bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Response of macroinvertebrate and epilithic diatom communities to pollution gradients in Ecuadorian Andean rivers
Authors: Castillejo Pablo , Ortiz Sofia , Jijón Gabriela , Lobo Eduardo A. , Heinrich Carla , Ballesteros Isabel , Rios-Touma Blanca
Published: July 2023

Population growth and increasing production demands threaten the highly diverse Andean freshwater ecosystems. Biological indicators constitute a valuable tool for evaluating the ecological quality of freshwater ecosystems under different pressures. Diatom and macroinvertebrate assemblages are the most used bioindicators to assess water pollution, whereby these biotic groups occupy the first and second trophic levels and respond to habitat pollution. Several studies have explored the response of these communities to water pollution in other regions, but no studies have examined their performance in Andean rivers. In this context, this research aimed to evaluate the responses and relationships of both groups of bioindicators in the Upper Guayllabamba basin. We collected macroinvertebrate and diatom samples from nine sites in this basin during the dry and wet seasons, calculated trophic indices for both groups, and related them to environmental characteristics. The results indicated that both bioindicators were sensitive to changes in land use and nutrients. Epilithic diatoms were more sensitive to changes in water chemistry and macroinvertebrates to changes in fluvial habitat and land use. The index based on macroinvertebrates better-detected changes in quality classes between sites and seasons. Therefore, both indices gave complementary information, and their joint use seems suitable in Andean streams.
Two structures of extraposition in central dialects of Early New High German
Authors: Belkind Aleksandra
Published: July 2023

Extraposition in OV Germanic languages is a complicated phenomenon, which has been analyzed in different ways—as a result of rightward movement, as base generation of extraposing items to the right, and as a result of raising of predicative elements. The most common type of item in extraposition is CP, but also PPs and heavy adjuncts are attested in extraposition in Modern German. Early New High German (ENHG) material adds complexity to this topic, since it shows much more widespread extraposition, allowed for arguments as well. In this article, I propose a twofold analysis of extraposition in ENHG. Based on DP-extraposition to the predicate, I argue that in certain cases extraposition can result from rightward movement of an extraposing XP, while in other cases it is raising of the particle to position adjoined to vP, which leaves XP in overt extraposition to the predicate.
Low extinction risk in the flower fly fauna of northeastern North America
Authors: Klymko John , Schlesinger Matthew D. , Skevington Jeffrey H. , Young Bruce E.
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Flower flies (Diptera: Syrphidae; also known as hoverflies) are important pollinators of wild and cultivated plants. Other pollinators such as bees have declined, and many flower flies in Europe and Chile have been documented to be threatened with extinction. The status of other flower fly faunas is currently unknown.

Aims/Methods

We assessed the rangewide conservation status of flower flies that occur in Northeastern North America where there is a diverse fauna of 323 native species. Over 150,000 records, drawn from a locality database compiled for a recently published field guide, additional museum records, recent field surveys, and citizen science records, informed the assessments.

Results

We found that a minimum of 11 species are at risk of rangewide extinction, 267 have lower extinction risk, and 45 had insufficient data to assess. Our best estimate is that 4.0% of species are at risk, assuming data-insufficient species are at risk at the same rate as data sufficient species. The range for this estimate is 3.4–17.3% at risk, assuming that none or all data-insufficient species are at risk, respectively.

Discussion

Factors causing extinction risk in the fauna we studied are poorly known, although habitat destruction likely explains the decline in one species. While at-risk species mostly have saprophagus or brood parasitic larvae, trophic relationships are confounded by phylogeny (the subfamilies Eristalinae and Microdontinae account for most saprophagus or brood parasitic species). The broad geographical ranges of most species likely contributed to the low rate of imperilment.

Implications for insect conservation

The small percentage of at-risk flower flies in northeastern North America bodes well for the health of ecosystems there. The results contrast with the situation in Europe, underscoring geographic heterogeneity in flower fly conservation status.
Separation of responsive and unresponsive patients under clinical conditions: comparison of symbolic transfer entropy and permutation entropy
Authors: Zanner Robert , Berger Sebastian , Schröder Natalie , Kreuzer Matthias , Schneider Gerhard
Published: July 2023

Electroencephalogram (EEG)-based monitoring during general anesthesia may help prevent harmful effects of high or low doses of general anesthetics. There is currently no convincing evidence in this regard for the proprietary algorithms of commercially available monitors. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether a more mechanism-based parameter of EEG analysis (symbolic transfer entropy, STE) can separate responsive from unresponsive patients better than a strictly probabilistic parameter (permutation entropy, PE) under clinical conditions. In this prospective single-center study, the EEG of 60 surgical ASA I–III patients was recorded perioperatively. During induction of and emergence from anesthesia, patients were asked to squeeze the investigators’ hand every 15s. Time of loss of responsiveness (LoR) during induction and return of responsiveness (RoR) during emergence from anesthesia were registered. PE and STE were calculated at −15s and +30s of LoR and RoR and their ability to separate responsive from unresponsive patients was evaluated using accuracy statistics. 56 patients were included in the final analysis. STE and PE values decreased during anesthesia induction and increased during emergence. Intra-individual consistency was higher during induction than during emergence. Accuracy values during LoR and RoR were 0.71 (0.62–0.79) and 0.60 (0.51–0.69), respectively for STE and 0.74 (0.66–0.82) and 0.62 (0.53–0.71), respectively for PE. For the combination of LoR and RoR, values were 0.65 (0.59–0.71) for STE and 0.68 (0.62–0.74) for PE. The ability to differentiate between the clinical status of (un)responsiveness did not significantly differ between STE and PE at any time. Mechanism-based EEG analysis did not improve differentiation of responsive from unresponsive patients compared to the probabilistic PE.

