bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi‐Wavelength‐Recognizable Memristive Devices via Surface Plasmon Resonance Effect for Color Visual System
Authors: Han Jiaqi , Shan Xuanyu , Lin Ya , Tao Ye , Zhao Xiaoning , Wang Zhongqiang , Xu Haiyang , Liu Yichun
Published: March 2023

Photoelectric memristor has attracted many attentions thanks to their promising potential in optical communication chips and artificial vision systems. However, the implementation of an artificial visual system based on memristive devices remains a considerable challenge because most photoelectric memristors cannot recognize color. Herein, multi‐wavelength recognizable memristive devices based on silver(Ag) nanoparticles (NPs) and porous silicon oxide (SiOx) nanocomposites are presented. Rely on the effects of localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) and optical excitation of Ag NPs in SiOx, the set voltage of the device can be gradually reduced. Moreover, the current overshoot problem is alleviated to suppress conducting filament overgrowth after visible light irradiation with different wavelengths, resulting in diverse low resistance states (LRS). Taking advantage of the characteristics of controlled switching voltage and LRS resistance distribution, color image recognition is finally realized in the present work. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and conductive atomic force microscopy (C‐AFM) show that the light irradiation plays an important role on resistive switching (RS) process: the photo‐assisted Ag ionization leads to a significant reduction of set voltage and overshoot current. This work provides an effective method toward the development of multi‐wavelength‐recognizable memristive devices for future artificial color vision system.
Multifunctional Starch‐Based Sensor with Non‐Covalent Network to Achieve “3R” Circulation
Authors: Li Jianfang , Deng Yongfu , Fu Hao , Zhang Yuwei , Zhang Yuancheng , Fu Lihua , Xu Chuanhui , Lin Baofeng
Published: March 2023

With the consumption of disposable electronic devices increasing, it is meaningful but also a big challenge to develop reusable and sustainable materials to replace traditional single‐use sensors. Herein, a clever strategy for constructing a multifunctional sensor with 3R circulation (renewable, reusable, pollution‐reducing biodegradable) is presented, in which silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with multiple interactions are introduced into a reversible non‐covalent cross‐linking network composed of biocompatible and degradable carboxymethyl starch (CMS) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) to simultaneously obtain high mechanical conductivity and long‐term antibacterial properties by a one‐pot method. Surprisingly, the assembled sensor shows high sensitivity (gauge factor up to 4.02), high conductivity (0.1753 S m−1), low detection limit (0.5%), long‐term antibacterial ability (more than 7 days), and stable sensing performance. Thus, the CMS/PVA/AgNPs sensor can not only accurately monitor a series of human behavior, but also identify handwriting recognition from different people. More importantly, the abandoned starch‐based sensor can form a 3R circulation. Especially, the fully renewable film still shows excellent mechanical performance, achieving reusable without sacrificing its original function. Therefore, this work provides a new horizon for multifunctional starch‐based materials as sustainable substrates for replacing traditional single‐use sensors.
Parametric analysis of variables influencing the design of I‐girder bridge decks made of high‐performance fiber reinforced concrete
Authors: Ruiz Rafael , Starchevich Gian Biagio , Todisco Leonardo , Corres Hugo
Published: March 2023

Despite the good balance between notable mechanical properties and a reasonable cost, high‐performance fiber reinforced concrete (HPFRC) is not widely employed in the construction of bridges. This work is part of a larger research addressed at exploring the potential of this material for replacing standard concrete in the construction sector. Specifically, this paper focuses on the use of HPFRC to build precast simply supported I‐girders for road bridges. This work investigates the influence of several design variables on the material consumption to identify the key features that can lead to possible material savings. The variables, explored through a parametric analysis, are: (i) the concrete class (C80/95, C100/115, and C120/140); (ii) the number of beams to form the deck (from 3 to 5); (iii) the girder span‐to‐depth ratio (17, 20, and 23); (iv) the bridge span (L) (20, 40 and 60 m). One specific case of study is described in detail, and then the same procedure is applied to all the case studies. In addition, the effect of different hypotheses and formulations for the bending and shear verifications are analyzed. The results shed light on the relevance that these variables play in the final solution and how they affect the dimensioning of these elements. As main finding, this work proves that the use of HPFRC represent a material‐efficient solution for slender and long‐span precast I‐girders.
The copper (II) complex of salicylate phenanthroline inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis of hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Niu Dongqin , Wang Dong , Fan Limei , Liu Zixin , Chen Ming , Zhang Weiran , Liu Yuchen , Xu Jinhua , Liu Yunyi
Published: March 2023

