bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mercury in Ten Storm-Petrel Populations from the Antarctic to the Subtropics
Authors: Quillfeldt Petra , Bedolla-Guzmán Yuliana , Libertelli Marcela M. , Cherel Yves , Massaro Melanie , Bustamante Paco
Published: July 2023

The oceans become increasingly contaminated as a result of global industrial production and consumer behaviour, and this affects wildlife in areas far removed from sources of pollution. Migratory seabirds such as storm-petrels may forage in areas with different contaminant levels throughout the annual cycle and may show a carry-over of mercury from the winter quarters to the breeding sites. In this study, we compared mercury levels among seven species of storm-petrels breeding on the Antarctic South Shetlands and subantarctic Kerguelen Islands, in temperate waters of the Chatham Islands, New Zealand, and in temperate waters of the Pacific off Mexico. We tested for differences in the level of contamination associated with breeding and inter-breeding distribution and trophic position. We collected inert body feathers and metabolically active blood samples in ten colonies, reflecting long-term (feathers) and short-term (blood) exposures during different periods ranging from early non-breeding (moult) to late breeding. Feathers represent mercury accumulated over the annual cycle between two successive moults. Mercury concentrations in feathers ranged over more than an order of magnitude among species, being lowest in subantarctic Grey-backed Storm-petrels (0.5 μg g−1 dw) and highest in subtropical Leach’s Storm-petrels (7.6 μg g−1 dw, i.e. posing a moderate toxicological risk). Among Antarctic Storm-petrels, Black-bellied Storm-petrels had threefold higher values than Wilson’s Storm-petrels, and in both species, birds from the South Shetlands (Antarctica) had threefold higher values than birds from Kerguelen (subantarctic Indian Ocean). Blood represents mercury taken up over several weeks, and showed similar trends, being lowest in Grey-backed Storm-petrels from Kerguelen (0.5 μg g−1 dw) and highest in Leach’s Storm-petrels (3.6 μg g−1 dw). Among Antarctic storm-petrels, species differences in the blood samples were similar to those in feathers, but site differences were less consistent. Over the breeding season, mercury decreased in blood samples of Antarctic Wilson’s Storm-petrels, but did not change in Wilson’s Storm-petrels from Kerguelen or in Antarctic Black-bellied Storm-petrels. In summary, we found that mercury concentrations in storm-petrels varied due to the distribution of species and differences in prey choice. Depending on prey choices, Antarctic storm-petrels can have similar mercury concentrations as temperate species. The lowest contamination was observed in subantarctic species and populations. The study shows how seabirds, which accumulate dietary pollutants in their tissues in the breeding and non-breeding seasons, can be used to survey marine pollution. Storm-petrels with their wide distributions and relatively low trophic levels may be especially useful, but more detailed knowledge on their prey choice and distributions is needed.
Pregnancy glucagon-like peptide 1 predicts insulin but not glucose concentrations
Authors: Jones Danielle L. , Petry Clive J. , Burling Keith , Barker Peter , Turner Elizabeth H. , Kusinski Laura C. , Meek Claire L.
Published: July 2023

Aims

Incretin hormones glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and gastric inhibitory peptide (GIP) cause increased insulin secretion in non-pregnant adults, but their role in pregnancy, where there are additional metabolically-active hormones from the placenta, is less clear. The aim of the present study was to assess if fasting and post-load incretin concentrations were predictive of pregnancy insulin and glucose concentrations.

Methods

Pregnant women (n = 394) with one or more risk factors for gestational diabetes were recruited at 28 weeks for a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Glucose, insulin, GLP-1 and GIP were measured in the fasting state and 120 min after glucose ingestion.

Results

Fasting plasma GLP-1 concentrations were associated with plasma insulin (standardised β’ 0.393 (0.289–0.498), p = 1.3 × 10–12; n = 306), but not with glucose concentrations (p = 0.3). The association with insulin was still evident when adjusting for BMI (β’ 0.271 (0.180–0.362), p = 1.1 × 10–8; n = 297). Likewise, at 120 min the OGTT GLP-1 concentrations were associated with plasma insulin concentrations (β’ 0.216 (0.100–0.331), p  = 2.7 × 10–4; n = 306) even after adjusting for BMI (β’ 0.178 (0.061–0.294), p = 2.9 × 10–3; n = 296), but not with glucose (p  = 0.9). GIP concentrations were not associated with insulin or glucose concentrations at either time point (all p  > 0.2). In pregnancy plasma GLP-1, but not GIP, concentrations appear to be predictive of circulating insulin concentrations, independently of associations with BMIs.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the relationship between insulin and incretins is preserved in pregnancy, but that other factors, such as placental hormones or counter-regulatory hormones, may be more important determinants of glycaemia and gestational diabetes aetiology.
Temporal prediction of shallow landslides exploiting soil saturation degree derived by ERA5-Land products
Authors: Bordoni Massimiliano , Vivaldi Valerio , Ciabatta Luca , Brocca Luca , Meisina Claudia
Published: July 2023

