bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infrared Spectroscopy Can Differentiate Between Cartilage Injury Models: Implication for Assessment of Cartilage Integrity
Authors: Shahini Fatemeh , Oskouei Soroush , Nippolainen Ervin , Mohammadi Ali , Sarin Jaakko K. , Moller Nikae C. R. te , Brommer Harold , Shaikh Rubina , Korhonen Rami K. , van Weeren P. René , Töyräs Juha , Afara Isaac O.
Published: June 2024

In order to improve the ability of clinical diagnosis to differentiate articular cartilage (AC) injury of different origins, this study explores the sensitivity of mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopy for detecting structural, compositional, and functional changes in AC resulting from two injury types. Three grooves (two in parallel in the palmar-dorsal direction and one in the mediolateral direction) were made via arthrotomy in the AC of the radial facet of the third carpal bone (middle carpal joint) and of the intermediate carpal bone (the radiocarpal joint) of nine healthy adult female Shetland ponies (age = 6.8 ± 2.6 years; range 4–13 years) using blunt and sharp tools. The defects were randomly assigned to each of the two joints. Ponies underwent a 3-week box rest followed by 8 weeks of treadmill training and 26 weeks of free pasture exercise before being euthanized for osteochondral sample collection. The osteochondral samples underwent biomechanical indentation testing, followed by MIR spectroscopic assessment. Digital densitometry was conducted afterward to estimate the tissue's proteoglycan (PG) content. Subsequently, machine learning models were developed to classify the samples to estimate their biomechanical properties and PG content based on the MIR spectra according to injury type. Results show that MIR is able to discriminate healthy from injured AC (91%) and between injury types (88%). The method can also estimate AC properties with relatively low error (thickness = 12.7% mm, equilibrium modulus = 10.7% MPa, instantaneous modulus = 11.8% MPa). These findings demonstrate the potential of MIR spectroscopy as a tool for assessment of AC integrity changes that result from injury.
Estimating the monetary cost of biological invasions to South Africa
Authors: McCulloch-Jones Emily J. , Cuthbert Ross N. , van Wilgen Brian W. , Wilson John R. U.
Published: June 2024

Estimates of the cost of damage caused by invasive alien speices and the money spent addressing biological invasions are needed to guide policy and management. Here, we quantify the known monetary costs of biological invasions to South Africa, using data from the InvaCost database, literature searches, and stakeholders. The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, and agencies directly funded by them, provided most of the information on money spent, with very little information was available from other government agencies and the private sector. There was also very little information on the monetary costs due to the impacts of invasions. Between 1960 and 2023, ZAR9.6 billion (adjusted to 2022 values) was spent managing biological invasions in South Africa. This is only 4% of the money predicted as being necessary for management, which amounted to ZAR231.8 billion in 2022 values. There is uncertainty in the obtained estimates due to a paucity of information on both impacts and management costs. A few key points emerged from our analysis: the cost of damage caused by invasions far exceeds expenditure on control; the amount spent on control is much less than what is predicted to be needed; almost all management has focussed on a few invasive plant species; and there are large gaps in information that reduce the confidence in our estimates. Transparent cost reporting, strategic public–private collaborations, standardised impact metrics, and reliable assessments of management effectiveness are needed to enable South Africa to more effectively account for and prioritise investments.
p53 protein expression patterns associated with TP53 mutations in breast carcinoma
Authors: Anderson Sarah A. , Bartow Brooke B. , Harada Shuko , Siegal Gene P. , Wei Shi , Dal Zotto Valeria L. , Huang Xiao
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The importance of a TP53 mutation has been demonstrated in several tumor types, including breast cancer (BC). However, the accuracy of p53 protein expression as a predictor of gene mutation has not been well studied in BC. Therefore, we evaluated p53 protein expression associated with TP53 mutations in breast cancers from 64 patients.

Methods

TP53 mutation was examined using next-generation sequencing (NGS). p53 protein expression was examined using immunohistochemistry (IHC).

