bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Price Transparency, Media, and Informative Advertising
Authors: Ater Itai , Rigbi Oren
Published: January 2023

We study the effects of a price transparency regulation in Israeli supermarkets. Using price data collected before and after the regulation and a difference-in-difference research design, we show that price levels and price dispersion declined significantly after the regulation. Chains also began setting identical prices in all stores. We use Robert and Stahl (1993) to interpret our findings, showing that low-priced chains extensively used price advertising after prices became transparent. These chains referenced price-comparison surveys conducted by the media to induce credibility for ads. Our findings highlight the importance of price transparency and the procompetitive role of informative advertising. (JEL D22, D83, L11, L81, L82, L88, M37)
Debunking Rumors in Networks
Authors: Merlino Luca P. , Pin Paolo , Tabasso Nicole
Published: January 2023

We study the diffusion of a true and a false message (the rumor) in a social network. Upon hearing a message, individuals may believe it, disbelieve it, or debunk it through costly verification. Whenever the truth survives in steady state, so does the rumor. Communication intensity in itself is irrelevant for relative rumor prevalence, and the effect of homophily depends on the exact verification process and equilibrium verification rates. Our model highlights that successful policies in the fight against rumors increase individuals’ incentives to verify. (JEL D83, D85, L82, Z13)
Altered cerebral blood flow and white matter during wakeful rest in patients with obstructive sleep apnea: a population-based retrospective study
Authors: Li Xiaoshuai , Hui Ying , Shi Huijing , Li Mengning , Zhao Xinyu , Li Rui , Zhang Wenfei , Lv Han , Wu Yuntao , Li Jing , Cui Liufu , Zhao Pengfei , Wu Shouling , Wang Zhenchang
Published: January 2023

Objectives:

To explore changes in cerebral blood flow (CBF) and white matter during wakeful rest in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Methods:

The subjects comprised OSA patients and age- and sex-matched non-sleep apnea (NSA) subjects from December 2020 to December 2021. All subjects underwent structural and arterial spin labeling MRI examinations using a 3.0 T MRI scanner. Intergroup differences in regional and global CBF and white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) were analyzed.

Results:

In this study, 100 (74 males) of 750 (439 males) subjects were diagnosed with OSA, so the prevalence of OSA in the general population was 13.3% (100/750), with 16.9% (74/439) in males and 8.4% (26/311) in females. Excluding four patients with incomplete imaging data, 96 OSA patients and 103 age- and sex-matched NSA subjects were included. At global level, OSA patients showed significantly decreased CBF values in gray matter and whole brain compared to NSA subjects (gray matter: p = 0.010; whole brain: p = 0.021). No significant difference in CBF values was found in WM between the two groups (p = 0.250). At regional level, compared with NSA subjects, patients with OSA exhibited significantly decreased regional CBF values mainly in right parietal lobe and right temporal lobe. Moreover, OSA patients had significantly higher WMHs burden than NSA subjects (p = 0.017).

Conclusions:

OSA patients exhibit decreased global and regional CBF values and increased WMHs burden.

Advances in knowledge:

These findings provide a basis for exploring neuropathological changes of OSA and for early and appropriate treatment.
The whole is other than the sum of its parts: the untapped potential of spatial data from archaeological fieldwork
Authors: McKeague Peter
Published: January 2023

Spatial data is fundamental to documenting our past, underpinning research questions and informing the decisions we – and others – take in the protection, understanding and stewardship of the historic environment. Investing in organising and sharing spatial data typically delivers a benefit to cost ratio of up to sixteen times the outlay. In contrast, existing practices are saturated with inefficiency. Even if the spatial data reaches an archive, it can be hard to find, access and use. It is often in the wrong format and incompatible with similar data from different projects.

Through the European Union Infrastructure for Spatial Information in Europe (INSPIRE) Directive curators of protected sites data (scheduled monuments, listed buildings etc.) are required to publish metadata, view and download services. In contrast to these ‘curated’ datasets there is neither the mandate, nor the mechanisms to coordinate, curate and share, data created through archaeological fieldwork and research. The degree of standardisation in documenting fieldwork recording and archival deposition varies considerably, posing challenges to the reuse of data. Both are key factors in not realising the potential of ‘collated data’ from multiple sources. The opportunities to develop a consistent approach for making greater use of data routinely created through fieldwork and research are explored using case studies from Scotland.

Despite the obvious benefits of developing a consistent approach to spatial data from fieldwork, the framework, standards, specifications, guidance and infrastructure to realise that potential are absent.

