bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The importance of local process conditions on the properties of fused filament fabrication printed polypropylene components
Authors: Xu Yao , Huang Miaozi , Schlarb Alois K.
Published: January 2023

A key characteristic of the manufacture of void free components by 3D printing using fused filament fabrication (FFF) is that this generative process always produces new welded joints between the hot strand leaving the nozzle and the previously deposited and already solidified area. These contact conditions determine the local temperature gradient and the local deformation gradients in the contact. These in turn can have a decisive effect on the morphology and mechanical behavior of the component. In this work, the influence of three different geometric contact conditions under two different machine parameter sets on the morphology and mechanical properties was investigated. The results show that ultimately a parameter simply calculated from the process settings and geometric boundary conditions, the mean contact temperature, is decisive for the properties of the component. If this value is above the melting temperature of the material, quasi‐homogeneous morphologies with decent mechanical properties can be achieved in any case. However, if the mean contact temperature is below the melting temperature, the deformation conditions during strand deposition have a significant influence on morphology and properties. The paper describes this behavior using the example of three contact geometries typically encountered in 3D printing with FFF. The discussed correlations between the morphology and the mechanical properties of the printed FFF samples lead to a better understanding of the process and ultimately to the conclusion that the path generation that is, the slicing strategy should take these facts into account in the future in order to be able to exploit the material‐intrinsic performance potential in 3D printing as well.
Transcriptional regulation of host insulin signaling pathway genes controlling larval development by Microplitis manilae parasitization
Authors: Xing Bing‐Lin , Wang Shao‐Feng , Gulinuer Ahamaijiang , Ye Gong‐Yin , Yang Lei
Published: January 2023

Idiobiont parasitoids using other insects as hosts sabotage the host growth and development to ensure their offspring survival. Numerous studies have discovered that insect development is subtly regulated by the conserved insulin signaling pathway. However, little is known about how wasp parasitization disrupts host development controlled by the insulin signaling pathway. Here we address this study to determine the effect of wasp parasitism on host Spodoptera frugiperda development using the idiobiont parasitoid Microplitis manilae as a model. Upon M. manilae parasitization, the body weight, body length, and food consumption of host insect were dramatically reduced compared to the unparasitized S. frugiperda. We next identified the core genes involved in host insulin signaling pathway and further analyzed the domain organizations of these genes. Phylogenetic reconstruction based on the insulin receptors clustered S. frugiperda together with other noctuidae insects. In the latter study, we profiled the expression patterns of host insulin signaling pathway genes in response to M. manilae parasitization at 2, 24, and 48 h, significant decreases in mRNA levels were recorded in S. frugiperda larvae upon 24 and 48 h parasitization. These current findings substantially add to our understanding of the physiological interaction between parasitoid and host insects, thus contributing to revealing the molecular mechanism of parasitic wasps regulating host development.
An educational board game for learning orofacial spaces: An experimental study comparing collaborative and competitive approaches
Authors: Arayapisit Tawepong , Pojmonpiti Dittakul , Dansirisomboon Karn , Jitverananrangsri Kittikorn , Poosontipong Donaya , Sipiyaruk Kawin
Published: January 2023

Odontogenic orofacial space infection is an important topic in the dental curriculum. However, dental students do encounter difficulties in identifying the patterns of odontogenic infection spreading through fascial spaces. The implementation of game concepts might allow them to actively learn this topic by engagement. This research aimed to develop a game for learning about the orofacial spaces and to evaluate its implementation whether a competitive or collaborative approach would be more effective for dental undergraduates. ‘Trace the Spread’ has been developed as a table‐top board game, consisting of a main board presenting the anatomical map of a human model and two types of cards (quest and action cards). Eight groups of four students were randomly assigned into either the collaboration or competition group. The students were given pre‐ and post‐knowledge assessments to evaluate knowledge improvement after game completion, where they were asked to rate their satisfaction toward the game using a paper‐based questionnaire. The findings demonstrated a significant increase in the knowledge assessment scores after game completion in both collaboration (p < 0.001) and competition groups (p = 0.003). The score improvement of the collaboration group was significantly higher than that of the competition group (p < 0.001). The students tended to show satisfaction with the game, in which the collaboration group rated the game more positively compared to the competitive approach. This game appeared to be effective for learning orofacial space infections, and the learning environment within the collaborative group was found to be more supportive in terms of knowledge improvement and satisfaction.
A 1D Bayesian inversion of microwave radiances using several radiative properties of solid hydrometeors
Authors: Barreyat Marylis , Chambon Philippe , Mahfouf Jean‐François , Faure Ghislain
Published: January 2023

Numerical weather prediction centers increasingly make use of cloudy and rainy microwave radiances. Currently, the high microwave frequencies are simulated using simplified assumptions regarding the radiative properties of frozen hydrometeors. In particular, one single particle shape is often used for all precipitating frozen particles, all over the globe, and for all cloud types. In this paper, a multi‐SSP (single scattering properties) approach for 1D Bayesian inversions is examined. Two experiments were set up: (1) one with three SSPs and (2) one with the previous SSPs plus one which leads to very cold brightness temperature distributions. For that purpose, we used observations from the GPM Microwave Imager radiometer over 2 months period and forecasts from the Météo‐France convective scale AROME model. The results showed that mixtures of SSP are chosen by the inversion method for meteorological conditions with low scattering and that a single particle is chosen for those with high scattering to perform the inversions. Despite the fact that no specific weather scenes were found to be associated with a particular SSP the most efficient scattering particles can be favored for some of them.
Factors associated with polyacrylamide hydrogel outcomes in women with stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Hoe Venetia , Yao Henry H. , Gough Karla , O'Connell Helen E.
Published: January 2023