Trial registration: German Clinical Trials Register ID: DRKS00030562, November 4, 2022, retrospectively registered.
Accuracy of non-invasive sensors measuring core body temperature in cardiac surgery ICU patients – results from a monocentric prospective observational study
Authors: Engelbart Georg , Brandt Sebastian , Scheeren Tobias , Tzabazis Alexander , Kimberger Oliver , Kellner Patrick
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Temperature monitoring in the perioperative setting often represents a compromise between accuracy, invasiveness of probe placement, and patient comfort. Transcutaneous sensors using the Zero-Heat-Flux (ZHF) and Double-Sensor (DS) technology have been developed and evaluated in a variety of clinical settings. The present study is the first to compare the performance of both sensors simultaneously with temperature measured by a Swan-Ganz catheter (PAC) in patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) after cardiac surgery.

Methods

In this monocentric prospective observational study patients were postoperatively transferred to the ICU and both sensors were placed on the patients’ foreheads. Core body temperature measured by intraoperatively placed PAC served as gold standard. Measurements were recorded at 5-minute intervals and up to 40 data sets per patient were recorded. Bland and Altman’s method for repeated measurements was used to analyse agreement. Subgroup analyses for gender, body-mass-index, core temperature, airway status and different time intervals were performed. Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient (LCCC) was calculated, as well as sensitivity and specificity for detecting hyperthermia (≥ 38 °C) and hypothermia (< 36 °C).

Results

Over a period of six month, we collected 1600 sets of DS, ZHF, and PAC measurements, from a total of 40 patients. Bland-Altman analysis revealed a mean bias of -0.82 ± 1.27 °C (average ± 95% Limits-of-Agreement (LoA)) and − 0.54 ± 1.14 °C for DS and ZHF, respectively. The LCCC was 0.5 (DS) and 0.63 (ZHF). Mean bias was significantly higher in hyperthermic and hypothermic patients. Sensitivity and specificity were 0.12 / 0.99 (DS) and 0.35 / 1.0 (ZHF) for hyperthermia and 0.95 / 0.72 (DS) and 1.0 / 0.85 (ZHF) for hypothermia.

Conclusion

Core temperature was generally underestimated by the non-invasive approaches. In our study, ZHF outperformed DS. In terms of agreement, results for both sensors were outside the range that is considered clinically acceptable. Nevertheless, both sensors might be adequate to detect postoperative hypothermia reliably when more invasive methods are not available or appropriate.

Trial Registration

German Register of Clinical Trials (DRKS-ID: DRKS00027003), retrospectively registered 10/28/2021.
A Computational Approach to Exponential-Type Variable-Order Fractional Differential Equations
Authors: Garrappa Roberto , Giusti Andrea
Published: July 2023

We investigate the properties of some recently developed variable-order differential operators involving order transition functions of exponential type. Since the characterization of such operators is performed in the Laplace domain, it is necessary to resort to accurate numerical methods to derive the corresponding behaviours in the time domain. In this regard, we develop a computational procedure to solve variable-order fractional differential equations of this novel class. Furthermore, we provide some numerical experiments to show the effectiveness of the proposed technique.
A Conceptual replication of the differential price framing effect in the field
Authors: Köcher Sören , Husemann-Kopetzky Markus , Schirmbeck Marie , Hess Melina , Gmeindl Fabian , Hess Samuel
Published: July 2023

Across a series of 10 laboratory and online studies, Allard, Hardisty, and Griffin (2019) demonstrated an increased preference for premium, higher-priced products over standard products when consumers were presented with the additional cost of the higher-priced option (i.e., differential price framing; e.g., “for $20 more”) rather than with its total price (i.e., inclusive price framing; e.g., “for $60 total”); a phenomenon referred to as the differential price framing effect. In this paper, we conceptually replicate this effect in a field experiment that focuses on the application of a differential price framing strategy to a specific product format; namely, multipacks of identical products. Consistent with the differential price framing effect, the present study shows—based on 45,626 add-to-cart events and 30,426 completed product purchases on an online retailer’s website—that the choice shares of higher-priced options increase when a differential price framing strategy is used. However, compared to non-consequential add-to-cart activities, this bias is considerably less pronounced in actual purchase patterns.
Improving quality of experience in adaptive low latency live streaming
Authors: Lyko Tomasz , Broadbent Matthew , Race Nicholas , Nilsson Mike , Farrow Paul , Appleby Steve
Published: July 2023