Archaeological data can and should contribute to delivering wider societal benefits, including environmental monitoring, digital twins and climate change. To contribute meaningfully to these and other societal challenges, archaeological data needs to be accessible and consistent.
Poisoning in donkeys
Authors: Bates Nicola
Published: January 2023

Poisoning in donkeys is occasionally reported, but most of the information on clinical signs and management is based on horses. Donkeys are most likely to be affected by toxic substances in their environment such as poisonous plants and pesticides. Cases of plant poisoning in donkeys have been reported, caused by yew, oleander, oak, Brunfelsia and plants containing hypoglycin A (such as sycamore), cyanogenic glycosides (such as cherry laurel) or pyrrolizidine alkaloids (such as ragwort or rattlepods). In many cases of acute plant poisoning, sudden death is the presenting sign. Pesticide poisoning risks include metaldehyde slug bait and anticoagulant rodenticides. Care should be taken when examining and treating donkeys because of differences in their behaviour, vital signs, laboratory parameters and therapeutics. Donkey-specific resources should be used. Treatment in most cases of poisoning in donkeys is supportive, with management of clinical signs and attempting to reduce progression of toxicosis, removal from exposure, and specific antidote administration where available, practical and clinically appropriate.
Preparation of Porous Silica Nanoparticles by Chemical Etching for Removal of Paraquat from Aqueous Solution
Authors:   Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, Darasoon Kanokwan , Hoijang Supawitch ,   Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, Kunakham Tanapong ,   Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, Janhom Sorapong ,   Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, Ananta Supon ,   Department of Physics and Materials Science, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, Leem Gyu ,   Department of Chemistry, State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA, Srisombat Laongnuan ,   Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand,   Center of Excellence in Materials Science and Technology, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Published: January 2023

In t his study, solid silica nanoparticles (sSiO2 NPs) were chemically etched using sodium hydroxide solution as an etchant to synthesize porous silica nanoparticles (pSiO2 NPs). Etchant dosage and etching time were optimized to obtain the optimum etching condition providing the effective removal of paraquat (PQ). High removal efficiency of PQ by the synthesized pSiO2 NPs was obtained over 90% using 11.1 mL of 1.25 M NaOH and 12 h for the etching process. SEM and TEM images showed that the porosity of pSiO2 NPs increased with increase of the etchant dosage and etching time. The increment of porosity of pSiO2 NPs enhanced the PQ removal efficiency. FTIR result indicated that the characteristic functionalities of silica remain after the etching process. After optimum condition of etching obtained, the adsorption behavior of PQ was investigated. Several key factors influencing the adsorption efficiency, i.e., initial solution pH, initial concentration, and adsorption time were optimized. The maximum removal efficiency of PQ (~98%) by the pSiO2 nanoadsorbent was obtained using 100 mg L-1 of PQ solution at pH ~7 within 5 minutes. The maximum adsorption capacity (qmax) of the pSiO2 NPs for the PQ removal was 65.7 mg g-1. The pSiO2 nanoadsorbent is effective adsorbent for the PQ removal due to the development of a facile synthetic method for adsorbent preparation, rapid adsorption process, and comparable qmax value with other PQ adsorbents.
Evaluation of Electrochemical Performance of Cobalt Sulphide on Various Current Collectors
Authors: Rani Pinki , P. Alegaonkar Ashwini , S. Alegaonkar Prashant
Published: January 2023

In the present study, cobalt sulphide was successfully synthesised via a simple, one-step hydrothermal route. The material has been characterised via infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, electron microscopy (FESEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The FTIR spectrum reveals a peak at 1126 cm-1, which corresponds to the S-O bending mode, and a peak at 663 cm-1, which represents sulphide stretching. According to XRD analysis, cobalt sulphide formed with the CoS1.097 configuration. FESEM study reveals that cobalt sulphide hexagonal sheets with a thickness of less than 100 nm have been prepared that are further arranged in a floral pattern. Cobalt and sulphide concentrations were found to be proportional in EDX analyses. Further, Electrochemical testing was performed with a two-electrode setup, 6M KOH as the electrolyte, and various current collectors (including nickel foam and aluminium foil). The galvanostatic charge-discharge characteristics and capacitance values have been compared using impedance spectroscopy and other techniques. Details of the analysis are presented.
Sparse holographic imaging for an integrated augmented reality near-eye display
Authors: Martinez Christophe , Colard Matthias , Legentil Paul , Millard Kyllian , Rainouard Fabian
Published: January 2023

Diffraction is the main physical effect involved in the imaging process of holographic displays. In the application of near-eye displays, it generates physical limits that constrain the field of view of the devices. In this contribution, we evaluate experimentally an alternative approach for a holographic display based mainly on refraction. This unconventional imaging process, based on sparse aperture imaging, could lead to integrated near-eye displays through retinal projection, with a larger field of view. We introduce for this evaluation an in-house holographic printer that allows the recording of holographic pixel distributions at a microscopic scale. We show how these microholograms can encode angular information that overcomes the diffraction limit and could alleviate the space bandwidth constraint usually associated with conventional display design.
Quantification of structural heterogeneity in H&E stained clear cell renal cell carcinoma using refractive index tomography
Authors: Park Juyeon , Shin Su-Jin , Shin Jeongwon , Lee Ariel J. , Lee Moosung , Lee Mahn Jae , Kim Geon , Heo Ji Eun , Suk lee Kwang , Park YongKeun
Published: January 2023

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is a common histopathological subtype of renal cancer and is notorious for its poor prognosis. Its accurate diagnosis by histopathology, which relies on manual microscopic inspection of stained slides, is challenging. Here, we present a correlative approach to utilize stained images and refractive index (RI) tomography and demonstrate quantitative assessments of the structural heterogeneities of ccRCC slides obtained from human patients. Machine-learning-assisted segmentation of nuclei and cytoplasm enabled the quantification at the subcellular level. Compared to benign regions, malignant regions exhibited a considerable increase in structural heterogeneities. The results demonstrate that RI tomography provides quantitative information in synergy with stained images on the structural heterogeneities in ccRCC.
Dispersion-flattened concentric structure for microcomb bandwidth broadening in GaP-OI resonators
Authors: Geng Zhaoting , Ji Houling , Yu Zhuoyu , Cheng Weiren , Wu Pengzhuo , Li Yi , Zhao Qiancheng
Published: January 2023

