bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Should individual animals be given names in wildlife reintroductions?
Authors: Auster Roger Edward , Puttock Alan , Bradbury Gareth , Brazier Richard
Published: June 2023

Individual animals are often given names by humans. For example, names are attributed to domestic animals to acknowledge their closeness to people, some research studies use names to identify differences between individuals in a study group, or zoos often use names to tell stories that attract public or media attention.

Publicly naming individual animals can provide opportunities in conservation, but there are also risks. In this perspective we exemplify such opportunities and risks in the context of wildlife reintroductions. We draw on examples and observations from our experience researching Eurasian beaverCastor fiberreintroduction in England, to encourage careful thinking before publicly attributing a name to an individual in reintroduction projects.

Naming individuals in reintroduction can: be a low‐cost engagement tool; help people relate to unfamiliar reintroduced species; encourage local ownership of reintroduction projects; enable an effective tool for communicating information about the species and ways to coexist; or support creative or cultural expression.

Yet naming individuals in reintroduction could: risk misrepresentation of natural species characteristics; make it challenging to normalise the sense that the reintroduced species is a wild animal; unintentionally imply that humans have ownership or power over the animal; cause distraction from establishing viable populations due to focus on the individual; or result in human investment in individual animals, which may have influence on reintroduction outcomes if that animal later comes to harm or dies (naturally or otherwise).

Synthesis and Applications. We argue there is more to the act of naming individuals than may first appear. If considering doing so, we call for careful thought about whether it is appropriate and how to go about it. While we intentionally refrain from concluding whether ‘to name or not to name’, we call for careful, informative, message framing that takes advantage of the opportunities and is prepared for future circumstances, when naming of individuals does take place.

Read the freePlain Language Summaryfor this article on the Journal blog.
Facile synthesis of polystyrene‐coated carbon nanotubes via microwave‐assisted in‐situ polymerization and tuning of the DC electrical conductivity and impedance characteristics
Authors: Jalali Shohreh , Baniadam Majid , Maghrebi Morteza
Published: June 2023

An attempt has been made to tune the DC electrical conductivity and impedance characteristics of the nanocomposites by coating carbon nanotubes (CNTs). A microwave‐assisted in‐situ polymerization approach is utilized to coat the CNTs with polystyrene and no initiators are used. The nanocomposites are characterized by FE‐SEM, TEM, FT‐IR, Raman and TGA. Based on the morphological studies, a polystyrene layer is detected on the CNTs. According to the TGA results, the weight loss in the temperature range of polystyrene decomposition increases with increasing microwave irradiation time, suggesting a higher polystyrene content. Moreover, the DC electrical conductivity of the nanocomposites, as well as the real and imaginary impedance and dielectric permittivity are explored. It is shown that increasing the irradiation time decreases the DC electrical conductivity and dielectric permittivity but increases the real and imaginary impedance. Since the thickness of the polystyrene layer depends on the duration of microwave irradiation, our method can be used to tune the electrical conductivity and impedance characteristics. This can be applied to practical situations where a particular resistance is required.
Effect of adding Indiana red matta rice husk Si3N4 bioceramic on mechanical, wear, flammability and tensile creep behavior of corn husk fiber polyester composite
Authors: Mohan Das Gandhi A. G. , Sivaraman R. , Nagabhooshanam N. , Verma Rajesh
Published: June 2023

The objective of this study was to examine the effect of adding Indian red matta rice husk Si3N4 bioceramic on flammability, wear, mechanical and thermal behavior of corn husk fiber‐reinforced polyester composites. The Si3N4 bioceramic was prepared using thermo‐chemical process and subsequently surface‐treated using silane via aqueous solution method. The composites were made using hand layup method and post cured at elevated temperature. The results of this investigation suggest that adding 30 vol% of corn husk fiber improved the mechanical properties as compared to pure epoxy, however the Si3N4 addition outperformed. Similar to this, the composite with 4.0 vol% of bioceramic particle has the highest wear resistances, with a lowest sp. wear rate of 0.008 mm3/Nm and a coefficient of friction of 0.31. According to the flammability results, the composite contains 30 vol% of corn husk fiber and 4 vol% of Si3N4 (ECS3) has the lowered combustion rate of 6.72 mm/min. Finally, the composite ECS3 produced the lowest creep strain of 0.0104, 0.0122, 0.0149, 0.0241, and 0.0444 for 2000, 4000, 6000, 8000, and 10000 s respectively. These composites with improved properties could be used in cutting edge latest technologies as functional materials in automotive, defense, food packaging, structural, and domestic goods manufacturing.
Increasing racial diversity in the North American Plant Phenotyping Network through conference participation support
Authors: LeBauer David , Bucksch Alexander , Clarke Jennifer , Potts Jesse , Roy Sonali
Published: June 2023

A key goal of the North American Plant Phenotyping Network (NAPPN) annual conference is to cultivate a new generation of scientists from diverse backgrounds. As part of their effort to diversify the plant phenomics research community, NAPPN acquired funding to cover all attendance costs for participants from historically black colleges and universities (HBCU) for the 2022 annual meeting. Seven award recipients represented the first attendees from HBCUs in the conference's 6‐year history. In this commentary, we report on the impact of the conference awards, including lessons learned, and the future of the award.
Pathological findings in congenital diaphragmatic hernia on necropsy studies: A single‐center case series
Authors: Meng Chu‐Yi , Zou Ji‐Zhen , Wang Ying , Wei Yan‐Dong , Li Jing‐Na , Liu Chao , Feng Zhong , Cai Ling‐Ling , Xiao Ping , Ma Li‐Shang
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is associated with high mortality rates and significant pulmonary morbidities. The objective of this study was to delineate the histopathological features observed in necropsies of CDH patients and correlate these with their clinical manifestations.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the postmortem findings and corresponding clinical characteristics in eight CDH cases from 2017 to July 2022.

