bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A questionnaire-based investigation to explore the social and legal implications derived from the use of camera traps for wildlife monitoring and conservation
Authors: Franchini Marcello , Rullman Stan , Claramunt-López Bernat
Published: June 2022

Camera traps are non-invasive monitoring tools largely used to detect species presence or population dynamics. The use of camera traps for wildlife conservation purposes raises questions about privacy invasion when images of people are taken. Throughout the use of an online questionnaire survey, we assessed the degree of knowledge about social and legal implications derived from the deployment of camera traps. Our results revealed a consistent gap in term of knowledge about legal implications derived by the use of camera traps among respondents. Most of those who were aware of such legislation did not take specific actions to prevent legal consequences, probably to reduce the risk of theft or vandalism. Most respondents declared that images of people were unintentionally collected. Some of them stated that images which may violate privacy issues or showed nefarious activities were stored for internal processing or reported to local authorities. Our research thus confirmed that privacy invasion is a widely poorly treated issue in the wildlife conservation dimension. Furthermore, despite camera traps being used to improve conservation efforts, the detection of individuals engaged in private or illegal activities poses further complications in terms of pursuance of legal actions when an individual is identified by these images. So, appropriate guidelines for images analysis need to be designed, and subsequently followed. Lastly, adopting effective methods to protect cameras from the risk of theft and/or vandalism is of primary concern.
Pushing the limits: ship rat (Rattus rattus) population dynamics across an elevational gradient in response to mast seeding and supplementary feeding
Authors: Carpenter Joanna K. , Monks Adrian , Innes John , Griffiths James
Published: June 2022

Understanding marginal habitat use by invasive species is important for predicting how distributions may change under future climates. We investigated the influence of food availability and temperature on ship rat (Rattus rattus) distribution and density across a forested elevational gradient in New Zealand by measuring ship rat demographics following a beech (Nothofagaceae) mass seeding event (‘mast’) at three elevation bands (20–80, 400–500, 800–900 m asl). We tested whether declining food availability limits rat populations at the highest elevation band post-mast by experimentally increasing food abundance above baseline food availability. When our study started 4 months post-seedfall, rats at mid- and low- elevations were at high densities (11.4–16.5 ha−1). Rats at higher elevations were barely detectable, but densities peaked (9.4 ha−1) 10 months post-seedfall, with the initial increase possibly driven by immigration from lower elevations. All populations declined sharply over the next year. Supplementary feeding at high elevation increased survival, recruitment, and density of rats through winter, 16 months post-seedfall, relative to unfed grids, suggesting food limitation. However, both fed and non-fed populations declined to zero by the following spring, perhaps due to stoat (Mustela erminea) predation. Our results suggest that low food availability plays a significant role in restricting rats from cool, high elevation environments. The variation in the timing and magnitude of ship rat responses to the pulsed resource across the gradient also highlights the importance of initial population size and spatial processes as factors modulating ship rat responses to pulsed resources across a landscape.
Blended Social Impact Investment Transactions: Why Are They So Complex?
Authors: Moran Michael , Ward-Christie Libby
Published: June 2022

Blended social impact investment (SII) transactions, in which multiple types of capital are combined to support attainment of social impact, are a pervasive, yet not closely examined, feature of the SII market. This paper seeks to describe and understand blended SII transactions through the lens of institutional theory. Specifically, we use the institutional logics theoretical frame to shed light on the implications of combining several institutional logics in SII transactions. Consistent with other SII research, we find that parties to blended SII transactions combine financial/commercial and social welfare logics. However, in blended SII transactions, different combinations of these logics are enacted by different stakeholders in a multi-hybrid-logic structure. As such, we propose that blended SII transactions are hybrids-of-hybrids. We argue that it is this hybrids-of-hybrid characteristic that differentiates blended SII transactions from other forms of SII and increases the potential for significant logical misalignment and resultant conflict and contestation. From a business ethics perspective, blended SII transactions cast light on the critical and often unrecognized role that grants and concessionary capital frequently play in enabling SII in not-for-profit, charitable ventures. We speculate that this can distort understanding of SII with adverse implications at the transaction and field levels.
Oxidative modification of cellulosic fibres by lytic polysaccharide monooxygenase AA9A from Trichoderma reesei
Authors: Marjamaa Kaisa , Rahikainen Jenni , Karjalainen Marika , Maiorova Natalia , Holopainen-Mantila Ulla , Molinier Matthieu , Aro Nina , Nygren Heli , Mikkelson Atte , Koivula Anu , Kruus Kristiina
Published: June 2022

Lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (EC1.14.99.53-56, LPMOs) are oxidative enzymes with the capability to enhance lignocellulose saccharification as well as nanofibrillation of cellulosic fibres. The parameters affecting the efficiency of oxidative modification of cotton linters and softwood kraft fibres by LPMO from Trichoderma reesei (Tr AA9A) were studied here. Circular dichroism experiments were carried out to analyze the thermal stability and to indicate the optimum temperature for the experiments. The enzyme was found to be most thermostable at pH 5 but can tolerate up to 40–50 °C at neutral pH. The enzymatic fibre oxidation efficiency was found to be dependent on reductant (gallic acid) and hydrogen peroxide supply in a pH dependent manner. A high resolution UHPLC-IM-MS method was used for identification of oxidized oligosaccharides released in the enzymatic treatments. A microscopy method was applied for analysis of single fibre dissolution kinetics of Tr AA9A pretreated softwood kraft fibres, demonstrating that the oxidative enzymatic treatment facilitated the fibre dissolution and degraded the fibre surface structures, which prevent swelling.

