bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental DNA reveals diversity and abundance of Alternaria species in neighbouring heterogeneous landscapes in Worcester, UK
Authors: Apangu Godfrey Philliam , Frisk Carl Alexander , Petch Geoffrey M. , Muggia Lucia , Pallavicini Alberto , Hanson Mary , Skjøth Carsten Ambelas
Published: October 2022

Alternaria is a pathogenic and allergenic fungus affecting 400 plant species and 334 million people globally. This study aimed at assessing the diversity of Alternaria species in airborne samples collected from closely located (7 km apart) and heterogeneous sites (rural, urban and unmanaged grassland) in Worcester and Lakeside, the UK. A secondary objective was to examine how the ITS1 subregion varies from ITS2 in Alternaria species diversity and composition. Airborne spores were collected using Burkard 7-day and multi-vial Cyclone samplers for the period 5 July 2016–9 October 2019. Air samples from the Cyclone were amplified using the ITS1and ITS2 subregions and sequenced using Illumina MiSeq platform whereas those from the Burkard sampler were identified and quantified using optical microscopy. Optical microscopy and eDNA revealed a high abundance of Alternaria in the rural, urban and unmanaged sites. ITS1 and ITS2 detected five and seven different Alternaria species at the three sampling sites, respectively. A. dactylidicola, A. metachromatica and A. infectoria were the most abundant. The rural, urban and unmanaged grassland sites had similar diversity (PERMANOVA) of the species due to similarity in land use and proximity of the sites. Overall, the study showed that heterogeneous and neighbouring sites with similar land uses can have similar Alternaria species. It also demonstrated that an eDNA approach can complement the classical optical microscopy method in providing more precise information on fungal species diversity in an environment for targeted management. Similar studies can be replicated for other allergenic and pathogenic fungi.
DNMT2/TRDMT1 gene knockout compromises doxorubicin-induced unfolded protein response and sensitizes cancer cells to ER stress-induced apoptosis
Authors: Adamczyk-Grochala Jagoda , Bloniarz Dominika , Zielinska Klaudia , Lewinska Anna , Wnuk Maciej
Published: October 2022

The acidic, hypoxic and nutrient-deprived tumor microenvironment may induce endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and the unfolded protein response (UPR) may exert an important cytoprotective role by promoting folding of newly synthesized proteins and cancer cell survival. The lack of DNMT2/TRDMT1 methyltransferase-mediated C38 tRNA methylation compromises translational fidelity that may result in the accumulation of misfolded and aggregated proteins leading to proteotoxic stress-related cell death. In the present study, DNMT2/TRDMT1 gene knockout-mediated effects were investigated during doxorubicin (DOX)-induced ER stress and PERK-, IRE1- and ATF6-orchestrated UPR in four genetically different cellular models of cancer (breast and cervical cancer, osteosarcoma and glioblastoma cells). Upon DOX stimulation, DNMT2/TRDMT1 gene knockout impaired PERK activation and modulated NSUN and 5-methylcytosine RNA-based responses and microRNA profiles. The lack of DNMT2/TRDMT1 gene in DOX-treated four cancer cell lines resulted in decreased levels of four microRNAs, namely, miR-23a-3p, miR-93-5p, miR-125a-5p and miR-191-5p involved in the regulation of several pathways such as ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, amino acid degradation and translational misregulation in cancer. We conclude that DNMT2/TRDMT1 gene knockout, at least in selected cellular cancer models, affects adaptive responses associated with protein homeostasis networks that during prolonged ER stress may result in increased sensitivity to apoptotic cell death.
Polymer-modified regenerated cellulose membranes: following the atom transfer radical polymerization concepts consistent with the principles of green chemistry
Authors: Zaborniak Izabela , Chmielarz Paweł
Published: October 2022

Synthetic routes for functionalization of cellulose membranes by polymer chains characterized by controlled structures are constantly developed to precisely adjust the properties of the prepared material while minimizing the impact on the membrane performance. The review presents a critical and integrative evaluation of prior research on atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) techniques, emphasizing methods carried out with diminished catalyst concentration that were used for grafting polymers from cellulose membranes. The paper introduces cellulose as a naturally-derived and efficient material for filtration membrane production focusing on the fundamentals of the cellulose structure, and the reasons, and advantages of using cellulose as a membrane-built substrate. It also covers fundamental mechanistic aspects of ATRP and introduces the basic principles of low ppm ATRP methods focusing on the latest reports. The works up to date concerning the functionalization of cellulose membranes by the “classic” ATRP concept, paying attention to the concentration of the complex used and synthetic methodology, as well as the final properties of the obtained materials are shown. Subsequent, low ppm ATRP techniques are discussed against the background of the “classic” approach in synthesizing bioactive surfaces and functional biomaterials based on the structure of cellulose membranes, with emphasis on the advantages of methods with diminished catalyst level as a more cost-effective and thus more compatible to use in a commercial application. The present work is a concise and perspective review, which shows both the achievements to date and broad prospects for the development of this issue in the coming years.