Results

The median survival time was 46 (8–624) hours. Autopsy reports showed that diffuse alveolar damage (congestion and hemorrhage) and hyaline membrane formation were the primary pathological lung changes observed. Notably, despite significant reduction in lung volume, the lung development appeared normal in 50% of the cases, while lobulated deformities were present in three (37.5%) cases. All patients displayed a large patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and a patent foramen ovale, resulting in increased right ventricle (RV) volume, and myocardial fibers appeared slightly congested and swollen. The pulmonary vessels indicated thickening of the arterial media and adventitia. Lung hypoplasia and diffuse lung damage resulted in impaired gas exchange, while PDA and pulmonary hypertension led to RV failure, subsequent organ dysfunction and ultimately death.

Conclusions

Patients with CDH typically succumb to cardiopulmonary failure, a condition driven by a complex interplay of pathophysiological factors. This complexity accounts for the unpredictable response to currently available vasodilators and ventilation therapies.
Cross‐linking disulfide bonds govern solution structures of diabodies
Authors: Math Barbara A. , Waibl Franz , Lamp Leonida M. , Fernández‐Quintero Monica L. , Liedl Klaus R.
Published: June 2023

In the last years, antibodies have emerged as a promising new class of therapeutics, due to their combination of high specificity with long serum half‐life and low risk of side‐effects. Diabodies are a popular novel antibody format, consisting of two Fv domains connected with short linkers. Like IgG antibodies, they simultaneously bind two target proteins. However, they offer altered properties, given their smaller size and higher rigidity. In this study, we conducted the—to our knowledge—first molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of diabodies and find a surprisingly high conformational flexibility in the relative orientation of the two Fv domains. We observe rigidifying effects through the introduction of disulfide bonds in the Fv–Fv interface and characterize the effect of different disulfide bond locations on the conformation. Additionally, we compare VH–VL orientations and paratope dynamics between diabodies and an antigen binding fragment (Fab) of the same sequence. We find mostly consistent structures and dynamics, indicating similar antigen binding properties. The most significant differences can be found within the CDR‐H2 loop dynamics. Of all CDR loops, the CDR‐H2 is located closest to the artificial Fv–Fv interface. All examined diabodies show similar VH–VL orientations, Fv–Fv packing and CDR loop conformations. However, the variant with a P14C‐K64C disulfide bond differs most from the Fab in our measures, including the CDR‐H3 loop conformational ensemble. This suggests altered antigen binding properties and underlines the need for careful validation of the disulfide bond locations in diabodies.
A gas detector planning method that considers the area and zone based on the range of influence of chemicals with high vapor pressure
Authors: Kim Min‐Gyu , Lee Hyo Eun , Yoon Seok J. , Kim Jeong Hun , Moon Kyong‐Whan
Published: June 2023

In some countries with high population densities including Korea, chemical plants are densely distributed, and strict regulations are imposed. According to the Chemical Control Act, one gas detector must be installed every 10 m indoors and 20 m outdoors around a facility. However, the diffusion of chemicals should be evaluated based on area rather than perimeter. In the US and EU, gas detector locations are selected through chemical accident modeling. Here, we evaluated the feasibility of gas detector installation standards in the Chemicals Control Act by comparing highly volatile and toxic chemicals with sulfuric acid (relatively low volatility). Consequently, we suggested an appropriate installation location and number of gas detectors for initial countermeasures. For nitric acid, hydrochloric acid, and hydrofluoric acid, there was a difference in the number of detectors recommended via modeling and the number of detectors legally required. For the mezzanine design, four gas detectors should be installed on each floor in a 5‐story building; however, the modeling results showed that installing one was sufficient. For sulfuric acid with low vapor pressure, it is equitable to install a leak detector rather than a gas detector. Overall, regulations should be continuously evaluated for the response and prevention of chemical accidents.
Investigations on the Effect of Laser Texturing of Kapton Polyimide on the Piezoelectric Response of ZnO‐Based Nanogenerators
Authors: Purabiarao Nisarg Hirens , Lahane Tejswini K. , Agarwal Jitesh , Sahu Anshu , Singh Vipul , Palani Iyamperumal Anand
Published: June 2023

In this work, zinc oxide–based piezoelectric nanogenerator (PENG) over the flexible Kapton polyimide (PI) substrate is developed. The device performance is improved by laser texturing of PI substrate, which increases the effective surface area of PI and adhesivity of ZnO thin film with PI substrate to improve the reliability and life span of the device. The untextured PI‐based PENG generates a peak‐to‐peak output voltage, current, and power of 6 V, 420 nA, 2.42 μW, respectively, which increases to 15.8 V, 790 nA, and 12.51 μW, respectively, on using textured PI obtained by 60% laser spot overlap. On further increasing the laser spot overlap to 80%, the peak‐to‐peak output voltage, current, and power improve to 22.2 V, 1210 nA, and 26.88 μW, respectively. Therefore, as compared to the untextured‐PI‐based PENG, laser‐textured‐PI‐based PENG is a promising candidate for energy‐harvesting applications.
Simultaneous Delivery of Doxorubicin and EZH2‐Targeting siRNA by Vortex Magnetic Nanorods Synergistically Improved Anti‐Tumor Efficacy in Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Lu Yunshu , Gu Fenfen , Ma Yuwei , Li Ruonan , Luo Yi , Da Xianhong , Jiang Lan , Li Xiang , Liu Yan
Published: June 2023