ERA5-Land service has been released recently as an integral and operational component of Copernicus Climate Change Service. Within its set of climatological and atmospheric parameters, it provides soil moisture estimates at different soil depths, represeting an important tool for retrieving saturation degree for predicting natural hazards as shallow landslides. This paper represents an innovative attempt aiming to exploit the use of saturation degree derived from ERA5-Land soil moisture products in a data-driven model to predict the daily probability of occurence of shallow landslides. The study was carried out by investigating a multi-temporal inventory of shallow landslides occurred in Oltrepò Pavese (northern Italy). The achieved results follow: (i) ERA5-Land-derived saturation degree reconstructs well field trends measured in the study area until 1 m from ground; (ii) in agreement with the typical sliding surfaces depth, saturation degree values obtained since ERA5-Land 28–100 cm layer represent a significant predictor for the estimation of temporal probability of occurrence of shallow landslides, able especially to reduce overestimation of triggering events; (iii) saturation degree estimated by ERA5-Land 28–100 cm layer allows to detect soil hydrological conditions leading to triggering in the study area, represented by saturation degree in this layer close to complete saturation. Even if other works of research are required in different geological and geomorphological settings, this study demonstrates that ERA5-Land-derived saturation degree could be implemented to identify triggering conditions and to develop prediction methods of shallow landslides, thanks also to its free availability and constantly updating with a delay of 5 days.
Urinary aberrations in systemic lupus erythematosus not always indicative of lupus nephritis: a cross-sectional cohort study
Authors: Karlsson Linnea , Zickert Agneta , Svenungsson Elisabet , Schmidt-Mende Jan , Faustini Francesca , Gunnarsson Iva
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Kidney biopsy is the reference tool for diagnosing and guiding treatment strategies in inflammatory renal diseases, such as lupus nephritis (LN).

We investigated the histopathological findings in first-time kidney biopsies from a large cohort of SLE patients. We focused on the occurrence and type of histopathological findings other than LN, and fulfillment of renal criteria in established SLE classification systems were analyzed.

Methods

We retrospectively included SLE patients (n = 139) who underwent a first kidney biopsy between 1995 and 2021, upon clinical suspicion of renal involvement. Based on histology, two groups were defined, LN and non-LN, for which clinical and laboratory features were compared.

Results

Findings consistent with LN according to ISN/RPS classification system were present in 123/139 patients (88.5%) and findings not consistent with LN were present in 16 /139 (11.5%).

Non-LN patients were older at SLE diagnosis compared to LN patients (M, years 38.0 vs. 30.1, p=0.013) and had longer disease duration (M, years 11.9 vs 0.5) (p=0.027).

Among non-LN patients 85.7% met the SLICC criteria item for renal SLE, seen in 94.7% in the LN group (ns). For the ACR/EULAR criteria, 66.7% of the non-LN group fulfilled the criteria compared to 74.8% in LN patients (ns). Proteinuria below the criteria cut-off level (< 0.5 g/24 h) was seen in 20% of patients with class III/IV LN.

Conclusion

Our data confirm the importance of kidney biopsy for ruling out the presence of renal pathology other than LN. Patients with low-grade proteinuria may exhibit severe types of LN, which reinforces the need for early biopsies to detect LN.

Key Points• Our findings show that histopathology changes other than lupus nephritis may occur in a significant number of patients with clinical and laboratory signs of novel kidney involvement.• Low-grade proteinuria does not exclude findings of active lupus nephritis that require the start of immunosuppressive therapy.• The study stresses the importance of performing kidney biopsies also in the presence of low-grade proteinuria or when signs of kidney function abnormalities occur.• This is crucial as early detection and prompt initiation of therapy may improve outcomes in lupus nephritis.
Adaptive mesh refinement in locally conservative level set methods for multiphase fluid displacements in porous media
Authors: Singh Deepak , Friis Helmer André , Jettestuen Espen , Helland Johan Olav
Published: July 2023

Multiphase flow in porous media often occurs with the formation and coalescence of fluid ganglia. Accurate predictions of such mechanisms in complex pore geometries require simulation models with local mass conservation and with the option to improve resolution in areas of interest. In this work, we incorporate patch-based, structured adaptive mesh refinement capabilities into a method for local volume conservation that describes the behaviour of disconnected fluid ganglia during level set simulations of capillary-controlled displacement in porous media. We validate the model against analytical solutions for three-phase fluid configurations in idealized pores containing gas, oil, and water, by modelling the intermediate-wet oil layers as separate domains with their volumes preserved. Both the pressures and volumes of disconnected ganglia converge to analytical values with increased refinement levels of the adaptive mesh. Favourable results from strong and weak scaling tests emphasize that the number of patches per processor and the total number of patches are important parameters for efficient parallel simulations with adaptive mesh refinement. Simulations of two-phase imbibition and three-phase gas invasion on segmented 3D images of water-wet sandstone show that adaptive mesh refinement has the highest impact on three-phase displacements, especially concerning the behaviour of the conserved, intermediate-wet phase.
Therapeutic efficacy of coriander (Coriandrum sativum) enriched diets in Oreochromis niloticus: effect on hepatic-renal functions, the antioxidant-immune response and resistance to Aeromonas veronii
Authors: Said Ahmed Abdou , Reda Rasha M. , Metwally Mohamed M. M. , Abd El-Hady Heba M.
Published: July 2023