Graphical Abstract
The Role of Disability in the Relationship Between Mental Health and Bullying: A Focused, Systematic Review of Longitudinal Studies
Authors: Augustine Lilly , Bjereld Ylva , Turner Russell
Published: October 2022

Having both a disability and being bullied increases the risk of later mental health issues. Children with disabilities are at greater risk of being bullied and therefore at greater risk of adverse mental health outcomes. We conducted a limited systematic review of longitudinal studies focusing on the role of disability in relation to bullying and mental health problems. Twelve studies with an initial measure of mental health or disorder, measured no later than 10 years of age, were found. Ten of these twelve studies suggested that having a disability before victimisation increased the impact of mental health problems measured after bullying experiences. The conclusion is that children with a disability, such as behavioural problems, have an increased risk of later mental health problems through bullying victimization. Children with two risk factors had significantly worse mental health outcomes. These additional mental health problems may be alleviated through reduced bullying victimisation.
Embedded antipodal planes and the minimum weight of the dual code of points and lines in projective planes of order $$p^2$$
Authors: De Boeck Maarten , Van de Voorde Geertrui
Published: October 2022

The minimum weight of the code generated by the incidence matrix of points versus lines in a projective plane has been known for over 50 years. Surprisingly, finding the minimum weight of the dual code of projective planes of non-prime order is still an open problem, even in the Desarguesian case. In this paper, we focus on the case of projective planes of order $$p^2$$

p
2

, where p is prime, and we link the existence of small weight code words in the dual code to the existence of embedded subplanes and antipodal planes. In the Desarguesian case, we can exclude such code words by showing a more general result that no antipodal plane of order at least 3 can be embedded in a Desarguesian projective plane. Furthermore, we use combinatorial arguments to rule out the existence of code words in the dual code of points and lines of an arbitrary projective plane of order $$p^2$$

p
2

, p prime, of weight at most $$2p^2-2p+4$$

2

p
2

-
2
p
+
4

using more than two symbols. In particular, this leads to the result that the dual code of the Desarguesian projective plane $${{\,\textrm{PG}\,}}(2,p^2)$$

PG

(
2
,

p
2

)

, $$p\ge 5$$

p
≥
5

, has minimum weight at least $$2p^2-2p+5$$

2

p
2

-
2
p
+
5

.
Comparing the RETeval® portable ERG device with more traditional tabletop ERG systems in normal subjects and selected retinopathies
Authors: You Jia Yue , Dorfman Allison L. , Gauvin Mathieu , Vatcher Dylan , Polomeno Robert C. , Little John M. , Lachapelle Pierre
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Our study aimed to determine if ISCEV standard-like ERGs recorded with the LKC RETeval® portable ERG unit compared to those obtained using the more traditional tabletop unit.

Methods

ERGs recorded from normal subjects and patients affected with retinal ON and OFF pathway anomalies were compared. Analysis included peak time and amplitude measurements as well as time–frequency domain analysis with the discrete wavelet transform of waveforms obtained with the two systems.

Results

Although both systems were similarly able to record reliable and highly reproducible ERG responses, there were major discrepancies in ERG responses between the portable and tabletop units, pointing toward a weaker stimulation of the retinal OFF pathway with the portable RETeval® unit.

Conclusion

The portable RETeval® unit appears to be able to record highly reproducible and diagnostically useful clinical ERGs, albeit with some significant differences in waveform composition compared to those obtained with more standard tabletop systems. Given the unknown origin of these waveform discrepancies, if left uncorrected, these differences could potentially lead to erroneous interpretation when used in the clinical context and/or compared to ERGs recorded using more traditional table top units. Clearly, more research is warranted before handheld devices, such as the RETeval®, can be homologated as a diagnostically sound ERG devices.
Net neutrality and high-speed broadband networks: evidence from OECD countries
Authors: Briglauer Wolfgang , Cambini Carlo , Gugler Klaus , Stocker Volker
Published: October 2022

Network neutrality regulations are intended to preserve the Internet as a non-discriminatory, public network and an open platform for innovation. Whereas the U.S. reversed its regulations in 2017, returning to a less strict regime, the EU has maintained its course and recently revised implementation guidelines for its strict and rather interventionist net neutrality regulations. To this day, there exist only a few empirical investigations on the impact of network neutrality regulations, based on rather broad measures of investment activities for individual countries. Our paper provides the first estimation results on the causal impact of net neutrality regulations on new high-speed (fiber-optic cable-based) infrastructure investment by Internet service providers. We use a comprehensive and most recent OECD panel data set for 32 countries for the period from 2000 to 2021 covering the entire high-speed broadband network deployment period. We employ various panel estimation techniques, including instrumental variables estimation. Our empirical analysis is based on theoretical underpinnings derived from a simplified model in a two-sided market framework. We find empirical evidence that net neutrality regulations exert a significant and strong negative impact on fiber investments. Our results suggest that, while we cannot provide evidence on the overall welfare consequences of net neutrality, imposing strict net neutrality regulations clearly slow down the deployment of new fiber-based broadband connections.
Non-intrusive speech quality assessment using context-aware neural networks
Authors: Jaiswal Rahul Kumar , Dubey Rajesh Kumar
Published: October 2022