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC), one of the most aggressive types of breast cancer, currently lacks a targeted therapy and has a high clinical recurrence rate. The present study reports an engineered magnetic nanodrug based on Fe3O4 vortex nanorods coated with a macrophage membrane loaded with doxorubicin (DOX) and Enhancer of zeste 2 polycomb repressive complex 2 subunit (EZH2) siRNA. This novel nanodrug displays excellent tissue penetration and preferential tumor accumulation. More importantly, it significantly increases tumor suppression compared to chemotherapy, suggesting the synergistic activity of the combination of doxorubicin and EZH2‐inhibition. Importantly, owing to tumor‐targeted delivery, nanomedicine shows an excellent safety profile after systemic delivery, unlike conventional chemotherapy. In summary, chemotherapy and gene therapy are combined into a novel magnetic nanodrug carrying doxorubicin and EZH2 siRNA, which shows promising clinical application potential in TNBC therapy.
Synergistic Dual‐Mechanism Localized Heat Channeling and Spectrum‐Tailored Liquid Metal Hydrogels for Efficient Solar Water Evaporation and Desalination
Authors: Yang Shengdu , He Yushun , Bai Junwei , Zhang Junhua
Published: June 2023

Photothermal hydrogels featuring broadband light absorption abilities and highly hydrated networks provide an appealing mass‐energy transfer platform for water evaporation by using solar energy. However, the targeted delivery of solar heat energy to power the water evaporation process remains challenging. Herein, enlightened by metal‐phenolic coordination chemistry and camouflaged architecture, photothermal hydrogels with dual‐mechanism vaporization structure are tactfully designed via a rational interfacial engineering and integration strategy to enable near‐µm heat confinement and highly efficient light‐to‐heat conversion ability. The spectrum‐tailored liquid metal droplet (LMGAs‐FeIII) and optimized carbon‐wrapped silver nanowire sponge (Ag@C750) are integrally built as photothermal promotors/channels and jointly embedded into a highly hydratable poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogel, denoted as PALGH, to synergistically boost water molecule activation and interfacial vaporization behavior by triggering robust photothermal performance. As a result, under one sun irradiation, the all‐embracing PALGH hydrogel evaporation system achieves a brine evaporation rate to a high level of 3.47 kg m−2 h−1, and >19 L m−2 clean water of PALGH is ideally delivered daily when purifying natural seawater. This work offers not only a rational design principle to create sophisticated photothermal materials but also replenishes insight into solar heat generation and water transportation in a cross‐media system.
Solvent Engineering of Oxygen‐Enriched Carbon Dots for Efficient Electrochemical Hydrogen Peroxide Production
Authors: Shen Xiaoyu , Wang Zeming , Guo Huazhang , Lei Zhendong , Liu Zheng , Wang Liang
Published: June 2023

The development of cost‐effective and reliable metal‐free carbon‐based electrocatalysts has gained significant attention for electrochemical hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) generation through a two‐electron oxygen reduction reaction. In this study, a scalable solvent engineering strategy is employed to fabricate oxygen‐doped carbon dots (O‐CDs) that exhibit excellent performance as electrocatalysts. By adjusting the ratio of ethanol and acetone solvents during the synthesis, the surface electronic structure of the resulting O‐CDs can be systematically tuned. The amount of edge active CO group was strongly correlated with the selectivity and activity of the O‐CDs. The optimum O‐CDs‐3 exhibited extraordinary H2O2 selectivity of up to 96.55% (n = 2.06) at 0.65 V (vs RHE) and achieved a remarkably low Tafel plot of 64.8 mV dec−1. Furthermore, the realistic H2O2 productivity yield of flow cell is measured to be as high as 111.18 mg h−1 cm−2 for a duration of 10 h. The findings highlight the potential of universal solvent engineering approach for enabling the development of carbon‐based electrocatalytic materials with improved performance. Further studies will be undertaken to explore the practical implications of the findings for advancing the field of carbon‐based electrocatalysis.
Readily prepared and processed multifunctional MXene nanocomposite hydrogels for smart electronics
Authors: Huang Jiahui , Huang Xianwu , Wu Peiyi
Published: June 2023