We propose and theoretically investigate the coupled concentric ring resonators on a thickness-constrained GaP on insulator (GaP-OI) integrated photonic platform. Achieving anomalous dispersion is fulfilled by mode hybridization in the coupled structure on a 200 nm thick GaP-OI resonator which originally only exhibits normal dispersion for the fundamental mode. The anomalous dispersion profile for the anti-symmetric mode is flattened and broadened in favor of Kerr frequency comb generation by optimizing the waveguide width and the coupling gap size synergistically. We show the flexibility of this design methodology by simultaneously flattening the dispersion profile while anchoring the dispersion peak location at 1550 nm. The optimized design has a flat anomalous dispersion span of 460 nm with a small peak of 160 ps/km/nm, 1.69 times lower than a traditional rectangular waveguide. The engineered dispersion profile enables a broadband Kerr frequency comb generation that has a 3 dB bandwidth of 67 nm and a 20 dB bandwidth of over 250 nm at both 1550 and 1650 nm pump wavelengths. The proposed design proves useful to achieve broad and flat anomalous dispersion on thickness-constrained materials, paving the way towards low-loss GaP-OI frequency comb resonators.
High-fidelity continuous-variable quantum key distribution via the proper combination of zero-photon catalysis and quantum scissors
Authors: Jafari Khatereh , Golshani Mojtaba , Bahrampour Alireza
Published: January 2023

In this paper, we examine how the combination of zero-photon catalysis (ZPC) and a quantum scissors (QS) intensifies the range and the fidelity of a continuous-variable quantum key distribution CV-QKD protocol. Using a non-Gaussian calculation, we realized that the QS significantly boosts the range of the protocol and enhances its fidelity at long distances. At negligible values of excess noise, ZPC operation leads to incredibly high fidelity values, even at large distances. In this case, an optimal strength of the ZPC operation exists that maximizes the secure distance of the protocol. Finally, our study of a system with a nonzero value of excess noise reveals that the fidelity generally increases with ZPC, as opposed to the range, which decreases with this Gaussian operation.
Terahertz fiber link using dielectric silicon waveguide interface
Authors: Koala Ratmalgre , Iyoda Kei , Gao Weijie , Matsuura Yuji , Fujita Masayuki , Nagatsuma Tadao
Published: January 2023

Nascent data-intensive emerging technologies are mandating low-loss, short-range interconnects, whereas existing interconnects suffer from high losses and low aggregate data throughput owing to a lack of efficient interfaces. Here, we report an efficient 22-Gbit/s terahertz fiber link using a tapered silicon interface that serves as a coupler between the dielectric waveguide and hollow core fiber. We investigated the fundamental optical properties of hollow-core fibers by considering fibers with 0.7-mm and 1-mm core diameters. We achieved a coupling efficiency of ∼ 60% with a 3-dB bandwidth of 150 GHz in the 0.3-THz band over a 10 cm fiber.
Tissue specific LRRK2 interactomes reveal a distinct striatal functional unit
Authors: Zhao Yibo , Vavouraki Nikoleta , Lovering Ruth C. , Escott-Price Valentina , Harvey Kirsten , Lewis Patrick A. , Manzoni Claudia
Published: January 2023

Mutations in LRRK2 are the most common genetic cause of Parkinson’s disease. Despite substantial research efforts, the physiological and pathological role of this multidomain protein remains poorly defined. In this study, we used a systematic approach to construct the general protein-protein interactome around LRRK2, which was then evaluated taking into consideration the differential expression patterns and the co-expression behaviours of the LRRK2 interactors in 15 different healthy tissue types. The LRRK2 interactors exhibited distinct expression features in the brain as compared to the peripheral tissues analysed. Moreover, a high degree of similarity was found for the LRRK2 interactors in putamen, caudate and nucleus accumbens, thus defining a potential LRRK2 functional cluster within the striatum. The general LRRK2 interactome paired with the expression profiles of its members constitutes a powerful tool to generate tissue-specific LRRK2 interactomes. We exemplified the generation of the tissue-specific LRRK2 interactomes and explored the functions highlighted by the “core LRRK2 interactors” in the striatum in comparison with the cerebellum. Finally, we illustrated how the LRRK2 general interactome reported in this manuscript paired with the expression profiles can be used to trace the relationship between LRRK2 and specific interactors of interest, here focusing on the LRRK2 interactors belonging to the Rab protein family.
Cannabinoids versus placebo for pain: A systematic review with meta-analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis
Authors: Barakji Jehad , Korang Steven Kwasi , Feinberg Joshua , Maagaard Mathias , Mathiesen Ole , Gluud Christian , Jakobsen Janus Christian
Published: January 2023

Objectives

To assess the benefits and harms of cannabinoids in participants with pain.