To meet the human perceived quality of experience (QoE) while communicating over various Voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) applications, for example Google Meet, Microsoft Skype, Apple FaceTime, etc. a precise speech quality assessment metric is needed. The metric should be able to detect and segregate different types of noise degradations present in the surroundings before measuring and monitoring the quality of speech in real-time. Our research is motivated by the lack of clear evidence presenting speech quality metric that can firstly distinguish different types of noise degradations before providing speech quality prediction decision. To that end, this paper presents a novel non-intrusive speech quality assessment metric using context-aware neural networks in which the noise class (context) of the degraded or noisy speech signal is first identified using a classifier then deep neutral networks (DNNs) based speech quality metrics (SQMs) are trained and optimized for each noise class to obtain the noise class-specific (context-specific) optimized speech quality predictions (MOS scores). The noisy speech signals, that is, clean speech signals degraded by different types of background noises are taken from the NOIZEUS speech corpus. Results demonstrate that even in the presence of less number of speech samples available from the NOIZEUS speech corpus, the proposed metric outperforms in different contexts compared to the metric where the contexts are not classified before speech quality prediction.
A multicenter prospective comparative study evaluating cataract surgery and endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation either with or without iStent inject implantation in Brazilian patients with glaucoma
Authors: Lima Francisco E. , Geraissate João C. , Ávila Marcos P.
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Compare 12-month (12 M) safety and efficacy of endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (ECP) + cataract surgery (Group 1) versus ECP + cataract surgery + iStent inject trabecular micro-bypass implantation (Group 2) in Brazilian patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG).

Methods

This prospective, multicenter, comparative case series included patients with OAG and cataract who were randomized to receive treatment in Group 1 or Group 2. Outcomes included mean and percent reduction versus preoperative in intraocular pressure (IOP) and number of glaucoma medications; visual acuity; occurrence of adverse events; and rate of secondary surgeries.

Results

Preoperatively, Groups 1 and 2 had similar mean IOP (mean ± standard deviation 22.1 ± 3.6 and 22.0 ± 2.5 mmHg, respectively) and mean number of medications (3.3 ± 0.6 and 3.4 ± 0.6 medications, respectively). At all follow-up timepoints through 12 M, both groups achieved significant IOP and medication reductions versus preoperative (IOP p < 0.001 and number of medications p < 0.001 for both groups). At 12 M, IOP reductions were 24.2% (Group 1) and 43.6% (Group 2) (p < 0.001); mean medication reductions were 50.2% and 71.5%, respectively. Mean postoperative IOP and number of medications were higher in Group 1 than Group 2 (IOP p < 0.01 all visits, medication p < 0.01 at 6 M and 12 M). Adverse events were generally mild and infrequent in both groups.

Conclusion

Both treatment groups (ECP + phacoemulsification, with/without iStent inject implantation) achieved significant and safe reductions in IOP and medications versus preoperative in Brazilian OAG patients. Percent reductions were significantly greater, and mean IOP and medications were significantly lower, in the group receiving iStent inject.

Clinical trial registration (CTR)

CAAE project identification #20053019.5.0000.5078. Protocol #3.587.147. Clinical Trial Database of the Federal University of Goiás, Brazil. Registration Date: September 19, 2019.
Distinct Neurodevelopmental Trajectories in Groups of Very Preterm Children Screening Positively for Autism Spectrum Conditions
Authors: Hadaya Laila , Vanes Lucy , Karolis Vyacheslav , Kanel Dana , Leoni Marguerite , Happé Francesca , Edwards A. David , Counsell Serena J. , Batalle Dafnis , Nosarti Chiara
Published: October 2022

Very preterm (VPT; < 33 weeks’ gestation) toddlers screening positively for autism spectrum conditions (ASC) may display heterogenous neurodevelopmental trajectories. Here we studied neonatal brain volumes and childhood ASC traits evaluated with the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS-2) in VPT-born toddlers (N = 371; median age 20.17 months) sub-divided into three groups based on their Modified-Checklist for Autism in Toddlers scores. These were: those screening positively failing at least 2 critical items (critical-positive); failing any 3 items, but less than 2 critical items (non-critical-positive); and screening negatively. Critical-positive scorers had smaller neonatal cerebellar volumes compared to non-critical-positive and negative scorers. However, both positive screening groups exhibited higher childhood ASC traits compared to the negative screening group, suggesting distinct aetiological trajectories associated with ASC outcomes.
The empirics of economic growth over time and across nations: a unified growth perspective
Authors: Cervellati Matteo , Meyerheim Gerrit , Sunde Uwe
Published: October 2022

This research develops an expanded unified growth theory that incorporates the endogenous accumulation of physical capital, population, human capital, and technology. The model incorporates a complementarity between physical capital and human capital and can be extended to a multi-country setting with international technology diffusion. The analytical characterization of the mechanisms behind the observed patterns of long-run growth and comparative development delivers a consistent explanation for a large set of seemingly unrelated empirical facts. A quantitative multi-country version of the model matches various empirical regularities of long-run growth dynamics and comparative development patterns that have previously been studied in isolation. The findings also shed new light on the role of the demographic transition for convergence patterns, the specification of cross-country growth regressions, technology spillovers, and the secular stagnation debate.
Ventricular entry during surgical resection is associated with intracranial leptomeningeal dissemination in glioblastoma patients
Authors: Battista Francesca , Muscas Giovanni , Dinoi Francesca , Gadda Davide , Della Puppa Alessandro
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Glioblastoma (GBM) is associated with a poorer prognosis when leptomeningeal dissemination (LMD) occurs. Recently, the role of both ventricular entry (VE) during surgery and subventricular zone localization of tumors in promoting LMD in GBM patients has been debated. This article investigates the role of VE in causing LMD in GBM patients.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of GBMs operated on at our Institution between March 2018 and December 2020. We collected pre- and post-surgical images, anamnestic information, and surgical reports.