Booming sophisticated robotics and prosthetics put forward high requirements on soft conductive materials that can bridge electronics and biology, those soft conductive materials should imitate the mechanical properties of biological tissues and build information transmission networks. Until now, it remains a great challenge to handle the trade‐off among ease of preparation, high conductivity, processability, mechanical adaptability, and external stimuli responsiveness. Herein, a kind of readily prepared and processed multifunctional MXene nanocomposite hydrogel is reported, which is prepared via the fast gelation of cationic monomer initiated by delaminated MXene sheets. The gelation time can be adjusted (several seconds to minutes) based on the MXene loadings. By adjusting the MXene ratio, the resulting nanocomposites are ultrastretchable (>5000%), three‐dimensional (3D) printable, and show outstanding mechanical and electrical self‐healing. As expected, the integration of multifunctional systems onto various substrates (e.g., gloves and masks) is further demonstrated via 3D printing and could achieve diverse sensory capabilities toward strain, pressure, and temperature, showing great prospects as smart flexible electronics.
Degradation Science from Nanometers to Kilometers: A Pathway to Rapid Detection for Reliable Photovoltaics
Authors: Jordan Dirk C. , Barnes Teresa M.
Published: June 2023

Photovoltaics reliability for terrestrial applications has more than four decades of history and experience. International standards development has prevented many early life failures and must be continued in the future. Yet, as the module product development cycle is measured in mere months, additional investment in the fundamental degradation science and rapid detection should be developed. In this article, a brief strategy is provided addressing indoor accelerated, outdoor testing, and modeling efforts required to retain high reliability in the following decade.
Carbonzugglieder unter statischer und nicht ruhender Beanspruchung – Erste Ergebnisse aus dem Forschungsverbundvorhaben NeZuCa
Authors: Haspel Lorenz , Ebentheuer Barceló Jan , Krenn Burkhard , Oevermann Paul , Fettke Manuela , Schneider Lukas , Weidner Philipp , Ruff Daniel C. , Ummenhofer Thomas , Birtel Veit , Castridis Stefan , Lotze Dieter , Abrishambaf Amin , Hückler Alex , Schlaich Mike
Published: June 2023

Um eine ausreichende Verfügbarkeit der Brückeninfrastruktur gewährleisten zu können, werden Lösungen benötigt, welche den hohen Verkehrsbeanspruchungen dauerhaft zuverlässig standhalten und gleichzeitig durch Ressourcenschonung einen Beitrag zum Klimaschutz leisten können. Das Prinzip der Netzwerkbogenbrücke erlaubt effiziente und verformungsarme Brückentragwerke mit Spannweiten bis über 300 m unter Einsatz von schlanken, vorwiegend normalkraftbeanspruchten Haupttraggliedern. Der Einsatz des Hochleistungswerkstoffs Carbon (unidirektionale Carbon Fiber Polymer Composite, UD‐CFPC) erlaubt eine äußerst leistungsfähige Leichtbaulösung für hoch beanspruchte Zugglieder und eröffnet zudem Einsparpotenziale im Primärtragwerk. Carbonzugglieder sind gegenwärtig nicht bauaufsichtlich geregelt. Als Grundlage für eine Zustimmung im Einzelfall (ZiE) wurden für erste Anwendungen durch den jeweiligen Bauherrn finanzierte projektspezifische Bauteilversuche herangezogen. Durch Bauteilversuche unter statischer und nicht ruhender Beanspruchung sowie ergänzende Untersuchungen sollen im Rahmen des Verbundforschungsvorhabens NeZuCa (Netzwerkbogenbrücken mit Zuggliedern aus Carbon) die Grundlagen für eine standardisierte und vereinfachte Anwendung der Technologie erarbeitet werden. In diesem Beitrag berichtet das Projektkonsortium über erste Ergebnisse. NeZuCa wird als Teil des Technologietransferprogramms Leichtbau (TTP‐LB) vom Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Energie gefördert und durch den Projektträger Jülich (PTJ) betreut.
Biochemical changes in the gill, liver, and muscle tissue of Anabas testudineus on exposure to varying concentration of Lead acetate
Authors: Nayak Pratyusha , Sharma Sthitaprajna Nath , Nayak Susri , Pradhan Smruti Prajna , Nayak Subhashree , Patnaik Lipika
Published: June 2023

Heavy metal pollution in aquatic systems is a global concern because of its toxicity, persistent nature, and its bioaccumulation. The present study was carried out to understand the sub‐lethal effects of lead acetate on Anabas testudineus despite its ability to tolerate stress. Fish were exposed to various concentrations of lead acetate (1.291, 1.936, 3.873 mg/L) for a period of 96 h for assessment of acute toxicity. Various biochemical (protein and glycogen) and enzymatic parameters (acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase) were investigated to have an insight on lead acetate toxicity. Protein content increased in all tissues in comparison to the control group. Glycogen increased in gill and muscle tissue whereas it decreased in liver tissues. Increase in the activity of phosphatase enzyme was observed in all tissues of the experimental group in comparison with the control group. All the studied parameters in different tissues were normalized to score values for calculation of integrated biomarker index (IBR) for better interpretation of data. Biomarker response index (BRI) was also calculated for a simple indication of the health status of control and experimental fish. Higher BRI value indicates less toxic effect on liver cells due to detoxification process, whereas lead acetate was found to be toxic for both gill and muscle tissue due to low BRI value. Lead acetate induced changes in the physiology of the experimental fish A. testudineus and the parameters taken into account can serve as biomarkers of lead acetate toxicity.
The diagnostic conundrum in necrotizing otitis externa
Authors: Ahmed Abiya A. , Rashid Shaan , Gupta Vinay K. , Molony Neil C. , Gupta Keshav K.
Published: June 2023

