as well as a summary of some selected scientific achievements of the subprojects involved. For further details the reader is referred to the subsequent chapters of this book related to the individual subprojects.
Analysis and Numerics of Sharp and Diffuse Interface Models for Droplet Dynamics
Authors: Magiera Jim , Rohde Christian
Published: August 2022

The modelling of liquid–vapour flow with phase transition poses many challenges, both on the theoretical level, as well as on the level of discretisation methods. Therefore, accurate mathematical models and efficient numerical methods are required. In that, we focus on two modelling approaches: the sharp-interface (SI) approach and the diffuse-interface (DI) approach. For the SI-approach, representing the phase boundary as a co-dimension-1 manifold, we develop and validate analytical Riemann solvers for basic isothermal two-phase flow scenarios. This ansatz becomes cumbersome for increasingly complex thermodynamical settings. A more versatile multiscale interface solver, that is based on molecular dynamics simulations, is able to accurately describe the evolution of phase boundaries in the temperature-dependent case. It is shown to be even applicable to two-phase flow of multiple components. Despite the successful developments for the SI approach, these models fail if the interface undergoes topological changes. To understand merging and splitting phenomena for droplet ensembles, we consider DI models of second gradient type. For these Navier–Stokes–Korteweg systems, that can be seen as a third order extension of the Navier–Stokes equations, we propose variants that are more accessible to standard numerical schemes. More precisely, we reformulate the capillarity operator to restore the hyperbolicity of the Euler operator in the full system.
Introduction
Authors: Almassi Ben
Published: August 2022

This chapter introduces the concept of toxic masculinity—as a useful hermeneutical resource, an object of critical scrutiny, and a reminder of the need for alternative normative visions for what men and masculinity should be. It also identifies the major theoretical and methodological priorities guiding my approach throughout this book in evaluating existing visions for alternatives to toxic masculinity and making the case for allyship masculinity as one such alternative not only compatible with but grounded in feminist values and practices.
Allyship and Feminist Masculinity
Authors: Almassi Ben
Published: August 2022

Despite the issues raised about feminist reclamations of masculinity in the prior chapter, I believe bell hooks was right to emphasize the relevance of relationality, intentionality, and justice to an alternate vision of manhood. We can indeed make sense of normative feminist masculinity, such that men as men have distinctive, constructive contributions to make to feminist work. Much like feminist androgyny, feminist allyship masculinity seeks to upend masculinity as a received social category, while also diverging with feminist androgyny in emphasizing men’s specific yet non-essentialist contributions to feminist projects.
Towards a Research Agenda for Personal Data Spaces: Synthesis of a Community Driven Process
Authors: Van Damme Sander , Mechant Peter , Vlassenroot Eveline , Van Compernolle Mathias , Buyle Raf , Bauwens Dorien
Published: August 2022

Data are increasingly underpinning important actions and processes in both governmental and non-governmental environments. However, the consolidation of data in silo’s limits its ability to be reused while also restricting the control that people have over how their data is used. To mitigate these issues, decentralised storage and personal data store technologies have been put forward as an alternative. Such technologies have gained momentum in Flanders (Flanders is the northern part of Belgium) and became a key policy aspect and a driver for innovation. To support the adoption of these technologies, the Flemish government initiated ‘Solid Community’, a platform for academia, governments, citizens and industry to collaborate on the development of Solid, a technology specification for decentralised data storage. Through ten plenary sessions, the potential challenges that relate to the adoption of Solid were discussed within Solid Community. The reports of these sessions were analysed through qualitative content analysis, leading to the identification of four domains in which these challenges can be situated: social, technical, legal and network (ecosystem) challenges. This paper discusses these challenges and contributes to the development of an interdisciplinary research agenda to help shape the framework conditions for the further diffusion of socially robust, ethically justified and legally supported personal data space initiatives in Flanders.
Discussion
Authors: Marschlich Sarah
Published: August 2022

The interview study aimed to explore how corporate diplomacy is performed as an engagement strategy to gain organizational legitimacy. Overall, the interviews showed that corporate diplomacy in the UAE involves different actors, including the government, the employees, local citizens, and other companies. Across all different social groups, the interviews demonstrated that the MNCs intentionally engaged with particular actors either because they felt that it was necessary, or they sought to reach favorable conditions.
Indigenous Peoples and Higher Degrees by Research in Higher Education
Authors: Anderson Peter , Blue Levon , Pham Thu , Saward Melanie
Published: August 2022