Results

Two hundred cases were collected. The GBM localization was periventricular in 69.5% of cases, and there was a VE during the surgical procedure in 51% of cases. The risk of post-surgical LMD in the case of VE was 16%. The rate of LMD was higher in the case of VE than not-VE (27.4% vs. 4%, p < 0.0001). The rate of LMD in periventricular GBM was 19% (p = 0.1131).

Conclusion

According to our data, VE is an independent factor associated with a higher rate of post-surgical LMD, and the periventricular localization is not independently correlated to this negative outcome. Neurosurgeons should avoid VE when possible. The correct surgical strategy should be founded on balancing the need for maximal EOR and the risks associated with VE.
A multicenter international prospective study of the validity and reliability of a COVID-19-specific health-related quality of life questionnaire
Authors: Amdal Cecilie Delphin , Falk Ragnhild Sørum , Singer Susanne , Pe Madeline , Piccinin Claire , Bottomley Andrew , Appiah Lambert Tetteh , Arraras Juan Ignacio , Bayer Oliver , Buanes Eirik Alnes , Darlington Anne Sophie , Arbanas Gracia Dekanic , Hofsø Kristin , Holzner Bernard , Sahlstrand-Johnson Pernilla , Kuliś Dagmara , Parmar Ghansyam , Rmeileh Niveen M. E. Abu , Schranz Melanie , Sodergren Samantha , Bjordal Kristin
Published: October 2022

Purpose

To develop and validate a health-related quality of life (HRQoL) questionnaire for patients with current or previous coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in an international setting.

Methods

This multicenter international methodology study followed standardized guidelines for a four-phase questionnaire development. Here, we report on the pretesting and validation of our international questionnaire. Adults with current or previous COVID-19, in institutions or at home were eligible. In the pretesting, 54 participants completed the questionnaire followed by interviews to identify administration problems and evaluate content validity. Thereafter, 371 participants completed the revised questionnaire and a debriefing form to allow preliminary psychometric analysis. Validity and reliability were assessed (correlation-based methods, Cronbach’s α, and intra-class correlation coefficient).

Results

Eleven countries within and outside Europe enrolled patients. From the pretesting, 71 of the 80 original items fulfilled the criteria for item-retention. Most participants (80%) completed the revised 71-item questionnaire within 15 min, on paper (n = 175) or digitally (n = 196). The final questionnaire included 61 items that fulfilled criteria for item retention or were important to subgroups. Item-scale correlations were > 0.7 for all but nine items. Internal consistency (range 0.68–0.92) and test–retest results (all but one scale > 0.7) were acceptable. The instrument consists of 15 multi-item scales and six single items.

Conclusion

The Oslo COVID-19 QLQ-W61© is an international, stand-alone, multidimensional HRQoL questionnaire that can assess the symptoms, functioning, and overall quality of life in COVID-19 patients. It is available for use in research and clinical practice. Further psychometric validation in larger patient samples will be performed.
The role of the sewer system in estimating urban emissions of chemicals of emerging concern
Authors: Zillien Caterina , Posthuma Leo , Roex Erwin , Ragas Ad
Published: October 2022

The use of chemicals by society has resulted in calls for more effective control of their emissions. Many of these chemicals are poorly characterized because of lacking data on their use, environmental fate and toxicity, as well as lacking detection techniques. These compounds are sometimes referred to as contaminants of emerging concern (CECs). Urban areas are an important source of CECs, where these are typically first collected in sewer systems and then discharged into the environment after being treated in a wastewater treatment plant. A combination of emission estimation techniques and environmental fate models can support the early identification and management of CEC-related environmental problems. However, scientific insight in the processes driving the fate of CECs in sewer systems is limited and scattered. Biotransformation, sorption and ion-trapping can decrease CEC loads, whereas enzymatic deconjugation of conjugated metabolites can increase CEC loads as metabolites are back-transformed into their parent respective compounds. These fate processes need to be considered when estimating CEC emissions. This literature review collates the fragmented knowledge and data on in-sewer fate of CECs to develop practical guidelines for water managers on how to deal with in-sewer fate of CECs and highlights future research needs. It was assessed to what extent empirical data is in-line with text-book knowledge and integrated sewer modelling approaches. Experimental half-lives (n = 277) of 96 organic CECs were collected from literature. The findings of this literature review can be used to support environmental modelling efforts and to optimize monitoring campaigns, including field studies in the context of wastewater-based epidemiology.