Knowledge of factors associated with superior outcomes in women treated with urethral bulking agents for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) remains limited. The aim of this study was to examine associations between post‐treatment outcomes in women who had undergone polyacrylamide hydrogel injections for SUI, and physiological and self‐reported variables captured during pre‐treatment clinical evaluation. A cross‐sectional study was undertaken in female patients treated for SUI with polyacrylamide hydrogel injections by a single urologist between January 2012 and December 2019. Post‐treatment outcome data were gathered in July 2020 using the Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI‐I), Urinary Distress Inventory‐short form (UDI‐6), Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ7), and International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form (ICIQ SF). All other data were gathered from women's medical records including pre‐treatment patient‐reported outcomes. Associations between post‐treatment outcomes and pre‐treatment physiological and self‐reported variables were investigated using regression models. One hundred seven of the 123 eligible patients completed post‐treatment patient‐reported outcome measures. Mean age was 63.1 years (range 25–93 years), and median time between first injection and follow‐up was 51 months (inter‐quartile range 23.5–70 months). Fifty‐five (51%) women had a successful outcome based on PGI‐I scores. Women with type 3 urethral hypermobility pre‐treatment were more likely to report treatment success (PGI‐I). Poor bladder compliance pre‐treatment was associated with greater urinary distress, frequency and severity (UDI‐6 and ICIQ) post‐treatment. Older age was associated with worse urinary frequency and severity (ICIQ) post‐treatment. Associations between patient‐reported outcomes and time between first injection and follow‐up were trivial and not statistically significant. Severity of pre‐treatment incontinence impact (IIQ‐7) was associated with worse incontinence impact post‐treatment. Type 3 urethral hypermobility was associated with a successful outcome, whereas pre‐treatment incontinence impact, poor bladder compliance and older age were associated with poorer self‐reported outcomes. Long‐term efficacy appears to hold in those who responded to initial treatment.
Hochleistungsfertigteile für den Hochbau: Ein Beitrag zum disruptiven Wandel bei mineralischen Bauteilen
Authors: Olipitz Michael
Published: January 2023

Beton (NPC) ist weltweit der am häufigsten verwendete Baustoff, der in Form von Fertigteilen zudem ein hohes Entwicklungspotenzial in Herstellung, Kreislauffähigkeit und Dauerhaftigkeit sowie auch in Bezug auf Ressourcen‐ und Energieeffizienz aufweist. Eine mögliche Weiterentwicklung, die dieses Entwicklungspotenzial subsummiert, stellen unterschiedliche Hochleistungsfertigteile aus dem Werkstoff Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC) sowie Vollfertigteile in hybrider Bauweise dar. Bei materialgerechter Anwendung können im direkten Vergleich von UHPC mit der Ortbetonbauweise Einsparungen von bis zu 85 % an Ressourcen (R) und bis zu 65 % an Energie (GWP = CO2e = E) erreicht werden und dies mit dem bereits vorhandenen Technologiestand. Es wäre damit bei entsprechender Anwendung dieser Hochleistungsfertigteile eine sofortige Reduzierung des Ressourcen‐ und Energieverbrauchs in unseren zukünftigen Neubauten möglich. Die hohe Dauerhaftigkeit des Werkstoffs UHPC und der Einsatz modularer Vorfertigung in der Herstellung komplettieren die Vorteile. Nur wenn wir mit den bereits vorhandenen Technologien und Innovationen bereit sind, sofort Maßnahmen zur Ressourcen‐ und Energieeffizienz umzusetzen, können wir die stringenten Vorgaben der Intergovernmental Panel of Climate Change (IPCC) zur Emissionsreduzierung auch einhalten und lediglich das branchenmäßig zur Verfügung stehende Restbudget bis hin zur Klimaneutralität aufbrauchen. Es wird mitunter auch eine wesentliche Aufgabe der Politik sein, diese Vorgaben nicht nur für die erneuerbaren Energieemissionen (PERT), sondern insbesondere auch für nicht erneuerbaren oder grauen Energieemissionen (PENRT) am Bausektor durch Reglementierungen rasch umzusetzen. Die Graue‐Energieemission (PENRT) unserer Bestandsbauwerke weist bereits einen Anteil von ca. 25 % der Gesamtemissionen mit einer stark steigenden Tendenz auf, da das Bauaufkommen zukünftig nicht abnehmen wird. Wir sollten den Mut haben, bereits vorhandene Technologien in Neubauten umzusetzen, wo Planer und Fertigteilhersteller in der Auswahl des Materials, der Struktur und der Herstellung von Bauteilen einen wesentlichen Beitrag zur Reduzierung der Grauen Energie leisten können. Dieser Bericht zeigt anhand einiger innovativer Hochleistungsfertigteile, wie Dach‐, Decken‐, Wand‐, Stiegen‐ und Balkonelemente des Hochbaus, die Vorteile gegenüber einer gängigen Ortbetonbauweise in Bezug auf Kreislauffähigkeit, Dauerhaftigkeit sowie das mögliche Einsparungspotenzial im Ressourcen‐ (ΔR) und Energieverbrauch (ΔE). Anhand eines konkreten Anwendungsbeispiels, bei dem Hochleistungsfertigteile in einem Wohnungsgebäude zur Anwendung kommen, sind konkrete Einsparungsmengen in t CO2e angegeben. Es zeigt eindrucksvoll, dass mit der Umsetzung bereits vorhandener Technologie maßgebliche Veränderungen im Emissionsverhalten von Gebäuden möglich sind, erfordert, jedoch von den Beteiligten ein Wählen, Wollen, Wagen und ein Wiederholen. Diesbezüglich sind wir alle gemeinsam aufgefordert, einen Beitrag zu leisten.
Human adipose mesenchymal stromal cells growing into PCL‐nHA electrospun scaffolds undergo hypoxia adaptive ultrastructural changes
Authors: Frontini‐López Yesica R. , Rivera Lautaro , Aldana Ana A. , Rivero Guadalupe , Liverani Liliana , Abraham Gustavo A. , Boccaccini Aldo R. , Bustos Diego M. , Uhart Marina
Published: January 2023