Necrotizing otitis externa (NOE) is an aggressive and fast‐evolving infection of the external auditory canal. Late diagnoses and untreated cases can lead to severe, even fatal consequences and so early diagnosis and treatment are paramount. NOE is a notoriously challenging diagnosis to make. It is therefore important to understand what diagnostic modalities are available and how otolaryngologists can use them to accurately treat such an aggressive disease. This review aims to evaluate the different diagnostic options available in NOE and discuss their advantages and limitations, thus, providing an up‐to‐date picture of the multimodal approach required in the diagnosis of this disease.
(What) Do We Learn from Code Comparisons? A Case Study of Self-Interacting Dark Matter Implementations
Authors: Meskhidze Helen
Published: June 2023

There has been much interest in the recent philosophical literature on increasing the reliability and trustworthiness of computer simulations. One method used to investigate the reliability of computer simulations is code comparison. Gueguen, however, has offered a convincing critique of code comparisons, arguing that they face a critical tension between the diversity of codes required for an informative comparison and the similarity required for the codes to be comparable. Here, I reflect on her critique in light of a recent code comparison investigating self-interacting dark matter in two computer simulation codes. I argue that the informativeness of this particular code comparison was due to its targeted approach and narrow focus. Its targeted approach (i.e., only the dark matter modules) allowed for simulation outputs that were diverse enough for an informative comparison and yet still comparable. Understanding the comparison as an instance of eliminative reasoning narrowed the focus: we could investigate whether code-specific differences in implementation contributed significantly to the results of self-interacting dark matter simulations. Based on this case study, I argue that code comparisons can be conducted in such a way that they serve as a method for increasing our confidence in computer simulations being, as Parker defines, adequate-for-purpose.
Laboratory Astrophysics: Lessons for Epistemology of Astrophysics
Authors: Boyd Nora Mills
Published: June 2023

Astrophysics is often cast as an observational science, devoid of traditional experiments, along with astronomy and cosmology. Yet, a thriving field of experimental research exists called laboratory astrophysics. How should we make sense of this apparent tension? I argue that approaching the epistemology of astrophysics by attending to the production of empirical data and the aims of the research better illuminates both the successes and challenges of empirical research in astrophysics than evaluating the epistemology of astrophysics according to the presence or absence of experiments.
Theory Testing in Gravitational-Wave Astrophysics
Authors: Elder Jamee
Published: June 2023

The LIGO-Virgo Collaboration achieved the first ‘direct detection’ of gravitational waves in 2015, opening a new “window” for observing the universe. Since this first detection (‘GW150914’), dozens of detections have followed, mostly produced by binary black hole mergers. However, the theory-ladenness of the LIGO-Virgo methods for observing these events leads to a potentially-vicious circularity, where general relativistic assumptions may serve to mask phenomena that are inconsistent with general relativity (GR). Under such circumstances, the fact that GR can ‘save the phenomena’ may be an artifact of theory-laden methodology.

This paper examines several ways that the LIGO-Virgo observations are used in theory and hypothesis testing, despite this circularity problem. First, despite the threat of vicious circularity, these experiments succeed in testing GR. Indeed, early tests of GR using GW150914 are best understood as a response to the threat of theory-ladenness and circularity. Each test searches for evidence that LIGO-Virgo’s theory-laden methods are biasing their overall conclusions. The failure to find evidence of this places constraints on deviations from the predictions of GR. Second, these observations provide a basis for studying astrophysical and cosmological processes, especially through analyses of populations of events. As gravitational-wave astrophysics transitions into mature science, constraints from early tests of GR provide a scaffolding for these population-based studies. I further characterize this transition in terms of its increasing connectedness to other parts of astrophysics and the prominence of reasoning about selection effects and other systematics in drawing inferences from observations.

Overall, this paper analyses the ways that theory and hypothesis testing operate in gravitational-wave astrophysics as it gains maturity. In particular, I show how these tests build on one another in order to mitigate a circularity problem at the heart of the observations.
Simulation Verification in Practice
Authors: Kadowaki Kevin
Published: June 2023

With the increased use of simulations as investigative tools in various scientific fields, the question naturally arises as to how these simulations are epistemically justified. One natural approach is to insist that the numerical aspects of simulation justification be performed separately from the physical aspects, but Winsberg (2010) has argued that this is impossible for highly complex simulations. Based on a survey and close examination of a range of astrophysical MHD codes and their attendant literature, I argue that insisting on a strict separation of these aspects of simulation justification is neither epistemically necessary nor advisable.
A Constructive Turn: Toward Harnessing the Potential of Green Promises
Authors: Bengtson Erik , Mossberg Oskar
Published: June 2023

This chapter elaborates on the suggested shift of focus, from chastising greenwashing to promoting virtue. Our perspective aligns with a broader constructive turn in contemporary rhetorical studies.
Attempts at Co-reading Institutional and Rhetorical Theory
Authors: Bengtson Erik , Mossberg Oskar
Published: June 2023

This chapter starts bridging the gap between organizational and rhetorical studies by correlating the conceptual frameworks of the respective fields and comparing legitimacy theory with ethos analysis. Further, it critiques the dominant Aristotelian paradigm and its view of rhetoric as an amoral tool.
From the Sins of Greenwashing to the Virtues of Green Marketing
Authors: Bengtson Erik , Mossberg Oskar
Published: June 2023