Graphical Abstract
PLXDC2 enhances invadopodium formation to promote invasion and metastasis of gastric cancer cells via interacting with PTP1B
Authors: Wu Bin , Wang Yan-xia , Wang Jun-jie , Xiang Dong-fang , Zhang Meng-si , Yan Ze-xuan , Wang Wen-ying , Miao Jing-ya , Lan Xi , Liu Jia-jia , Li Zheng-yan , Li Chuan , Fan Jun-yan , Liu Jun-yan , Jiang Lei , Xu Sen-lin , Cui You-hong , Qian Feng
Published: June 2022

Plexin-domain containing 2 (PLXDC2) has been reported as an oncoprotein in several human malignancies. However, its expression and roles in gastric cancer remain largely unclear. In this study, we found that PLXDC2 was highly expressed in gastric cancer tissues, and the expression levels were positively correlated with clinicopathological features, but negatively with the patients’ outcome. Cox regression analysis identified PLXDC2 as an independent prognostic indicator for the patients. Knockdown of PLXDC2 markedly suppressed the in vitro invasion and in vivo metastasis of gastric cancer cells, while overexpression of PLXDC2 resulted in opposite effects. Mechanistically, PLXDC2 enhanced the level of phosphorylated Cortactin (p-Cortactin) by physically interacting with protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B), an important dephosphorylase, to prevent its dephosphorylating of p-Cortactin, thereby promoting the formation of invadopodia. Collectively, our results indicate that PLXDC2 contributes to the invasion and metastasis of gastric cancer by inhibiting PTP1B to facilitate the invadopodium formation, and may serve as a potential prognostic biomarker and a therapeutic target for this disease.
The Simulated Body: A Preliminary Investigation into the Relationship Between Neuroscientific Studies, Phenomenology and Virtual Reality
Authors: Cantone Damiano
Published: June 2022

The author of this paper discusses the theme of the "simulated body", that is the sense of "being there” in a body that is not one's own, or that does not exist in the way one perceives it. He addresses this issue by comparing Immersive Virtual Reality technology, the phenomenological approach, and Gerald Edelman's theory of Neural Darwinism. Virtual Reality has been used to throw light on some phenomena that cannot be studied experimentally in real life, and the results of its simulations enrich the phenomenological discourse on the lived body. Virtual “Reality” seems to replicate—at least in part—the simulation mechanisms of our mind, thus favoring developments in the field of philosophy of mind.
A Schwarzian on the stretched horizon
Authors: Carlip S.
Published: June 2022

It is well known that the Euclidean black hole action has a boundary term at the horizon proportional to the area. I show that if the horizon is replaced by a stretched horizon with appropriate boundary conditions, a new boundary term appears, described by a Schwarzian action similar to the recently discovered boundary actions in “nearly anti-de Sitter” gravity.
Finite element method for estimation of applanation force and to study the influence of intraocular pressure of eye on tonometry
Authors: Bharathi R. B. , Poojary Rakshath G. , Prabhu Gopalakrishna K. , Ve Ramesh S.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Discover the associations of force of applanation on the eye with the plunging depth of the cornea and quantify them. The results will be utilized as the feedback parameter in the new prototype development of eye care instruments as additional force may damage the internal structure of the eye or may result in erroneous output.

Method

A finite element-based eye model is designed utilizing the actual dimensions of the human eye. A standardized tonometer is designed and the simulation is carried out at predetermined deformation of the cornea to find the force of applanation on the cornea during tonometry. Adding on, the influence of IOP during tonometry is analyzed for a range of plunging depths of the cornea.

Results

The graphical results inferred the linear relation between the force of applanation with the deformation of the cornea and the results are quantified. The resulting deformation and stress plot of FEM based simulation approach is analyzed and observations regarding deformations and stress are made.