Design

Systematic review of randomised clinical trials with meta-analysis, Trial Sequential Analysis, and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach.

Data sources

The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Embase, Science Citation Index, and BIOSIS.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

Published and unpublished randomised clinical trials comparing cannabinoids versus placebo in participants with any type of pain.

Main outcome measures

All-cause mortality, pain, adverse events, quality of life, cannabinoid dependence, psychosis, and quality of sleep.

Results

We included 65 randomised placebo-controlled clinical trials enrolling 7017 participants. Fifty-nine of the trials and all outcome results were at high risk of bias. Meta-analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis showed no evidence of a difference between cannabinoids versus placebo on all-cause mortality (RR 1.20; 98% CI 0.85 to 1.67; P = 0.22). Meta-analyses and Trial Sequential Analysis showed that cannabinoids neither reduced acute pain (mean difference numerical rating scale (NRS) 0.52; 98% CI -0.40 to 1.43; P = 0.19) or cancer pain (mean difference NRS -0.13; 98% CI -0.33 to 0.06; P = 0.1) nor improved quality of life (mean difference -1.38; 98% CI -11.81 to 9.04; P = 0.33). Meta-analyses and Trial Sequential Analysis showed that cannabinoids reduced chronic pain (mean difference NRS -0.43; 98% CI -0.72 to -0.15; P = 0.0004) and improved quality of sleep (mean difference -0.42; 95% CI -0.65 to -0.20; P = 0.0003). However, both effect sizes were below our predefined minimal important differences. Meta-analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis indicated that cannabinoids increased the risk of non-serious adverse events (RR 1.20; 95% CI 1.15 to 1.25; P < 0.001) but not serious adverse events (RR 1.18; 98% CI 0.95 to 1.45; P = 0.07). None of the included trials reported on cannabinoid dependence or psychosis.

Conclusions

Cannabinoids reduced chronic pain and improved quality of sleep, but the effect sizes are of questionable importance. Cannabinoids had no effects on acute pain or cancer pain and increased the risks of non-serious adverse events. The harmful effects of cannabinoids for pain seem to outweigh the potential benefits.
The impact of visually simulated self-motion on predicting object motion–A registered report protocol
Authors: Jörges Björn , Harris Laurence R.
Published: January 2023

To interact successfully with moving objects in our environment we need to be able to predict their behavior. Predicting the position of a moving object requires an estimate of its velocity. When flow parsing during self-motion is incomplete–that is, when some of the retinal motion created by self-motion is incorrectly attributed to object motion–object velocity estimates become biased. Further, the process of flow parsing should add noise and lead to object velocity judgements being more variable during self-motion. Biases and lowered precision in velocity estimation should then translate to biases and lowered precision in motion extrapolation. We investigate this relationship between self-motion, velocity estimation and motion extrapolation with two tasks performed in a realistic virtual reality (VR) environment: first, participants are shown a ball moving laterally which disappears after a certain time. They then indicate by button press when they think the ball would have hit a target rectangle positioned in the environment. While the ball is visible, participants sometimes experience simultaneous visual lateral self-motion in either the same or in the opposite direction of the ball. The second task is a two-interval forced choice task in which participants judge which of two motions is faster: in one interval they see the same ball they observed in the first task while in the other they see a ball cloud whose speed is controlled by a PEST staircase. While observing the single ball, they are again moved visually either in the same or opposite direction as the ball or they remain static. We expect participants to overestimate the speed of a ball that moves opposite to their simulated self-motion (speed estimation task), which should then lead them to underestimate the time it takes the ball to reach the target rectangle (prediction task). Seeing the ball during visually simulated self-motion should increase variability in both tasks. We expect to find performance in both tasks to be correlated, both in accuracy and precision.
Causal associations of anthropometric measurements with osteoarthritis: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Sun Yang , Li Yue , Yu Tiecheng , Zhang Jiting
Published: January 2023

Objective

We believe that there is a causal relationship between waist circumference and knee osteoarthritis. To confirm the hypothesis, we have conducted this study.

Methods

Genetic variants associated with the five anthropometric variables were obtained from previous large-scale genomewide association studies. Summary-level data on osteoarthritis were obtained from the UK Biobank. The univariable and multivariable MR framework were used to evaluate the associations. The two-sided p value was considered to be statistically significant at 0.01 (where p = 0.05/5) after Bonferroni correction for the five exposure variables.

Results

In the univariable MR, there was evidence of a detrimental effect of height, weight, BMI, waist circumference, and hip circumference on osteoarthritis risk in the main IVW analyses (height: OR 1.115, 95% CI 1.054–1.180; weight: OR 1.765, 95% CI 1.650–1.889; BMI: OR 1.952, 95%CI 1.841–2.068; waist circumference: OR 2.140, 95% CI 1.994–2.296; hip circumference: OR 1.719, 95% CI 1.600–1.846). And the analyses on knee osteoarthritis and hip osteoarthritis yielded similar results. However, the multivariable MR showed that only waist circumference was causally associated with osteoarthritis, after adjusting for the confounding exposure effects (waist circumference: OR 1.877, 95% CI 1.286–2.739). Such association was also repeated in the analyses on knee osteoarthritis but not hip osteoarthritis.