This chapter further develops the virtue perspective. First, by taking stock of the classical virtues. Then, we flip the “sins of greenwashing” to bring to light the corresponding virtues they imply. Thereby, we provide a detailed model for the analysis of rhetorical virtues, specifically tailored for judging the ethical qualities of green marketing. Green marketing is viewed as a specific form of environmental communication, subject to rhetoric’s domain.
A Threat or an Opportunity? Internal Migration in the Context of Climate Extremes in Pakistan
Authors: Salik Kashif Majeed , Shabbir Maryum , Naeem Khansa , Zahid Rana Junaid
Published: June 2023

We aim to understand the potential relationship between climate extreme events, displacement, and migration in Pakistan. For this, we conducted 10 in-depth semi-structured interviews and 9 focus group discussions in two districts of Punjab (i.e., Muzaffargarh) and Sindh (i.e., Tharparkar) provinces of Pakistan. The fieldwork was conducted in both rural and urban areas of the sample districts. We employed a thematic approach to explore the links between climate extremes and key migration patterns (such as seasonal, permanent, or circular migration as well as migrant returnees), processes (which include the reasons for migration, cost of travel, network support and settlement in destination areas) and migration outcomes (particularly on migrant’ left-behind household members). We show that climate-induced migration may increase many challenges for the poor, resourceless migrating families that exacerbates food insecurity, social oppression, and indebtedness. Climate-induced migration is an unpleasant phenomenon for women impacting their health, increasing their work burden and mental stresses. Contrasting evidence has also found that showed significant improvement of climate migrant families’ socio-economic conditions overtime. Migrant families can establish small businesses, improve business connections for generating finances, have better opportunities to get private and government jobs, and improved access to microfinance and other government support programmes.
Energydrinks und ihre Auswirkungen auf die Herz-Kreislauf-Funktion bei Kindern und Jugendlichen
Authors: Oberhoffer F. S. , Bienenstein E. , Li P. , Jakob A. , Hermann M. , Dalla-Pozza R. , Haas N. A. , Mandilaras G.
Published: June 2023

Energydrinks erfreuen sich großer Beliebtheit unter Kindern und Jugendlichen. Mehrere Behandlungsberichte suggerieren eine Assoziation zwischen dem Konsum von Energydrinks und dem Auftreten unerwünschter kardiovaskulärer Ereignisse bei Minderjährigen. In diesem Artikel werden Ergebnisse der EDUCATE-Studie, welche die akuten Auswirkungen des Energydrinkkonsums auf die Herz-Kreislauf-Funktion bei Kindern und Jugendlichen erstmalig untersucht hat, prägnant dargestellt. Passend zu dieser Studie beschreiben wir das Auftreten eines therapierefraktären Kammerflimmerns nach Energydrinkkonsum bei einer Jugendlichen mit abgeheilter Myokarditis.
1H NMR spectroscopy combined with multivariate data analysis for authentication of “Swabian–Hall Quality Pork” with protected geographical indication
Authors: Decker Christina , Krapf Reiner , Kuballa Thomas , Bunzel Mirko
Published: June 2023

1H NMR spectroscopy was applied to analyse samples of “Swabian–Hall Quality Pork” with protected geographical indication (PGI). To obtain maximum chemical information sample preparation was based on both polar extraction and non-polar extraction. A non-targeted approach was used to analyse the 1H NMR data followed by principal component analysis (PCA), linear discriminant analysis (LDA), and cross-validation (CV) embedded in a Monte Carlo (MC) resampling approach. A total of 275 raw pork samples were collected in the years 2018 to 2021. The correct prediction rate of “Swabian–Hall Quality Pork” was about 92% on average for both models based on either the polar or non-polar metabolites. In addition, 1H NMR data describing the polar and non-polar metabolites were combined in a classification model to improve the prediction accuracy. By performing a mid-level data fusion, a correct prediction rate of 98% was achieved. Furthermore, spectral regions in the NMR spectra of the polar and non-polar metabolites that are relevant for the classification of the pork samples were identified to describe potential chemical marker compounds.
Doubly Intermittent Full Branch Maps with Critical Points and Singularities
Authors: Coates Douglas , Luzzatto Stefano , Muhammad Mubarak
Published: June 2023

We study a class of one-dimensional full branch maps admitting two indifferent fixed points as well as critical points and/or unbounded derivative. Under some mild assumptions we prove the existence of a unique invariant mixing absolutely continuous probability measure, study its rate of decay of correlation and prove a number of limit theorems.
Numerical modeling of a cohesively separating soil layer in consideration of locally varying soil distribution
Authors: Golla Christian , Köhler Hannes , Fröhlich Jochen , Rüdiger Frank
Published: June 2023

Predicting the cleaning time required to remove a thin layer of soil is a challenging task and subject of current research. One approach to tackle this problem is the decomposition into physical sub-problems which are modelled separately and the subsequent synthesis of these models. In this paper, an existing model for adhesive detachment is extended for the prediction of the cleaning time of cohesively separating soil layers. The extension is based on measurements of the pull-off forces and their correlation to the local water mass fraction. The resulting new model is validated using cleaning experiments with starch in a fully developed channel flow. Furthermore, an inhomogeneous soil distribution and its effect on cleaning results like cleaning time and removal rate is investigated. It is shown that accounting for the local soil distribution in the model leads to a significant improvement of the prediction of the cleaning behaviour.
Well-being and Burnout Amongst Interventional Radiologists in the United Kingdom
Authors: Al Rekabi Ahmad , Chen Mitch , Patel Neeral , Morgan Robert , McCafferty Ian , Haslam Philip , Hamady Mohamad
Published: June 2023

Purpose

To assess the prevalence of burnout amongst Interventional Radiologists (IRs) in the United Kingdom and identify demographic and practice-related stressors that may adversely affect well-being.