HTTP Adaptive Streaming (HAS), the most prominent technology for streaming video over the Internet, suffers from high end-to-end latency when compared to conventional broadcast methods. This latency is caused by the content being delivered as segments rather than as a continuous stream, requiring the client to buffer significant amounts of data to provide resilience to variations in network throughput and enable continuous playout of content without stalling. The client uses an Adaptive Bitrate (ABR) algorithm to select the quality at which to request each segment to trade-off video quality with the avoidance of stalling to improve the Quality of Experience (QoE). The speed at which the ABR algorithm responds to changes in network conditions influences the amount of data that needs to be buffered, and hence to achieve low latency the ABR needs to respond quickly. Llama (Lyko et al. 28) is a new low latency ABR algorithm that we have previously proposed and assessed against four on-demand ABR algorithms. In this article, we report an evaluation of Llama that demonstrates its suitability for low latency streaming and compares its performance against three state-of-the-art low latency ABR algorithms across multiple QoE metrics and in various network scenarios. Additionally, we report an extensive subjective test to assess the impact of variations in video quality on QoE, where the variations are derived from ABR behaviour observed in the evaluation, using short segments and scenarios. We publish our subjective testing results in full and make our throughput traces available to the research community.
Comparison of direct cortical stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation in brain tumor surgery: systematic review and meta analyses
Authors: Indharty Rr. Suzy , Japardi Iskandar , Irina Rr. Sinta , Tandean Steven , Siahaan Andre Marolop Pangihutan , Loe Michael Lumintang , Ivander Alvin
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Brain malignancy and, at the same time central nervous system malignancy are two of the most difficult problems in the oncology field of practice. Brain tumors located near or within eloquent areas may represent another challenge toward neurosurgeon treatment. As such, electrical stimulation, either directly or through other methods, may prove necessary as proper mapping of the eloquent area thus may create a proper resection guide. Minimal resection will hopefully preserve patient neurological function and ensure patient quality of life.

Methods

This research is a systematic review and meta-analysis that aim to compare outcomes, primarily adverse event analysis, between direct cortical stimulation and transcortical magnetic stimulation.

Results

Fourteen studies were identified between 2010 and the 2023 interval. While this number is sufficient, most studies were not randomized and were not accompanied by blinding. Meta-analysis was then applied as a hypothesis test, which showed that TMS were not inferior compared to DCS in terms of motoric and lingual outcome which were marked subjectively by diamond location and objectively through a p-value above 0.05.

Conclusion

TMS is a noninvasive imaging method for the evaluation of eloquent brain areas that is not inferior compared to the invasive gold-standard imaging method (DCS). However its role as adjuvant to DCS and alternative only when awake surgery is not available must be emphasized.
A qualitative review of tsunamis in Hawaiʻi
Authors: Fisher Scott , Goff James , Cundy Andrew , Sear David
Published: July 2023

The Hawaiian Islands have a long history of destructive and deadly tsunamis from both distant and local sources. Gaining a more detailed understanding of the historical record of tsunami impacts is a key step in reducing the vulnerability of coastal communities to tsunami inundation. This paper explores the history and prehistory of tsunamis in the Hawaiian archipelago, while proposing methods to narrow the gaps in our current understanding of their impacts. Future strategies to reduce risk and improve resilience to tsunami flooding are also discussed and evaluated.
Node-of-Influence Network Analysis for Targeted Condition Sequencing in Plasma Chemical Reaction Networks
Authors: Holmes Thomas D. , Moody Bryony C. , Zimmerman William B. J.
Published: July 2023

It was demonstrated that a plasma chemical reaction system can be represented as a directed bipartite variable-relationship (VR) graph to accurately represent node influence, and that targeted node-influence analysis of this graph can determine improved condition sequencing for a target outcome. A novel graph algorithm (OCARINA) was adapted for VR-graphs to give a measure of the net-influence of incremental increase (NIII) of one variable on another at any depth in the graph. Additionally, two conventional node-influence measures, the Eigenvector Centrality Index (ECI) and Katz Centrality Index (KCI), were also trialled on the VR-graph. The electron energy (ε) node influence was evaluated on a “baseline” continuous sequence of 10 ns 1 eV pulses in a 0D chemical-kinetic simulation using ECI, KCI and OCARINA NIII at three depths. KCI appeared to give meaningful values for ε influence in the whole graph but not on specific nodes, ECI gave no meaningful results. OCARINA (O3targeted) suggested each successive ε pulse had diminishing influence on O3formation, though analysis differed for each NIII depth. O3concentrations in simulations with different numbers of ε pulses decreased with each additional pulse, correlating with the OCARINA analysis. O3, NO and O Species production in simulations of two ε pulses with one or both pulses incrementally changed by 10% from the baseline also largely agreed with the OCARINA results for each species on a baseline simulation of two consecutive 1 eV electron energy pulses. Additionally, it was found the NIII at antecedent depths corresponded to effects in subsequent phases in simulations.
Rhizosphere processes by the nickel hyperaccumulator Odontarrhena chalcidica suggest Ni mobilization
Authors: Risse Sören B. L. , Puschenreiter Markus , Tognacchini Alice
Published: July 2023

Background and aims

Plant Ni uptake in aboveground biomass exceeding concentrations of 1000 μg g−1 in dry weight is defined as Ni hyperaccumulation. Whether hyperaccumulators are capable of mobilizing larger Ni pools than non-accumulators is still debated and rhizosphere processes are still largely unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate rhizosphere processes and possible Ni mobilization by the Ni hyperaccumulator Odontarrhena chalcidica and to test Ni uptake in relation to a soil Ni gradient.