In the present study, we investigated the antitumor effect and associated molecular mechanisms of the copper (II) complex of salicylate phenanthroline [Cu(sal)(phen)] against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Cu(sal)(phen) inhibited the proliferation of HCC cells (HepG2 and HCC‐LM9) and induced apoptosis of HCC cells in a dose‐dependent manner by upregulating mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. The expression of the antiapoptotic proteins survivin and Bcl‐2 was decreased, while the expression of the DNA damage marker γ‐H2AX and the apoptotic marker cleaved PARP was upregulated with Cu(sal)(phen) treatment. In vivo, the growth of HepG2 subcutaneous xenograft tumors was greatly attenuated by Cu(sal)(phen) treatment. Immunohistochemistry staining showed that the expression of survivin, Bcl‐2, and Ki67 in the tumor was downregulated by Cu(sal)(phen). Toxicity experiments with BALB/c mice revealed that Cu(sal)(phen) is a relatively safe drug. Our results indicate that Cu(sal)(phen) possesses great potential as a therapeutic drug for HCC.
Usability of climate information: Toward a new scientific framework
Authors: Jebeile Julie , Roussos Joe
Published: March 2023

Climate science is expected to provide usable information to policy‐makers, to support the resolution of climate change. The complex, multiply connected nature of climate change as a social problem is reviewed and contrasted with current modular and discipline‐bounded approaches in climate science. We argue that climate science retains much of its initial “physics‐first” orientation, and that it adheres to a problematic notion of objectivity as freedom from value judgments. Together, these undermine its ability to provide usable information. We develop the notion of usability using work from the literature on adaptation, but our argument applies to all of climate science. We illustrate the tension between usability and the objective, physics‐first orientation of climate science with an example about model development practices in climate science. For solutions, we draw on two frameworks for science which responds to societal challenges: post‐normal science and mandated science. We generate five recommendations for adapting the practice of climate science, to produce more usable information and thereby respond more directly to the social challenge of climate change. These are: (1) integrated cross‐disciplinarity, (2) wider involvement of stakeholders throughout the lifecycle of a climate study, (3) a new framing of the role of values in climate science, (4) new approaches to uncertainty management, and (5) new approaches to uncertainty communication.

This article is categorized under:

Climate Models and Modeling > Knowledge Generation with Models

The Social Status of Climate Change Knowledge > Sociology/Anthropology of Climate Knowledge

Perceptions, Behavior, and Communication of Climate Change > Communication
Sexual Aspects of Breast and Lactation
Authors: Yurtsal Z. Burcu , Uslu Dilek
Published: March 2023

In many cultures, the breasts are, in many ways, connected to sexuality and intimacy. Next to providing nutrition for the baby, they are erogenic zones, a relevant factor for female identity, causing insecurity or pride, a source of pain, and a source of pleasure.

There are striking similarities between breastfeeding, birth, and orgasm, with oxytocin orchestrating these processes, which are also comparably influenced by the ability ‘to relax’ (sometimes called ‘to let down’). During parturition, breast stimulation can influence the process of birth. Once lactation has started, it can affect sexuality positively and negatively, partly resulting from hormonal changes. Finally, when the lactating woman becomes sexually aroused or has an orgasm, milk outflow can be a source of confusion for some couples and a source of pleasure for others.

It is the best nutrition for the baby, a vital factor in the bond between mother and child, and it has long-term health benefits for both. On the other hand, breastfeeding can cause severe fatigue, lack of sex drive, dyspareunia, and the fear of disfigurement. This chapter will include the HCP’s role in information on the different advantages and disadvantages of breastfeeding.

This chapter is part of ‘Midwifery and Sexuality’, a Springer Nature open-access textbook for midwives and related healthcare professionals.
Experimental and numerical investigation of residual stresses in proximity girth welds
Authors: Bhardwaj Sachin , Aas Sigmund Kyrre , Ratnayake R. M. Chandima
Published: March 2023

International fabrication codes and standards provide minimum distance criteria for proximity welds, although rigorous justification is lacking. These distances are either based on practical experience or mutual agreement and are often left to the engineering judgment of contractors, inspection engineers, etc., especially in cases of repair welds fabricated in proximity to existing welds. Previous studies have shown high tensile residual stresses and altered mechanical and microstructural properties between proximity welds. This article focuses on numerical and experimental quantification of residual stresses in the proximity region by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and finite element method (FEM) thermo-mechanical models. Specimens were machine welded, then repair welded at distances of 5–15 mm. A fair agreement in results was achieved between FEM and XRD. The most detrimental effect was observed at the weld root toe for the repair weld at 5 mm proximity, likely due to the high constraint and multiaxial stress state. These findings enable practitioners to propose technical justification and corrective actions while specifying minimum distance criteria for proximity welds.
Past-directed scalar field gradients and scalar-tensor thermodynamics
Authors: Giusti Andrea , Giardino Serena , Faraoni Valerio
Published: March 2023

We refine and slightly enlarge the recently proposed first-order thermodynamics of scalar-tensor gravity to include gravitational scalar fields with timelike and past-directed gradients. The implications and subtleties arising in this situation are discussed and an exact cosmological solution of scalar-tensor theory in first-order thermodynamics is revisited in light of these results.
Power of shared success: how can sharing success
and roles of others motivate African women in STEM?
Authors: Babalola Olubukola Oluranti , du Plessis Yvonne , Babalola Sunday Samson
Published: March 2023