Graphical abstract
A Comparison of Migrant Integration Policies via Mixture of Matrix-Normals
Authors: Alaimo Leonardo Salvatore , Amato Francesco , Maggino Filomena , Piscitelli Alfonso , Seri Emiliano
Published: October 2022

In recent decades, there has been a growing interest in comparative studies about migrant integration, assimilation and the evaluation of policies implemented for these purposes. Over the years, the Migrant Integration Policy Index (MIPEX) has become a reference on these topics. This index measures and evaluates the policies of migrants’ integration in 52 countries over time. However, the comparison of very different countries can be difficult and, if not well conducted, can lead to misleading interpretations and evaluations of the results. The aim of this paper is to improve this comparison and facilitate the reading of the considered phenomenon, by applying a Mixture of Matrix-Normals classification model for longitudinal data. Focusing on data for 7 MIPEX dimensions from 2014 to 2019, our analysis identify 5 clusters of countries, facilitating the evaluation and the comparison of the countries within each cluster and between different clusters.
Female-driven social entrepreneurship in service business
Authors: Mas-Tur Alicia
Published: October 2022

The United Nations has stated that to meet the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the 2030 Agenda, analysis of the development and impact of women entrepreneurship is needed. Based on data from the Web of Science, an initial analysis of research on both women entrepreneurship and social entrepreneurship was performed. Although the first published article date back to 2004, it was not until 2014 when scholars began to study women social entrepreneurship more systematically. This special issue covers these two areas in conjunction, with an added emphasis on service business.
The effect of transparency and trust on intelligent system acceptance: Evidence from a user-based study
Authors: Wanner Jonas , Herm Lukas-Valentin , Heinrich Kai , Janiesch Christian
Published: October 2022

Contemporary decision support systems are increasingly relying on artificial intelligence technology such as machine learning algorithms to form intelligent systems. These systems have human-like decision capacity for selected applications based on a decision rationale which cannot be looked-up conveniently and constitutes a black box. As a consequence, acceptance by end-users remains somewhat hesitant. While lacking transparency has been said to hinder trust and enforce aversion towards these systems, studies that connect user trust to transparency and subsequently acceptance are scarce. In response, our research is concerned with the development of a theoretical model that explains end-user acceptance of intelligent systems. We utilize the unified theory of acceptance and use in information technology as well as explanation theory and related theories on initial trust and user trust in information systems. The proposed model is tested in an industrial maintenance workplace scenario using maintenance experts as participants to represent the user group. Results show that acceptance is performance-driven at first sight. However, transparency plays an important indirect role in regulating trust and the perception of performance.
Fabrication of Grafted Carboxymethyl Cellulose Superabsorbent Hydrogel for Water Retention and Sustained Release of Ethephon in Sandy Soil
Authors: Omer Ahmed M. , Tamer Tamer M. , Hassan Mohamed E. , Khalifa Randa E. , Abd El-Monaem Eman M. , Eltaweil Abdelazeem S. , Mohy Eldin Mohamed S.
Published: October 2022

The present study aimed to develop an efficient superabsorbent hydrogel for water conservation and slow release of Ethephon in sandy soil. Herein, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) was grafted via a free radical polymerization technique with acrylamide and 2-Acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid (AMPS) as hydrophilic monomers. The developed CMC-g-(PAM-co-PAMPS) graft copolymer superabsorbent hydrogel was characterized by FTIR, TGA, and SEM analysis to prove the occurrence of the grafting process. Several factors affecting the grafting process were investigated, while maximum grafting (%) value reached 91%. Moreover, increasing AMPS ratio obviously improved the swelling degree of the developed hydrogel with a maximal value of 17,770%. Moreover, addition of 2% of hydrogel to sandy soil potentially enhanced the water retention by 47% compared to pure sandy soil which retained about 7% of water. Besides, increasing Ethephon ratio up to 20% significantly increased its loading (%) value up to 88%, while about 87% of Ethephon was released within 28 days in a slow and sustained manner. The results suggested that the fabricated grafted hydrogel can serve as nutrient carrier and amendment for sandy soil for advanced agricultural applications.
Adaptive Thermoforming and Structural Design of Millimeter-Wave Antenna Panels
Authors: Hatfield Zack , Peter Alex St. , Davila-Peralta Christian , Berkson Joel , Kim Daewook , Hyatt Justin
Published: October 2022

Future large-scale radio telescope observatories, such as the next-generation Very Large Array, involve extremely large collection areas. These collection areas are divided into smaller shaped panels, which typically require their own unique molds to manufacture. For these projects to be cost-effective, an efficient fabrication method for the shaped panels is needed. This paper outlines the development and success of a novel adaptive freeform panel molding technology that greatly improves manufacturing efficiency due to its repeatable and reusable nature. Moreover, it presents an analysis of a proposed panel structural design for the shaped panels, which incorporates a study on surface deformation due to gravity and wind loading under realistic operational conditions.
Combining stable isotope and WQI methods to study the groundwater quality: a case study in Essaouira city, Morocco
Authors: Bahir Mohammed , El Mountassir Otman , Dhiba Driss , Chehbouni Abdelghani , Carreira Paula M. , elbiar Hakam
Published: October 2022