Results

Among the 64 BCs, 55% demonstrated abnormal expression patterns including 27% overexpression, 22% null, 6% equivocal with 45% having a wild-type pattern. A TP53 mutation was present in 53% (34/64) of tumors including 30% (19/64) demonstrating a missense mutation, 11% (7/64) with a frameshift mutation, 11% (7/64) with a nonsense mutation, and 3% (1/64) with a splice site mutation. Abnormal expression of p53 protein was present in 33 of 34 (97%) tumors carrying a TP53 mutation; conversely, a wild-type pattern was present in 28 of 30 (93%) tumors without a detectable mutation (p < 0.0001). The majority of BCs with a p53 IHC overexpression pattern (15/17, 88%) contained a missense TP53 mutation; while the majority of BCs with a null pattern (12/14, 86%) contained a truncating mutation (p < 0.0001). The BCs with a null pattern are associated with a high Nottingham histological grade and a triple-negative phenotype when compared to those demonstrating overexpression (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that p53 IHC can be a potential surrogate for TP53 mutations in BC. Different p53 expression patterns may correlate with specific TP53 genetic mutations in BC.
Reliability of Magseed® marking before neoadjuvant systemic therapy with subsequent contrast-enhanced mammography in patients with non-palpable breast cancer lesions after treatment: the MAGMA study
Authors: Bravo Eva Iglesias , Martínez Antonio Mariscal , Alvà Helena Peris , Sancho Diego Riol , López José Carlos Antela , Sánchez Joel Aranda , Casa Pilar Escobar , de las Heras Cristina Gómez , Venegas María Antonia Fernández , Vidal Eduarda García , Begines Elisabeth Delgado , Mur Carmen García , Vicente Isabel , Casamayor Carmen , Cruz Silvia , Barrado Anabel García
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To assess the reliability of excising residual breast cancer lesions after neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NAST) using a previously localized paramagnetic seed (Magseed®) and the subsequent use of contrast-enhanced spectral mammography (CESM) to evaluate response.

Methods

Observational, prospective, multicenter study including adult women (> 18 years) with invasive breast carcinoma undergoing NAST between January 2022 and February 2023 with non-palpable tumor lesions at surgery. Radiologists marked tumors with Magseed® during biopsy before NAST, and surgeons excised tumors guided by the Sentimag® magnetometer. CESMs were performed before and after NAST to evaluate tumor response (Response Evaluation Criteria for Solid Tumors [RECIST]). We considered intraoperative, surgical, and CESM-related variables and histological response.

Results

We analyzed 109 patients (median [IQR] age of 55.0 [46.0, 65.0] years). Magseed® was retrieved from breast tumors in all surgeries (100%; 95% CI 95.47–100.0%) with no displacement and was identified by radiology in 106 patients (97.24%), a median (IQR) of 176.5 (150.0, 216.3) days after marking. Most surgeries (94.49%) were conservative; they lasted a median (IQR) of 22.5 (14.75, 40.0) min (95% CI 23.59–30.11 min). Most dissected tumor margins (93.57%) were negative, and few patients (5.51%) needed reintervention. Magseed® was identified using CESM in all patients (100%); RECIST responses correlated with histopathological evaluations of dissected tumors using the Miller–Payne response grade (p < 0.0001) and residual lesion diameter (p < 0.0001). Also 69 patients (63.3%) answered a patient’s satisfaction survey and 98.8% of them felt very satisfied with the entire procedure.

Conclusion

Long-term marking of breast cancer lesions with Magseed® is a reliable and feasible method in patients undergoing NAST and may be used with subsequent CESM.
Arctic environmental governance: challenges of sustainable development
Authors: Obydenkova Anastassia
Published: June 2024

The Arctic is one of the key regions in relation to global climate change, experiencing radical transformations in environmental governance as well as challenges in terms of its ecological protection. The region is witnessing a number of irreversible climatic shifts, such as melting permafrost, rising sea levels, contamination of the Global Ocean, and changes in the lives of indigenous people. The Arctic is a global hot spot in climate change where international cooperation (scientific, environmental, diplomatic, etc.) should be a priority to overcome existing ecological challenges. This article provides detailed analysis of these issues from cross-disciplinary perspectives, bringing insights from economics, history, anthropology, international relations, and political science from the perspective of literature on environmental regionalism. The article analyzes a selection of heterogeneous actors, many of whom have contradictory rules, norms, and priorities. Analysis of the Arctic through the lens of regional environmental governance aspires to contribute to understanding of the complexity of existing challenges and their potential solutions. This article offers an analysis of the major findings in this topical collection. It contributes to the development of cross-disciplinary approach to the studies of the Artic and outlines a research agenda.
Conformational Analysis of Oligomeric Models of Siloxane, Silazane and Siloxazane Ladder Polymers
Authors: Bakry Aamy , Pandian Joshua , Vu Khanh , Cazimoglu Idil , Mancini John , Zeldin Martel , Parish Carol A.
Published: June 2024