Human Adipose‐Derived Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells (hAD‐MSCs) have great potential for tissue regeneration. Since transplanted hAD‐MSCs are likely to be placed in a hypoxic environment, culturing the cells under hypoxic conditions might improve their post‐transplantation survival and regenerative performance. The combination of hAD‐MSCs and PCL‐nHA nanofibers synergically improves the contribution of both components for osteoblast differentiation. In this work, we hypothesized that this biomaterial constitutes a hypoxic environment for hAD‐MSCs. We studied the cellular re‐arrangement and the subcellular ultrastructure by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) of hAD‐MSCs grown into PCL‐nHA nanofibers, and we compared them with the same cells grown in two‐dimensional cultures, over tissue culture‐treated plastic, or glass coverslips. Among the most evident changes, PCL‐nHA grown cells showed enlarged mitochondria, and accumulation of glycogen granules, consistent with a hypoxic environment. We observed a 3.5 upregulation (p = 0.0379) of Hypoxia Inducible Factor (HIF)‐1A gene expression in PCL‐nHA grown cells. This work evidences for the first time intra‐cellular changes in three‐dimensional compared to two‐dimensional cultures, which are adaptive responses of the cells to an environment more closely resembling that of the in vivo niche after transplantation, thus PCL‐nHA nanofibers are adequate for hAD‐MSCs pre‐conditioning.
Enhancing students' understanding of cardiac physiology by using 4D visualization
Authors: Ohlsson Linus , Moreira André Da Luz , Bäck Sophia , Lantz Jonas , Carlhäll Carl‐Johan , Persson Anders , Hedman Kristofer , Chew Michelle S , Dahlström Nils , Ebbers Tino
Published: January 2023

Difficulties in achieving knowledge about physiology and anatomy of the beating heart highlight the challenges with more traditional pedagogical methods. Recent research regarding anatomy education has mainly focused on digital three‐dimensional models. However, these pedagogical improvements may not be entirely applicable to cardiac anatomy and physiology due to the multidimensional complexity with moving anatomy and complex blood flow. The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate whether high quality time‐resolved anatomical images combined with realistic blood flow simulations improve the understanding of cardiac structures and function. Three time‐resolved datasets were acquired using time‐resolved computed tomography and blood flow was computed using Computational Fluid Dynamics. The anatomical and blood flow information was combined and interactively visualized using volume rendering on an advanced stereo projection system. The setup was tested in interactive lectures for medical students. Ninety‐seven students participated. Summative assessment of examinations showed significantly improved mean score (18.1 ± 4.5 vs 20.3 ± 4.9, p = 0.002). This improvement was driven by knowledge regarding myocardial hypertrophy and pressure–velocity differences over a stenotic valve. Additionally, a supplementary formative assessment showed significantly more agreeing answers than disagreeing answers (p < 0.001) when the participants subjectively evaluated the contribution of the visualizations to their education and knowledge. In conclusion, the use of simultaneous visualization of time‐resolved anatomy data and simulated blood flow improved medical students' results, with a particular effect on understanding of cardiac physiology and these simulations may be useful educational tools for teaching complex anatomical and physiological concepts.
AL amyloidosis clonal plasma cells are regulated by microRNAs and dependent on anti‐apoptotic BCL2 family members
Authors: Fishov Hila , Muchtar Eli , Salmon‐Divon Mali , Dispenzieri Angela , Zvida Tal , Schneider Claudio , Bender Benjamin , Duek Adrian , Leiba Merav , Shpilberg Ofer , Hershkovitz‐Rokah Oshrat
Published: January 2023

Background

Noncoding RNAs such as microRNAs (miRNAs) have attracted attention as biological pathway regulators, which differ from chromosomal translocations and gene point mutations. Their involvement in the molecular mechanisms underlying light chain (AL) amyloidosis pathogenesis is yet to be elucidated.

Aims

To decipher specific miRNA expression profile in AL‐amyloidosis and to examine how miRNAs are involved in AL pathogenesis.