Conclusion

The human eye is successfully developed and also computed force on the cornea during tonometry is validated. The inference drawn from the deformation plot and stress plot is that the junction of cornea–sclera along with cornea-tonometer periphery undergo maximum deformation and experiences the highest stress compared to other areas of the eye while during tonometry.
Corrosion performance of a steel surface modified by a robust graphene-based superhydrophobic film with hierarchical roughness
Authors: Mohamed M. E. , Abd-El-Nabey B. A.
Published: June 2022

Potentiostatic deposition of cobalt film and cobalt-graphene, Co-G, composite, followed by modification with low surface energy stearic acid (SA), was used to fabricate superhydrophobic films on a steel substrate successfully. A scanning electron microscope was used to analyze the surface morphology of the prepared superhydrophobic cobalt film modified by stearic acid, Co-SA, and the cobalt-graphene film modified by stearic acid, Co-G-SA. The findings show that both the fabricated films have micro-nanostructures. The Co-G-SA film shows a higher roughness due to the network structures of graphene and so exhibits higher superhydrophobicity. The Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer, FTIR, results confirm the formation of Co-SA and Co-G-SA films on the steel surface. The wettability of the prepared films shows that they exhibit superhydrophobicity, where the Co-SA and Co-G-SA films have contact angles of 155° and 158°, respectively. The Potentiodynamic polarization results show that the value of the corrosion current density for steel coated with Co-SA (0.7094 µA) is lower than that of bare steel (0.1457 mA), while the coated steel with Co-G-SA film has the lowest value (0.1732 µA). The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, EIS, results show that the charge transfer resistance for steel coated with Co-SA is 38 times that of bare steel, while steel coated with Co-SA is 57 times that of bare steel. Potentiodynamic polarization and EIS results show that the prepared Co-G-SA film superhydrophobic films exhibit higher corrosion resistance. Co-G-SA film has higher mechanical stability (maintains superhydrophobicity until 900 abrasion cycles), chemical stability (has superhydrophobicity in the pH range 1–13), and long-term stability (retains superhydrophobicity after 30 days in a 0.5 M NaCl solution) in 0.5 M NaCl solution.
The Role of Mitochondrial Quality Control in Cognitive Dysfunction in Diabetes
Authors: Luo Jian-Sheng , Ning Jia-Qi , Chen Zhuo-Ya , Li Wen-Jing , Zhou Rui-Ling , Yan Ru-Yu , Chen Meng-Jie , Ding Ling-Ling
Published: June 2022

Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is a well known risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. Mitochondria are the center of intracellular energy metabolism and the main source of reactive oxygen species. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been identified as a key factor in diabetes-associated brain alterations contributing to neurodegenerative events. Defective insulin signaling may act in concert with neurodegenerative mechanisms leading to abnormalities in mitochondrial structure and function. Mitochondrial dysfunction triggers neuronal energy exhaustion and oxidative stress, leading to brain neuronal damage and cognitive impairment. The normality of mitochondrial function is basically maintained by mitochondrial quality control mechanisms. In T2DM, defects in the mitochondrial quality control pathway in the brain have been found to lead to mitochondrial dysfunction and cognitive impairment. Here, we discuss the association of mitochondrial dysfunction with T2DM and cognitive impairment. We also review the molecular mechanisms of mitochondrial quality control and impacts of mitochondrial quality control on the progression of cognitive impairment in T2DM.
On the Gauss-Kronrod quadrature formula for a modified weight function of Chebyshev type
Authors: Orive Ramón , Pejčev Aleksandar V. , Spalević Miodrag M. , Mihić Ljubica
Published: June 2022

In this paper, we consider the Gauss-Kronrod quadrature formulas for a modified Chebyshev weight. Efficient estimates of the error of these Gauss–Kronrod formulae for analytic functions are obtained, using techniques of contour integration that were introduced by Gautschi and Varga (cf. Gautschi and Varga SIAM J. Numer. Anal. 20, 1170–1186 1983). Some illustrative numerical examples which show both the accuracy of the Gauss–Kronrod formulas and the sharpness of our estimations are displayed. Though for the sake of brevity we restrict ourselves to the first kind Chebyshev weight, a similar analysis may be carried out for the other three Chebyshev type weights; part of the corresponding computations are included in a final appendix.
How understanding soil chemistry can lead to better phosphate fertilizer practice: a 68 year journey (so far)
Authors: Barrow N. J.
Published: June 2022

This paper describes a journey which started with the question: why do farmers reapply phosphate? This led to understanding how phosphate and other specifically sorbed ions, both cations and anions react with soil. Under most soil conditions, they do not precipitate to give specific compounds. Rather they are specifically adsorbed onto the surface of soil particles and then penetrate the particles via diffusion mechanisms. The pathways by which they move differ between ion species; for example nickel penetrates the lattice of iron oxides but phosphate penetrates defects between particles. Such reactions change important properties of the soil. Reaction with phosphate conveys negative charge to the reacting surface and so decreases the buffering capacity for phosphate; this makes subsequent phosphate applications more effective. Nor does the diffusive penetration continue unabated; as phosphate builds up, diffusive penetration slows and then virtually stops. These effects mean that on long-term fertilised soils, phosphate fertiliser is much more effective and annual doses (if they are needed at all) should be much smaller. I suggest that failure to appreciate this is the cause of phosphate losses from farmland and consequent pollution of water bodies.
A quick and simple spectrophotometric method to determine total carbon concentrations in root exudate samples of grass species
Authors: Oburger Eva , Staudinger Christiana , Spiridon Andreea , Benyr Vera , Aleksza David , Wenzel Walter , Santangeli Michael
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Root exudates are key components driving belowground interaction between plant, microbes and soil. High-end analytical approaches provide advanced insights into exudate metabolite diversity, however, the amount of total carbon (C) released by roots should always be determined as the most basic parameter when characterizing root exudation as it (i) provides quantitative information of C exuded into the surrounding soil and (ii) allows to relate the abundance of individual exudate compounds to total C released. Here we propose a simple and quick, spectrophotometry-based method to quantify total dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentration in exudation samples that is based on measuring the absorption of a pre-filtered but otherwise untreated exudate sample at 260 nm (DOC260).