Oligomeric models of linear ladder silanes, siloxanes and siloxazanes with seven repeat units consisting of four-, six-, or eight-membered rings were designed and their conformations in chloroform were explored. The Low Mode–Monte Carlo conformational method was used to explore oligomeric flexibility on the OPLS-2005/GBSA(CHCl3) potential energy surface to obtain a set of low energy structures for each oligomer. These structures were then optimized using B3LYP/6-31G*/SCRF-PBF(CHCl3) calculations. The results indicate complex conformational dynamics with mostly non-planar, curved structures. Electron delocalization from the lone pair of electrons on N or O into empty 3d orbitals on Si was not observed.
Comprehensive review of Urtica dioica L. (Urticaceae) phytochemistry and anti-inflammatory properties
Authors: Parente Rui , Paiva-Santos Ana Cláudia , Cabral Célia , Costa Gustavo
Published: June 2024

Herbal medicinal products are widely considered beneficial and gaining importance in preventing and treating several diseases.Urtica dioicaL. (UD) is a medicinal plant that has been used as an herbal remedy and dietary supplement for centuries based on traditional experience or random trials without the know-how of phytoconstituents. UD is one of those herbs with a long record of anti-inflammatory activity and several mechanisms of action have been discussed. Plant part, extraction solvent, and phytoconstituents have a determinant effect on both efficacy and therapeutic objective. Current literature mainly elaborates on the antioxidant effect ofUrticaspecies, with the anti-inflammatory role of UD still being a matter of discussion, as in vitro and in vivo studies have only been characterized to such an extent. In order to elaborate on this topic, the present review aims to characterize the anti-inflammatory action of several UD extracts according to in vitro and in vivo results, as well as the possible molecules and respective mechanism responsible for its anti-inflammatory effect on several pathologies. Despite the knowledge gathered so far surrounding the anti-inflammatory activity of UD, further studies are required to characterize the mechanism of action and discriminate between the molecules underlying the beneficial effects of nettle on inflammatory diseases.
Evidence of cadmium transport via the phloem in cacao seedlings
Authors: Blommaert Hester , De Meese Clara , Wiggenhauser Matthias , Sarret Géraldine , Smolders Erik
Published: June 2024

Background and aims

It is unclear if cadmium (Cd) is loaded into cacao beans directly from the roots and stem or rather via reallocation from leaves and stem via the phloem. Here, a split-root experiment with a stable isotope 108Cd tracer was set up to determine the short-term circulation in the vegetative tissues of Cd in Theobroma cacao L. seedlings.

Methods

Roots of cacao seedlings were split into two parts, each growing in separate containers. The compartments contained an equal volume of nutrient solution with a low-dose Cd concentration of 20 nM, and were either (+) or not (-) enriched in stable 108Cd. Seedlings were grown for two weeks and periodically harvested.

Results

On day 1 after labelling, there was a rise in the 108Cd isotopic abundance (IA) in the roots in the labelled compartment whereas the 108Cd IA was unaffected in other plant parts. After 7 days, about 75% of the tracer 108Cd in the plant had been translocated to the shoots and the largest fraction of tracer was recovered in the stem. The 108Cd IA in the roots in the non-labelled compartment rose after day 11, demonstrating that Cd was phloem mobile and reallocated to developing tissues. The isotopic abundance of 108Cd in developing leaves was similar to that in the older leaves, suggesting that Cd originated from leaves rather than directly from roots.

Conclusions

We corroborated Cd pathways previously studied in mature cacao trees and demonstrated that Cd is reallocated to sink organs via the phloem.
Eye-tracking support for analyzing human factors in human-robot collaboration during repetitive long-duration assembly processes
Authors: Gervasi Riccardo , Capponi Matteo , Mastrogiacomo Luca , Franceschini Fiorenzo
Published: June 2024

The integration of eye-tracking technology in manufacturing is emerging as a powerful tool for optimizing human performance and well-being in the workplace. Advances in various fields enabled the recent development of smaller, wearable, and wireless eye-tracking devices which are suitable for naturalistically studying manufacturing processes, such as human-robot collaboration (HRC). However, the implementation of eye-tracking for evaluating mental workload in HRC is still limited, especially in long-duration sessions. This paper provides an overview on the application of eye-tracking technology in the context of cognitive ergonomics within the manufacturing sector, with special attention to eye-tracking metrics and their interpretation relatively to human state in long-duration sessions (i.e., work shifts). In addition, an example case study will be presented to explore the reliability of the most common eye-tracking metrics, concerning a repetitive assembly process of 8 h in an HRC setting. Among the explored eye-tracking metrics, pupil dilation, number and average duration of fixations, and number saccades provided useful insights on the mental strain in dynamic conditions. In addition, from the multiple information gathered by eye-tracking, different phenomena related to mental workload were able to be distinguished. The use of cognitive resources resulting from learning process was well detected by pupil dilation, number of fixations and saccades. Mental fatigue, on the other hand, was well detected by the average duration of fixations and the pupil diameter. These results highlight the need to consider multiple eye-tracking metrics simultaneously to obtain a holistic view of the operator’s psychophysiological state.
Spatial-Temporal Dynamics of Gas Consumption in England and Wales: Assessing the Residential Sector Using Sequence Analysis
Authors: Ward Cameron , Robinson Caitlin , Singleton Alexander , Rowe Francisco
Published: June 2024