This study examines the success and role of African women leaders in science,
technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). In the absence of significant research on
women’s STEM leadership, the success and roles of others could motivate an aspiring African
woman to pursue a career in STEM. A qualitative approach was sought using open online
questions and narratives from African women leaders about their roles and career success in
STEM. Data were collected from the western, eastern, northern, and southern regions of
Africa from participants who held STEM leadership positions, such as directors, deans, and
chief officers. The participants were 42 women representing 12 African nations. The
narratives of these women leaders’ tones and life experiences were analyzed through content
analysis. The narratives of these women leaders’ tones and life experiences were analyzed in
search of recurring patterns and themes. Successful leadership in STEM requires balancing
career and family life, setting goals, solving problems, being open to innovative ideas,
embracing diversity, collaborating, and having knowledge of STEM research and mentoring
skills. Using the achievements and roles of others could inspire future African women to
pursue careers in STEM.
Inflammation and Neutrophil Oxidative Burst in a Family with NFKB1 p.R157X LOF and Sterile Necrotizing Fasciitis
Authors: Santaniemi Wenny , Åström Pirjo , Glumoff Virpi , Pernaa Nora , Tallgren Ella-Noora , Palosaari Sanna , Nissinen Antti , Kaustio Meri , Kuismin Outi , Saarela Janna , Nurmi Katariina , Eklund Kari K. , Seppänen Mikko R. J. , Hautala Timo
Published: March 2023

Loss-of-function (LOF) mutations inNFKB1, coding for p105, may cause common variable immunodeficiency due to dysregulation of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κΒ) pathway. Monoallelic LOF variants ofNFKB1can predispose to uncontrolled inflammation including sterile necrotizing fasciitis or pyoderma gangrenosum. In this study, we explored the impact of a heterozygousNFKB1c.C936T/p.R157X LOF variant on immunity in sterile fasciitis patients and their family members. The p50 or p105 protein levels were reduced in all variant carriers. Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) levels were elevated in vitro, potentially contributing to the very high neutrophil counts observed during fasciitis episodes. Phosphorylation of p65/RelA was reduced in p.R157X neutrophils suggesting defective activation of canonical NF-κB. Oxidative burst after NF-κB-independent phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) stimulation was similar in both p.R157X and control neutrophils. Comparable amounts of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase complex subunits were found in p.R157X and control neutrophils. However, a compromised oxidative burst was observed in p.R157X neutrophils following activation of NF-κB-dependent mechanisms following stimulation of toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and Dectin-1. Neutrophil extracellular trap formation was not affected by p.R157X. In summary, theNFKB1c.C936T/p.R157X LOF variant has an impact on inflammation and neutrophil function and may play a role in the pathogenesis of sterile necrotizing fasciitis.
Moral rhetoric in discrete choice models: a Natural Language Processing approach
Authors: Szép Teodóra , van Cranenburgh Sander , Chorus Caspar
Published: March 2023

This paper proposes a new method to combine choice- and text data to infer moral motivations from people’s actions. To do this, we rely on moral rhetoric, in other words, extracting moral values from verbal expressions with Natural Language Processing techniques. We use moral rhetoric based on a well-established moral, psychological theory called Moral Foundations Theory. We use moral rhetoric as input in Discrete Choice Models to gain insights into moral behaviour based on people’s words and actions. We test our method in a case study of voting and party defection in the European Parliament. Our results indicate that moral rhetoric have significant explanatory power in modelling voting behaviour. We interpret the results in the light of political science literature and propose ways for future investigations.
Effect of bioaugmentation with Paenibacillus spp. and thin slurry recirculation on microbial hydrolysis of maize silage and bedding straw in a plug-flow reactor
Authors: Menzel Theresa , Neubauer Peter , Junne Stefan
Published: March 2023

In this work, the effect of bioaugmentation on the hydrolysis and acidogenesis efficiency of bedding straw mixed with maize silage is examined. A plug-flow bioreactor was operated for 70 weeks with maize silage as a reference feedstock and subsequently with an increasing straw content of 30% and 66% (w/w). Bioaugmentation with two Paenibacillus species was conducted at each process condition to investigate the impact on hydrolysis of the recalcitrant lignocellulosic feedstock. A stable acidogenic digestion of the substrates was achieved, during which acetic and butyric acid were accumulated as main byproducts. Specific hydrolysis rates between 258 and 264 gO2 kg−1VS were determined for pure maize silage and maize silage mixed with 30% of straw, while the specific hydrolysis rate decreased to 195 gO2 kg−1VS when a mixture with 66% of straw was applied. Bioaugmentation with Paenibacillus spp. increased the specific hydrolysis rate by up to 41–63% for pure maize silage and the mixture with 30% of straw, while no increase was observed with a mixture of 66% of straw. Acid production, however, was enhanced by 21 to 42% following bioaugmentation for all substrate mixtures. A positive effect on the physiological state of cultures, as recorded with frequency-dispersed polarizability, was seen after bioaugmentation, which remained for two retention times during the continuous fermentation mode. Recirculation of the thin sludge further prolonged the positive effects of bioaugmentation. The results of this work provide a basis to optimize the amount of the bioaugmented microorganisms and hydrolysis of biogenic material with respect to sustainable effects on process performance and costs.
Case report. Resurfacing van de glans penis bij therapieresistente lichen sclerosus: een weinig bekende therapeutische optie
Authors: Nooter Ronald I. , Van Lingen Anna M. , Bosch J. L. H. Ruud
Published: March 2023