Methods

The Ni hyperaccumulator O. chalcidica was grown in a pot experiment on six soils showing a pseudo-total Ni and labile (DTPA-extractable) Ni gradient and on an additional soil showing high pseudo-total but low labile Ni. Soil pore water was sampled to monitor changes in soil solution ionome, pH, and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) along the experiment.

Results

Results showed that Ni and Fe concentrations, pH as well as DOC concentrations in pore water were significantly increased by O. chalcidica compared to unplanted soils. A positive correlation between Ni in shoots and pseudo-total concentrations and pH in soil was observed, although plant Ni concentrations did not clearly show the same linear pattern with soil available Ni.

Conclusions

This study shows a clear root-induced Ni and Fe mobilization in the rhizosphere of O. chalcidica and suggests a rhizosphere mechanism based on soil alkalinization and exudation of organic ligands. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that soil pH and pseudo-total Ni are better predictors of Ni plant uptake in O. chalcidica than labile soil Ni.
Complex Systems Methods Characterizing Nonlinear Processes in the Near-Earth Electromagnetic Environment: Recent Advances and Open Challenges
Authors: Balasis Georgios , Balikhin Michael A. , Chapman Sandra C. , Consolini Giuseppe , Daglis Ioannis A. , Donner Reik V. , Kurths Jürgen , Paluš Milan , Runge Jakob , Tsurutani Bruce T. , Vassiliadis Dimitris , Wing Simon , Gjerloev Jesper W. , Johnson Jay , Materassi Massimo , Alberti Tommaso , Papadimitriou Constantinos , Manshour Pouya , Boutsi Adamantia Zoe , Stumpo Mirko
Published: July 2023

Learning from successful applications of methods originating in statistical mechanics, complex systems science, or information theory in one scientific field (e.g., atmospheric physics or climatology) can provide important insights or conceptual ideas for other areas (e.g., space sciences) or even stimulate new research questions and approaches. For instance, quantification and attribution of dynamical complexity in output time series of nonlinear dynamical systems is a key challenge across scientific disciplines. Especially in the field of space physics, an early and accurate detection of characteristic dissimilarity between normal and abnormal states (e.g., pre-storm activity vs. magnetic storms) has the potential to vastly improve space weather diagnosis and, consequently, the mitigation of space weather hazards.

This review provides a systematic overview on existing nonlinear dynamical systems-based methodologies along with key results of their previous applications in a space physics context, which particularly illustrates how complementary modern complex systems approaches have recently shaped our understanding of nonlinear magnetospheric variability. The rising number of corresponding studies demonstrates that the multiplicity of nonlinear time series analysis methods developed during the last decades offers great potentials for uncovering relevant yet complex processes interlinking different geospace subsystems, variables and spatiotemporal scales.
Are the same factors determining biodiversity in cities across different regions? Comparing drivers of urban bird richness patterns in Southern Asia vs. Western Europe
Authors: Sultana Marufa , Corlatti Luca , Storch Ilse
Published: July 2023

According to general urban ecological understanding, bird species richness declines in highly urban areas due to the increasing extent of built-up areas, and decreasing proportions of green areas. However, this hypothesis is mainly based on studies conducted in cities located in the Global North and rarely in the Global South. We aimed to assess whether existing conceptual understandings of drivers of bird species richness patterns within cities are similar across different regions, specifically Southern Asia (in the Global South) vs. Western Europe (in the Global North). Using avian occurrence data drawn from GBIF (gbif.org), we estimated resident bird species richness in 943 selected grid cells (each cell corresponding to approximately 1 km2area) distributed in 24 cities, 13 in Southern Asia and 11 in Western Europe. We applied generalised linear mixed models to relate resident bird richness with different explanatory variables of gradients of urbanisation, habitat and climatic factors using the selected grid cells as sampling units. Our results showed that bird richness declined with increasing human built-up and settlement extent (imperviousness) in both regions, but this relationship was stronger in Southern Asia compared to Western Europe. Bird richness also sharply declined in urban areas located far from inland waterbodies, but only in Southern Asia. Our findings suggest that high imperviousness drives bird richness decline, but this process appears to be more pronounced in regions where rapid urbanisation is ongoing. Urban planning integrating green spaces throughout cities is crucial in Southern Asia, as it is in Western Europe, to benefit both people and biodiversity.
Numerical investigation of the effect of rectangular and semicircular cavities filled with phase change materials installed on the solar wall
Authors: Mustafa Jawed , Alqaed Saeed , Almehmadi Fahad Awjah , Husain Shahid , Jamil Basharat , Sharifpur Mohsen
Published: July 2023