Method

Exudate samples collected from different grass genotypes (Zea mays, Oryza sativa, Hordeum vulgare) grown in various experimental settings (soil, hydroponic) were analysed with the DOC260 assay and results were compared with C concentrations obtained by liquid TOC-analyser.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that the DOC260 method allowed for quick and inexpensive measurements of total dissolved organic carbon concentrations in exudate samples from grass species grown under nutrient sufficient as well as under P deficient conditions. Interestingly, DOC260 failed to predict DOC concentrations in exudate samples from plants grown under Zn and Fe deficiency suggesting a strong shift in metabolite composition under micronutrient deficiency. Even though the applicability of the DOC260 method remains to be tested on exudate samples originating from dicots and plants exposed to other environmental stresses (e.g. pathogen attack, heavy metal stress, etc), it will help to increase our understanding of root exudation and related rhizosphere processes in the future.
Quantitative Evaluation of Supported Catalysts Key Properties from Electron Tomography Studies: Assessing Accuracy Using Material-Realistic 3D-Models
Authors: Bouzaine A. , Muñoz-Ocaña J. M. , Rodríguez-Chia A. , Hungría A. B. , Calvino J. J. , López-Haro M.
Published: June 2022

Electron Tomography (ET) reconstructions can be analysed, via segmentation techniques, to obtain quantitative, 3D-information about individual nanoparticles in supported catalysts. This includes values of parameters out of reach for any other technique, like their volume and surface, which are required to determine the dispersion of the supported particle system or the specific surface area of the support; two figures that play a major role in the performance of this type of catalysts.

However, both the experimental conditions during the acquisition of the tilt series and the limited fidelity of the reconstruction and segmentation algorithms, restrict the quality of the ET results and introduce an undefined amount of error both in the qualitative features of the reconstructions and in all the quantitative parameters measured from them.

Here, a method based on the use of well-defined 3D geometrical models (phantoms), with morphological features closely resembling those observed in experimental images of an Au/CeO2catalyst, has been devised to provide a precise estimation of the accuracy of the reconstructions. Using this approach, the influence of noise and the number of projections on the errors of reconstructions obtained using a Total Variation Minimization in 3D (TVM-3D) algorithm have been determined. Likewise, the benefits of using smart denoising techniques based on Undecimated Wavelet Transforms (UWT) have been also evaluated.

The results clearly reveal a large impact of usual noise levels on both the quality of the reconstructions and nanometrological measurement errors. Quantitative clues about the key role of UWT to largely compensate them are also provided.
Incubation of canine dermal fibroblasts with serum from dogs with atopic dermatitis activates extracellular matrix signalling and represses oxidative phosphorylation
Authors: Colitti Monica , Stefanon Bruno , Sandri Misa , Licastro Danilo
Published: June 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects on gene expression in canine fibroblasts after incubation with a medium enriched with atopic dermatitis canine serum (CAD) compared with healthy canine serum (CTRL) and fetal bovine serum (FBS). Differential Expression and Pathway analysis (iDEP94) in R package (v0.92) was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with a False Discovery Rate of 0.01. DEGs from fibroblasts incubated with CAD serum were significantly upregulated and enriched in the extracellular matrix (ECM) and focal adhesion signalling but downregulated in the oxidative phosphorylation pathway. Genes involved in profibrotic processes, such as TGFB1, INHBA, ERK1/2, and the downward regulated genes (collagens and integrins), were significantly upregulated after fibroblasts were exposed to CAD serum. The observed downregulation of genes involved in oxidative phosphorylation suggests metabolic dysregulation toward a myofibroblast phenotype responsible for fibrosis. No differences were found when comparing CTRL with FBS. The DEGs identified in fibroblasts incubated with CAD serum suggest activation of signalling pathways involved in gradual differentiation through a myofibroblast precursors that represent the onset of fibrosis. Molecular and metabolic knowledge of fibroblast changes can be used to identify biomarkers of the disease and new potential pharmacological targets.
An Integrated Extreme Rainfall Modeling Tool (SDExtreme) for Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation
Authors: Yeo Myeong-Ho , Nguyen Van-Thanh-Van , Kim Yong Sang , Kpodonu Theodore A.
Published: June 2022