Samenvatting

Lichen sclerosus kan leiden tot ernstige fibrose van voorhuid, glans penis en urethra. We beschrijven een patiënt met pijnlijke coïtus en met meatusstenose en urethrastrictuur door de lichen, waarvoor herhaalde, pijnlijke dilataties zijn verricht. Topicale medicatie was niet succesvol. Vanwege het invaliderende karakter van de aandoening koos patiënt voor chirurgische behandeling. De operatietechniek wordt getoond en het resultaat wordt beschreven. Resectie van de aangedane huid van de glans en corona werd gevolgd door een split-skingraft. De urethrale fibrose werd gereseceerd en gesubstitueerd met wangslijmvlies; vervolgens werd de penoscrotale fusie met behulp van een Z‑plastiek opgeheven. Na 23 maanden is patiënt nog steeds tevreden. Dit is, voor zover bekend, de eerste beschrijving van de combinatie van de fossa naviculare stenose en een uitgebreide resurfacing van de glans penis. Het bestaan van deze operatieve opties brengen we graag onder de aandacht.
Digital Slide and Simulation-Based Learning in Pre-Implantation Kidney Biopsies
Authors: Eccher Albino , Antonini Pietro , Barreca Antonella , Fabbrizio Benedetta , Boggi Ugo , Rizzo Paola Chiara , Girolami Ilaria
Published: March 2023

Although controversial, procurement kidney biopsies and histology are commonly used in kidney allocation from deceased donors. The long series of models developed for this question, incorporating a variety of clinical and histologic variables, failed to properly predict the long-term graft survival. This failure could be explained by many factors, including the lack of expertise in terms of skilled available nephropathologists in the urgent setting of biopsies assessment. Simulation-based learning is a form of experiential learning that provides learners with a real-world-like opportunity to develop and practice their knowledge and skills but in a simulated environment. Digital pathology with whole-slide imaging is a powerful tool for knowledge delivering, as it offers the opportunity to facilitate meeting of general pathologists with experts, with availability of second opinion consultation and tailored training on specific cases. In the back of these considerations, we report on the content of the web-meeting “Digital slide and simulation-based learning in pre-implantation kidney” which was fully dedicated to the evaluation of pre-implantation kidney biopsy, with a very practical approach and a direct interaction between two expert renal transplant pathologists and the audience of general pathologists.
Nuovi orientamenti nella diagnosi e terapia delle tireotossicosi da amiodarone
Authors: Cappellani Daniele , Bogazzi Fausto
Published: March 2023

Sommario

L’amiodarone è un antiaritmico che esercita importanti effetti sulla fisiologia tiroidea e nel 20% dei casi determina lo sviluppo di ipotiroidismo o di tireotossicosi. La tireotossicosi indotta da amiodarone (AIT) è gravata da alti tassi di morbidità e mortalità, dovuti alla lunga esposizione di un cuore “malato” a un importante eccesso di ormoni tiroidei spesso poco responsivo alla terapia medica. Negli ultimi anni recenti acquisizioni in tema di diagnosi e terapia hanno permesso un approccio più moderno all’AIT.
Geometric thermodynamics for the Fokker–Planck equation: stochastic thermodynamic links between information geometry and optimal transport
Authors: Ito Sosuke
Published: March 2023

We propose a geometric theory of non-equilibrium thermodynamics, namely geometric thermodynamics, using our recent developments of differential-geometric aspects of entropy production rate in non-equilibrium thermodynamics. By revisiting our recent results on geometrical aspects of entropy production rate in stochastic thermodynamics for the Fokker–Planck equation, we introduce a geometric framework of non-equilibrium thermodynamics in terms of information geometry and optimal transport theory. We show that the proposed geometric framework is useful for obtaining several non-equilibrium thermodynamic relations, such as thermodynamic trade-off relations between the thermodynamic cost and the fluctuation of the observable, optimal protocols for the minimum thermodynamic cost and the decomposition of the entropy production rate for the non-equilibrium system. We clarify several stochastic-thermodynamic links between information geometry and optimal transport theory via the excess entropy production rate based on a relation between the gradient flow expression and information geometry in the space of probability densities and a relation between the velocity field in optimal transport and information geometry in the space of path probability densities.
Axiale und periphere Spondyloarthritis
Authors: Ebner Karl-Martin , Schirmer Michael , Hermann Josef ,   ASPAT (Austrian Spondyloarthritis Task Force)
Published: March 2023

Die Diagnose der Spondyloarthritis (SpA) wird auch heute noch mit einer Verzögerung von mehr als 6 Jahren gestellt. Aus diesem Grund ist es wichtig, die Symptome der Spondyloarthritis früh zu erkennen, um die Diagnosestellung einzuleiten. Vor allem die Bildgebung spielt dafür neben der ausführlichen Anamnese und Untersuchung eine wichtige Rolle. Therapieziel der nichtmedikamentösen und der medikamentösen Therapieansätze ist die Remission oder zumindest eine niedrige Krankheitsaktivität der SpAs. Regelmäßiges Monitoring hilft, die Versorgungsqualität zu sichern.
Launch of an Innovative Air Pollutant Sampler up to 27,000 Metres Using a Stratospheric Balloon
Authors: Toson Federico , Pulice Mauro , Furiato Marco , Pavan Matilde , Sandon Simone , Sandu Dumitrita , Righi Giovanni
Published: March 2023