Conclusion

Our study highlighted the causal associations between waist circumference and knee osteoarthritis risk.
Micro-CT evaluation of frozen and embalmed human cadavers on the effect of root canal preparation on microcrack formation in old dentin
Authors: Haupt Franziska , Dullin Christian , Krebs Marcel , Hettwer-Steeger Ingrid , Kanzow Philipp , Rödig Tina
Published: January 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate the existence of preoperative dentinal defects among differently preserved dentoalveolar bone-blocks (frozen vs. embalmed) and to investigate the effect of varying apical forces (low: <4 N, high: 4–8 N) during root canal preparation on microcrack formation using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). Thirteen embalmed and seven frozen bone-blocks containing 1–3 single rooted teeth were collected. The teeth were evenly divided into three groups (n = 10): FLow (frozen, <4 N), ELow (embalmed, <4 N), EHigh (embalmed, 4–8 N). After working length determination all specimens were scanned preoperatively. Root canal preparation was performed using nickel-titanium instruments sizes 25/.06 and 40/.06 (F6 SkyTaper; Komet, Lemgo, Germany). A postoperative scan was performed and image stacks were co-registered. All cross-sectional images were screened to identify the presence of dentinal defects. The results were expressed as the percentage of teeth/slices presenting dentinal defects. The statistical analyses were performed with Kruskal-Wallis-Test and Mann-Whitney-U-Test (α = 5%). Embalmed specimens presented a significantly higher percentage of slices with preoperative microcracks (p<0.05) than frozen specimens. No significant difference between groups was observed regarding the induction of microcracks (p>0.05). Root canal preparation does not induce microcracks in dentoalveolar bone-blocks from donors of old age, irrespective of the preservation method and the apically directed forces.
Area-level deprivation, neighbourhood factors and associations with mental health
Authors: Mohan Gretta , Barlow Peter
Published: January 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic saw residential neighbourhoods become more of a focal point in people’s lives, where people were greater confined to living, working, and undertaking leisure in their locality. This study investigates whether area-level deprivation and neighbourhood conditions influence mental health, accounting for demographic, socio-economic and health circumstances of individuals. Using nationally representative data from Ireland, regression modelling revealed that area-level deprivation did not in itself have a discernible impact on mental health status (as measured using the Mental Health Inventory-5 instrument and the Energy and Vitality Index), or likelihood of having suffered depression in the previous 12 months. However, positive perceptions of area safety, service provision, and area cleanliness were associated with better mental health, as was involvement in social groups. Broad ranging policies investing in neighbourhoods, could have benefits for mental health, which may be especially important for deprived communities.
Mode of delivery and birth outcomes in relation to the duration of the passive second stage of labour: A retrospective cohort study of nulliparous women
Authors: Bjelke Maria , Thurn Lars , Oscarsson Marie
Published: January 2023

Objective

To investigate the mode of delivery and birth outcomes in relation to the duration of the passive second stage of labour in nulliparous women.

Methods and findings

A retrospective cohort study of all nulliparous women (n = 1131) at two delivery units in Sweden. Maternal and obstetric data were obtained from electronic medical records during 2019. The passive second stage was defined as the complete dilation of the cervix until the start of the active second stage. The duration of the passive second stage was categorized into three groups: 0 to 119 min (0 to <2 h), 120–239 min (2- <4h) and ≥240 min (≥4h). Differences between the groups were examined using t-test and Chi2-tests and regression analyses were used to analyse adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence intervals. The primary outcome was mode of delivery in relation to the duration of the passive second stage and the secondary outcomes covered a series of adverse maternal and neonatal birth outcomes. The rates of instrumental and caesarean deliveries increased as the duration of the passive second stage increased. A ≥4-hour duration of the passive second stage was associated with a nine-times increased risk of caesarean section, and a four-times risk of instrumental delivery compared to a duration of <2 hours in the adjusted analyses. No differences were found in the maternal birth outcomes. The risk of a 5-minute Apgar score <7 was increased in the 2-<4h group. A longer passive second stage was not associated with an increased risk of negative birth experience.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates an increased risk of operative delivery for a longer duration (>2h) of the passive second stage in nulliparous women, although most of the women gave birth by spontaneous vaginal delivery even after ≥4 hours. There was no evidence of an increased risk of adverse maternal outcomes in a longer duration of the passive second stage but there were indications of increased adverse neonatal outcomes. Assessment of fetal well-being is important when the duration of the passive phase is prolonged.
Awareness, susceptibility, and use of oral nicotine pouches and comparative risk perceptions with smokeless tobacco among young adults in the United States
Authors: Morean Meghan E. , Bold Krysten W. , Davis Danielle R. , Kong Grace , Krishnan-Sarin Suchitra , Camenga Deepa R.
Published: January 2023

Background

Oral nicotine pouches (NPs) that contain nicotine but no tobacco leaves are rapidly gaining popularity. However, there is limited research on NPs, including within priority populations. In the current study, we examined awareness of, susceptibility to, and use of NPs in young adults as well as comparative risk perceptions with smokeless tobacco.

Methods

In 2021, 609 young adults (18–25 years) completed an online survey. Participants reported on NP awareness, susceptibility, and use as well as on comparative product perceptions for NPs versus smokeless tobacco. We ran unadjusted between-groups comparisons and an adjusted multinomial logistic regression to identify relationships between product perceptions and NP susceptibility and use.