The use of alternative energy sources, particularly solar energy, in buildings is rising and spreading around the globe. In this paper, a solar wall is analyzed using a numerical method. On the wall, a number of obstacles are placed in two shapes, rectangular (REC) and semicircular (SEC). The cavities are filled with organic phase-change materials. This study was performed in 7 h in the absence of solar radiation on the wall for different dimensions of obstacles in 5 different modes. Various temperatures have been investigated, including exhaust air temperature (TAR), Trombe wall temperature (TWL), and mean volume % of molten PCM in cavities. COMSOL software is used to carry out this numerical study. The results of this study showed that the use of SECs compared to RECs causes the TWL to be higher. In the most extreme case, at a 16 cm aspect ratio, the use of SECs gives a 2.1 °C increase in TWL relative to the REC one. The outlet TAR is also increased by the usage of SECs. The use of larger dimensions of the cavities has increased the TAR leaving the wall so that the TAR after 7 h of the absence of solar radiation, in the most significant case of SECs, was more than 295.5 K. The use of SECs also increases the PCM freezing time. In the largest case of cavities, using SECs increases the freezing time by 15 min compared to RECs.
Alteration of BDNF, SPARC, FGF-21, and GDF-15 circulating levels after 1 year of anti-obesity treatments and their association with 1-year weight loss
Authors: Chaiyasoot Kusuma , Khumkhana Nanta , Deekum Wanjan , Chaichana Chartchai , Taweerutchana Voraboot , Srisuworanan Nicha , Pramyothin Pornpoj
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Emerging evidence revealed that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC), fibroblast growth factor 21(FGF-21) and growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) are involved in energy metabolism and body weight regulation. Our study aimed at examining their association with BMI, their alterations after anti-obesity treatments, and their association with 1-year weight loss.

Methods

A prospective observational study of 171 participants with overweight and obesity and 46 lean controls was established. All participants received lifestyle educational intervention (LEI) with or without anti-obesity treatments (LEI + bariatric/metabolic surgery, n = 41; LEI + topiramate, n = 46; LEI + liraglutide, n = 31; LEI + orlistat, n = 12; and LEI alone, n = 41). Anthropometric and metabolic parameters, insulin sensitivity, C-reactive protein (CRP), fasting plasma levels of BDNF, SPARC, GDF-15, and FGF-21 were measured at baseline and 1 year.

Results

Multiple linear regression showed that fasting levels of SPARC, FGF-21, and GDF-15 were significantly associated with baseline BMI after adjustment for age and sex. At 1 year, the average weight loss was 4.8% in the entire cohort with a significant improvement in glycemia, insulin sensitivity, and CRP. Multiple linear regression adjusted for age, sex, baseline BMI, type of treatment, and presence of T2DM revealed that the decrease in log10FGF-21 and log10GDF-15 at 1 year from baseline was significantly associated with a greater percentage of weight loss at 1 year.

Conclusions

This study highlights the association of SPARC, FGF-21, and GDF-15 levels with BMI. Decreased circulating levels of GDF-15 and FGF-21 were associated with greater weight loss at 1 year, regardless of the types of anti-obesity modalities.
An analysis tool for boundary layer and correlation-based transition onset assessment on generic geometries
Authors: Hoffmann J. Paul , Van den Eynde Jeroen , Steelant Johan
Published: July 2023

Today’s CFD simulations tools and the related computational resources provide engineers an enormously high-fidelity design tool to generate an enormous aerodynamic and aerothermal database, for both the laminar and turbulent state, in a short time span. However, transitional flow simulation is still in its infancy that one still needs to rely on practical engineering correlations composed of typical boundary-layer parameters. This work describes the methodology to extract necessary parameters and profile information of the local boundary layer from any vast simulation dataset in an automatic fashion, allowing to apply a huge variety of best-practise correlations for transition prediction relying on local quantities on any type of 3D geometric body. The validation on a simple test case of a flat plate and application to a representative and complex use cases with the geometry of the HEXAFLY-INT hypersonic glider demonstrate the potential of this engineering methodology.
The Design of Citizen-Centric Green IS in Sustainable Smart Districts
Authors: Graf-Drasch Valerie , Keller Robert , Meindl Oliver , Röhrich Felix
Published: July 2023

Green information systems are often praised for their potential to foster sustainability in citizens’ daily lives and meet their needs. With this focus on citizens, districts that use smart technologies provide a litmus test, the results of which will indicate how to design smart green information systems that better meet the needs and desires of citizens. To date, however, guidelines on how to design such green information systems in urban areas or actively involve citizens in this process are few and far between. In recognition and remedy of this shortage, the study draws on the design science research paradigm to develop seven design principles for citizen-centric green information systems that can be used in sustainable smart districts. These principles are evaluated in 15 semi-structured interviews and a prototype of a mobile district app for a citizen-centric green information system is instantiated. By taking this citizen-centric perspective, the paper fosters the active involvement of humans in the design of sustainable urban environments.
Assessing Nutrient Assimilation by Wetland Impoundments Across Environmental Gradients
Authors: Wood Rachel L. , Baker Michelle A.
Published: July 2023