In this study, the effects of Coriandrum sativum to control Aeromonas veronii infection in Oreochromis niloticus were determined. Coriandrum sativum extract (CE) was tested in vitro against A. veronii by the disc diffusion assay. In in vivo, 150 O. niloticus (from El-Abbassa, Sharkia, Egypt, weighing 34.95 ± 1.98 g) was distributed in five groups (with three replications) in glass aquariums (80 × 40 × 30 cm). The first group (control) was intraperitoneally injected with 0.2 ml of sterilized tryptic soya broth. Groups 2–5 were intraperitoneally challenged with 0.2 ml of A. veronii (4.3 × 106). The five groups were administered a basal diet until clinical signs appeared, and then therapeutic feeding (15 days) was followed: the first (CONT) and second (AV) groups were administered a normal basal diet. The third (AV+CP) and fourth (AV+CE) groups were administered diets supplemented with C. sativum powder and extract, respectively, each at 30 mg/kg. The fifth group (AV+OT) was administered a diet supplemented with oxytetracycline at 500 mg/kg diet. The results of the in vitro experiment revealed that CE has a zone of inhibition of 43 mm against A. veronii. The in vivo results showed that fish administered a therapeutic diet supplemented with CE showed a significant improvement in hematological, biochemical, and immunological parameters, as well as antioxidant capacity (P < 0.05) and the pathological findings of the liver and kidney tissues. The current findings supported that the administration of a CE-enriched diet (30 mg/kg) is an eco-friendly strategy for controlling A. veronii in O. niloticus.
Do informal networks become formalised over time? Analysing school networks and multi-academy trust membership in England using ego-centric analysis
Authors: Greany Toby , Cowhitt Tom , Downey Chris
Published: July 2023

Recent decades have seen a global shift in educational policy and practice towards various forms of ‘joining-up’, through partnerships and networks. These networks have differing aims but are broadly geared towards increasing quality and/or innovation in educational provision, although many prove messy and problematic. Policy makers in England have encouraged schools to collaborate, although parallel market pressures can also drive competition, leading to an argument that schools must engage in ‘coopetition’. More recently, policy has encouraged schools to form or join a multi-academy trust (MAT) and the government’s stated aim is that all 21,000 schools in England will be part of a MAT by 2030. A MAT is a formal legal entity with a board and Chief Executive which oversees multiple schools. The headline question we address is whether pre-existing partnerships between schools predict eventual membership of multi-academy trusts? We do this through an analysis of ego network and case study interview data collected from 20 schools across two local areas. We track these networks over a seven-year period, identifying which schools join which MATs. We find that schools do not form or join MATs with other local schools they have collaborated with in the past. We assess this somewhat counter-intuitive finding through the lens of socio-spatial theory, presenting a framework for assessing the interactions between place, scale and networks and considering the implications for policy, practice and research.
Fundamental Scaling of Adiabatic Compression of Field Reversed Configuration Thermonuclear Fusion Plasmas
Authors: Kirtley D. , Milroy R.
Published: July 2023

Field Reversed Configuration (FRC) plasmas are plasma devices that have demonstrated that through magnetic compression they can be heated to thermonuclear fusion conditions in the parameter space of an energy-producing generator Kirtley et al. (IEEE Symposium on Fusion Engineering, 2021). Of particular interest, FRCs are high-beta, in that the plasma particle kinetic energy is in balance with an externally applied magnetic field at all stages of operation. The following work will show that a cylindrical approximation for the energy and particle distribution within an FRC can, within 11%, match the fusion performance results of both full Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulations as well as all robust, modern theoretical spatial and energy distribution models. Further, by using the simplified cylindrical model, detailed fusion reaction, radiation, and energy transport equations are now numerically-tractable and can be modelled over a wide parameter space. In the second section of this work, a detailed numerical model will be presented with the key theoretical performance of the compression of high-beta fusion plasmas in both deuterium–tritium (D–T) and deuterium–helium-3 (D–He-3) fuels. As will be shown, a high-beta D–He-3 plasma outperforms a low-beta D–T fuel and can theoretically yield a net-positive fusion generator.
Effectiveness of a Stigma Awareness Intervention on Reemployment of People with Mental Health Issues/Mental Illness: A Cluster Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Janssens K. M. E. , Joosen M. C. W. , Henderson C. , Bakker M. , den Hollander W. , van Weeghel J. , Brouwers E. P. M.
Published: July 2023

Purpose

A barrier for reemployment of people with mental health issues/mental illness (MHI) is workplace stigma and discrimination. In this RCT the effectiveness of a stigma-awareness intervention addressing finding work, retaining work and decisional stress were evaluated.