Materials and Methods

A survey of 36 questions was divided into two sections. Section A consisted of 14 questions that assessed demographics and work characteristics; Section B assessed burnout, utilizing the 22-item Maslach burnout inventory. Four additional open-ended questions were included to allow participants to voice opinions on the biggest contributors to workplace burnout and plans that could be implemented to alleviate this. The questionnaire was distributed to the British Society of interventional (BSIR) members. The study was conducted between August and September 2022.

Results

Moderate to severe scores in emotional exhaustion (EE) were recorded in 65% of participants (moderate 26%; severe 39%) of participants r. Moderate to severe depersonalization (DP) scores were recorded in 46% of participants (moderate 23%; severe 23%). Low-moderate levels of personal accomplishment (PA) scores were recorded in 77% of respondents (low 50%; moderate 27%). Weekly hours and out-of-hour IR cover were statistically significant in predicting emotional exhaustion.

Age, sex (male), time available for teaching, and weekly hours were statistically significant in predicting the depersonalisation score. Age was a predictive factor for personal accomplishment. The most recurring themes in open response to major contributors of burnout were shortage of IR clinicians and supporting staff as well as the increasing IR workload.

Conclusions

This survey has demonstrated high prevalence of burnout amongst Interventional Radiologists in UK. Urgent measures are required to tackle the workforce shortage, recognition of IR workload and control IR resources.
Management of sphincter insufficiency in patients with neurogenic bladder and bladder augmentation
Authors: Taskinen Seppo , Mäkelä Eija , Pakkasjärvi Niklas
Published: June 2023

Purpose

To investigate the need and efficacy of treatment of bladder neck procedures in patients with neurogenic bladder and augmentation.

Methods

The hospital database was reviewed for patients undergoing enterocystoplasty because of neurogenic bladder during 1990–2019. Diagnoses of patients as well as frequency, type, and efficacy of treatment of sphincter insufficiency were evaluated.

Results

Thirty-seven of 87 patients (43%) underwent surgery because of sphincter insufficiency. The median age at bladder augmentation was 11.9 years (IQR 8.5–14.8), and at the last control, 21.8 years (IQR 18.9–31.1). Bladder neck injections (BNI) were performed for 28 patients, fascial sling operation for 14 patients, and bladder neck closure (BNC) was done for five females. Full continence was achieved in 10/28 (36%) patients with one or repeat BNIs and 9/14 (64%) with sling operation. The outcome of BNIs and sling operations was similar in both sexes. All five female patients with BNC became continent. At the end of follow-up, 64 (74%) patients were dry, 19 (22%) had occasional incontinence episodes, and 4 (5%) had daily incontinence episodes necessitating pads.

Conclusions

Treatment of sphincter insufficiency is challenging in patients with bladder augmentation and neurogenic disease. Only 74% of our patients became fully continent despite treatments for sphincter insufficiency.
Evaluation of a semiautomated App Store analysis for the identification of health apps for cardiac arrhythmias
Authors: Lawin Dennis , von Jan Ute , Pustozerov Evgenii , Lawrenz Thorsten , Stellbrink Christoph , Albrecht Urs-Vito
Published: June 2023

Background

Smartphone apps are increasingly utilised by patients and physicians for medical purposes. Thus, numerous applications are provided on the App Store platforms.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to establish a novel, expanded approach of a semiautomated retrospective App Store analysis (SARASA) to identify and characterise health apps in the context of cardiac arrhythmias.

Materials and methods

An automated total read-out of the “Medical” category of Apple’s German App Store was performed in December 2022 by analysing the developer-provided descriptions and other metadata using a semiautomated multilevel approach. Search terms were defined, based on which the textual information of the total extraction results was automatically filtered.

Results

A total of 435 of 31,564 apps were identified in the context of cardiac arrhythmias. Of those, 81.4% were found to deal with education, decision support, or disease management, and 26.2% (additionally) provided the opportunity to derive information on heart rhythm. The apps were intended for healthcare professionals in 55.9%, students in 17.5%, and/or patients in 15.9%. In 31.5%, the target population was not specified in the description texts. In all, 108 apps (24.8%) provided a telemedicine treatment approach; 83.7% of the description texts did not reveal any information on medical product status; 8.3% of the apps indicated that they have and 8.0% that they do not have medical product status.

Conclusion

Through the supplemented SARASA method, health apps in the context of cardiac arrhythmias could be identified and assigned to the target categories. Clinicians and patients have a wide choice of apps, although the app description texts do not provide sufficient information about the intended use and quality.
Treatment of COVID-19 olfactory dysfunction with olfactory training, palmitoylethanolamide with luteolin, or combined therapy: a blinded controlled multicenter randomized trial
Authors: Di Stadio Arianna , Gallina Salvatore , Cocuzza Salvatore , De Luca Pietro , Ingrassia Angelo , Oliva Simone , Sireci Federico , Camaioni Angelo , Ferreli Fabio , Mercante Giuseppe , Gaino Francesca , Pace Gian Marco , La Mantia Ignazio , Brenner Michael J.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Few evidence-based therapies are available for chronic olfactory dysfunction after COVID-19. This study investigated the relative efficacy of olfactory training alone, co-ultramicronized palmitoylethanolamide with luteolin (um-PEA–LUT, an anti-neuroinflammatory supplement) alone, or combined therapy for treating chronic olfactory dysfunction from COVID-19.