Air pollution, besides being one of the leading causes of death worldwide, remains one of the most controversial topics in environmental monitoring. The current state of the art refers to remote satellite analysis and static ground-level technologies. The O-ZONE project has set itself the objective of bridging this technological gap using dynamic in situ analysis using compact, inexpensive and reusable samplers that can be integrated onboard stratospheric balloons and drones. The prototype, therefore, consists of a pneumatic system, a set of filters and a sampling bag. Thanks to this architecture, it is possible to sample atmospheric air at different altitudes. After the flight, the samples collected are analysed using chromatographic techniques to provide a picture of the various air layers. On 30 September 2021, the fully autonomous payload successfully flew in Kiruna (Swedish Lapland) aboard BEXUS 30, the stratospheric balloon made available by the promoters of the “hands-on” project of the same name, SNSA (Swedish National Space Agency), DLR (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt) and ESA (European Space Agency). In this paper, the technical specifications of the device are described, with a focus on the sampling system; we then highlight the results obtained by the filters that, at different altitudes, collected stratospheric pollutants such as VOCs and, in the first layers of the atmosphere, PM. In conclusion, an interpretation of the results is provided to better understand the possible future uses of the prototype.
Disease-specific differences in gene expression, mitochondrial function and mitochondria-endoplasmic reticulum interactions in iPSC-derived cerebral organoids and cortical neurons in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder
Authors: Kathuria Annie , Lopez-Lengowski Kara , McPhie Donna , Cohen Bruce M. , Karmacharya Rakesh
Published: March 2023

We compared transcriptomic profiles of cerebral organoids differentiated from induced pluripotent stem cells of eight schizophrenia and eight bipolar disorder patients to identify genes that were differentially expressed in cerebral organoids between two disorders. Gene ontology analysis showed relative up-regulation in schizophrenia organoids of genes related to response to cytokines, antigen binding and clathrin-coated vesicles, while showing up-regulation in bipolar disorder of genes involved in calcium binding. Gene set enrichment analysis revealed enrichment in schizophrenia of genes involved in mitochondrial and oxidative phosphorylation while showing enrichment in bipolar disorder of genes involved in long term potentiation and neuro-transporters. We compared mitochondrial function in cerebral organoids from schizophrenia and bipolar disorder subjects and found that while schizophrenia organoids showed deficits in basal oxygen consumption rate and ATP production when compared to healthy control organoids, while bipolar disorder organoids did not show these deficits. Gene ontology analyses also revealed enrichment in bipolar disorder of genes in ion binding and regulation of transport. Experiments examining the interaction between mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum in cortical neurons from bipolar disorder subjects showed a significantly lower number of contact sites between mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum when compared to cortical neurons from schizophrenia patients. These results point to disease-specific deficits in mitochondrial respiration in schizophrenia and in mitochondrial-endoplasmic reticulum interactions in bipolar disorder.
SHANK2 protein contributes to sevoflurane-induced developmental neurotoxicity and cognitive dysfunction in C57BL/6 male mice
Authors: Song Shaoyong , Zhao Weiming , Ji Yumeng , Huang Qinghong , Li Yixuan , Chen Shiwen , Yang Jianping , Jin Xin
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Repeated exposures to sevoflurane could induce epigenetic modifications in specific brain regions and cognitive impairments in the immature mice. Conflicting findings make neurobehavioral manifestations intricate and potential mechanisms elusive. Influence of neonatal anesthesia with sevoflurane on the expression of synaptic scaffold proteins and neuronal activity remains to be determined.

Methods

C57BL/6 male and female mice in breeding ages were used to produce next generation. The offspring male mice were randomly scheduled to receive 3.0% sevoflurane plus 60% oxygen for 2 h daily at postnatal day (P) 6–8. Three-chambered social paradigm was used to test social affiliation and social memory. Morris water maze was used to test learning and memory. Whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS), differentially methylated regions (DMRs) and KEGG enrichment analysis were performed to screen target gene in sequence context of CG. RT-PCR and immunoblotting analysis were used to assess expression of the Shank gene family, as well as DNA methylases.

Results

The male mice undergoing sevoflurane anesthesia at P6-8 showed diminished preference for novel conspecific and prolonged escape latency and decreased platform-crossing times. The sevoflurane-exposed mice showed reduced mRNA and protein levels of the Shank2 gene. KEGG analysis disclosed the role of DNA hypermethylation of Shank2 gene in the pathway of glutamatergic synapse. In addition, sevoflurane anesthesia reduced mRNA and protein levels of the TET3 enzyme.

Conclusion

Repeated exposures to sevoflurane in neonatal period could impair social recognition memory and spatial reference memory in the male mice. Reduction of hippocampal SHANK2 protein could contribute to sevoflurane-induced neurotoxicity in the immature mice. Reduction of the TET3 enzyme should be responsible for DNA hypermethylation-related silencing of the Shank2 gene.