Groundwater is an important water resource in arid and semi-arid regions. Therefore, this study aimed to assess groundwater's suitability for drinking and irrigation using the Water Quality Index (WQI) and the Irrigation Water Quality Index (IWQI). To this end, groundwater data were collected from 58 sites in 2019 (wet season) and 61 samples in 2020 (dry season) in the Meskala-Ouazzi sub-basin. The Piper diagram showed that Ca–Mg–Cl was the dominant groundwater facies type. The confinement due to COVID-19 has significantly improved the water quality of the Meskala-Ouazzi sub-basin. Instead, approximately 50% of sites showed improved water quality when calculating the WQI and IWQI. However, the sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) showed that most samples below 10 are found in all of the examined samples, which are mostly found, indicating excellent irrigation water, and the Wilcox diagram depicted 20.14% of samples lying in the unsuitable region. Stable isotopes (δ18O and δ2H) of groundwater reveal that local precipitation is the main source of recharge. However, groundwater recharge is affected by the evaporation process due to the different geological conditions caused by topographic differences in the study area. The present study is useful for proper planning and managing water resources available for consumption and irrigation.
Combining multiple human physiological signals using fuzzy logic to determine stress caused by battle dress uniforms
Authors: Periyaswamy Thamizhisai , Balasubramanian Mahendran
Published: October 2022

This study presents a novel stress index for clothing using physiological signals to estimate stress induced by battle dress uniforms (BDU) during physical activity. The approach uses a fuzzy logic-based nonlinear mapping to compute the stress from physiological signals. Ten healthy men performed a battery of physical activities in a controlled environment. Heart rate (HR), respiration rate (RR), skin temperature (ST), and galvanic skin response (GSR) were measured continuously for the participants during activity wearing three kinds of clothing (two BDUs and a control garment). The individual physiological responses were combined using a fuzzy-logic system to derive a stress measure called Clothed Activity Stress Index (CASI). Repeated measures ANOVA showed that the garments significantly (α = .05) affected the HR (p < .001) and RR (p < .001). In addition, interactions between the activity and garment were significant for HR, RR, and ST (p < .001, p < .001, p < .036). The physiological measures differed significantly between rest and activity for the two uniforms. The stress indices (ranging between 0 and 1) during rest and activity were 0.24 and 0.35 for control, 0.27 and 0.43 for BDU-1, and 0.33 and 0.44 for BDU-2. It is shown here that clothing systems impact human stress levels to a measurable level. This computational approach is applicable to measure stress caused by protective wear under different operational conditions and can be suitable for sports and combat gears.

Article Highlights

A computational approach to non-linearly map human physiological signals and stress is presented.

The stress caused by functional clothing systems is estimated using a fuzzy-logic mapping system for battle dress uniforms.

Heart and respiration rates are highly sensitive to stress, while skin temperature and galvanic skin response are moderately sensitive.
Antianemic activity of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd) Collana Negra variety and kanihua (Chenopodium pallidicaule Aellen) Ramis variety seed flour in anemic rats
Authors: Moscoso-Mujica Gladys , Mujica Ángel , Chávez Juana , Peña Carmen , Begazo Noelia , Estrella Jumira , Estrada Zaira , Tello Liliana , Ramos Yeltsin , Rivera David , Inocente Carla , Huarca Fabricio
Published: October 2022

The Andean grains from the Peruvian Altiplano, quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd) and kanihua (Chenopodium pallidicaule Aellen) have high protein content and an optimal balance of essential amino acids and minerals such as iron (19.8 mg/100 g y 17.6 mg/100 g, respectively). The objective of this research was to evaluate the antianemic activity of extruded flour from quinoa seeds variety Negra Collana and kanihua variety Ramis in anemic Holtzman strain rats. The results of the proximal analysis showed high protein content in quinoa at 22% and kanihua at 16.2%, and the acute toxicity test showed harmlessness up to the dose of 15000 mg/Kg in both flours confirmed with the anatomopathological observation of organs such as liver, stomach, lung, kidneys, and brain. In the evaluation of the antianemic activity, a basal average of 29.3 ± 0.2% of hematocrit was observed in the group of anemic rats treated with quinoa flour, and in twelve weeks, it increased to 53.8 ± 0.3% of hematocrit (p ≤ 0.05). A group of anemic rats treated with kanihua flour had a basal average of 29.5 ± 0.3%, and in twelve weeks, it increased to 51.7 ± 0.3% (p ≤ 0.05). A group of rats without anemia treated with quinoa and kanihua flour showed a basal average of 50.2 ± 0.2% and 49.3 ± 0.3%; in twelve weeks, it increased to 55.2 ± 0.2% and 54.8 ± 0.1%, respectively. It was concluded that oral administration of 360 mg/Kg every 24 h of quinoa flour and kanihua flour increased hematocrit levels by 24.5 ± 0.5% and 22.2 ± 0.3%; weight 65.8 ± 0.3 g and 59.2 ± 0.1 g; height 6.8 ± 0.1 cm and 5.7 ± 0.5 cm, respectively (p ≤ 0.05). In rats without anemia increased hematocrit levels by 5.3 ± 0.0% and 5.5 ± 0.0%; weight 37.7 ± 0.1 g and 21.7 ± 0.05 g; height 4 ± 0.0 cm and 3.9 ± 0.0 cm, respectively (p ≤ 0.05).
The sliding-contact factor (ηsc): a novel index for slip risk definition
Authors: Scialò Ciro
Published: October 2022