Methods

A cluster RCT was conducted in 8 Dutch municipal practices. Randomisation took place at practice level. Participants were unemployed people with MHI, receiving social benefits. The intervention consisted of a decision aid for workplace disclosure for participants and a 2 × 3 h stigma-awareness training for their employment specialists. Primary outcomes were measured at baseline, 3-, 6- and 12-months. Multilevel analyses, containing random intercepts of participants nested in organizations, were conducted to analyse the effects of the intervention.

Results

Participants (N = 153) were randomized to an experimental (n = 76) or control group (n = 77). At six months, significantly more participants of the experimental group (51%) had found work compared to the control group (26%). At twelve months, significantly more participants of the experimental group (49%) had retained work compared to the control group (23%). Intention-to-treat analyses showed that randomization to the experimental group was associated with finding (OR(95%CI) = 7.78(1.33–45.53), p = 0.02) and retaining (OR(95%CI) = 12.15(2.81–52.63), p < 0.01) work more often at twelve months. Analyses showed that the experimental and control group did not differ in decisional stress.

Conclusions

Our stigma awareness intervention was effective for finding and retaining work. As the percentage of people who found and retained work almost doubled, this suggests that on a societal level, a vast number of unemployed people could be reemployed with a relatively simple intervention.

Trial Registration

The study was retrospectively registered at the Dutch Trial Register (TRN: NL7798, date: 04-06-2019).
Investigations of complex systems’ dynamics, based on reduced amount of information: introduction to the method
Authors: Dabrowski Artur , Balcerzak Marek , Zarychta Sandra , Denysenko Volodymyr , Sagan Tomasz , Stefanski Andrzej
Published: July 2023

Controlling dynamics of complex systems is one of the most important issues in science and engineering. Thus, there is continuous need to study and develop numerical algorithms of control methods. In this paper, we would like to present our introductory study of a new simple method of investigations of such systems based on vector field properties and reduced amount of applied information. Firstly, we present the basis of our approach for extraction of nonlinear indicators of two-dimensional systems. We show that basing on simplified analyses and exploiting half of commonly applied information, we can precisely estimate widely applied indicators. We prove that our method is simpler, more efficient and more accurate than commonly applied algorithms. After the introductory analysis, we extend our studies and apply the presented method in investigations of complex systems, based on the analysis that we discussed in the first part of the article and carried out in two-dimensional subspaces. We present simplicity and effectiveness of our approach and demonstrate how it simplifies investigations of complex dynamical phenomena. We verify our method studying the example of synchronization and chimera phenomena in the chosen set of coupled oscillators.
Unpacking an online peer-mediated and self-reflective revision process in second-language persuasive writing
Authors: Li Albert W. , Hebert Michael
Published: July 2023

Online peer feedback has become prevalent in university writing classes due to the widespread use of peer learning technology. This paper reports an exploratory study of Chinese-speaking undergraduate students’ experiences of receiving and reflecting on online peer feedback for text revision in an English as a second language (L2) writing classroom at a northeastern-Chinese university. Twelve students were recruited from an in-person writing class taught in English by a Chinese-speaking instructor and asked to write and revise their English persuasive essays. The students sought online peer feedback asynchronously using an instant messaging platform (QQ), completed the revision worksheet that involved coding and reflecting on the peer feedback received, and wrote second drafts. Data included students’ first and second drafts, online peer feedback, analytic writing rubrics, revision worksheets, and semi-structured interviews. The quantitative analysis of students writing performance indicated that peer feedback led to students’ revisions produced meaningful improvements in the scores between drafts. The results of qualitative analyses suggested that: (1) the primary focus of peer feedback was content; (2) students generally followed peer feedback, but ignored disagreements with their peers; (3) students strategically asked for clarification from peers on the QQ platform when feedback was unclear or confusing while collecting information from the internet, e-dictionaries, and Grammarly; and (4) students thought they benefited from experiencing the peer-mediated revision process. Based on the results, we provide recommendations and instructional guidance for university writing instructors for scaffolding L2 students’ text revision practices through receiving and reflecting on online peer feedback.
Environmental agreements as clubs: Evidence from a new dataset of trade provisions
Authors: Morin Jean-Frédéric , Brandi Clara , Schwab Jakob
Published: July 2023

Creating intergovernmental environmental clubs is a prominent policy proposal for addressing global environmental problems. According to their proponents, environmental clubs provide an incentive to join them and accept their environmental obligations by generating exclusive “club goods” for their members. Yet, the existing literature considers environmental clubs as a theoretical idea that still has to be put into practice. This article asks whether, in fact, the numerous international environmental agreements (IEAs) containing trade-related provisions provide club goods to their parties. It does so by investigating the effects of these provisions on trade flows among parties compared to flows with non-parties. We introduce an original dataset on 48 types of trade provisions in 2,097 IEAs that we make available with the publication of this article. Based on this new data and a panel of worldwide bilateral trade flows, we find evidence that existing IEAs and their trade-liberalizing content are associated with increased trade among their parties relative to trade with non-parties. We conclude from this finding that systems of IEAs provide club goods to their parties. Uncovering the existence of environmental clubs has significant methodological and policy implications. It is an important first step for future research on the actual effectiveness of clubs in attracting participation and raising environmental standards.
Transformation durch Lernen: Wie die Unternehmenstransformation der DATEV eG mit verschiedenen Dialog- und Lernformaten gestaltet wird
Authors: Kortsch Timo , Kaiser Christian , Stüve Till
Published: July 2023

Dieser Artikel der Zeitschrift Gruppe. Interaktion. Organisation. beschäftigt sich mit der Bedeutung von Lernen auf den Ebenen Individuum, Team und Organisation im Rahmen der digitalen Transformation von Organisationen. Anhand eines Fallbeispiels wird illustriert, wie mittels verschiedener Dialog- und Lernformate ein solches Transformationsprojekt gelingen kann.