Graphical Abstract
Democracy or Authoritarianism
Authors: Gumuscu Sebnem
Published: March 2023

The first Islamist parties to come to power through democratic means in the Muslim world were those in Turkey, Tunisia, and Egypt. The Justice and Development Party (AKP) won the 2002 election in Turkey, and Ennahda (Renaissance Party) in Tunisia and the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt were both elected in the wake of the Arab uprisings of 2010/11. Yet only Ennahda could be said to have fulfilled its democratic promise, with both the Turkish and Egyptian governments reverting to authoritarianism. Drawing upon extensive fieldwork in three countries, Sebnem Gumuscu explains why some Islamist governments adhered to democratic principles and others took an authoritarian turn following electoral success. Using accessible language, Gumuscu clearly introduces key theories and considers how intra-party affairs impacted each party's commitment to democracy. Through a comparative lens, Gumuscu identifies broader trends in Islamist governments and explains the complex web of internal dynamics that led political parties either to advance or subvert democracy.
Data initiatives for ocean-driven melt of Antarctic ice shelves
Authors: Cook Sue , Nicholls Keith W. , Vaňková Irena , Thompson Sarah S. , Galton-Fenzi Benjamin K.
Published: March 2023

Ocean-driven melt of Antarctic ice shelves is an important control on mass loss from the ice sheet, but is complex to study due to significant variability in melt rates both spatially and temporally. Here we assess the strengths and weakness of satellite and field-based observations as tools for testing models of ice-shelf melt. We discuss how the complementary use of field, satellite and model data can be a powerful but underutilised tool for studying melt processes. Finally, we identify some community initiatives working to collate and publish coordinated melt rate datasets, which can be used in future for validating satellite-derived maps of melt and evaluating processes in numerical simulations.
Neurodiversity in the workplace: Considering neuroatypicality as a form of diversity
Authors: LeFevre-Levy Rose , Melson-Silimon Arturia , Harmata Rebecca , Hulett Anna L. , Carter Nathan T.
Published: March 2023

Estimates suggest as much as 17% of the US workforce may be neuroatypical, a term used to describe individuals whose neurological functioning is at the tail ends of the distribution of naturally occurring variation. Although the neuroatypical population has a history of under- and unemployment, their inclusion in the modern workplace (i.e., promotion of neurodiversity within organizations) is gaining recognition by scholars and organizations as an important dimension of organizational diversity. Despite this burgeoning interest in examining neuroatypicality in the context of organizational diversity, surprisingly little research has been conducted that bridges these two research areas. The literature that does exist is scattered across several different academic disciplines, largely outside of industrial-organizational psychology, and rarely examines the employment of neuroatypical workers explicitly from a diversity perspective. In this article we argue that as the nature of work evolves and jobs continue to become more specialized, neurodiversity will become an increasingly relevant dimension of organizational diversity and is likely to play a key role both in terms of individual employees’ well-being and performance outcomes, as well as organizational success.
A Pandemic Instrument Can Start Turning Collective Problems into Collective Solutions by Governing the Common-Pool Resource of Antimicrobial Effectiveness
Authors: Weldon Isaac , Liddell Kathy , Van Katwyk Susan Rogers , Hoffman Steven J. , Minssen Timo , Outterson Kevin , Palmer Stephanie , Viens A.M. , Viñuales Jorge
Published: March 2023

To address the complex challenge of global antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a pandemic treaty should include mechanisms that 1) equitably address the access gap for antimicrobials, diagnostic technologies, and alternative therapies; 2) equitably conserve antimicrobials to sustain effectiveness and access across time and space; 3) equitably finance the investment, discovery, development, and distribution of new technologies; and 4) equitably finance and establish greater upstream and midstream infection prevention measures globally. Biodiversity, climate, and nuclear governance offer lessons for addressing these challenges.
Jurassic to Lower Cretaceous tectonostratigraphy of the German Central Graben, southern North Sea
Authors: Müller Simon Maximilian , Jähne-Klingberg Fabian , Thöle Hauke , Jakobsen Finn Christian , Bense Frithjof , Winsemann Jutta , Gaedicke Christoph
Published: March 2023

The Central Graben is a Mesozoic sedimentary basin that is significantly influenced by rift and salt tectonics. Its southern part is located in the German and Dutch sectors of the North Sea. Even though studies exist on the tectonic and stratigraphic development of the Danish and Dutch Central Graben, the German Central Graben as an important link is less investigated. We aim to fill this gap and to investigate the sedimentary development from the Latest Triassic to the Early Cretaceous, the relative influence of salt and rift tectonics on subsidence and how our results fit into the existing studies of the Danish and Dutch Central Graben. Knowledge of the development of the graben and its sedimentation is critical for any possible economic use like hydrocarbon exploitation or carbon capture and storage. Therefore, we mapped nine laterally traceable horizons on 2D and 3D reflection seismic data from the Lower Jurassic to the Lower Cretaceous within the German Central Graben and adjacent Danish Salt Dome Province as well as the northern Dutch Central Graben. These horizons include the base horizons of four tectonostratigraphic mega-sequences of the southern Central Graben adopted from the current Dutch tectonostratigraphic concept. Based on the mapping results, we constructed subsidence, thickness and erosion maps of the tectonostratigraphic mega-sequences and their subdivisions. The tectonostratigraphic mega-sequences were then correlated with well logs to determine the lithology. The results show that the structural and stratigraphic architecture of the German Central Graben was consecutively dominated by either subsidence controlled by rifting, salt tectonics or by thermal uplift and subsidence. We suggest that the German Central Graben is divided by a large strike-slip fault zone, the Mid Central Graben Transverse Zone, into a northern part that geologically rather belongs to the Danish and a southern part that rather belongs to the Dutch Central Graben. We discuss how this division and the tectonics influenced the regional lithology.
Elite Change without Regime Change: Authoritarian Persistence in Africa and the End of the Cold War
Authors: WOLDENSE JOSEF , KROEGER ALEX
Published: March 2023