Results

41.5% of participants had heard of NPs before. Participants were non-susceptible (66.2%), susceptible (23.5%), or had used NPs (10.3%). Comparative product perceptions between NPs and smokeless tobacco suggested that young adults, as a whole, expressed uncertainty about the relative risk/benefit of using NPs versus smokeless tobacco. However, as expected, unadjusted and adjusted findings indicated that favorable perceptions of NPs versus smokeless tobacco were disproportionately observed among susceptible participants and NP users compared to non-susceptible individuals. Demographic differences were also observed (e.g., NP users were more likely than non-susceptible and susceptible individuals to have used smokeless tobacco).

Conclusions

Young adults reported awareness of, susceptibility to, and use of NPs, with findings indicating that favorable perceptions of NPs versus smokeless tobacco may contribute to NP susceptibility and use beyond known correlates like smokeless tobacco use. However, further research is needed to understand the full range of factors that are associated with NP susceptibility and use. It will be important to disentangle factors that are associated with potential positive public health impacts (e.g., switching from smokeless tobacco to exclusive NP use) from those associated with negative public health impacts (e.g., initiation among nicotine naïve individuals).
African swine fever virus transmembrane protein pEP84R guides core assembly
Authors: Alejo Alí , García-Castey Mayte , Guerra Milagros , Hernáez Bruno , Martín Verónica , Matamoros Tania , Andrés Germán
Published: January 2023

African swine fever virus (ASFV) causes a devastating hemorrhagic disease with worldwide circulation and no widely available therapeutic prevention. The infectious particle has a multilayered architecture that is articulated upon an endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-derived inner envelope. This membrane acts as docking platform for the assembly of the outer icosahedral capsid and the underlying core shell, a bridging layer required for the formation of the central genome-containing nucleoid. While the details of outer capsid assembly are relatively well understood, those of core formation remain unclear. Here we report the functional characterization of pEP84R, a transmembrane polypeptide embedded in the inner envelope that surrounds the viral core. Using an ASFV recombinant inducibly expressing the EP84R gene, we show that absence of pEP84R results in the formation of non-infectious core-less icosahedral particles displaying a significant DNA-packaging defect. Concomitantly, aberrant core shell-like structures formed by co-assembly of viral polyproteins pp220 and pp62 are mistargeted to non-ER membranes, as also occurs when these are co-expressed in the absence of other viral proteins. Interestingly, co-expression of both polyproteins with pEP84R led to the formation of ER-targeted core shell-like assemblies and co-immunoprecipitation assays showed that pEP84R binds to the N-terminal region of pp220. Altogether, these results indicate that pEP84R plays a crucial role in core assembly by targeting the core shell polyproteins to the inner viral envelope, which enables subsequent genome packaging and nucleoid formation. These findings unveil a key regulatory mechanism for ASFV morphogenesis and identify a relevant novel target for the development of therapeutic tools against this re-emerging threat.
Comparative Study on Bioactivities of Four Rose Species for Anti-aging Cosmetic Applications
Authors: Le Xuan-Tien , Huynh-Bao Minh-Chau , Nguyen-Huynh Huong-Thao , Trieu Tuan-Anh
Published: January 2023

When the skin is exposed to UVA/UVB rays, it stimulates the activity of the enzyme elastase. Wrinkles
and sagging skin are the result of a breakdown in the skin’s elastic fibre network. The aim of this
research is to identify the most promising material for suppressing the enzyme elastase from common
four rose (Damask, Bishop, Autumn and Lafont) species in Vietnam, as well as to compare the bioactivities
of fresh and dried petals. The obtained results showed that Damask and Bishop petal extracts had the
highest antioxidant activity in the DPPH assay with IC50 = 10.08 and 10.07 μg/mL, respectively.
Damask rose displayed not only an outstanding elastase inhibition with IC50 = 261.42 ± 0.8 μg/mL but
also a high total polyphenol content (TPC) value of 149.49 mg GAE/g extract. These results indicate
that the Rosa damascena petals could be used as valuable material for anti-aging product development
based on the high TPC and elastase inhibitory activities.
Novel Gold(III), Palladium(II) and Copper(II) Schiff Base Complexes
Derived from 1-Hydroxy-2-acetonaphthone and Phenylethyl Amine:
Synthesis, Characterization and Biological Studies
Authors: Bondar D.V. , Ingle V.S.
Published: January 2023