Wetland impoundments are constructed for recreational and conservational purposes. Here, the water level can be carefully controlled, producing ideal conditions for aquatic plant growth to support migratory birds or other management goals. These wetlands also perform a critical function of nutrient assimilation, with the capability to protect downstream waters from eutrophication. Understanding how the structural characteristics of wetlands are related to this functional capacity within shallow impoundments will help inform management practices to improve overall wetland function. We characterized 18 waterfowl impoundments surrounding the Great Salt Lake, Utah, USA. Wetland assimilation of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) was estimated at each wetland by controlled nutrient addition within mesocosms. In addition, wetland condition was assessed using a multimetric index (MMI), an indicator of the biological quality of the wetlands. We found that N assimilation was inversely correlated with water depth and positively correlated with soil % clay and total iron. Phosphorus assimilation was related to dissolved oxygen, aluminum, and N and P concentrations within the water column and soil. Nutrient assimilation did not differ among wetlands rated as poor, fair, and good by the MMI.
MIB2 promotes the progression of non-small cell lung cancer by regulating cell cycle control pathways
Authors: Kong Yiru , Li Jing , Liang Xiaohua , Zhou Xinli
Published: July 2023

Background

Although numerous measures have been used to improve the outcome of lung cancer patients, lung cancer, as the second most common diagnosed cancer, is still the main cause of cancer death. It becomes increasingly urgent for us to deeply deplore the molecular mechanism of lung cancer and to discover the potential therapeutic targets. In our study, we are dedicated to discovering the role of MIB2 in lung cancer development.

Methods

The public databases were used to compare the expression level of MIB2 in cancer and non-cancer tissue. We analyzed the expression of MIB2 in lung cancer samples by performing Rt-PCR and western blot. We carried out CCK8 and clone assays to study the influence of MIB2 in lung cancer proliferation. The transwell assays and wound healing assays were implemented to study the function of MIB2 in metastasis and invasion. Proteins of cell cycle control pathways are detected to verify the potential mechanism of MIB2 in lung cancer progression.

Results

MIB2 is up regulated in lung cancer tissue compared to adjacent normal lung tissue according to both public databases and our clinical lung cancer samples. Knockdown of MIB2 inhibits proliferation, metastasis, and invasion of lung cancer cell lines. Cyclins and cyclin dependent kinases (CDK) including CDK2, CDK4, and cyclinB1 were down regulated in MIB2 knockdown cells.

Conclusion

Our results prove that MIB2 acts as a driver in NSCLC tumorigenesis by regulating cell cycle control pathways.
Facile Synthesis and Biophysical Characterization of Novel Zinc Oxide/Fe3O4 Hybrid Nanocomposite as a Potentially Active Agent in Sunscreens
Authors: Elbrolesy Aya , Elhussiny F. A. , Abdou Y. , Morsy Reda
Published: July 2023

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are attractive sunscreens for UV protection, but they still face some challenges due to their white color and skin whitening, and the extent of UV blocking is still limited to UV-B. Therefore, the present work aimed to develop novel sunscreen agents based on ZnO/Fe3O4 hybrid nanocomposites. ZnO/Fe3O4 hybrid nanocomposites were prepared using a facile one-step combustion method and characterized by XRD, FTIR, FESEM, and UV–Vis diffuse reflectance techniques. The in vitro sun protection factor (SPF) and antioxidant activity of the prepared samples were carried out by spectrophotometric methods. The biocompatibility potential was tested on the normal (Human lung fibroblast: WI38) and cancerous (Hepatocellular carcinoma: HEPG-2) cell lines and the antibacterial activity was tested against Gram-negative Escherichia coli and Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus. Bare ZnO NPs and ZnO/Fe3O4 hybrid nanocomposites had pure structures with average particle sizes on a scale below 100 nm. The samples had antibacterial and antioxidant activity as well as the potential for biocompatibility and anticancer activity (cell viability was 80% for all nanocomposites up to 6.25 μg/mL indicating non-toxicity). The nanocomposite presented good UV absorption and SPF values (SPF = 12.2–14) not too far from those of bare ZnO (SPF = 15.4) and achieved extended protection over the UV and visible range. ZnO/Fe3O4 hybrid nanocomposites are colored compounds that can match a desired tanned skin tone and have biophysical properties that make them a promising future as a cosmetic UV protectant.
Water extracts of Spirulina platensis and Chlorella vulgaris enhance tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L) tolerance against saline water irrigation
Authors: Mostafa Maryam M. , Hammad Doaa M. , Reda Marwa M. , El-Sayed Abo El-Khair B.
Published: July 2023