Methods

The expression profile of miRNAs and mRNA from bone marrow (BM)‐derived CD138+ cells were determined using the NanoString nCounter assay and RNA‐Seq, respectively. The effect of aberrantly expressed miRNAs on potential molecular targets was analyzed by qRT‐PCR, Western blot, Mito‐potential assay, and Annexin‐PI staining.

Results

Genes which were significantly differentially expressed between AL‐amyloidosis and MM, were found to be involved in cell growth and apoptotic mechanisms. Specifically, BCL2L1, MCL1, and BCL2 were upregulated in AL‐amyloidosis compared with MM and controls. The levels of miR‐181a‐5p and miR‐9‐5p, which regulate the above‐mentioned genes, were lower in BM samples from AL‐amyloidosis compared with controls, providing a mechanism for BCL2 family gene upregulation. When miR‐9‐5p and miR‐181a‐5p were overexpressed in ALMC1 cells, BCL2L1, MCL1, and BCL2 were downregulated and induced apoptosis. Treatment of ALMC‐1 cells with venetoclax, (BCL‐2 inhibitor), resulted in the upregulation of those miRNAs, the downregulation of BCL2, MCL1, and BCL2L1 mRNA and protein levels, and subsequent apoptosis.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that miR‐9‐5p and miR‐181a‐5p act as tumor‐suppressors whose downregulation induces anti‐apoptotic mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of AL‐amyloidosis. The study highlights the post‐transcriptional regulation in AL‐amyloidosis and provides pathogenetic evidence for the potential use of BCL‐2 inhibitors in this disease.
Effects of intra‐ and inter‐category traffic‐light carbon labels and the presence of a social norm cue on food purchases
Authors: Suchier Johann , Demarque Christophe , Waroquier Laurent , Girandola Fabien , Hilton Denis , Muller Laurent
Published: January 2023

In two experiments replicating an online shopping context, we studied the effectiveness of two traffic‐light carbon labeling systems that differ according to the set of reference with which product comparisons are made. While the inter‐category system allows consumers to compare all food products to each other, the intra‐category system only allows consumers to compare products within the same food category. We also examined whether providing a descriptive social norm cue could increase theirs effects. The impact of the labels was studied on: (1) the frequency of low/medium/high carbon impact products purchased, (2) the carbon footprint of consumers' baskets. Study 1, conducted on university students (n = 228), showed that both carbon labeling systems tested had beneficial effects on consumers' behaviors and carbon footprint. Study 2 (n = 260) on a general population sample, which was less responsive to carbon labels, showed that the addition of a descriptive social norm cue enhanced the labels' effectiveness. Overall, the intra‐category traffic‐light labeling system shifted purchasing the most.
Neonatal exposure to aluminum chloride predisposes adult and senile gerbils to the prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Gomes Liana Silva , da Silva Lima Danilo , Costa Janaína Ribeiro , Naves Jane Sousa , Marques Mara Rúbia , Taboga Sebastião Roberto , Ghedini Paulo César , Biancardi Manoel Francisco , Alcantara dos Santos Fernanda Cristina
Published: January 2023

Several pollutants can alter neonatal prostatic development predisposing this gland to diseases. The toxicity and endocrine disrupting potential of aluminum has been reported in many organs, but little is known about its effects on the prostate. This study aimed to evaluate the effects that aluminum neonatal exposure can cause in the male ventral prostate and in the female prostate of adult and senile gerbils. Male and female pups were treated orally with aluminum chloride (10 mg/kg) from the 1st to the 14th day life. After treatment, the animals were aged until they reached 90 days or 1 year of life. The prostate glands were dissected out and submitted to morphological, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural analyses. Ventral prostates of adult males showed moderate hyperplasia and increased epithelial proliferation not associated with androgen receptor (AR) deregulation. On the other hand, senile males showed intense prostatic hyperplasia, and increased cell proliferation and epithelial AR regulation. Additionally, at both ages, there was a reduction in the prostate secretory function. The morphological changes observed in the female prostate were like those found in males. However, in adult females, prostatic hyperplasia was accompanied by a lower regulation of AR and estrogen receptor alpha, while in senile females, intense hyperplastic growth was associated with an increase in estrogen receptor alpha and a reduction in stromal AR. These results demonstrate that aluminum chloride neonatal exposure alters the hormonal regulation of the male and female prostate, inducing tissue damage that occurs in adulthood and intensifies during aging.
Performance evaluation for Ag and Au nanoparticle containing K2O‐MgO‐B2O3‐Al2O3‐SiO2‐F glass sealants for SOFC application
Authors: Garai Mrinmoy , Roy Shibayan
Published: January 2023