In this work, a novel Schiff base from 1-hydroxy-2-acetonaphthone and phenyl ethylamine and its
metal complexes were synthesized and characterized using UV-visible, FT-IR, 1H and 13C NMR,
SC-XRD, LCMS, TGA-DSC and powder X-ray diffraction. The IR data indicated that the ligand was
coordinated via bidentate bonding through the oxygen atom of naphthone and nitrogen atom of
azomethine unit. The TGA-DSC analysis of Au(III), Pd(II), and Cu(II) revealed the presence of
coordinated water molecules. According to powder X-ray diffraction data, the Schiff base ligand exhibits
a tetragonal crystal structure, Au(III) complex has a cubic crystal structure, while Pd(II) and Cu(II)
complexes have monoclinic crystal structures. The synthesized metal complexes were examined for
their in vitro antibacterial bioactivity against the Gram-negative bacteria E. coli, P. aeruginosa and
Gram-positive S. aureus, B. subtilis as well as their in vitro antifungal activity against the two fungus
C. albicans and A. niger. According to the biological findings, the synthesized metal complexes exhibited
better antimicrobial activities compared to the Schiff base ligand. Similar, outcomes were followed in
the antioxidant activity analysis, where the synthesized Schiff base metal complexes had DPPH radical
scavenging activity.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of In2O3-SiO2 as Recyclable Mesostructured Catalyst Utilized for 2,3-Dihydrophthalazine-1,4-dione (DHP) Derivatives
Authors: Tayde D. , Gawai U. , Nikam R. , Ingale V. , Lande M.
Published: January 2023

Mesostructured In2O3-SiO2 as recyclable heterogeneous catalyst material was synthesized by an aqueous solution based wet chemistry method, i.e. hydrothermal method and utilized for the reaction between pathalic anhydride and substituted hydrazine hydrate in DMF medium to synthesize 2,3-dihydrophthalazine-1,4-dione (DHP) derivatives. The advantages of this protocol are cost effective, ease of handling and environmental friendly. This catalytic material were characterized by using X-ray diffraction spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, temperature-programmed desorption and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller. The proposed synthetic method results in a high yield, has an easy work-up procedure, is non-toxic and clean, and facilitates the simple recovery and reusability of the catalytic system.
Microwave Assisted Solvent Free Catalytic Amino-Carbonylation of Aryl Bromide by
Using μ-Dichloro-bis(benzylidene aniline)palladium(II) Complex as Catalyst
Authors: Pant B. , Prakash D. , Sagar P.
Published: January 2023

Solvent-free aminocarbonylation (Heck carbonylation) of aryl halide, catalyzed by
μ-dichloro-bis(benzylidene aniline)palladium(II) complex yields dimethyl benzamide and their
substitutes, has several useful industrial applications. In present work, dimethylformamide (DMF)
serves as an effective in situ supplier of dimethyl amine and carbon monoxide. Bromobenzene along
with more electron-rich aryl bromide generally undergo these reactions very smoothly, but the yield
of respective products is less. To increase the yields of aryl amide, it is needed to be add amines from
the external sources to the reaction mixture. Imidazole and aniline were used as good reaction partners,
or amines, in this experiment. For obtaining the best results, several reactions were conducted in the
presence of base i.e. potassium tert-butoxide. Potassium tert-butoxide was responsible for the better
decomposition of DMF and imidazole as an additive. The carbonylation reactions described here
depend on the efficiency of in situ generation of carbon monoxide, which can be a suitable
unconventional route to traditional carbonylation procedures for small-scale operation when a quick
reaction time is sought where direct use of CO gas is not possible.
Synthesis, Antimicrobial and Corrosion Inhibition Studies of 1,3-Benzothiazole Derivatives
Authors: Nayak Janardhana , Bhat Ramesh S.
Published: January 2023

With an emphasis on potential medicinal and corrosion inhibition applications, four N-(4-(substituted
benzylidene)benzo[d]thiazol-2-amine were synthesized by the condensation of 2,3-dihydro-1,3-
benzothiazol-2-amine with 4-substituted benzaldehydes. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), infrared
(IR) and mass spectroscopy were used to characterize the synthesized compounds. To assess the
antibacterial activity of synthetic drugs, the conventional serial dilution approach has been used. The
synthesized compounds showed excellent bioactivities comparable to those of a typical medication. The
corrosion inhibition effect of benzothiazole derivatives has been investigated against mild steel in 0.1 N
HCl solution using potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy methods
at room temperature. The results revealed that 4-{[(1,3-benzothiazol-2-yl)imino]methyl}-N,Ndimethylaniline
inhibitor has high inhibition efficiency (56.39%) at room temperature for a 50 mg/L
concentration when compared to other compounds.
Surfactant Assisted One-Pot Method for Preparation of Polyethylene-Clay
Nanocomposites (PECN) and Study of their Viscoelastic Behaviour
Authors: Sivakala S. , Manju M.S. , Sudha J.D.
Published: January 2023

This work demonstrates a one-pot soft template-assisted technique for developing polyethylene clay
nanocomposite (PECN) using cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) micelle as structure directing
agent. Linear and shear viscosities of the composite were studied in the oscillatory and rotational
modes. The effect of clay content, temperature and gallery space on the storage modulus and steady-state
viscosities were analyzed. The composite exhibited enhanced storage modulus over the pristine polymer,
confirming strong interaction between the clay platelet and polymer molecules. The prepared PECN
showed superior thermal stability, phase transition temperature, flame retardancy and mechanical
properties as compared to the conventional composite. Morphological studies using SEM and TEM
also confirmed the formation of the nanocomposite. This one step surfactant-assisted emulsion method
offers a broad scope in designing polymer clay nanocomposites with exciting properties and consequent
applications.
An Integrated HPLC Assay Technique for the Detection of Omeprazole in
Mixed Dose Forms with Aspirin, Diclofenac or Domperidone
Authors: Tripathy Swarnajeet , Sahu Prafulla Kumar , Venkata Ravi Kumar Bera Varaha , Acharya Biswajeet , Mishra Durga Prasad
Published: January 2023