The estimation of the Intensity–Duration–Frequency (IDF) relation is often necessary for the planning and design of various hydraulic structures and design storms. It has been an increasingly greater challenge due to climate change conditions. This paper therefore proposes an integrated extreme rainfall modeling software package (SDExtreme) for constructing the IDF relations at a local site in the context of climate change. The proposed tool is based on a temporal downscaling method to describe the relationships between daily and sub-daily extreme precipitation using the scale-invariance General Extreme Value (GEV) distribution. In addition, SDExtreme provides a modified bootstrap technique to determine confidence intervals (CIs) of the estimated IDF curves for current and the future climate conditions. The feasibility and accuracy of SDExtreme were assessed using rainfall data available from the selected rain gauge stations in Quebec and Ontario provinces (Canada) and climate simulations under three different climate change scenarios provided by the Canadian Earth System Model (CanESM2) and the Canadian Regional Climate Model (CanRCM4).
Sequential Generalized Likelihood Ratio Tests for Online Item Monitoring
Authors: Kang Hyeon-Ah
Published: June 2022

The study presents statistical procedures that monitor functioning of items over time. We propose generalized likelihood ratio tests that surveil multiple item parameters and implement with various sampling techniques to perform continuous or intermittent monitoring. The procedures examine stability of item parameters across time and inform compromise as soon as they identify significant parameter shift. The performance of the monitoring procedures was validated using simulated and real-assessment data. The empirical evaluation suggests that the proposed procedures perform adequately well in identifying the parameter drift. They showed satisfactory detection power and gave timely signals while regulating error rates reasonably low. The procedures also showed superior performance when compared with the existent methods. The empirical findings suggest that multivariate parametric monitoring can provide an efficient and powerful control tool for maintaining the quality of items. The procedures allow joint monitoring of multiple item parameters and achieve sufficient power using powerful likelihood-ratio tests. Based on the findings from the empirical experimentation, we suggest some practical strategies for performing online item monitoring.
Anthropogenic particles in coypu (Myocastor coypus; Mammalia, Rodentia)’ faeces: first evidence and considerations about their use as track for detecting microplastic pollution
Authors: Gallitelli Luca , Battisti Corrado , Pietrelli Loris , Scalici Massimiliano
Published: June 2022

Anthropogenic plastic litter is widespread in all environments, with particular emphasis on aquatic habitats. Specifically, although freshwater mammals are important as they are at the top of food web, research mainly focus on marine animals, while only few studies have been carried out on freshwater mammals. The main gap is that microplastics (MP) are completely understudied in freshwater mammals. Here, we reported the first evidence of the presence of anthropogenic particles (including MP) in coypu (Myocastor coypus)’ faeces. Coypu is a rodent mammal inhabiting rivers and wetland areas, and we discussed our preliminary data suggesting the use of these tracks as possible future bioindicator of MP pollution in wetlands and freshwaters. We collected 30 coypu’s faeces in “Torre Flavia wetland” nature reserve. Then, in laboratory, faeces were digested in 30 ml hydrogen peroxide (30%) for a week a 20 °C and analysed under stereoscope. All the suspected found MP were isolated in a petri dish, using FT-IR analysis to confirm the polymers. Overall, we recorded 444 natural and anthropogenic particles with most of items being fibres. FT-IR analysis of the 10% of the particles recovered revealed that 72% of them was not MP (mainly, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyamide). Also, the number of anthropogenic particles is not correlated with the faecal weight. Given that alien species, such as coypu, are widespread species, our results might have a great importance as these species and MP in faecal tracks may be used as undirect proxy of environmental bioavailability of MP pollution.
Early Martensitic Transformation in a 0.74C–1.15Mn–1.08Cr High Carbon Steel
Authors: Kohne Thomas , Maimaitiyili Tuerdi , Winkelmann Aimo , Maawad Emad , Hedström Peter , Borgenstam Annika
Published: June 2022

The martensitic transformation in a high carbon steel was studied by a new experimental approach focusing on the nucleation and growth as well as the variant pairing of the early-formed martensite. A mixed microstructure with tempered early-formed martensite and fresh later-formed martensite was achieved by a heat treatment with an isothermal hold below the martensite start temperature. In-situ high-energy X-ray diffraction showed no further transformation of austenite to ferrite/martensite during the isothermal hold. The tempered early-formed martensite was characterized with a combination of light optical microscopy and local tetragonality determination by electron backscatter diffraction. The characterization allowed qualitative as well as quantitative analysis of the tempered early-formed martensite with regard to the prior austenite grain boundaries (PAGB) and variant pairing. The early-formed martensite was shown to grow predominantly along the PAGBs and clustering was observed indicating an autocatalytic nucleation mechanism. The variant pairing of the early-formed martensite had a stronger plate character compared to the later-formed martensite.
Echinacoside Improves Cognitive Impairment by Inhibiting Aβ Deposition Through the PI3K/AKT/Nrf2/PPARγ Signaling Pathways in APP/PS1 Mice
Authors: Qiu Hui , Liu Xuemin
Published: June 2022