The UK residential sector is energy inefficient and has an overwhelming reliance on natural gas as a heating source. For the UK to meet its 2050 net zero obligations, the sector will need to go through a process of decarbonisation. Previous studies acknowledge the spatial disparities of household energy consumption, but have neglected how consumption varies over time. This paper advances such shortcomings via a sequence and clustering analysis to identify common gas consumption trajectories within neighbourhoods in England and Wales between 2010 and 2020. Four clusters are identified: “Very High to High Consumption”; “High to Medium Consumption”; “Medium to Low Consumption” and “Low to Very Low Consumption”. The clusters were contextualised using spatial datasets representing the socio-economic and built environment. Across all clusters, the proportion of energy inefficient dwellings were high, but there was a trend of high consumption associated with lower proportions of energy efficient dwellings. The results provide useful insight to policy makers and practitioners about where best to target electrification and retrofitting measures to facilitate a cleaner and more equitable residential sector. Policy targeting of areas with continual high gas consumption will accelerate the decarbonisation process, whilst targeting areas who continually under consume will likely enhance household health and well-being.
Clinical Behavior and Molecular Insights of Secretory Carcinoma of Salivary Glands, a Single Center Experience
Authors: Bassani Sara , Fiorini Denise , Destefanis Miriam Sara , Arsie Athena Eliana , Mulone Davide , Eccher Albino , Brunelli Matteo , Marani Filippo , Monzani Daniele , Molteni Gabriele
Published: June 2024

Objective: the study aimed to characterize the novel entity referred to as secretory carcinoma of the salivary glands. Methods: we comprehensively evaluated 150 patients afflicted by malignant salivary gland tumors who had been under treatment at the University of Verona. Inclusion criteria primarily focused on the availability of paraffin block materials and adequate follow-up data. Subsequently, we conducted a comprehensive Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization (FISH) analysis, utilizing probes targeting NTRK-3, MALM-2, EWRS-1, HER-2, MDM-2, and NTRK1-2. Results: out of the initial cohort, 37 patients met the eligibility criteria for our study. We identified NTRK3 gene rearrangements in four patients (11%), two of whom had mucoepidermoid carcinoma, and the remaining two had acinic cell carcinoma. Notably, none of these patients had initially received a secretory carcinoma diagnosis. The primary treatment approach for all patients entailed surgical parotid gland resection. The overall survival (OS) for patients with NTRK3 rearrangements amounted to 78 months, with a corresponding progression-free survival (PFS) of 73 months. Conclusion: in summary, our case series suggests that secretory carcinomas exhibit a favorable clinical course and underscores the pivotal importance of distinguishing secretory carcinomas from other histological subtypes.
Exploring the socio-ecology of science: the case of coral reefs
Authors: Jones Elis
Published: June 2024

In this paper I use data from interviews conducted with coral scientists to examine the socio-ecological dimensions of science, i.e. how science shapes and is shaped by the living world around it. I use two sets of ideas in particular: niche construction and socio-ecological value frameworks. Using these I offer socio-ecological criteria by which coral scientists evaluate the activities of coral science, more specifically which living systems are intended to benefit from coral science as an activity, and the motivations behind this. The overall picture I present is one of coral science as activity primarily aimed at sustaining a diverse set of living systems, including humans, other organisms, species, and ecosystems, and the social practices associated with these. The value relations between scientists and aspects of these processes dictate how they respond to shifts in the socio-ecological context coral science is embedded in, explaining why the activities associated with coral science are changing as reef ecosystems are threatened. The implication is that natural sciences more generally are entangled with a greater number of social and ecological process than is typically considered, and that shifts in the activities undertaken by scientists may be driven by ecological as well as social and epistemic processes.
Random Graphical Model of Microbiome Interactions in Related Environments
Authors: Vinciotti Veronica , Wit Ernst C. , Richter Francisco
Published: June 2024