Die zunehmende Digitalisierung stellt Unternehmen vor viele Herausforderungen und macht eine Transformation notwendig. Um die Transformation aktiv zu gestalten, können Organisationen das Thema Lernen in den Fokus rücken. Ein Beispiel für ein Unternehmen, das sich diesen Herausforderungen stellt, ist DATEV, die IT-Genossenschaft des steuerberatenden Berufsstands, die gemeinsam mit ihren Mitgliedern Buchhaltungs‑, Steuer- und Unternehmensberatungsdienstleistungen für kleine und mittlere Unternehmen anbietet. Am Beispiel von verschiedenen, dort eingeführten Dialog- und Lernformaten (z. B. Communities of Practice, Barcamps, Lernbegleitung) wird illustriert, wie der Transformationsprozess durch Lernen auf allen Ebenen aktiv gestaltet werden kann. Abschließend werden aus dem Fallbeispiel Learnings für Wissenschaft und Praxis abgeleitet.
Forensic neuropathology in the past decade: a scoping literature review
Authors: Oura Petteri , Hakkarainen Antti , Sajantila Antti
Published: July 2023

While there has been notable research activity in the field of clinical neuropathology over the recent years, forensic approaches have been less frequent. This scoping literature review explored original research on forensic neuropathology over the past decade (January 1, 2010, until February 12, 2022) using the MEDLINE database. The aims were to (1) analyze the volume of research on the topic, (2) describe meta-level attributes and sample characteristics, and (3) summarize key research themes and methods. Of 5053 initial hits, 2864 fell within the target timeframe, and 122 were included in the review. Only 3–17 articles were published per year globally. Most articles originated from the Europe (39.3%) and Asia (36.1%) and were published in forensic journals (57.4%). A median sample included 57 subjects aged between 16 and 80 years. The most common research theme was traumatic intracranial injury (24.6%), followed by anatomy (12.3%) and substance abuse (11.5%). Key methods included immunotechniques (31.1%) and macroscopic observation (21.3%). Although a number of novel findings were reported, most were of preliminary nature and will require further validation. In order to reach breakthroughs and validate novel tools for routine use, more research input is urged from researchers across the world. It would be necessary to ensure appropriate sample sizes and make use of control groups.
Value Pluralism versus Value Monism
Authors: Blum Christian
Published: July 2023

Value pluralism is the metaphysical thesis that there is a plurality of values at the fundamental level of the evaluative domain. Value monism, on the other hand, is the claim that there is just one fundamental value. Pluralists, it is commonly argued, have an edge over monists when it comes to accounting for the conspicuous heterogeneity of the evaluative domain and the rationality of regretting well-justified decisions. Monists, in turn, seem to provide a far more plausible account of rational evaluative decision-making. I argue that the impression of a theoretical stalemate, which is suggested by the exchange of those arguments, is premature. An assessment of the sub-positions in both camps, in conjunction with an analysis of value fundamentality based on the notion of grounding, reveals that certain versions of pluralism and monism—which I call moderate positions—can counter the respective objections. Thus, moderate value pluralism and moderate value monism emerge as the strongest positions in both camps. I conclude that the further debate should center around those two positions.
Pilgrims’ satisfaction with metro operations during Hajj
Authors: Weber Lucas , Müller Sven , Haase Knut
Published: July 2023

To date, very little research has been conducted regarding visitor satisfaction with operations at mega events and mass gatherings. We examine the user satisfaction of passengers of the Makkah Metro in Saudi Arabia during Hajj. Hajj is one of the largest mass gatherings in the world. Our aim is to compare the sensitivities towards waiting time of different user groups in order to identify user groups that are particularly sensitive to waiting time. Those user groups might then be scheduled preferably to the Hajj rituals in such a way that their expected waiting time is minimized. For this reason, we are interested in the interactions between the passengers’ person-specific attributes and their perceived waiting time at the stations. We apply an ordered logit model to unique survey data. Our results reveal that women are much more sensitive to waiting time than men. In addition to gender, a pilgrim’s country of origin also seems to play a significant role, which has operational implications on crowd management.
Novel concepts of mechanical technology for gas recovery from marine hydrate reservoir
Authors: Men Yuting , Song Zhen , Sun Ying , Li Kaili , Qing Xianlin , Sun Hongen , Zhou Meng
Published: July 2023