This chapter provides an overview of the research conducted about the needs and experiences of Indigenous higher degree by research (HDR) students. We conducted multiple studies (six datasets in total) that included evaluation forms from capacity-building workshops, group discussions, written responses, online surveys to Indigenous HDR students (n = 114) and supervisors of Indigenous HDR students (n = 33) focusing on their needs and experiences and an evaluation survey of a national program. Of the six datasets, all but one are from Indigenous HDR students. All of these sources of data collected have helped to inform this book. We argue that Indigenous peoples are not the problem that need ‘fixing’ to increase HDR completions rates; rather, the system needs addressing to better support Indigenous HDR students. This book is written to privilege the voices of the Indigenous HDR students who were involved in this research. Through the chapters, we will undo and/or dispel some misunderstandings that continue to persist in higher education institutions about what Indigenous HDR students need to succeed in the academy. We challenge these assumptions using the insights shared by Indigenous HDR students who told us about their needs and experiences in higher education. This chapter provides the background, states the aims of the book and the research question guiding this study and provides an overview of each chapter in this book. We have written this book for anyone interested in successful pathways for Indigenous HDR students.
The Needs and Experiences of Supervisors of Indigenous Higher Degree by Research Students
Authors: Anderson Peter , Blue Levon , Pham Thu , Saward Melanie
Published: August 2022

Supervision is a significant influence in higher degree by research (HDR) students’ success. Quality supervision provided to Indigenous HDR students has recently attracted the interest of researchers. This chapter provides an overview of the needs and experiences of supervisors of Indigenous HDR students. We surveyed 33 supervisors to understand their needs and experiences when supervising Indigenous HDR candidates. The perceptions of quality supervision, the good practices and concerns of supervisors and professional development required in supervising Indigenous HDR students were brought to the supervisors who participated in our research. Our study found that it is the mental health and well-being of Indigenous HDR students that raises concerns for their supervisors, while racism is still prevalent. Keeping Indigenous HDR students motivated, being on track and supporting Indigenous HDR students physically, mentally and academically were other concerns found in this study. Specifically, what supervisors of Indigenous HDR students can provide and what they need to best support their students discloses their good practices and concerns in supervision.
Undoing Commonly Held Beliefs About Indigenous HDR Students
Authors: Anderson Peter , Blue Levon , Pham Thu , Saward Melanie
Published: August 2022

This chapter draws on our experience facilitating the National Indigenous Research and Knowledges Network (NIRAKN) capacity-building workshops. During these workshops, we continually heard what we refer to as “the three myths about what an Indigenous HDR student ought to be doing”. The three myths are that an Indigenous HDR student needs to be: (1) supervised by an Indigenous supervisor; (2) using Indigenous research methodologies; and (3) researching Indigenous issues. Following these workshops, we sought to understand the needs and experience of Indigenous higher degree by research (HDR) students and supervisors of Indigenous HDR students. Informing this chapter are group discussions, written responses and surveys conducted with Indigenous HDR students (n = 66) and supervisor of Indigenous HDR students (n = 33). In this chapter, we argue against these myths to demonstrate that discipline expertise and/or methodological expertise is the most important variable that determines how all HDR students are paired with supervisors. We also argue that it is harmful and racist to expect Indigenous HDR students to use a prescribed methodology that is race-based. And that, the assumption that Indigenous HDR students should be researching Indigenous matters rather than their own research interests is problematic.
Warp drive aerodynamics
Authors: Barceló Carlos , Boyanov Valentin , Garay Luis J. , Martín-Martínez Eduardo , Sánchez Velázquez Jose M.
Published: August 2022

Abstract

In this work we analyse the potential for a warp drive spacetime to develop instabilities due to the presence of quantum matter. Particularly, we look for points of infinite blueshift (which are analogous to points of a black hole inner horizon, known for its semiclassical instability), and categorise them through the behaviour of geodesics in their vicinity. We find that warp-drive bubbles in dimension 2+1 or higher are in fact likely to be stable, as they generally contain only isolated points where divergences are approached, leading to a finite limit for the overall accumulation of destabilising energy. Furthermore, any semiclassical instabilities in the warp drive due to energy-density buildups can be further diminished with particular, more “aerodynamic” shapes and trajectories for the drive.
Spectral Transition for Dirac Operators with Electrostatic $$\delta $$-Shell Potentials Supported on the Straight Line
Authors: Behrndt Jussi , Holzmann Markus , Tušek Matěj
Published: August 2022

In this note the two dimensional Dirac operator $$A_\eta $$

A
η

with an electrostatic $$\delta $$
δ
-shell interaction of strength $$\eta \in {\mathbb {R}}$$

η
∈
R

supported on a straight line is studied. We observe a spectral transition in the sense that for the critical interaction strengths $$\eta =\pm 2$$