Omeprazole (OMP), which is given for treatment in conjunction with a number of medications, is drawing
increased attention for its capacity to reduce gastric acid formation. Commonly administered
OMP-loaded dose forms include aspirin (ASN), diclofenac (DCF) and domperidone (DMP). As a
result, a single liquid chromatographic approach, which can simultaneously determine OMP-ASN,
OMP-DCF or OMP-DMP in commercial formulations was developed. On a reverse-phase Agilent
Eclipse XBD C18 analytical column (4.6 × 150 mm; 3.5 (m), the requisite separation was accomplished
utilizing a gradient flow of the mobile phase made up of a mixture of solvents A and B (50:50 v/v) and
diode array detection at 272 nm. Where solvent A is acetonitrile:buffer-A:buffer-B (10:90:50 v/v/v)
and solvent B is acetonitrile:buffer-A:buffer-B (90:10:50 v/v/v). The buffer-B is made up of an equal
mixture of 100 mM acetic acid and 100 mM triethyl-amine with a final attained pH of 5.2, whereas the
buffer-A is made up of 10 mM trifluoroacetic acid (pH adjusted to 2.2). According to ICH Q2(R1)
criteria, the method had been validated and verified the senstivity of the proposed method with a linearity
range of 0.5-20 mcg/mL for all the analytes. The established technique for concurrently quantifying
OMP with DCF, ASN or DMP in commercial formulations can be regularly employed in the quality
control laboratory in accordance with the validation conditions.
Theoretical Study of D-π-A Structured Malvidin for DSSC Application
Authors: Josephine X. Mary , Rajmuhamed R. , Krishnaveni S. , Sathyanarayanamoorthi V.
Published: January 2023

Six novel dye molecules were developed from D-π-A system and their suitability for dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) was evaluated
using density functional theory (DFT). All the calculation were performed using B3LYP/6-311++ G (d,p) level basis set. The intermolecular
charge transfer was examined using Frontier molecular orbitals. The absorption spectra, light harvesting efficiency (LHE) and the electron
injection energy (∆Ginject) for all the designed dyes were calculated to compare their photovoltaic performance. All of these dyes developed
in this study show great potential as a DSSC sensitizer.
Words and Images Matter: Introducing the C4DISC Guidelines on Inclusive Language and Images in Scholarly Communication
Authors: DiBari Sara
Published: January 2023

As part of the critical effort towards a more inclusive dissemination of scholarly research, the Coalition for Diversity and Inclusion in Scholarly Communications (C4DISC) recently released the Inclusive Language and Image Guidelines: a global tool and educational resource to help all authors, editors, and reviewers recognize the use of language and images that are inclusive and culturally sensitive.

By addressing the various forms of conscious/unconscious bias and discrimination currently found in published research, the living Guidelines aims to set an industry standard that promotes proactive inclusive writing habits going forward. This presentation provides an overview of the Guidelines and highlights some concrete recommendations that the audience can take home to action within their organizations.
Citation Ethics: Journal Editor Attitudes and Practices
Authors: Hosseini Mohammad , Wright Jennifer , Bruton Samuel
Published: January 2023

Increasing evidence suggests that unethical citation practices (e.g., inaccurate quotations, excessive self-citations, coercive citations, selective/biased citations, citation cartels, citation padding) negatively affect research integrity and mar the scholarly literature. This poster will present the preliminary results of a survey of journal editors about a wide range of citation practices, some ethically dubious and some laudable.

A previous phase of our citation ethics research surveyed 257 US-based researchers in receipt of federal funding. Since surveyed researchers are likely authors of peer-reviewed manuscripts, they are inevitably affected by editorial decisions pre-/post-publication of manuscripts. However, scant research exists on editors’ attitudes about and responses to various citation practices they encounter.

Therefore, in this follow-up survey, we will query journal editors about: The extent to which various citation practices are perceived as unethical

The way editors manage citation practices perceived as unethical

How editor attitudes and practices regarding citations vary with journal characteristics (e.g., discipline, size, impact factor, peer review model) and editorial experience

Our research instrument consists of multiple choice and fictional scenarios inspired by existing literature from various disciplines on citation norms, our own interactions with journal editors and also Cambridge University Press’ experiences with citation ethics. Consistent with our previous methodology, we are soliciting feedback from selected editors in our network and will then pilot the survey with a small group of editors before scaling up recruitment and participation. The results of this study will help inform journal, publisher, and researcher guidance on citation practices.
NISO SSOS (Standards-Specific Ontology Standard): A New Resource for Standards Publishers
Authors: Wheeler Robert
Published: January 2023

The NISO Working Group for the Standards Specific Ontology Standard (SSOS) has developed and standardized a high-level standards ontology that describes a limited set of core concepts and relationships, starting with a component to define standards’ lifecycle states. This will facilitate use, create deeper and more consistent discovery and navigation, and set a foundation for other semantic application, such as linked data, within the standards ecosystem. This poster will outline the process undertaken to create the ontology standard, and show next steps for the project and its adoption by standards publishers.