Echinacoside (ECH), a phenylethanoid glycoside, has protective activity in neurodegenerative disease, including anti-inflammation and antioxidation. However, the effects of ECH in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are not very clear. This present study investigates the role and mechanism of ECH in the pathological process of AD. APP/PS1 mice treated with ECH in 50 mg/kg/day for 3 months. Morris water maze, nesting test, and immunofluorescence staining used to observe whether ECH could improve AD pathology. Western blot used to study the mechanism of ECH improving AD pathology. The results showed that ECH alleviated the memory impairment of APP/PS1 mice by reducing the time of escape latency as well as increasing the times of crossing the platform and rescued the impaired ability to construct nests. In addition, ECH significantly reduced the deposition of senile plaques in the brain and decreased the expression of BACE1 in APP/PS1 mice through activating PI3K/AKT/Nrf2/PPARγ pathway. Furthermore, ECH decreased ROS formation, GP91 and 8-OHdG expression, upregulated the expression of SOD1 and SOD2 as well as activating the PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 signaling pathway. Moreover, ECH inhibited glia cells activation, pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β and TNF-α release, NLRP3 inflammasome formation through TXNIP/Trx-1 signaling pathway. In conclusion, this paper reported that ECH improved cognitive function, inhibited oxidative stress, and inflammatory response in AD. Therefore, we suggest that ECH may considered as a potential drug for AD treatment.
1H, 13C, and 15N resonance assignments of a conserved putative cell wall binding domain from Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Davis Jessica L. , Hounslow Andrea M. , Baxter Nicola J. , Mesnage Stéphane , Williamson Mike P.
Published: June 2022

Enterococcus faecalis is a major causative agent of hospital acquired infections. The ability of E. faecalis to evade the host immune system is essential during pathogenesis, which has been shown to be dependent on the complete separation of daughter cells by peptidoglycan hydrolases. AtlE is a peptidoglycan hydrolase which is predicted to bind to the cell wall of E. faecalis, via six C-terminal repeat sequences. Here, we report the near complete assignment of one of these six repeats, as well as the predicted backbone structure and dynamics. This data will provide a platform for future NMR studies to explore the ligand recognition motif of AtlE and help to uncover its potential role in E. faecalis virulence.
Self-representation through avatars in digital environments
Authors: Zimmermann Daniel , Wehler Anna , Kaspar Kai
Published: June 2022

Due to its prominent role in online social networks, avatar creation has become an important research topic in the field of computer-mediated communication. One main motive for creating avatars is the representation of one’s own identity. Previous research indicates that avatar creation depends on the activity context for which the avatar is created. Though, studies comparing avatar creation for a wide variety of activity contexts are still missing. The present study addresses this empirical gap by examining (1) the self-representation of physical, demographical, and personality characteristics through avatars, (2) differences in self-representation between various online activity contexts, and (3) between-participant variance in ascribed personality traits. Participants attributed physical, demographical, and personality characteristics to their avatar for one of six online activity contexts and indicated the same characteristics for their actual and ideal selves. We analysed the data of 568 participants and found a high level of congruence between demographical/physical characteristics of the avatar, the actual self, and the ideal self. Furthermore, we found an idealised representation of the avatar’s personality traits, which was affected by the specific activity context. Last, the between-participant variance in the avatar’s personality traits was mainly larger than the variance in the ideal self but smaller than the variance in the actual self, indicating a link between avatar creation and social norms. These results deliver new insights into the strategies behind avatar creation in different contexts and build a basis for future research and practical implications for developers and designers of virtual worlds.
Measurement and performance impact of team mental models on process performance
Authors: Leyer Michael , Schneider Sabrina , Strohhecker Jürgen
Published: June 2022

Efficient business process execution is an essential part of an organisation’s success. It depends on good dynamic decision making of process actors that is guided by their mental models of business processes (MMBP). The study investigates the effect of MMBPs on process performance at two levels. At the level of individuals, the impact of MMBP accuracy on performance is analyzed, and at the level of a team, the effect of similarity of MMBPs of all team on performance is researched. At both levels, MMBPs are differentiated in a narrow part that focuses on the mental representations of process steps that precede or follow on the one conducted by the actor and a holistic model that captures the process as a whole. We use laboratory observations with 159 participants in 10 teams from a real effort loan processing role play. We obtain individual MMBP accuracy measures by using a process knowledge test and measure the process performance of teams with the outcome of the role play. Our study contributes in three ways to existing research. First, the measurement approach of individual MMBP accuracy and similarity is extended to the level of teams. Second, the study shows that the accuracy of both narrow and holistic MMBPs as well as similarity of holistic MMBPs positively impact team process performance. Third, by using an observable team process performance measures from a real-effort task, we increase the validity of our findings compared to other research relying on self-assessed performance measures.
Minimal bandwidth for $${\mathbb C}^*$$-actions on generalized Grassmannians
Authors: Franceschini Alberto
Published: June 2022

The bandwidth of a $${\mathbb C}^*$$

C

∗

-action of a polarized pair (X, L) is a natural measure of its complexity. In this paper, we study $${\mathbb C}^*$$

C

∗

-actions on rational homogeneous spaces, determining which provide minimal bandwidth. We prove that the minimal bandwidth is linked to the smallest coefficient of the fundamental weight, in a base of simple roots, which describes the variety as a marked Dynkin diagram. As a direct application of the results we study the Chow groups of the Cayley plane $$\mathrm{E}_6(6)$$