η
=
±
2

the continuous spectrum of $$A_\eta $$

A
η

inside the spectral gap of the free Dirac operator $$A_0$$

A
0

collapses abruptly to a single point.
Micro-fragmented adipose tissue (mFAT) associated with arthroscopic debridement provides functional improvement in knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ulivi Michele , Meroni Valentina , Viganò Marco , Colombini Alessandra , Lombardo Michele D. M. , Rossi Nicolò , Orlandini Luca , Messina Carmelo , Sconfienza Luca M. , Peretti Giuseppe M. , Mangiavini Laura , de Girolamo Laura
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Current conservative treatments for knee OA provide limited benefits, with symptoms relief for a short amount of time. Regenerative medicine approaches such as the use of microfragmented adipose tissue (mFAT) showed promising results in terms of durable effects and the possibility to enhance tissue healing and counteract the progression of the pathology. Nevertheless, up to today, the large part of clinical data about mFAT use refers to uncontrolled studies, especially in the surgical setting. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of mFAT applied in association with arthroscopic debridement (AD) for the treatment of knee OA, in terms of symptoms relief and tissue healing.

Methods

This study is a prospective, randomized controlled clinical trial. 78 patients affected by knee OA grade 3–4 according to KL classification were randomly assigned to AD or AD + mFAT treatment groups. Clinical, radiological and serological assessments were performed at 6 months after treatment. Additional clinical evaluation was performed at the end of the study with an average follow-up of 26.1 ± 9.5 months. VAS, KOOS, WOMAC and SF-12 were also collected at both timepoints, KSS only at 6 months.

Results

Treatment with AD + mFAT improved functional scores at both 6 months (KOOS-PS: + 11.7 ± 20.2 vs + 24.4 ± 22.5, in AD and AD + mFAT, respectively, p = 0.024; KSS: + 14.9 ± 15.9 vs + 24.8 ± 23.5, in AD and AD + mFAT, respectively, p = 0.046) and 24-month follow-ups (KOOS-PS Functional subscale: − 2.0 ± 3.5 vs − 4.7 ± 4.2, in AD and AD + mFAT, respectively, p = 0.012). Lower T2-mapping scores were obtained in AD + mFAT-treated group in medial and lateral condyle compartments (p < 0.001). Slight increase was observed in the levels of a serum biomarker of cartilage deposition (PIIINP) in both groups at 6-month follow-up (p = 0.037).

Conclusion

mFAT improves functional outcome and MRI appearance when used in association with AD, therefore supporting its use in the treatment of knee OA in an arthroscopic setting.
Early manipulation under anaesthesia for stiffness following total knee arthroplasty is associated with a greater gain in knee flexion
Authors: Rahardja Richard , Mehmood Aziz , Coleman Brendan , Munro Jacob T. , Young Simon W.
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to identify the risk factors for manipulation under anaesthesia (MUA) following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and whether performing an ‘early’ MUA within 3 months leads to a greater improvement in range of motion.

Methods

Primary TKAs performed between 2013 and 2018 at three tertiary New Zealand hospitals were reviewed with a minimum follow-up of 1 year. Clinical details of patients who underwent MUA were reviewed to identify the knee flexion angle prior to and following MUA. Multivariate analysis identified the risk factors for undergoing MUA and compared flexion angles between ‘early’ (< 3 months) and ‘late’ MUA (> 3 months).

Results

A total of 7386 primary TKAs were analysed in which 131 underwent an MUA (1.8%). Patients aged < 65 years were two times more likely to undergo MUA compared to patients aged ≥ 65 years (2.5 versus 1.3%, p < 0.001; adjusted HR = 2.1, p < 0.001). There was no difference in the final flexion angle post-MUA between early and late MUA (104.7° versus 104.1°, p = 0.819). However, patients who underwent early MUA had poorer pre-MUA flexion (72.3° versus 79.6°, p = 0.012), and subsequently had a greater overall gain in flexion compared to those who underwent late MUA (mean gain 33.1° versus 24.3°, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Younger age was the only patient risk factor for MUA. Patients who underwent early MUA had similar post-MUA flexion, but had poorer pre-MUA flexion compared to those who underwent late MUA. Subsequently, a greater overall gain in flexion was achieved in those who underwent early MUA.

Level of evidence

III.
Progress in bioleaching: part B, applications of microbial processes by the minerals industries
Authors: Roberto Francisco F. , Schippers Axel
Published: August 2022

This review provides an update to the last mini-review with the same title pertaining to recent developments in bioleaching and biooxidation published in 2013 (Brierley and Brierley). In the intervening almost 10 years, microbial processes for sulfide minerals have seen increased acceptance and ongoing but also declining commercial application in copper, gold, nickel and cobalt production. These processes have been applied to heap and tank leaching, nowadays termed biomining, but increasing concerns about the social acceptance of mining has also seen the re-emergence of in situ leaching and quest for broader applicability beyond uranium and copper. Besides metal sulfide oxidation, mineral dissolution via reductive microbial activities has seen experimental application to laterite minerals. And as resources decline or costs for their exploitation rise, mine waste rock and tailings have become more attractive to consider as easily accessible resources. As an advantage, they have already been removed from the ground and in some cases contain ore grades exceeding that of those currently being mined. These factors promote concepts of circular economy and efficient use and valorization of waste materials.