According to the characteristics of marine natural gas hydrate, China has proposed the solid-state fluidization exploitation technology or natural gas hydrate, with subsea exploitation being key to the commercial recovery of gas. In this paper, two new integrated tools are proposed for breaking and collecting natural gas hydrate, and their working principles and steps are illustrated. Finite element analysis, three-dimensional modeling, and simulations were conducted for both exploitation tools to verify their technological feasibility. The results show that the two exploitation tools can effectively improve the efficiency of hydrate exploitation and ensure the stability of the hydrate reservoir. This provides a reference for further research on the solid-state fluidization exploitation technology of marine gas hydrates.
From Sustainability to Regeneration: a digital framework with BIM and computational design methods
Authors: Dervishaj Arlind
Published: July 2023

Design methods, frameworks, and green building certifications have been developed to create a sustainable built environment. Despite sustainability advancements, urgent action remains necessary due to climate change and the high impact of the built environment. Regenerative Design represents a shift from current practices focused on reducing environmental impacts, as it aims to generate positive effects on both human and natural systems. Although digital design methods are commonly employed in sustainable design practice and research, there is presently no established framework to guide a digital regenerative design process. This study provides an analysis of existing literature on regenerative design and digital design methods and presents a framework based on building information modelling (BIM) methodology and computational design methods, that can be applied to both urban and building design. This framework identifies digital tools and organizes indicators based on the pillars of climate, people, and nature for regenerative design, drawing upon a comprehensive analysis of literature, including standards, sustainability frameworks and research studies. The framework is illustrated through a case study evaluation. The paper also highlights the potential and limitations of digital methods concerning regenerative design and suggests possibilities for future expansion by incorporating additional quantifiable indicators that reflect research developments, to achieve positive outcomes.
Differential Transcriptomic Landscapes of SARS-CoV-2 Variants in Multiple Organs from Infected Rhesus Macaques
Authors: Du Tingfu , Gao Chunchun , Lu Shuaiyao , Liu Qianlan , Yang Yun , Yu Wenhai , Li Wenjie , Qiao Sun Yong , Tang Cong , Wang Junbin , Gao Jiahong , Zhang Yong , Luo Fangyu , Yang Ying , Yang Yun-Gui , Peng Xiaozhong
Published: July 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) caused the persistent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, which has resulted in millions of deaths worldwide and brought an enormous public health and global economic burden. The recurring global wave of infections has been exacerbated by growing variants of SARS-CoV-2. In this study, the virological characteristics of the original SARS-CoV-2 strain and its variants of concern (VOCs; including Alpha, Beta, and Delta) in vitro, as well as differential transcriptomic landscapes in multiple organs (lung, right ventricle, blood, cerebral cortex, and cerebellum) from the infected rhesus macaques, were elucidated. The original strain of SARS-CoV-2 caused a stronger innate immune response in host cells, and its VOCs markedly increased the levels of subgenomic RNA  s, such as N, Orf9b, Orf6, and Orf7ab, which are known as the innate immune antagonists and the inhibitors of antiviral factors. Intriguingly, the original SARS-CoV-2 strain and Alpha variant induced larger alteration of RNA abundance in tissues of rhesus monkeys than Beta and Delta variants did. Moreover, a hyperinflammatory state and active immune response were shown in the right ventricles of rhesus monkeys by the up-regulation of inflammation- and immune-related RNAs. Furthermore, peripheral blood may mediate signaling transmission among tissues to coordinate the molecular changes in the infected individuals. Collectively, these data provide insights into the pathogenesis of COVID-19 at the early stage of infection by the original SARS-CoV-2 strain and its VOCs.
Fighting Climate Change through Shaming
Authors: Yadin Sharon
Published: July 2023

This Element contends that regulators can and should shame companies into climate-responsible behavior by publicizing information on corporate contribution to climate change. Drawing on theories of regulatory shaming and environmental disclosure, the Element introduces a "regulatory climate shaming" framework, which utilizes corporate reputational sensitivities and the willingness of stakeholders to hold firms accountable for their actions in the climate crisis context. The Element explores the developing landscape of climate shaming practices employed by governmental regulators in various jurisdictions via rankings, ratings, labeling, company reporting, lists, online databases, and other forms of information-sharing regarding corporate climate performance and compliance. Against the backdrop of insufficient climate law and regulation worldwide, the Element offers a rich normative and descriptive theory and viable policy directions for regulatory climate shaming, taking into account the promises and pitfalls of this nascent approach as well as insights gained from implementing regulatory shaming in other fields.
Navigating Local Transitional Justice
Authors: Martin Laura S.
Published: July 2023

In post-war Sierra Leone, a range of transitional justice mechanisms were implemented to address experiences of conflict, violence, and human rights violations. Much of the research on local transitional justice processes has focused on the work of organisations, failing to acknowledge how individual and communal dynamics shape and are shaped by these programs. Drawing on original fieldwork in Sierra Leone, Laura S. Martin moves beyond discussions measuring effectiveness and considers how people navigate their circumstances in conflict and post-conflict societies. Developing the idea of recognised and unrecognised transitional justice processes, Martin uses Fambul Tok as an example of a recognised local transitional justice program and shows how ordinary Sierra Leoneans appropriated Fambul Tok's agenda for their own purposes. Ultimately, this book highlights the crucial role of agency and the diverse range of actors involved in transitional justice processes. Justice, as Martin powerfully argues, is not something that happens to or for people, but is enacted by individuals and communities.
The Neuroscience of Intelligence
Authors: Haier Richard J.
Published: July 2023