The present work illustrates the effect of Ag and Au nanoparticle addition on the density, microstructure, phase formation and thermal performance of K2O‐MgO‐B2O3‐Al2O3‐SiO2‐F glass‐ceramics considered as a potential sealant material for solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) applications. Addition of 0.2 wt.% Ag and Au nanoparticles caused a steep increase in the density of the base glasses in comparison to the glass containing an equivalent amount (0.2 wt%) of Cu nanoparticle. The glass‐ceramics were prepared from the base glasses by controlled heat treatment at 900°C, a temperature relevant for SOFC operation. They were multicrystalline having fluorophlogopite (KMg3AlSi3O10F2) as the predominant crystal phase and norbergite (Mg2SiO4.MgF2) and enstatite (MgSiO3) as additional phases. Fluorophlogopite crystals form in both plate‐like and rod‐like morphologies within the glass matrix in the microstructure of the glass‐ceramics. The size of the plate‐shaped fluorophlogopite crystals increases for Ag nanoparticles containing glass‐ceramics in comparison to either Cu or Au nanoparticles containing glass‐ceramics. The density of the Ag and Au nanoparticle glass‐ceramics are also considerably higher due to the formation of a compact interlocked crystalline microstructures. The Au nanoparticle containing glass‐ceramics is characterized by a large thermal expansion (coefficient of thermal expansion, CTE= 11.29 × 10−6/K in 50–800°C range) which is comparable to other SOFC components. This glass/glass‐ceramics sealant also possess maximum volume shrinkage in the range of 30–900°C as well as nearly constant CTE without any considerable decrease up to 10 cycles of SOFC operations making it suitable for SOFC sealant applications.
The Choice of Stock Over Cash Payments in Mergers and Acquisitions: A Market‐Failure Account and Empirical Evidence
Authors: Tseng Chiung‐Hui , Chen Shih‐Fen S.
Published: January 2023

Payments in mergers and acquisitions (M&As) can be all cash, all stock, or any combination of the two. However, using stock instead of cash in M&A payments has clear weaknesses that must be offset (e.g., valuation difficulty). In this study, we argue that stock payments can save on the costs of using the M&A market, which serves to compensate the inherent weaknesses of stock deals. Our empirical findings confirm that stock should account for a greater percentage of the payment in M&As that feature higher transaction costs. The market‐failure account for stock payments that we offer contributes to the M&A literatures in both finance and management.
Thiazolidinone‐Heterocycle Frameworks: A Concise Review of Their Pharmacological Significance
Authors: Seboletswe Pule , Cele Nosipho , Singh Parvesh
Published: January 2023

Molecular hybridization is deemed an optimistic approach in drug design and the discovery of novel biologically active molecules as it may advance their affinity and potency while concurrently decreasing associated resistance and side effects. Approximately 20 % of approved drugs were developed using this approach in the past few years. Thiazolidinone is one of the privileged pharmacophores in medicinal chemistry and is associated with various biological activities; it forms a functional unit in several FDA‐approved drugs. Consequently, this pharmacophore has attracted the attention of many research groups to further explore its pharmacological relevance by coupling it with other pharmacophoric moieties. This review presents a concise account of scholarly research exploits directed at the biological activities of newly synthesized thiazolidinone‐tagged molecular hybrids. Focused attention is given to the existing structural activity relationship in each compound library and the toxicity profile of potent compounds including in silico docking studies (where applicable). This work would provide a base on which new pharmaceuticals with improved potency can be modelled.
DONUTS: An efficient method for checkpointing in non‐volatile memories
Authors: Kruger Kleber , Pannain Ricardo , Azevedo Rodolfo
Published: January 2023

Non‐volatile memory (NVM) is an emerging technology being explored as an alternative to DRAM main memory in computing systems because of its persistence, higher storage density, lower energy consumption, and access latency close to DRAM. However, persistent memory systems must ensure data consistency on system failures, a property known as crash consistency. One of the main challenges in these systems is creating efficient checkpointing mechanisms in terms of performance and usability. Thus, it is necessary to remove persistence from the critical execution path and reduce the excessive number of writes to NVM caused by logging operations, resulting in increased memory bandwidth usage. Another limitation is that most proposed mechanisms restrict application source code to programming interfaces based on transactional models, typed as software‐based approaches. These factors make it challenging to adopt NVM systems. This article presents a software‐transparent mechanism based on dynamic epochs with logging operations via processing‐in‐memory and checkpoints integrated into the cache replacement policy. Compared to the previous best‐performing system, our strategy reduces 50.6% of writes to NVM. Furthermore, it does not increase the average memory bandwidth usage, providing crash consistency with less than 2% runtime overhead.
Evaluation of annual effect of selected cultivation programs for the management of creeping bentgrass putting greens in the transition zone
Authors: Amgain Naba R. , Fontanier Charles H. , Martin Dennis L.
Published: January 2023

Cultivation is commonly used to improve or maintain soil physical properties and reduce organic matter (OM) of golf putting greens. Surface disruption after cultivation is a major concern of golf course superintendents. Less invasive cultivation techniques are increasingly practiced, but there is limited research examining their effectiveness. This study was conducted to investigate the annual effect of air‐injection cultivation (AIC) and sand‐injection cultivation (SIC) alone or in combination with hollow‐tine cultivation (HTC) on soil moisture content, surface firmness, water infiltration rate, OM content, and soil oxygen (O2). The experiment was conducted over 2 years on a sand‐based putting green located at the Oklahoma State University Turfgrass Research Center in Stillwater, OK. HTC alone or in combination with AIC or SIC reduced soil moisture content, reduced surface firmness, and increased infiltration rates. Neither SIC nor AIC affected soil moisture, surface firmness, and infiltration rate, compared to the untreated control. AIC did not increase soil (O2) concentration, compared to the untreated control. Results suggest annual cultivation programs should not rely strictly on SIC or AIC, but these alternative practices may be useful supplements to HTC.
The need for future research into the assessment and monitoring of eating disorder risk in the context of obesity treatment
Authors: McMaster Caitlin M. , Paxton Susan J. , Maguire Sarah , Hill Andrew J. , Braet Caroline , Seidler Anna L. , Nicholls Dasha , Garnett Sarah P. , Ahern Amy L. , Wilfley Denise E. , Lister Natalie B. , Jebeile Hiba
Published: January 2023