The causes of slip are multiple and depend on the mechanical and aesthetic characteristics of the surfaces in contact, and on external elements related to the specific situation. The non-slip characteristics of a surface can be evaluated by measuring the dynamic friction coefficient (DCoF). Hazardous conditions generally appear and progress over time as a result of use, aging-related natural degradation, lack of or incorrect cleaning and maintenance. This study focuses on the characteristics of roughness profiles of the surfaces in contact and aims at the identification of those roughness parameters that can allow a more reliable evaluation of both the "slip risk index" and of its change over time due to alterations of surface texture. The sliding-contact factor,ηsc, is identified as a candidate for the evaluation of slip risk, and is represented by a dimensionless number that can be calculated using only the data of some roughness parameters, measured by a handheld instrument (Portable Surface Roughness Measuring Instrument), portable and easy to use. The sliding-contact factorηsc allows the evaluation of the "slip risk index" of dry and water-contaminated surfaces and can increase the accuracy of the assessment of the "slip risk index” if evaluated through the DCoF only.

Article Highlights

A new parameter, termed sliding-contact factor ηsc is defined and is correlated with the dynamic friction coefficient.

A classification of the slip risk index can be performed by means of the introduced sliding- contact factor ηsc.

The present work can represent a basis for the development of a new international standard for slip-risk assessment.
Time-resolved photoacoustics of channelrhodopsins: early energetics and light-driven volume changes
Authors: Walter Maria , Schubert Luiz , Heberle Joachim , Schlesinger Ramona , Losi Aba
Published: October 2022

In biological photoreceptors, the energy stored in early transient species is a key feature to drive the photocycle or a chain of reactions. Time-resolved photoacoustics (PA) can explore the energy landscape of transient species formed within few ns after photoexcitation, as well as volumetric changes (ΔV) of these intermediates with respect to the parental state. In this work, PA identified these important parameters for several channelrhodopsins, namely CaChR1 from Chlamydomonas augustae and CrChR2 from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii and various variants. PA has access to the sub-ns formation of the early photoproduct P1 and to its relaxation, provided that this latter process occurs within a few μs. We found that ΔVP1 for CaChR1 is ca. 12 mL/mol, while it is much smaller for CrChR2 (4.7 mL/mol) and for H. salinarum bacteriorhodopsin (HsBR, ΔVK = 2.8 mL/mol). PA experiments on variants strongly indicate that part of this large ΔVP1 value for CaChR1 is caused by the protonation dynamics of the Schiff base counterion complex involving E169 and D299. PA data further show that the energy level of P1 is higher in CrChR2 (ca. 96 kJ/mol) than in CaChr1 (ca. 46 kJ/mol), comparable to the energy level of the K state of HsBR (60 kJ/mol). Instrumental to gain these molecular values from the raw PA data was the estimation of the quantum yield (Φ) for P1 formation via transient spectroscopy; for both channelrhodopsins, ΦP2 was evaluated as ca. 0.4.

Graphical Abstract
Do agrivoltaics improve public support for solar? A survey on perceptions, preferences, and priorities
Authors: Pascaris Alexis S. , Schelly Chelsea , Rouleau Mark , Pearce Joshua M.
Published: October 2022

Agrivoltaic systems integrate agricultural production with solar photovoltaic electricity generation. Given the proven technical, economic, and environmental co-benefits provided by agrivoltaic systems, increased proliferation is anticipated, which necessitates accounting for the nuances of community resistance to solar development on farmland and identifying pathways for mitigation. Minimizing siting conflict and addressing agricultural communities’ concerns will be key in continued deployment of agrivoltaics, as localized acceptance of solar is a critical determinant of project success. This survey study assessed if public support for solar development increases when energy and agricultural production are combined in an agrivoltaic system. Results show that 81.8% of respondents would be more likely to support solar development in their community if it integrated agricultural production. This increase in support for solar given the agrivoltaic approach highlights a development strategy that can improve local social acceptance and the deployment rate of solar. Survey respondents prefer agrivoltaic projects that a) are designed to provide economic opportunities for farmers and the local community b) are not located on public property c) do not threaten local interests and d) ensure fair distribution of economic benefits. Proactively identifying what the public perceives as opportunities and concerns related to agrivoltaic development can help improve the design, business model, and siting of systems in the U.S.
Solutions to a $$(p_1, \ldots ,p_n)$$-Laplacian Problem with Hardy Potentials
Authors: Razani A. , Safari F.
Published: October 2022

We are concerned with the existence and multiplicity of weak solutions for a general form of a$$(p_1, \ldots ,p_n)$$(p1,…,pn)-Laplacian elliptic problem including singular terms. Our approaches are mainly based on critical points theory.
The 2021 Loyalty Islands Earthquake (Mw 7.7): Tsunami Waveform Inversion and Implications for Tsunami Forecasting for New Zealand
Authors: Gusman Aditya Riadi , Roger Jean , Power William , Fry Bill , Kaneko Yoshihiro
Published: October 2022