Because the end of the Cold War failed to produce widespread democratic transitions, it is often viewed as having had only a superficial effect on Africa’s authoritarian regimes. We show this sentiment to be incorrect. Focusing on the elite coalitions undergirding autocracies, we argue that the end of the Cold War sparked profound changes in the constellation of alliances within regimes. It was an international event whose ripple effects altered the domestic political landscape and thereby enticed elite coalitions to transform and meet the new existential threat they faced. We demonstrate our argument using cabinets as a proxy for elite coalitions, showing that their composition drastically changed at the end of the Cold War. Africa’s authoritarian leaders dismissed many of the core members of their cabinets and increasingly appointed members of opposition parties to cabinet portfolios. Such changes, we argue, represent the dynamic responses that enabled autocracies to persist.
Why do different cultures form and persist? Learning from the case of Makerere University
Authors: Ricart-Huguet Joan
Published: March 2023

Culture is a central concept in the social sciences. It is also difficult to examine rigorously. I study the oldest university in East Africa and a cradle of political elites, Makerere University, where halls of residence developed distinct cultures in the 1970s such that some hall cultures are activist (e.g. Lumumba Hall) while others are respectful to authorities (e.g. Livingstone Hall) even though assignment to halls has been random since 1970. I leverage this unique setting to understand how culture forms and affects the values and behaviours of young adults. Participant observation, interviews and archives suggest that cultural differences arose from critical junctures that biased group (hall) composition and from intergroup (inter-hall) competition. Hall governments promote cultural and institutional persistence through the intergenerational transmission of norms and practices, thereby highlighting the role of political hierarchy in reproducing culture.
Development of sign phonology in Kata Kolok
Authors: LUTZENBERGER Hannah , FIKKERT Paula , DE VOS Connie , CRASBORN Onno
Published: March 2023

Much like early speech, early signing is characterised by modifications. Sign language phonology has been analysed on the feature level since the 1980s, yet acquisition studies predominately examine handshape, location, and movement. This study is the first to analyse the acquisition of phonology in the sign language of a Balinese village with a vibrant signing community and applies the same feature analysis to adult and child data. We analyse longitudinal data of four deaf children from the Kata Kolok Child Signing Corpus. The form comparison of child productions and adult targets yields three main findings: i) handshape modifications are most frequent, echoing cross-linguistic patterns; ii) modification rates of other features differ from previous studies, possibly due to differences in methodology or KK’s phonology; iii) co-occurrence of modifications within a sign suggest feature interdependencies. We argue that nuanced approaches to child signing are necessary to understand the complexity of early signing.
2 The work of the British School at Athens, 2021–2022
Authors: Bennet John
Published: March 2023

This article, based on an oral presentation in virtual format by the author at the British School at Athens (BSA) Annual General Meeting on 9 February 2022, summarizes the activities of the BSA with a focus on the calendar year 2021. It describes – selectively and concisely – research by award holders, BSA-sponsored fieldwork and study in 2021, research and events associated with the Fitch Laboratory and the Knossos Research Centre, plus other activities of the BSA in Greece and the UK, including seminars, conferences, and workshops.
Student satisfaction and perceived learning in an online second language learning environment: A replication of Gray and DiLoreto (2016)
Authors: Shin Hye Won , Sok Sarah
Published: March 2023

The current study is an approximate replication of Gray and DiLoreto’s (2016) study, which proposed a model predicting that course structure, learner interaction and instructor presence would influence students’ perceived learning and satisfaction in online learning, with student engagement acting as a mediator between two of the predictors and the outcome variables. Using mixed methods, the current study investigated whether Gray and DiLoreto’s model would be able to explain the relationships among the same variables in a computer-assisted language learning environment. A mediation analysis was conducted using survey responses from a sample of 215 college-level students, and qualitative analysis was conducted on the survey responses from a subsample of 50 students. Similar to Gray and DiLoreto’s study, positive correlational relationships emerged between the variables. However, the model proposed by Gray and DiLoreto did not fit our data well, leading us to suggest alternative path-analytic models with both student engagement and learner interaction as mediators. These models showed that the role of course organization and instructor presence were pivotal in explaining the variation in students’ perceived learning and satisfaction both directly and indirectly via student engagement and learner interaction. Moreover, qualitative analysis of students’ responses to open-ended questions suggested that from students’ perspectives, course structure was the most salient factor affecting their experiences within online language learning contexts, followed by learner interaction, and then by instructor presence.
Application of positive psychology to study the root of psychological anxiety of innovative entrepreneurs
Authors: Sha Qi
Published: March 2023

Background

The COVID-19 has brought double pressure on the work and psychology of innovation and entrepreneurship personnel, which is prone to anxiety. Positive psychology can promote the all-round development of human body and mind. Therefore, under the epidemic environment, the research uses positive psychology to intervene and treat the psychological diseases of innovative and entrepreneurial personnel, and alleviate their psychological anxiety.