Methods

This double-blinded controlled, placebo-controlled multicenter randomized clinical trial was conducted in 202 patients with persistent COVID-19 olfactory dysfunction of > 6 month duration. After a screening nasal endoscopy, patients were randomized to: (1) olfactory training and placebo; (2) once daily um-PEA–LUT alone; (3) twice daily um-PEA–LUT alone; or (4) combination of once daily um-PEA–LUT with olfactory training. Olfactory testing (Sniffin’ Sticks odor identification test) was performed at baseline and at 1, 2, and 3 months. The primary outcome was recovery of over three points on olfactory testing, with outcomes compared at T0, T1, T2 and T3 across groups. Statistical analyses included one-way ANOVA for numeric data and chi-square for nominal data.

Results

All patients completed the study, and there were no adverse events. At 90 days, odor identification scores improved by > 3 points in 89.2% of patients receiving combined therapy vs. 36.8% receiving olfactory training with placebo, 40% receiving twice daily um-PEA–LUT alone, and 41.6% receiving once daily um-PEA–LUT alone (p < 0.00001). Patients receiving treatment with um-PEA–LUT alone demonstrated subclinical improvement (< 3 point odor identification improvement) more often than patients receiving olfactory training with placebo (p < 0.0001.)

Conclusions

Olfactory training plus once daily um-PEA–LUT resulted in greater olfactory recovery than either therapy alone in patients with long-term olfactory function due to COVID-19.

Trial registration

20112020PGFN on clinicaltrials.gov.

Level of evidence

1b (Individual Randomized Clinical Trial).
The hierarchical organization of the precuneus captured by functional gradients
Authors: Jiang Ping , Cui Shunshun , Yao Shanwen , Cai Huanhuan , Zhu Jiajia , Yu Yongqiang
Published: June 2023

The precuneus shows considerable heterogeneity in multiple dimensions including anatomy, function, and involvement in brain disorders. Leveraging the state-of-the-art functional gradient approach, we aimed to investigate the hierarchical organization of the precuneus, which may hold promise for a unified understanding of precuneus heterogeneity. Resting-state functional MRI data from 793 healthy individuals were used to discover and validate functional gradients of the precuneus, which were calculated based on the voxel-wise precuneus-to-cerebrum functional connectivity patterns. Then, we further explored the potential relationships of the precuneus functional gradients with cortical morphology, intrinsic geometry, canonical functional networks, and behavioral domains. We found that the precuneus principal and secondary gradients showed dorsoanterior-ventral and ventroposterior-dorsal organizations, respectively. Concurrently, the principal gradient was associated with cortical morphology, and both the principal and secondary gradients showed geometric distance dependence. Importantly, precuneus functional subdivisions corresponding to canonical functional networks (behavioral domains) were distributed along both gradients in a hierarchical manner, i.e., from the sensorimotor network (somatic movement and sensation) at one extreme to the default mode network (abstract cognitive functions) at the other extreme for the principal gradient and from the visual network (vision) at one end to the dorsal attention network (top-down control of attention) at the other end for the secondary gradient. These findings suggest that the precuneus functional gradients may provide mechanistic insights into the multifaceted nature of precuneus heterogeneity.
In vitro activity of hyaluronic acid and human serum on periodontal biofilm and periodontal ligament fibroblasts
Authors: Zhu Xilei , von Werdt Livia , Zappalà Graziano , Sculean Anton , Eick Sigrun , Stähli Alexandra
Published: June 2023

Objectives

A beneficial effect of cross-linked hyaluronic acid (cHA) on periodontal wound healing and regeneration has recently been demonstrated. The present in vitro study was designed to obtain deeper knowledge on the effect of cHA when applied in the gingival sulcus (serum-rich environment) during non-surgical periodontal therapy.

Materials and methods

The influence of cHA, human serum (HS), and cHA/HS on (i) a 12-species biofilm formation, (ii) the adhesion of periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PDLF) to dentine surface, (iii) the expression and secretion of interleukin-8, and (iv) the expression of receptors of HA in PDLF and gingival fibroblasts (GF) were evaluated.

Results

At 4 h of biofilm formation, cHA and HS in combination (cHA/HS) slightly decreased the colony-forming unit counts in biofilm whereas the metabolic activity of biofilm was reduced in all test groups (cHA, HS, cHA/HS) vs. control. At 24 h, the quantity of biofilm was reduced in all test groups vs. untreated control. The test substances did not affect adhesion of PDLF to dentin. HS increased the expression of IL-8 by PDLF and GF which was partially downregulated by cHA. HS and/or cHA promoted the expression of the HA receptor RHAMM in GF but not in PDLF.

Conclusions

In summary, the present data indicate that serum neither negatively affect the activity of cHA against periodontal biofilm nor had any unwanted influence on the activity of PDLF.

Clinical relevance

These findings lend additional support for the positive effects of cHA on cells involved in periodontal wound healing, thus pointing to its potential use in non-surgical periodontal therapy.