This new edition provides an accessible guide to advances in neuroscience research and what they reveal about intelligence. Compelling evidence shows that genetics plays a major role as intelligence develops from childhood, and that intelligence test scores correspond strongly to specific features of the brain assessed with neuroimaging. In detailed yet understandable language, Richard J. Haier explains cutting-edge techniques based on DNA and imaging of brain connectivity and function. He dispels common misconceptions – such as the belief that IQ tests are biased or meaningless. Readers will learn about the real possibility of dramatically enhancing intelligence and the positive implications this could have for education and social policy. The text also explores potential controversies surrounding neuro-poverty, neuro-socioeconomic status, and the morality of enhancing intelligence for everyone.
Connecting Communities in Archaic Greece
Authors: Loy Michael
Published: July 2023

This is a new history of Greece in the seventh and sixth centuries BC written for the twenty-first century. It brings together archaeological data from over 100 years of 'Big Dig' excavation in Greece, employing experimental data analysis techniques from the digital humanities to identify new patterns about Archaic Greece. By modelling trade routes, political alliances, and the formation of personal- and state-networks, the book sheds new light on how exactly the early communities of the Aegean basin were plugged into one another. Returning to the long-debated question of 'what is a polis?', this study also challenges Classical Archaeology more generally: that the discipline has at its fingertips significant datasets that can contribute to substantive historical debate -and that what can be done for the next generation of scholarship is to re-engage with old material in a new way.
D-Branes
Authors: Johnson Clifford V.
Published: July 2023

D-branes represent a key theoretical tool in the understanding of strongly coupled superstring theory and M-theory. They have led to many striking discoveries, including the precise microphysics underlying the thermodynamic behaviour of certain black holes, and remarkable holographic dualities between large-N gauge theories and gravity. This book provides a self-contained introduction to the technology of D-branes, presenting their development in a pedagogical manner. The introductory material is developed by first starting with the main features of string theory needed to get rapidly to grips with D-branes. Many advanced applications are covered, with discussions of open problems which could form the basis for other avenues of research. Suitable as a textbook in graduate courses on modern string theory and theoretical particle physics, it will also be an indispensable reference for seasoned practitioners. First published in 2003, this title has been reissued as an Open Access publication on Cambridge Core.
Vorticity transport in a turbulent channel flow subjected to streamwise travelling waves
Authors: Umair Mohammad , Tardu Sedat
Published: July 2023

Direct numerical simulations of turbulent channel flow subjected to spanwise wall oscillations in the form of streamwise travelling waves (STW) were performed in an effort to elucidate the mechanism responsible for the observed drag reduction. We imposed large amplitudes to identify the proper effects of STW, while keeping the angular frequency and wavenumber fixed at a particular values. We primarily focus on the vorticity transport mechanism, to better understand the influence of STW actuation on the near-wall turbulence. We identify key terms appearing in the turbulent enstrophy transport equations that are directly linked to the STW actuation. The analysis reveals that the primary effect of the STW forcing is to attenuate the spanwise turbulent enstrophy at the wall, which is linked to the fluctuating wall shear stress. The suppression of the wall-normal turbulent enstrophy is deemed to be subordinate. To strengthen this point, we performed numerical experiments, where the streamwise fluctuating velocity, and consequently the spanwise vorticity, is artificially suppressed next to the wall. The anisotropic invariant maps show striking resemblance for large amplitude STW actuation and artificially forced cases. Detailed analysis of various structural features is provided, which includes the response of the near-wall streaks and shear layers of spanwise fluctuating velocity field. The quasistreamwise vortices, which play a key role in the regeneration mechanism, are shown to be pushed away from the wall, resulting in their weakened signature at the wall.
Three-dimensional numerical investigation of a transversely oscillating slotted cylinder and its applications in energy harvesting
Authors: Verma Mayank , De Ashoke
Published: July 2023

The present paper numerically investigates the fluid dynamics associated with the flow over an elastically mounted circular cylinder at a Reynolds number of 500. A slit normal to the flow direction is placed at the cylinder's centre. The study covers the large parametric set of calculations for the combined mass-damping ratio

$m^{*}\zeta = 0.2$

, including the slit offset for six different offset angles (

$-30^\circ \leq \alpha \leq +30^\circ$

) measured from the vertical axis at the centre point of the cylinder and the effect of slit widths (

$0.1 \leq s/D \leq 0.3$

) on the aerodynamic loading, vibration response and associated flow characteristics. Furthermore, a wide range of reduced velocities (