In adolescents and adults, the co‐occurrence of eating disorders and overweight or obesity is continuing to increase, and the prevalence of eating disorders is higher in people with higher weight compared to those with lower weight. People with an eating disorder with higher weight are more likely to present for weight loss than for eating disorder treatment. However, there are no clinical practice guidelines on how to screen, assess, and monitor eating disorder risk in the context of obesity treatment. In this article, we first summarize current challenges and knowledge gaps related to the identification and assessment of eating disorder risk and symptoms in people with higher weight seeking obesity treatment. Specifically, we discuss considerations relating to the validation of current self‐report measures, dietary restraint, body dissatisfaction, binge eating, and how change in eating disorder risk can be measured in this setting. Second, we propose avenues for further research to guide the development and implementation of clinical and research protocols for the identification and assessment of eating disorders in people with higher weight in the context of obesity treatment.

Public Significance

The number of people with both eating disorders and higher weight is increasing. Currently, there is little guidance for clinicians and researchers about how to identify and monitor risk of eating disorders in people with higher weight. We present limitations of current research and suggest future avenues for research to enhance care for people living with higher weight with eating disorders.
Limited population genetic variation but pronounced seascape genetic structuring in populations of the Mediterranean mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis) from the eastern Adriatic Sea
Authors: Hamilton Joanna S. , Piria Marina , Gavrilović Ana , Mrkonjić Fuka Mirna , Svečnjak Lidija , Nikolić Slađana , Bakiu Rigers , Gardner Jonathan P. A.
Published: January 2023

Population genetic analysis of variation at five neutral microsatellite loci for Mediterranean mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) from 18 sites along the eastern Adriatic Sea revealed little or no spatial variation. In contrast, seascape genetics analysis revealed a pronounced locus‐specific gradient in allelic and genotypic frequencies across the study region. At a sixth locus, MGE7, the frequencies of two alleles, MGE7243 and MGE7249, were strongly associated, negatively and positively, respectively, with a single environmental variable – minimum salinity (minSAL). The frequency of the MGE7243/243 homozygous genotype was strongly negatively associated with minSAL, whereas the frequencies of the MGE7246/249 and the MGE7249/249 genotypes were strongly positively correlated with minSAL. Interpretation of these pronounced gradients is confounded by the fact that minSAL and another environmental variable, maximum sea surface temperature (maxSST), are highly correlated (R = −.911) and are therefore not necessarily acting independently. BLAST searches of the MGE7 locus against M. galloprovincialis whole genome shotgun sequence returned an alignment with contig mg10_S01094 (accession UYJE01010330.1) and 7 predicted M. galloprovincialis proteins VDI82194.1 ‐ VDI82200.1. Conserved domain searches revealed a similar structure to the transcriptional regulator Msx2‐interacting protein. The BLASTp search also returned significant alignments to Msx2‐interacting proteins in Mytilus coruscus, Crassostrea virginica, and Haliotis rubra. The existence of the MGE7 gradient highlights the role that environmental variation may play in retarding gene flow among wild M. galloprovincialis populations, and also how the success of collection of young mussels (spat) from one site and their transfer to another site (the farm) may be influenced by a single factor such as minSAL or maxSST on a localized scale.
Using pictographs as traits to explore morphological diversity in sharks
Authors: Siders Zachary A. , Caltabellotta Fabio P. , Loesser Katherine B. , Trotta Lauren B. , Baiser Benjamin
Published: January 2023

Body shape is a foundational trait on the differences between species. However, morphological measurements can be simplifying and, for many taxa, can be distorted upon preservation or are difficult to collect due to a species' habit or size. Scientific illustrations, or pictographs, provide information on a species' morphology but are rarely used as traits. Here, we demonstrate the use of pictographs using two shark clades: Lamniformes and Carcharhinidae + Sphyrnidae. After collecting 473 pictographs from 67 species across 12 sources, we used landmarking to show that measurements derived from pictographs do not substantially differ from those garnered from specimens. We then used Elliptical Fourier Analysis and principal components analysis to construct a multivariate morphospace. Using global shape measurements, we evaluated whether substantial variability in body shape was introduced by habitat association, endemism, or illustrator. We found that a species' habitat preference strongly influenced the discovery rate of pictographs and the within‐species similarity. While illustrations varied within a species, only a limited set of illustrators exhibited significant systematic variability. We also demonstrated the utility of pictographs in two common applications. For ancestral trait reconstruction, we developed a simple extension to estimate body shapes from principal components and, in doing so, observed that the Lamnid body plan diverged from the rest of Lamniformes ~100 MYA. For phylogenetic generalized linear mixed models (PGLMM), we found that the pictographs had greater explanatory power than traditional morphological measurements. We used the PGLMM to show that higher endemism across Carcharhinidae + Sphyrnidae taxa correlates with body shapes that have caudal fins with small heterocercal angles and more pronounced second dorsal/anal fins. We concluded that pictographs are likely an undervalued and easy‐to‐digitize data source on a species' body shape with numerous established methods for comparing pictographs and assessing variability.
Limited predatory effects on infaunal macrobenthos community patterns in intertidal soft‐bottom of Arctic coasts
Authors: Díaz María José , Buschbaum Christian , Renaud Paul E. , Valdivia Nelson , Molis Markus
Published: January 2023