The microbiome constitutes a complex microbial ecology of interacting components that regulates important pathways in the host. Most microbial communities at various body sites tend to share common substructures of interactions, while also showing diversity related to the needs of the local environment. The aim of this paper is to develop a method for inferring both the common core and the differences in such microbiota systems. The approach combines two elements: (i) a random graph model generating networks across environments, and capturing potential relatedness at the structural level, with (ii) a Gaussian copula graphical model for the inference of environment-specific networks from multivariate microbial data. We propose a Bayesian approach for the joint inference of microbiota systems from metagenomic data for a number of body sites. The analysis of human microbiome data shows how the proposed random graphical model is able to capture varying levels of structural similarity across the different body sites and how this is supported by their taxonomical classification. Beyond a stable core, the inferred microbiome systems show interesting differences between the body sites, as well as interpretable relationships between various classes of microbes.
Enhancing the sustainable protein extraction process from black cumin seed cake press for eco-friendly protein supplements
Authors: Ammas Buse , Uzuner Sibel
Published: June 2024

Finding new protein sources is essential to meet the global population’s needs. Nigella sativa (black cumin) seeds and the residual cake left after oil cold pressing contain valuable nutritional compounds, including proteins, phenolics, essential amino acids, and various bioactive compounds. In the literature, the structural characteristics and functional properties of proteins from black cumin seeds have been extensively studied. However, there are limited reports on the use of emerging extraction technologies for extracting soluble proteins from black cumin seed cake press (BCSCP). Therefore, two distinct extraction techniques—microwave (MW) and ultrasonication (US)—were assessed for their effectiveness in extracting soluble proteins from BCSCP. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of various operational conditions on protein extraction yield and functional properties of proteins extracted from BCSCP. The maximum protein yield (27.04%) was achieved using a 10% solid/liquid ratio (SLR) at 33 °C for a 30-min extraction time with the US extraction technique. After ultrafiltration, the protein yield increased to 33.83%, showcasing the predominance of sarcosine (17.18 g/100 g), glutamine (11.63 g/100 g), and proline (33.46 g/100 g) amino acids. The water-holding capacity (WHC), oil-holding capacity (OHC), foam capacity (FC), and foam stability (FS) of the BCSCP isolate were found to be 5.4 ± 0.3 g/g, 9.4 ± 0.0 g/g, 43.6 ± 6.4%, and 39.0 ± 4.7%, respectively. The study revealed that US is a suitable extraction process for obtaining soluble proteins from BCSCP with favorable functional properties. Further studies are needed to evaluate the bioavailability and health impacts of bioactive peptides in order to develop food applications.
Resistance to Varroa destructor is a trait mainly transmitted by the queen and not via worker learning
Authors: Martin Stephen J. , Grindrod Isobel , Webb Georgiana , Toft Rhona , Villalobos Ethel
Published: June 2024

How beekeepers can propagate theVarroa-resistant traits they have in their colonies depends on how varroa resistance, i.e. the key hygienic behavioural traits, is passed onto the next generation. This study investigates if the key hygienic traits are passed between workers via learning as is known to happen in bumble bees, or are the resistant traits encoded into the queens and thus her offspring. To test this, we re-queened known mite-resistant colonies with mite-naïve (susceptible) queens in both Hawaii and the UK. We also placed resistant queens in susceptible colonies in the UK. After 5 months in Hawaii and 12 months in the UK, mite levels in adults and brood were measured. In Hawaii, mite removal and cell recapping levels were also assessed. In both locations, the mite levels in colonies headed by suspectable (mite-naïve) queens or their daughters significantly exceeded that found in colonies headed by resistant queens or their daughters. The initial presence of resistant or suspectable workers did not affect the result. Therefore, to propagate mite-resistant traits, beekeepers only need to re-queen a colony with a locally mated queen from an established resistant population, as some UK and Hawaiian beekeepers are already doing.
Exploring Systemic Sustainability in Manufacturing: Geoanthropology’s Strategic Lens Shaping Industry 6.0
Authors: Fernández-Miguel Andrés , García-Muiña Fernando E. , Settembre-Blundo Davide , Tarantino Serena Chiara , Riccardi Maria Pia
Published: June 2024