The research aimed to examine the enhancement effect of Spirulina platensis (blue–green microalga or Cyanobacterium) and Chlorella vulgaris (green microalga) water extracts as biological stimulant in improving growth parameters, chlorophyll content, yield, and fruit quality of tomato plants under salinity stress. Tomato seeds (Solanum lycopersicum L of cv. Agyad) were soaked in three microalgae water extracts at a 10% concentration (Chlorella vulgaris, Spirulina platensis, and Chlorella: Spirulina at a ratio of 1:1). Chemical and biochemical analyses for the used materials and products were achieved. After germination, tomato transplants were irrigated with saline water at three levels of saline water (2, 4, and 7 dS/m) using sea salt. Successive grown tomato transplant at 7.0 dS/cm were infused in clayey soil. The grown plants were prayed by algal extract and irrigated by the same solution. Vegetative growth, yield, shelf life, and chlorophylls (a and b) were determined. It was found that the highest vegetative growth, yield, and chlorophyll content were measured in tomato transplants with the Spirulina: Chlorella mixture, followed by Spirulina platensis and Chlorella vulgaris water extracts, all of these measurements increased significantly in response to microalgae treatments. Experimental tomato fruits of Chlorella and mixture treatments can stay for 45 days at room temperature. Both algal extracts and their mixture enhanced the bioaccumulation of micronutrients (Fe, Zn, Mn, and Cu) compared with the control, while Chlorella extract surpassed Spirulina and mixture extracts. Concerning the used dried algae and their water extract, Spirulina platensis surpasses Chlorella vulgaris for protein and ash content.
Molecular dynamics simulation of the Stribeck curve: Boundary lubrication, mixed lubrication, and hydrodynamic lubrication on the atomistic level
Authors: Stephan Simon , Schmitt Sebastian , Hasse Hans , Urbassek Herbert M.
Published: July 2023

Lubricated contact processes are studied using classical molecular dynamics simulations for determining the entire range of the Stribeck curve. Therefore, the lateral movement of two solid bodies at different gap height are studied. In each simulation, a rigid asperity is moved at constant height above a flat iron surface in a lubricating fluid. Both methane and decane are considered as lubricants. The three main lubrication regimes of the Stribeck curve and their transition regions are covered by the study: Boundary lubrication (significant elastic and plastic deformation of the substrate), mixed lubrication (adsorbed fluid layer dominates the process), and hydrodynamic lubrication (shear flow is set up between the surface and the asperity). We find the formation of a tribofilm in which lubricant molecules are immersed into the metal surface—not only in the case of scratching, but also for boundary lubrication and mixed lubrication. The formation of a tribofilm is found to have important consequences for the contact process. Moreover, the two fluids are found to show distinctly different behavior in the three lubrication regimes: For hydrodynamic lubrication (large gap height), decane yields a better tribological performance; for boundary lubrication (small gap height), decane shows a larger friction coefficient than methane, which is due to the different mechanisms observed for the formation of the tribofilm; the mixed lubrication regime can be considered as a transition regime between the two other regimes. Moreover, it is found that the nature of the tribofilm depends on the lubricant: While methane particles substitute substrate atoms sustaining mostly the crystalline structure, the decane molecules distort the substrate surface and an amorphous tribofilm is formed.
Loneliness Among Black/African American Adults Living with HIV: Sociodemographic and Psychosocial Correlates and Implications for Adherence
Authors: Malika Nipher , Bogart Laura M. , Mutchler Matt G. , Goggin Kathy , Klein David J. , Lawrence Sean J. , Wagner Glenn J.
Published: July 2023

Loneliness, an emerging public health problem, is higher among people living with HIV and is associated with negative health outcomes. Black/African Americans have a high burden of HIV, and little is known about the characteristics of loneliness among Black adults living with HIV; therefore, this study sought to understand the sociodemographic and psychosocial correlates of Black adults living with HIV who are lonely and the implications of loneliness for their health outcomes. A sample of 304 Black adults living with HIV (73.8% sexual minority men) in Los Angeles County, CA, USA, completed the survey items assessing sociodemographic and psychosocial characteristics, social determinants of health, health outcomes, and loneliness. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence was assessed electronically with the medication event monitoring system. Bivariate linear regressions analysis showed higher loneliness scores among those with higher levels of internalized HIV stigma, depression, unmet needs, and discrimination related to HIV serostatus, race, and sexual orientation. In addition, participants who were married or living with a partner, had stable housing, and reported receiving more social support had lower levels of loneliness. In multivariable regression models controlling for correlates of loneliness, loneliness was found to be a significant independent predictor of worse general physical health, worse general mental health, and greater depression. Loneliness was marginally associated with lower ART adherence. Findings suggest that Black adults living with HIV, who experience multiple intersectional stigmas, require targeted interventions and resources.
A new algorithm and a discussion about visualization for logistic reduced rank regression
Authors: de Rooij Mark
Published: July 2023

Logistic reduced rank regression is a useful data analysis tool when we have multiple binary response variables and a set of predictors. In this paper, we describe logistic reduced rank regression and present a new majorization minimization algorithm for the estimation of model parameters. Furthermore, we discuss Type I and Type D triplots for visualizing the results of a logistic reduced rank regression model, compare them, and then develop a hybrid triplot using elements of both types. Two empirical data sets are analyzed. This analysis is used to (1) compare the new algorithm to an existing one in terms of speed; and (2) to show the hybrid triplot and its interpretation.
Robotic check of a subassembly, and its simulation
Authors: Rónai László
Published: July 2023