Key points

• Bioleaching of copper sulfide ore deposits is producing less copper today

• Biooxidation of refractory gold ores is producing more gold than in the past

• Available data suggest bioleaching and biooxidation processes reduce carbon emissions
An enzymatic tandem reaction to produce odor-active fatty aldehydes
Authors: Kanter Jean-Philippe , Honold Philipp Jakob , Lüke David , Heiles Sven , Spengler Bernhard , Fraatz Marco Alexander , Harms Christoph , Ley Jakob Peter , Zorn Holger , Hammer Andreas Klaus
Published: August 2022

Aldehydes represent a versatile and favored class of flavoring substances. A biocatalytic access to odor-active aldehydes was developed by conversion of fatty acids with two enzymes of the α-dioxygenase pathway. The recombinant enzymes α-dioxygenase (α-DOX) originating from Crocosphaera subtropica and fatty aldehyde dehydrogenase (FALDH) from Vibrio harveyi were heterologously expressed in E. coli, purified, and applied in a coupled (tandem) repetitive reaction. The concept was optimized in terms of number of reaction cycles and production yields. Up to five cycles and aldehyde yields of up to 26% were achieved. Afterward, the approach was applied to sea buckthorn pulp oil as raw material for the enzyme catalyzed production of flavoring/fragrance ingredients based on complex aldehyde mixtures. The most abundant fatty acids in sea buckthorn pulp oil, namely palmitic, palmitoleic, oleic, and linoleic acid, were used as substrates for further biotransformation experiments. Various aldehydes were identified, semi-quantified, and sensorially characterized by means of headspace–solid phase microextraction–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry–olfactometry (HS–SPME–GC–MS–O). Structural validation of unsaturated aldehydes in terms of double-bond positions was performed by multidimensional high-resolution mass spectrometry experiments of their Paternò–Büchi (PB) photoproducts. Retention indices and odor impressions of inter alia (Z,Z)-5,8-tetradecadienal (Z,Z)-6,9-pentadecadienal, (Z)-8-pentadecenal, (Z)-4-tridecenal, (Z)-6-pentadecenal, and (Z)-8-heptadecenal were determined for the first time.

Key points

• Coupled reaction of Csα-DOX and VhFALDH yields chain-shortened fatty aldehydes.

• Odors of several Z-unsaturated fatty aldehydes are described for the first time.

• Potential for industrial production of aldehyde-based odorants from natural sources.

Graphical abstract
New Zealand southern right whale (Eubalaena australis; Tohorā nō Aotearoa) behavioural phenology, demographic composition, and habitat use in Port Ross, Auckland Islands over three decades: 1998–2021
Authors: Carroll Emma L. , Riekkola Leena , Andrews-Goff Virginia , Baker C. Scott , Constantine Rochelle , Cole Ros , Goetz Kim , Harcourt Robert , Lundquist David , Meyer Catherine , Ogle Mike , O’Rorke Richard , Patenaude Nathalie , Russ Rodney , Stuck Esther , van der Reis Aimee L. , Zerbini Alexandre N. , Childerhouse Simon
Published: August 2022

Changes in habitat availability and prey abundance are predicted to adversely influence survival and reproduction of wildlife in the Southern Ocean. Some populations of southern right whale (SRW;Eubalaena australis) are showing dramatic changes in habitat use. Surveys were undertaken in the austral winters of 2020 and 2021 at the key nursery and socialising ground for New Zealand SRWs: Port Ross, Auckland Islands, with 548 encounters and 599 skin biopsy samples collected. Data from these two surveys spanned peak periods of use and were used to test the hypothesis there have been shifts in the phenology, demographic composition and behaviour of SRWs using the Auckland Islands over the past three decades. The behavioural phenology and demographic composition of SRW resembles that observed in the 1990s. In contrast, the proportion of groups containing cow-calf pairs increased from 20% in the 1998 survey to 50% in 2020/21. These changes are consistent with a growing population undergoing strong recruitment, not limited by food resources. Continued use of Port Ross by all SRW demographic classes confirms this as key habitat for SRW in New Zealand waters, and we support increased enforcement of existing management measures to reduce whale-vessel interactions in this remote subantarctic archipelago.