Predation shapes marine benthic communities and affects prey species population dynamics in tropic and temperate coastal systems. However, information on its magnitude in systematically understudied Arctic coastal habitats is scarce. To test predation effects on the diversity and structure of Arctic benthic communities, we conducted caging experiments in which consumers were excluded from plots at two intertidal sedimentary sites in Svalbard (Longyearbyen and Thiisbukta) for 2.5 months. Unmanipulated areas served as controls and partial (open) cages were used to estimate potential cage effects. At the end of the experiment, we took one sediment core from each plot and quantified total biomass and the number of each encountered taxon. At both sites, the experimental exclusion of predators slightly changed the species composition of communities and had negligible effects on biomass, total abundance, species richness, evenness, and Shannon Index. In addition, we found evidence for cage effects, and spatial variability in the intensity of the predation effects was identified. Our study suggests that predators have limited effects on the structure of the studied intertidal macrobenthic Arctic communities, which is different from coastal soft‐bottom ecosystems at lower latitudes.
Continental synchrony and local responses: Climatic effects on spatiotemporal patterns of calving in a social ungulate
Authors: Couriot Ophélie H. , Cameron Matthew D. , Joly Kyle , Adamczewski Jan , Campbell Mitch W. , Davison Tracy , Gunn Anne , Kelly Allicia P. , Leblond Mathieu , Williams Judy , Fagan William F. , Brose Anna , Gurarie Eliezer
Published: January 2023

Warming temperatures and advancing spring are affecting annual snow and ice cycles, as well as plant phenology, across the Arctic and boreal regions. These changes may be linked to observed population declines in wildlife, including barren‐ground caribou (Rangifer tarandus), a key species of Arctic environments. We quantified how barren‐ground caribou, characteristically both gregarious and migratory, synchronize births in time and aggregate births in space and investigated how these tactics are influenced by variable weather conditions. We analyzed movement patterns to infer calving dates for 747 collared female caribou from seven herds across northern North America, totaling 1255 calving events over a 15‐year period. By relating these events to local weather conditions during the 1‐year period preceding calving, we examined how weather influenced calving timing and the ability of caribou to reach their central calving area. We documented continental‐scale synchrony in calving, but synchrony was greatest within an individual herd for a given year. Weather conditions before and during gestation had contrasting effects on the timing and location of calving. Notably, a combination of unfavorable weather conditions during winter and spring, including the pre‐calving migration, resulted in a late arrival on the calving area or a failure to reach the greater calving area in time for calving. Though local weather conditions influenced calving timing differently among herds, warm temperatures and low wind speed, which are associated with soft, deep snow, during the spring and pre‐calving migration, generally affected the ability of female caribou to reach central calving areas in time to give birth. Delayed calving may have potential indirect consequences, including reduced calf survival. Overall, we detected considerable variability across years and across herds, but no significant trend for earlier calving by caribou, even as broad indicators of spring and snow phenology trend earlier. Our results emphasize the importance of monitoring the timing and location of calving, and to examine how weather during summer and winter are affecting calving and subsequent reproductive success.
44th International Conference on Coordination Chemistry (ICCC) Special Collection
Authors: Gallo Emma , Proust Anna , Pettinari Claudio
Published: January 2023

Since its beginning in 1893, coordination chemistry has been evolving constantly, and it has become a fundamental pillar for chemical sciences, from catalysis to materials. After two years of restrictions due to the pandemic, the 44th International Conference on Coordination Chemistry (ICCC) took place in Rimini (Italy) in August 2022. It was the occasion for over thousand chemists to share their research projects, some of which are showcased in this Special Collection. Guest Editors Emma Gallo (University of Milan), Anna Proust (Sorbonne University Paris), and Claudio Pettinari (University of Camerino) summarize the excellent results in the “44th ICCC” Special Collection.
Individual attitudes towards moral costs and benefits drive responses to moral dilemmas
Authors: Rosas Alejandro , Hannikainen Ivar , Lam Jason , Aguiar Fernando
Published: January 2023

We review some processing assumptions that underlie the currently used measures of moral judgement with moral dilemmas, contrasting them with the overlooked possibility that the primary mechanism consists in assessing a net balance of the costs versus benefits of the sacrificial action. Different dilemmas scenarios present different net balances of cost versus benefits, and participants usually change between them from disapproval to approval motivated by what appears to be a larger positive balance of moral benefits. The thresholds for such change are personal and vary. For the instrument to reliably estimate the individual differences in approval thresholds, there can be no disagreement on the facts affecting the balances and the ranking order of the items. We designed an instrument targeting three different balances with five indicators each and ran an exploratory factor analysis to prove that the different balances operate cleanly as separate factors. The expected three‐factor solution and a stable ranking of the balance points were obtained across three samples from three different continents in three languages, suggesting the activation of cross‐culturally stable cognitive processes. The strength ratio of utilitarian (U) to deontological (D) sensitivity was calculated for each participant and corrected using the scores of a balance‐point with no net benefits. This instrument overcomes validation difficulties burdening the existing measures and offers good prospects for further development.
An easy and green assay to determine albendazole and ivermectin in veterinary preparations by micellar liquid chromatography
Authors: Pawar Rajendra‐Prasad , Sharma Girraj , Durgbanshi Abhilasha , Bose Devasish , Peris‐Vicente Juan , Roca‐Genovés Pasqual , Carda‐Broch Samuel
Published: January 2023