This seminal study explores systemic sustainability within the Industry 5.0 paradigm, using the strategic lens of geoanthropology to shape the emerging concept of Industry 6.0. A transdisciplinary approach is adopted, integrating geoanthropological insights into the analysis of the Italian ceramic district. Seven key factors are considered: resource consumption, production dynamics, innovation, environmental impact, social impact, market dynamics, and economic impact. Historical events such as changes in Italian industrial policy, market slowdowns, and the COVID-19 pandemic are identified as significant for the sector. A contingent analysis tailored to the unique characteristics of the ceramic district provides an in-depth understanding of its challenges and opportunities. The incorporation of geoanthropology provides a transdisciplinary perspective that allows for an in-depth examination of the complex interactions between people and their environment in an industrial setting. The study highlights the central role of innovation, digitalization, and government policies in driving positive changes in production efficiency, market dynamics, and economic impact. Nevertheless, challenges remain, including the delicate balance between environmental sustainability and resource consumption, as well as the effective management of the social impacts of digitization. To address these challenges, a systemic sustainability index derived from geoanthropological insights is proposed as a pragmatic tool to measure and guide the development of sustainability initiatives in the ceramic district. The results of this study not only pave the way for new horizons in sustainability assessment but also provide valuable insights for industrial district managers to formulate strategies that foster organizational flexibility and resilience.
Statistics of intermittent granular flow from confined tabletop experiments
Authors: Petri Alberto
Published: June 2024

It is often said that “granular matter is ubiquitous”. Many natural components and human products look and behave like grains: stones, debris, soils, on the one hand; food, pharmaceuticals, building materials, etc., on the other. However, the physics involved is still poorly understood due to its inherent difficulties. In fact, granular materials are an example of frictional, dissipative, nonlinear, out-of-equilibrium systems. One consequence is that they exhibit, under various circumstances, large and irregular fluctuations, finite size effects, and poor reproducibility (as everyone knows from trying to slowly pour sugar or coffee powder). This article summarizes some experimental results on the response of horizontal grain beds subjected to low rate shear stress. In this case, the response is often intermittent and irregular, the so-called stick–slip regime, and can only be described statistically. Small-scale experiments are the best way to collect the necessary large amount of data and, despite the difference in scale, can provide the basis for a better understanding of larger scale phenomena such as avalanches, landslides and earthquakes.
A Structural Equation Modeling Approach to Understand the Dynamics of Smartphone Attachment and Problematic Smartphone use
Authors: Holte Alex J.
Published: June 2024

Problematic smartphone use (PSU), conceptualized as the overuse of one’s smartphone, has received much attention in the empirical literature. One specific lens that has been used to study smartphone use is attachment theory. The current study evaluated the tenets of attachment to smartphones to further understand the relationship of smartphone attachment with problematic use. A total of 761 adults, who were primarily female and White, from the United States of America, completed a variety of measures. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to test a theoretical model, and it was revealed that the extent someone viewed their smartphone as a refuge (i.e., secure base) predicted PSU. Moreover, refuge mediated the relations between Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) and PSU. The current research contributes to the literature a better understanding of the dynamics between smartphone attachment and PSU. Theoretical basis for the findings are discussed and suggestions for future research are proposed.
„Kinderrechte sind Sachen, die Kinder haben sollen, damit sie glücklich leben“: (Kinder‑)Rechtsvorstellungen von Grundschulkindern
Authors: Ertl Sonja , Gerbeshi Leonora
Published: June 2024

Die Auseinandersetzung mit und die Kenntnis von Kinderrechten ergibt sich für Schüler:innen im Grundschulalter unter anderem aus der UN-Kinderrechtskonvention. Bislang liegen kaum Befunde über die Vorstellungen von Kindern zu ihren Rechten vor. Der vorliegende Beitrag geht den Fragen nach, über welches (Kinder)Rechtsverständnis Kinder im Grundschulalter verfügen und welche Relevanz sie (Kinder)Rechten zuweisen. Dazu wurden 59 Kinder der 3. und 4. Jahrgangsstufe in einem leitfadengestützten Interview befragt. Die Auswertung erfolgte mittels qualitativer und quantitativer Inhaltsanalyse. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass bei Kindern im Grundschulalter (noch) kein etabliertes Rechtsverständnis, aber teilweise ein Kinderrechtsverständnis vorliegt und die Zuweisung der Relevanz von (Kinder‑)Rechten durch die Kinder zwar überaus unterschiedlich ausfällt, sie jedoch durchaus relevante Funktionen von Rechten und insbesondere von Kinderrechten benennen können. Insgesamt sind die Vorstellungen der Grundschulkinder zu ihren Rechten und deren Relevanz von einzelnen Kinderrechten geprägt, die sich vor allem auf Schutz- und Förderrechte beziehen. Die Ergebnisse werden diskutiert und weitere Forschungsdesiderata werden aufgezeigt.
How to Improve Neural Network Training Using Evolutionary Algorithms
Authors: Carvalho Pedro , Lourenço Nuno , Machado Penousal
Published: June 2024