A tsunamigenic earthquake with thrust faulting mechanism occurred southeast of the Loyalty Islands, New Caledonia, in the Southern Vanuatu subduction zone on the 10th of February 2021. The tsunami was observed at coastal gauges in the surrounding islands and in New Zealand. The tsunami was also recorded at a new DART network designed to enhance the tsunami forecasting capability of the Southwestern Pacific. We used the tsunami waveforms in an inversion to estimate the fault slip distribution. The estimated major slip region is located near the trench with maximum slip of 4 m. This source model with an assumed rupture velocity of 1.0 km/s can reproduce the observed seismic waves. We evaluated two tsunami forecasting approaches for coastal regions in New Zealand: selecting a pre‐computed scenario, and interpolating between two pre‐computed scenarios. For the evaluation, we made a reference map of tsunami threat levels in New Zealand using the estimated source model. The results show that the threat level maps from the pre‐computed Mw 7.7 scenario located closest to the epicenter, and from an interpolation of two scenarios, match the reference threat levels in most coastal regions. Further improvements to enhance the system toward more robust warnings include expansion of scenario database and incorporation of tsunami observation around tsunami source regions. We also report on utilization of the coastal gauge and DART station data for updating forecasts in real‐time during the event and discuss the differences between the rapid‐response forecast and post‐event retrospective forecasts.
A High‐End Estimate of Sea Level Rise for Practitioners
Authors: van de Wal R. S. W. , Nicholls R. J. , Behar D. , McInnes K. , Stammer D. , Lowe J. A. , Church J. A. , DeConto R. , Fettweis X. , Goelzer H. , Haasnoot M. , Haigh I. D. , Hinkel J. , Horton B. P. , James T. S. , Jenkins A. , LeCozannet G. , Levermann A. , Lipscomb W. H. , Marzeion B. , Pattyn F. , Payne A. J. , Pfeffer W. T. , Price S. F. , Seroussi H. , Sun S. , Veatch W. , White K.
Published: October 2022

Sea level rise (SLR) is a long‐lasting consequence of climate change because global anthropogenic warming takes centuries to millennia to equilibrate for the deep ocean and ice sheets. SLR projections based on climate models support policy analysis, risk assessment and adaptation planning today, despite their large uncertainties. The central range of the SLR distribution is estimated by process‐based models. However, risk‐averse practitioners often require information about plausible future conditions that lie in the tails of the SLR distribution, which are poorly defined by existing models. Here, a community effort combining scientists and practitioners builds on a framework of discussing physical evidence to quantify high‐end global SLR for practitioners. The approach is complementary to the IPCC AR6 report and provides further physically plausible high‐end scenarios. High‐end estimates for the different SLR components are developed for two climate scenarios at two timescales. For global warming of +2°C in 2100 (RCP2.6/SSP1‐2.6) relative to pre‐industrial values our high‐end global SLR estimates are up to 0.9 m in 2100 and 2.5 m in 2300. Similarly, for a (RCP8.5/SSP5‐8.5), we estimate up to 1.6 m in 2100 and up to 10.4 m in 2300. The large and growing differences between the scenarios beyond 2100 emphasize the long‐term benefits of mitigation. However, even a modest 2°C warming may cause multi‐meter SLR on centennial time scales with profound consequences for coastal areas. Earlier high‐end assessments focused on instability mechanisms in Antarctica, while here we emphasize the importance of the timing of ice shelf collapse around Antarctica. This is highly uncertain due to low understanding of the driving processes. Hence both process understanding and emission scenario control high‐end SLR.
Generation of Continental Lithospheric Mantle by Tectonic Isolation of Oceanic Plate
Authors: Oller Brian , Day James M. D. , Driscoll Neal W. , Lonsdale Peter F.
Published: October 2022

Continental formation models invoke subduction or plume‐related processes to create the buoyant, refractory character of continental lithospheric mantle (CLM). From similarities in melt depletion, major element composition, modal clinopyroxene, and Os isotope systematics it has been proposed that oceanic mantle lithosphere is the likely protolith to non‐cratonic CLM, however, a direct link between the two has been difficult to ascertain. Using dredged mantle peridotite xenoliths from the Ferrel Seamount, off the west coast of Baja California, Mexico, we show that tectonic isolation of an oceanic plate may lead to formation of non‐cratonic CLM. Ferrel xenoliths are coarse‐grained spinel lherzolite, or rare harzburgite. Bulk‐rock and clinopyroxene trace element compositions reveal two‐stages of melt refertilization following melt depletion, with infiltration by mid‐ocean ridge basalt‐type melts, followed by melt addition from host alkali basalt. Melt depletion correlations with 187Os/188Os and highly siderophile element abundances indicate preserved melt depletion and refertilization processes are ancient. From these observations, the Ferrel xenoliths represent lithosphere from the abandoned Pacific‐Farallon ridge. The history of melt depletion, followed by MORB‐melt refertilization is consistent with the peridotites representing oceanic mantle lithosphere that was subsequently incorporated into the Baja‐Guadalupe microplate during “ridge jump.” These peridotites demonstrate that isolation of oceanic lithosphere that is rafted onto a continental margin provides a viable means for producing non‐cratonic CLM. We suggest that continuation of late‐stage, low degree melt refertilization may provide a link between oceanic lithosphere and non‐cratonic CLM and propose a tectonic model to preserve and facilitate this continued evolution.