$3\leq U_r \leq 7$

) are examined for the complete closure of studying the effect on the vortex-induced vibration response. The results demonstrate that adding the normal slit increases the periodic suction-blowing phenomena, strengthening the vortex shedding. The results suggest that the normal slit can suppress or increase vortex-induced vibration depending on the slit-offset angle. Placing it toward the front stagnation point results in the increased oscillation amplitude (with a wider wake behind the cylinder) while shifting it toward the rear stagnation point diminishes the cylinder's oscillations. The paper reveals that this dual behaviour of the normal slit (based on its offset placement) is closely related to the phase difference between the lift force and the oscillation amplitude. Various vortex-shedding patterns associated with the different slit-offset angles are duly reported in the paper. Furthermore, a magnet is attached to the slit cylinder, and its effect on the energy harvesting capability via a coil-magnet arrangement is explored in detail for a wide range of reduced velocities.
Association between plasma and dietary trace elements and obesity in a rural Chinese population
Authors: Lu Yufu , Liu Qiumei , Huang Chuwu , Tang Xu , Wei Yanfei , Mo Xiaoting , Huang Shenxiang , Lin Yinxia , Luo Tingyu , Gou Ruoyu , Zhang Zhiyong , Qin Jian , Cai Jiansheng
Published: July 2023

Trace elements may play an important role in obesity. This study aimed to assess the plasma and dietary intake levels of four trace elements, Mn, Cu, Zn and Se in a rural Chinese population, and analyse the relationship between trace elements and obesity. A cross-sectional study involving 2587 participants was conducted. Logistic regression models were used to analyse the association between trace elements and obesity; restricted cubic spline (RCS) models were used to assess the dose–response relationship between trace elements and obesity; the weighted quantile sum (WQS) model was used to examine the potential interaction of four plasma trace elements on obesity. Logistic regression analysis showed that plasma Se concentrations in the fourth quartile (Q4) exhibited a lower risk of developing obesity than the first quartile (Q1) (central obesity: OR = 0·634, P = 0·002; general obesity: OR = 0·525, P = 0·005). Plasma Zn concentration in the third quartile (Q3) showed a lower risk of developing obesity in general obesity compared with the first quartile (Q1) (OR = 0·625, P = 0·036). In general obesity, the risk of morbidity was 1·727 and 1·923 times higher for the second and third (Q2, Q3) quartiles of dietary Mn intake than for Q1, respectively. RCS indicated an inverse U-shaped correlation between plasma Se and obesity. WQS revealed the combined effects of four trace elements were negatively associated with central obesity. Plasma Zn and Se were negatively associated with obesity, and dietary Mn was positively associated with obesity. The combined action of the four plasma trace elements had a negative effect on obesity.
Nitrogen fertilizer and landscape position affect soil aggregate size distribution, and intra-aggregate carbon and nitrogen under switchgrass in a marginal cropland
Authors: Singh Navdeep , Chellappa Jemila , Lai Liming , Kumar Sandeep , Hong Chang Oh , Owens Vance N.
Published: July 2023

Dedicated bioenergy crops such as switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) can be grown on marginally productive lands and positively influence soil properties. However, nitrogen management, and landscape can alter soil structural attributes under bioenergy crop production. This study investigated the impacts of long-term nitrogen fertilization (0-N, 0 kg N/ha; 56-N, 56 kg N/ha and 112-N, 112 kg N/ha) and landscape positions (shoulder and footslope) on soil organic carbon (SOC) and structural attributes under switchgrass production. The 112-N rate enhanced the proportion of 2–4 mm water-stable aggregates by 49%, aggregate associated carbon in 2–4 mm and >4 mm aggregates by 16 and 24%, respectively, aggregate associated nitrogen in >4 mm aggregates by 33% and reduced soil bulk density by 19% compared to the 0-N rate. Footslope position increased the proportion of 2–4 mm water-stable aggregates by 26% and lowered bulk density by 8% compared to the shoulder position. Results showed a significant N-rate × landscape position interaction on SOC and glomalin related soil protein content in bulk soil. Overall, this study showed that nitrogen application to switchgrass planted at footslope on a marginally yielding cropland improved soil structure and physical conditions.
Finance and biodiversity conservation: insights from rhinoceros conservation and the first wildlife conservation bond
Authors: Medina Claire , Scales Ivan R.
Published: July 2023

The Rhino Bond is the first financial instrument dedicated to protecting a species. The Bond allows investors to invest in the conservation of the black rhinoceros Diceros bicornis, with the amount of money returned by the investment depending on whether rhinoceros numbers increase (and by how much). In this paper we focus on how the Bond was brought into being. We draw on an analysis of organizational reports along with data collected from interviews with key informants to investigate the roles of the various stakeholders in the Bond, how species and sites were selected, the motivations and experiences of the stakeholders and the involvement of stakeholders in decision-making. We found that although conservation actors are attracted by the potential for new funding, they have experienced challenges navigating complex financial instruments. The needs of financial actors often dictated decision-making, with implications for the species and sites chosen for the Bond. As profits are tied to an increase in population size of a specific species (which needs to be monitored), the instrument has favoured large and easily counted species and populations. Only some sites were able to meet the stringent conditions of financial instruments, including metrics on financial sustainability. We argue that the dominance of financial principles and motives means that not all species or sites will be viable candidates for investment and that conservation finance should not be seen as a panacea.