Artificial neural networks are a staple of modern artificial intelligence. These systems must often undergo a training procedure to learn how to solve a designated task. Properly choosing and tuning an optimizer for a problem can significantly improve training speed and quality. Research into optimizers focuses on creating solutions that are generally applicable to any task, relying on parameter tuning for specialization. While parameter tuning is successful in adapting optimizers for a specific problem, the benefits of creating specialized optimizers from scratch is still underdeveloped. We propose an evolutionary framework called AutoLR, capable of evolving optimizers for specific tasks. We use the framework to evolve optimizers for a popular image classification problem and found that evolved optimizers are competitive with human-made optimizers. Furthermore, we find that the evolved solutions remain competitive when moved to a different dataset. Analysis of the best performing optimizers reveals that the system evolved novel behavior undiscovered by humans. The results achieved in this work suggest evolutionary algorithms can improve the quality of neural network training, motivating further research into the framework and its applications.
Functionalized graphitic carbon nitride as adsorbent for the removal of arsenic and lead from groundwater
Authors: Onwudiwe Damian C. , Seheri Naledi H. , Kgabi Nnenesi A. , Sahu Dipti R.
Published: June 2024

Water pollution caused by highly toxic arsenic (As) and lead (Pb) poses a serious threat to water quality. Hence, the development of materials for their effective removal from water continues to attract research attention. The present study reports functionalized graphitic carbon nitride nanosheets (GCN) as a green and low-cost adsorbent for the removal of As and Pb from polluted water. The adsorbent was prepared through the protonation and hydroxyl and cyano functionalized graphitic carbon nitride to form H/GCN and OH/CN-GCN respectively. Characterization techniques including Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy were respectively used to study functional groups, structure, and morphology of the adsorbents. The adsorption study showed that modification of GCN with −OH and CN− ions in OH/CN-GCN, increased the density of negative charges on the functionalized surface, which also enhances the attraction of the positively charged ions. This may be responsible for the improved removal of As and Pb from wastewater compared to H/GCN. Isotherm studies on the adsorption behavior of OH/CN-GCN suggest that Langmuir isotherm model corroborates with the As adsorption. Therefore, indicating that the removal of As via its adsorption onto OH/CN-GCN is a surface phenomenon. However, the adsorption of Pb could be described as mainly a multilayer adsorption process, based on its R2 value. It is proposed that the −OH and CN− groups on the tri-s-triazine units of GCN nanosheets may be responsible for the adsorption process. The prepared materials are promising adsorbents that nay find useful applications in wastewater treatment plants involving advanced oxidation processes.
A Review of Additive Manufacturing in Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Culbreath Clayton J. , Taylor M. Scott , McCullen Seth D. , Mefford O. Thompson
Published: June 2024

As layer upon layer manufacturing approaches continue to advance the development of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine scaffolds, more products that leverage additive manufacturing methods such as 3D printing and electrospinning have been commercialized for the marketplace. This is especially true for additive manufacturing. Modifications to process parameters allow optimization of mechanical properties. This expands the applicability of currently available bioresorbable materials for tissue engineering advances. This review aims to identify these areas for potential research that would advance the field, specifically focusing on the additive manufacturing of tissue scaffolds with bioresorbable materials. To date, the terms “tissue engineering” and “additive manufacturing” have accelerated in use within research publications, and the clarity of what is required has also increased. Current reports encourage imminent successes in the field of tissue engineering with new potential for biomimicry, improved patient outcomes, and established paths for regulatory compliance. Nonetheless, there are still several challenges to overcome. As outlined in this review, a successful tissue scaffold must address and optimize six (6) critical aspects of the design and performance: biocompatibility, mechanical properties, material resorption, porosity, manufacturing, and biochemical modification. Each vital perspective of a tissue scaffold was thoroughly represented in literature. However, the totality of these aspects must be considered at the onset of a novel design poised to transition the field into an advanced future due to the interconnectivity of each criterion with each other. This is especially true when providing a new device to the clinic considering the design control focus of regulatory statutes. Bioresorbable, aliphatic polyesters hold great potential to aid this progress and mitigate a portion of the trials faced. They are proven compatible with current additive manufacturing processes and boast decades of biocompatibility established through clinical use. The development process, prioritization of processing parameters, and successful navigation through regulations have been observed with products such as Osteoplug®, Restrata®, and Biowick®. These devices exemplified the critical nature of the six aspects, and most especially the first five of them. They were specifically designed to provide environments that support bio-integration at the point of use. The native tissue provides the necessary biologics to off-the-shelf scaffold structures for successful, vascularized tissue regeneration, and ultimately, patient outcomes have been improved. This review focuses on the six critical scaffold characteristics when designing tissue scaffolds with resorbable medical-grade polymers, layer-by-layer fabrication methods, and the commercialization path for the resulting medical products.
Assessing Excess Mortality of Baby Boomers from the COVID-19 Pandemic: Taiwan Omicron-naïve Cohort
Authors: Lin Ting-Yu , Hsu Chen-Yang , Yen Amy Ming-Fang , Chen Sam Li-Sheng , Chen Tony Hsiu-Hsi
Published: June 2024