This paper discusses a quality inspection process of a subassembly of a battery cover, which is performed with an industrial robot equipped with an intelligent end-effector. The subassembly has a plastic pin and a torsion spring part. During intended use of the unit, the necessary force to actuate the pin is determined with measurements and simulations. In the measurement a self-devised intelligent end-effector is equipped with a microcontroller and a beam type load cell in order to measure the spring force. The main aim is to make an automatic decision without operator intervention at the quality check process, which is related to the quality of the subassembly. In the simulation deformation of the spring part is modeled with geometrically nonlinear 2D beam finite elements in the course of assembly and intended use. Co-rotational approach is used to consider the large displacements and rotations with small strains. Penalty method is applied to treat the contact between the spring and pin parts.
Choose Local: Dung Addition from Native Herbivores Can Produce Substantial Positive Effects on the Growth of Native Grasses Compared to Livestock Dung
Authors: Guevara-Torres Diego R. , Facelli José M.
Published: July 2023

Livestock grazing and dung deposition can increase soil nutrients, contributing to the dominance of exotic species. Recent research suggests that native herbivore grazing has positive effects on native vegetation and soil health. However, little is known about the effects of native herbivore dung on plant growth and its potential implications for the restoration of degraded grasslands. This study examined the effects of dung addition from a native herbivore, kangaroo (Macropus giganteus), and ruminant livestock, sheep (Ovis aries), on biomass production and nutrient uptake of the native perennial wallaby grass (Rytidosperma auriculatum) and the annual exotic wild oat (Avena barbata), two of the most abundant grasses from the temperate grasslands of southern Australia. We conducted a glasshouse experiment, adding each type of dung to each plant species grown without competition in pots containing soil with a nutrient composition similar to that of old fields. Kangaroo dung produced higher wallaby grass aboveground biomass than other treatments and less wild oat aboveground biomass than the control. Kangaroo dung affected nutrient uptake but not nutrient concentration. Sheep dung had no effect. We demonstrated that native herbivores and livestock dung can have different effects on the biomass of native and invasive grasses. The higher nutrient uptake in wallaby grass appeared to be a consequence of the higher biomass production, suggesting that the effects produced by kangaroo dung could be related to its chemical and biological characteristics rather than its nutrient composition. Incorporating native herbivores’ dung or facilitating their presence can improve restoration outcomes in degraded grasslands.
Expanding the application range of the κ‑carrageenase OUC-FaKC16A when preparing oligosaccharides from κ-carrageenan and furcellaran
Authors: Jiang Chengcheng , Secundo Francesco , Mao Xiangzhao
Published: July 2023

Carrageenan oligosaccharides are important products that have demonstrated numerous bioactivities useful in the food, medicine, and cosmetics industries. However, the specific structure–function relationships of carrageenan oligosaccharides are not clearly described due to the deficiency of high specific carrageenases. Here, a truncated mutant OUC-FaKC16Q based on the reportedκ-neocarratetrose (Nκ4)-producingκ-carrageenase OUC-FaKC16A fromFlavobacterium algicolawas constructed and further studied. After truncating the C-terminal Por_Secre_tail (PorS) domain (responsible for substrate binding), the catalytic efficiency and temperature stability decreased to a certain extent. Surprisingly, this truncation also enabled OUC-FaKC16Q to hydrolyze Nκ4 intoκ-neocarrabiose (Nκ2). The offset of Arg265residue in OUC-FaKC16Q may explain this change. Moreover, the high catalytic abilities, the main products, and the degradation modes of OUC-FaKC16A and OUC-FaKC16Q toward furcellaran were also demonstrated. Data suggested OUC-FaKC16A and OUC-FaKC16Q could hydrolyze furcellaran to produce mainly the desulfated oligosaccharides DA-G-(DA-G4S)2and DA-G-DA-G4S, respectively. As a result, the spectrum of products ofκ-carrageenase OUC-FaKC16A has been fully expanded in this study, indicating its promising potential for application in the biomanufacturing of carrageenan oligosaccharides with specific structures.
Delineation of clinical target volume in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Quxia , Huang Shaohui , Lin Shaojun
Published: July 2023

Radiotherapy is the mainstay treatment modality for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), as the standard technique, achieves the purpose of improving target coverage and better sparing of normal tissue. Increased attention has been given to explore various strategies for deescalating treatment intensity. The optimization of clinical target volume (CTV) is one of the most active research areas being widely discussed. Although the International Guidelines for the delineating of CTV in NPC had provided important references for clinicians, there are marked variations in practice among different institutions. This article reviews the development of CTV delineation in non-metastatic NPC patients among centers, and compares the similarities and differences in CTV delineation of various current guidelines in the hope of providing insights for future investigation. This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the development and evolution of CTV delineation on primary tumor and lymph nodes for definitive radiotherapy in non-metastatic NPC through historical lens. We also compare the differences of CTV delineation ways. In addition, we look into the clinical and practical challenges of CTV delineation, hoping to provide direction for future research.