E
6

(
6
)

.
Influence of Sheet Metal Pre-forming on Edge Crack Sensitivity using an AHSS Steel Grade
Authors: Feistle M. , Kindsmüller A. , Pätzold I. , Golle R. , Volk W.
Published: June 2022

Especially in the automotive sector, high-strength sheet materials are processed in the manufacturing industry. These steels often show a pronounced sensitivity to edge cracks. Because of this, many edge crack testing methods for a wide variety of stress conditions have been developed to describe the edge crack sensitivity of a material. Only the hole expansion test according to ISO 16630 has been standardized. However, the standardization has some gaps in the process description, which has resulted in test modifications. Another disadvantage is the dependence of the results on the machine operator. In the past, the influence of the shear cutting parameters die clearance, cutting edge geometry, and type of cutting line on the edge crack sensitivity was only calculated for undeformed sheet materials. Not only are shear cutting operations carried out on undeformed sheet blanks in the context of the manufacturing of sheet metal components, but more and more pre-formed sheets are mechanically separated and subsequently further formed. Therefore, it is essential to consider the influence of the type and amount of pre-forming introduced on the sensitivity of a material to edge cracks. The discrete types of pre-forming, uniaxial tension, plane strain, and equi-biaxial stretch forming were introduced to sheet metal blanks using dual-phase steel. The Edge-Fracture-Tensile-Test was used to identify the residual formability of the undeformed and pre-formed specimens. The Edge-Crack-Sensitivity-Factor$${K}_{\mathrm{ec}}$$

K
ec

, which can be used to predict edge cracks in a finite element forming simulation, was determined from the recorded major strains for selected parameter configurations.
Utilising TMS-EEG to Assess the Response to Cerebellar-Brain Inhibition
Authors: Sasaki R. , Hand B. J. , Liao W. Y. , Rogasch N. C. , Fernandez L. , Semmler J. G. , Opie G. M.
Published: June 2022

Cerebellar-brain inhibition (CBI) is a transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) paradigm indexing excitability of cerebellar projections to motor cortex (M1). Stimulation involved with CBI is often considered to be uncomfortable, and alternative ways to index connectivity between cerebellum and the cortex would be valuable. We therefore sought to assess the utility of electroencephalography in conjunction with TMS (combined TMS-EEG) to record the response to CBI. A total of 33 volunteers (25.7 ± 4.9 years, 20 females) participated across three experiments. These investigated EEG responses to CBI induced with a figure-of-eight (F8; experiment 1) or double cone (DC; experiment 2) conditioning coil over cerebellum, in addition to multisensory sham stimulation (experiment 3). Both F8 and DC coils suppressed early TMS-evoked EEG potentials (TEPs) produced by TMS to M1 (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the TEP produced by CBI stimulation was related to the motor inhibitory response to CBI recorded in a hand muscle (P < 0.05), but only when using the DC coil. Multisensory sham stimulation failed to modify the M1 TEP. Cerebellar conditioning produced changes in the M1 TEP that were not apparent following sham stimulation, and that were related to the motor inhibitory effects of CBI. Our findings therefore suggest that it is possible to index the response to CBI using TMS-EEG. In addition, while both F8 and DC coils appear to recruit cerebellar projections, the nature of these may be different.
Large-sized Late Turonian–Early Coniacian (Late Cretaceous) inoceramid bivalves from Germany: taxonomic issues, temporal framework and palaeoecological implications
Authors: Niebuhr Birgit , Wilmsen Markus
Published: June 2022

A systematic-stratigraphic revision of selected large Late Turonian–Early Coniacian inoceramids of the lamarcki group from Germany showed that both historical specimens of Goldfuss (1836), introduced as Inoceramus annulatus and later becoming the types of Late Turonian I. lamarcki stuemckei Heinz, 1928a and Early Coniacian I. annulatus Goldfuss, 1836, respectively, are of Late Turonian age. I. stuemckei Heinz, 1928a, as emended herein, is well represented by its lectotype. Bulky isolated hinges from Upper Turonian strata, used by Heinz (1932a) to erect Heroceramus hercules, are just fragments of contemporaneous large I. stuemckei; H. hercules is thus invalid. The common Late Turonian I. stuemckei occurs facies-independent from near- to offshore settings and its first common appearance is an excellent marker for the substage base. I. annulatus Goldfuss, 1836 was later applied to very large forms first appearing in the mid-Early Coniacian. Thus, I. annulatus sensu Walaszczyk and Wood (1998) is poorly represented by its medium-sized latest Turonian lectotype, causing some nomenclatorial issues. I. stuemckei (heightmax 500 mm) and I. annulatus (heightmax one metre) are characterized by a stratigraphically abrupt shell enlargement and hinge buttressing across the Middle/Upper Turonian boundary and within the Early Coniacian, respectively. This shift to larger sizes, a common passive defense strategy against predation, is accompanied by widespread evidence for increased Late Turonian predation pressure by marine durophages. We thus speculate that the size increase in Late Turonian–Early Coniacian inoceramid bivalves is part of an escalating arms race between prey and predators, ultimately triggering Late Cretaceous inoceramid gigantism.
Opportunistic behaviour of players’ agents in football and its monitoring by the players—an empirical analysis from the perspective of the players
Authors: Gohritz Andreas , Hovemann Gregor , Ehnold Peter
Published: June 2022