A procedure to determine albendazole and ivermectin in veterinary formulations, like tablet, bolus, oral suspensions, and injections by micellar liquid chromatography, has been developed. Sample preparation was a batch solid‐to‐liquid extraction in mobile phase, consisting of a stirring step (15 min), followed by ultrasonication (15 min) and filtration of the obtained supernatant, to reach a target concentration of 2 mg/L for both analytes. Using a mobile phase of 0.15 M sodium dodecyl sulfate—6% 1‐pentanol buffered at pH 3 with a 0.01 M phosphate salt, running at 1 mL/min through a C18 column, both drugs were resolved in less than 10 min. Absorbance detection wavelength was 292 nm. Procedure was validated by the guidelines of the International Council on Harmonization in terms of specificity, calibration range (0.025–5 mg/L), trueness (97.8%–102.6%), precision (<2.2%), and system suitability. The method was found easy‐to‐handle, low cost, safe, green, and with high sample‐throughput, thus useful for routine analysis. Therefore, it represents a valuable alternative for quality control of veterinary formulations. It was applied to samples of veterinary formulations purchased from local chemists and veterinarians, and label claims were inside the acceptance criteria (95%–105%).
Real‐time risk assessment of cascading failure in power system with high proportion of renewable energy based on fault graph chains
Authors: Chen Bo , Sun Donglei , Zhu Yuhong , Liu Dong , Zhou Yongzhi
Published: January 2023

The access of a high proportion of renewable energies has deepened the randomness and complexity of cascading failures (CFs) in power systems. In this regard, a real‐time risk assessment method for CFs in power systems with high proportion of new energy is proposed. First, combined with historical statistical data and relevant national standards, a CF simulation model that considers the off‐grid protection action of renewable energy units in the event of a power grid fault is proposed. The model is based on the continuous steady‐state power flow model, which simulates the spread of CFs via continuous power flow calculations. Second, via introducing the concept of a fault graph chain, the electrical and topological characteristics of the continuous dynamic of the power system in the process of CFs can be described. Then, through continuous CF simulation and replay buffer, a data‐driven method is used to calculate the CF risk index corresponding to the fault graph. Finally, a cascaded graph neural network is employed to fit the nonlinear mapping relationship between fault graphs and CF risk indicators. The simulation results in the IEEE 39‐bus system show that the proposed method can accurately and real‐time evaluate the risk of CFs.
A multi‐hazard analysis framework for earthquake‐damaged tall buildings subject to thunderstorm downbursts
Authors: Song Jing , Skalomenos Konstantinos , Martinez‐Vazquez Pedro
Published: January 2023

This study develops a generalised multi‐hazard analysis framework for evaluating the impact of secondary hazard events on structures that have previously been damaged by major hazardous events. More specifically, the present work investigates the effects of thunderstorm downbursts on earthquake‐damaged tall steel buildings giving an emphasis in assessing the revised accumulated earthquake‐wind ductility demands. The novel approach is validated on a 20‐storey steel building. The structure is initially subjected to a ductility‐controlled pushover analysis to simulate the earthquake‐induced damage, and then, a parametric dynamic analysis is performed using damaged structure models under synthetic downburst time‐histories developed for various wind profiles, wind velocities and terrain types. The method accurately controls the damage level induced by the primary hazard and separately assesses secondary hazard effects which enables a direct quantification of the new multi‐hazard design requirements. This can provide effective guidance in the stage of preliminary structural design or post‐hazard assessment of structures identifying new serviceability limits, as well as support repair procedures and decision‐making frameworks for existing structures to prevent collapse. The results demonstrate a significant increase up to three to four times in ductility demands of the structure after the occurrence of the strong downburst winds, compared with the ductility demands that were initially imposed by the varying severity degrees of the earthquake.
Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using banana peel extract and application on banana preservation
Authors: Goh Hui Tung , Cheok Choon Yoong , Yeap Swee Pin
Published: January 2023

This study aimed to develop an environmentally friendly silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using banana peel extract as reducing and capping agent. AgNPs obtained were characterized via Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Preservation of banana blocks coated with sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (Na‐CMC) and Na‐CMC incorporated with AgNPs (Na‐CMC + AgNPs) for 5 days were also conducted. Besides the AgO, which has been identified in FTIR analysis, AgNPs synthesized using banana peel extract exhibited aromatic nitro compound, carboxyl, and hydroxyl groups as well. SEM image showed AgNPs in agglomeration caused by drying process. Banana blocks coated with Na‐CMC + AgNPs showed better preservation as no molds growth were observed throughout the 5 days storage. Meanwhile, banana blocks coated with only Na‐CMC showed molds started to grow on the 3rd day. This preliminary study evidenced that Na‐CMC incorporated with AgNPs could prolong shelf life of banana against mold growth.