Subjects and Methods

The study randomly selected 128 people who will carry out innovation and entrepreneurship from 2021 to 2022. The study used positive psychology to intervene 128 people, and judged their mental health status through their work enthusiasm and psychological resilience. In the experiment, P < 0.05 indicates that the difference is statistically significant, and t-test is conducted. After the experiment, SPSS21.0 was used for statistical analysis of the data. The experimental results are shown in Table 1.Table 1.

Changes in work enthusiasm and resilience of innovation and entrepreneurship personnel before and after intervention

-Before interventionAfter interventiontPWork enthusiasmSelf-assessment5.27±0.457.91±0.4233.540<0.001Mutual evaluation8.07±0.279.10±0.3617.757<0.001Resilience levelTenacity28.31±5.2935.60±4.418.450<0.001Self-improvement19.52±1.4622.77±2.0910.142<0.001Optimistic11.85±1.4216.47±2.5612.566<0.001

Results

Before the intervention, the self-assessment result of innovation and entrepreneurship personnel’s work enthusiasm was 5.27 ± 0.45 points, and the mutual evaluation result was 7.91 ± 0.42 points; After intervention, it was 7.91 ± 0.42 points and 9.10 ± 0.36 points. At the same time, after the intervention, the scores of three indicators in the scores of employees’ resilience level have increased. To sum up, positive psychology has effectively alleviated the psychological anxiety of innovation and entrepreneurship personnel. In addition, P < 0.001 indicates that the difference of the study has statistical significance.

Conclusions

The external environment of innovation and entrepreneurship in the context of the COVID-19 has gradually become worse, which has brought a lot of psychological pressure to innovation and entrepreneurship personnel, thus causing psychological diseases. The study used positive psychology to intervene, and the experimental results showed that positive psychological coping intervention for innovative entrepreneurs during the COVID-19 epidemic could effectively alleviate their psychological anxiety.

Acknowledgements

The research is supported by: the Key Construction Base of Philosophy and Social Sciences in Jiangsu Province, Research Center of Industrial Transformation and Innovation Development in Southern Jiangsu Province, No. 2018ZDJD-B008.
The effect of Chinese moral and ethical education on relieving college students’ depression
Authors: Liu Yutong
Published: March 2023

Background

This study explored the therapeutic effect of Chinese moral and ethical education combined with sertraline hydrochloride on college students’ depression. It is to find an economical, convenient, and efficient treatment to help students get rid of depression.

Methods

In a tertiary level hospital, 90 patients with depression who are studying in university were selected as the experimental subjects. The patients were randomly divided into combination group and drug group by computer. For patients in the drug group, one sertraline hydrochloride tablet was taken daily during the treatment period. For patients in the combination group, half an hour of Chinese moral and ethical education was conducted every day on the basis of the drug group. Before and after the experiment, the self-rating depression scale (SDS) was used to evaluate the treatment effect of depression in the combination group and drug group.

Results

Before the experiment, the scores of the combination group and drug group were 68.42 ± 6.53 and 69.05 ± 4.49, respectively, with no significant difference (P > 0.05). After a period of treatment, the score of the combination group was significantly lower than that of the drug group (P < 0.05), as shown in Table 1.Table 1.

Score of combination group and drug group

GroupTreatment time (months)Before treatment1234Combination group68.42±6.5361.55±4.0353.42±6.06*45.33±2.81*43.66±2.32*Drug group69.05±4.4965.46±6.7460.80±4.65*55.46±2.08*48.08±1.96*t0.1653.4017.6526.8536.866P>0.05<0.05<0.05<0.05<0.05

Note: compared with before treatment in the group, *P<0.05

Conclusions

It can be seen from the existing reports that the current rate of college students suffering from depression is increasing year by year, which greatly affects the normal work and study of students. Therefore, the study used Chinese moral and ethical education combined with sertraline hydrochloride drug therapy to intervene the depressive symptoms of college students. The results showed that after a period of treatment, the score of the combination group was significantly lower than that of the drug group (P < 0.05). This shows that the treatment proposed by the study can effectively treat college students’ depression.

Acknowledgements

The research is supported by: Key Project of Social Science Funds of Liaoning Province, “Research on the Loyalty and Its Influencing Factors of the People’s Police” No. L17ASH001; Major Cultivation Project of Basic Scientific Research Funds of Central Universities “Research on the Status, Role and Realization Path of Ideological and Political Courses in Public Security Universities in” Political Police Building” No. 3242020019.