This article explores the following questions: (1) To what extent and in relation to which activities do football players perceive actions of their agents that are directed against their own interests depending on their performance levels? (2) Are players’ agents monitored by their players, and if so, in relation to which activities? (3) Which factors influence the monitoring behaviour of players? The relationship between the actors is modelled as a principal–agent relationship. The explorative study includes a dataset of 336 professional German football players. A logistic regression model was used to consider relevant factors influencing players’ monitoring behaviour. The results indicate that players’ agents across all leagues take actions potentially harmful to the players and show that approximately 50–60% of the players had their current agent monitored. Monitoring behaviour is influenced by ‘selection criteria’ and ‘framework conditions of the working relationship’, but not to the extent that could be expected. The research helps to understand the increasingly important relationship between players and agents. Players need to be aware that agents pursue their own objectives, which could be against the players interests. Therefore, monitoring is necessary. But data also show a lack of transparency, so that players do not know what agents are allowed to do and what is forbidden. If the associations and/or the players’ unions want to prevent possible damage to the players by their agents, it seems advisable to intensify and support information and awareness-raising campaigns or to adopt new statutes that regulate the players’ agents market more closely.
In silico SARS-CoV-2 vaccine development for Omicron strain using reverse vaccinology
Authors: Li Vladimir , Lee Chul , Yoo DongAhn , Cho Seoae , Kim Heebal
Published: June 2022

Background

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic began in 2019 but it remains as a serious threat today. To reduce and prevent spread of the virus, multiple vaccines have been developed. Despite the efforts in developing vaccines, Omicron strain of the virus has recently been designated as a variant of concern (VOC) by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Objective

To develop a vaccine candidate against Omicron strain (B.1.1.529, BA.1) of the SARS-CoV-19.

Methods

We applied reverse vaccinology methods for BA.1 and BA.2 as the vaccine target and a control, respectively. First, we predicted MHC I, MHC II and B cell epitopes based on their viral genome sequences. Second, after estimation of antigenicity, allergenicity and toxicity, a vaccine construct was assembled and tested for physicochemical properties and solubility. Third, AlphaFold2, RaptorX and RoseTTAfold servers were used to predict secondary structures and 3D structures of the vaccine construct. Fourth, molecular docking analysis was performed to test binding of our construct with angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Lastly, we compared mutation profiles on the epitopes between BA.1, BA.2, and wild type to estimate the efficacy of the vaccine.

Results

We collected a total of 10 MHC I, 9 MHC II and 5 B cell epitopes for the final vaccine construct for Omicron strain. All epitopes were predicted to be antigenic, non-allergenic and non-toxic. The construct was estimated to have proper stability and solubility. The best modelled tertiary structures were selected for molecular docking analysis with ACE2 receptor.

Conclusions

These results suggest the potential efficacy of our newly developed vaccine construct as a novel vaccine candidate against Omicron strain of the coronavirus.
Efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution coupled with benzaldehyde production over 0D Cd0.5Zn0.5S/2D Ti3C2 Schottky heterojunction
Authors: Tao Junnan , Wang Mingyuan , Liu Guiwu , Liu Qinqin , Lu Lei , Wan Neng , Tang Hua , Qiao Guanjun
Published: June 2022

Converting water into hydrogen fuel and oxidizing benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde simultaneously under visible light illumination is of great significance, but the fast recombination of photogenerated carriers in photocatalysts seriously decreases the conversion efficiency. Herein, a novel dual-functional 0D Cd0.5Zn0.5S/2D Ti3C2 hybrid was fabricated by a solvothermally in-situ generated assembling method. The Cd0.5Zn0.5S nano-spheres with a fluffy surface completely and uniformly covered the ultrathin Ti3C2 nanosheets, leading to the increased Schottky barrier (SB) sites due to a large contact area, which could accelerate the electron-hole separation and improve the light utilization. The optimized Cd0.5Zn0.5S/Ti3C2 hybrid simultaneously presents a hydrogen evolution rate of 5.3 mmol/(g·h) and a benzaldehyde production rate of 29.3 mmol/(g·h), which are ∼3.2 and 2 times higher than those of pristine Cd0.5Zn0.5S, respectively. Both the multiple experimental measurements and the density functional theory (DFT) calculations further demonstrate the tight connection between Cd0.5Zn0.5S and Ti3C2, formation of Schottky junction, and efficient photogenerated electron—hole separation. This paper suggests a dual-functional composite catalyst for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution and benzaldehyde production, and provides a new strategy for preventing the photogenerated electrons and holes from recombining by constructing a 0D/2D heterojunction with increased SB sites.