Background

Asia’s elderly Baby Boomer demographic (born between 1946 and 1964) faced a huge problem during the COVID-19 pandemic due to increased all-cause mortality. We aimed to provide a unique Taiwan situation regarding the impact of Baby Boomers on excess mortalities from all causes relative to non-Baby Boomers throughout distinct times of SARS-CoV-2 mutations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

We used the Poisson time series design with a Bayesian directed acyclic graphic approach to build the background mortality prior to the COVID-19 pandemic between 2015 and 2019. It was then used for predicting the expected all-cause deaths compared to the reported figures during the COVID-19 pandemic period based on Taiwan residents, an Omicron-naïve cohort.

Results

Baby Boomers experienced a 2% negative excess mortality in 2020 (Wuhan/D614G) and a 4% excess mortality in 2021 (Alpha/Delta) with a rising background mortality trend whereas non-Baby Boomers showed the corresponding figures of 4% negative excess and 1% excess with a stable trend. Baby Boomer and non-Baby Boomer excess mortality soared to 9% (95% CI: 7-10%) and 10% (95% CI: 9-11%), respectively, during the epidemic Omicron period from January to June 2022. Surprisingly, Baby Boomers aged 58–76 experienced the same 9% excess mortality as non-Baby Boomers aged 77 and beyond. Non-COVID-19 deaths were more prevalent among Baby Boomers than non-Baby Boomers (33% vs. 29%).

Conclusion

Baby Boomers were more likely to die from COVID-19 in early pandemic and had more non-COVID-19 deaths in late pandemic than older non-Baby Boomers demonstrated in Taiwan Omicron-naïve cohort. For this vulnerable population, adequate access to medical care and medical capacity require more consideration.
A Robust Numerical Simulation of a Fractional Black–Scholes Equation for Pricing American Options
Authors: Nuugulu S. M. , Gideon F. , Patidar K. C.
Published: June 2024

After the discovery of fractal structures of financial markets, fractional partial differential equations (fPDEs) became very popular in studying dynamics of financial markets. Available research results involves two key modelling aspects; firstly, derivation of tractable asset pricing models, those that closely reflects the actual dynamics of financial markets. Secondly, the development of robust numerical solution methods. Often times, most the effective models are of a nonlinear nature, and as such, reliable analytical solution methods are seldomly available. On the other hand, the accurate value of American options strongly lies on the unknown free boundaries associated with these types of derivative contracts. The free boundaries emanates from the flexibility of the early exercise features with American options. To the best of our knowledge, the approach of pricing American options under the fractional calculus framework has not been extensively explored in literature, and an obvious wider research gap still exist on the design of robust solution methods for pricing American option problems formulated under the fractional calculus framework. Therefore, this paper serve to propose a robust numerical scheme for solving time-fractional Black–Scholes PDEs for pricing American put option problems. The proposed scheme is based on the front-fixing algorithm, under which the early exercise boundaries are transformed into fixed boundaries, allowing for a simultaneous computation of optimal exercise boundaries and their corresponding fair premiums. Results herein indicate that, the proposed numerical scheme is consistent, stable, convergent with order

$${\mathcal {O}}(h^2,k)$$

O
(

h
2

,
k
)

, and also does guarantee positivity of solutions under all possible market conditions.
Prolonged Multi‐Phase Magmatism Due To Plume‐Lithosphere Interaction as Applied to the High Arctic Large Igneous Province
Authors: Heyn Björn H. , Shephard Grace E. , Conrad Clinton P.
Published: June 2024

The widespread High Arctic Large Igneous Province (HALIP) exhibits prolonged melting over more than 50 Myr, an observation that is difficult to reconcile with the classic view that large igneous provinces (LIPs) originate from melting in plume heads. Hence, the suggested plume‐related origin and classification of HALIP as a LIP have been questioned. Here, we use numerical models that include melting and melt migration to investigate a rising plume interacting with lithosphere of variable thickness, that is, a basin‐to‐craton setting applicable to the Arctic. Models reveal that melt migration introduces significant spatial and temporal variations in melt volumes and pulses of melt production, including protracted melting for at least about 30–40 Myr, because of the dynamic feedback between migrating melt and local lithosphere thinning. For HALIP, plume material deflected from underneath the Greenland craton can re‐activate melting zones below the previously plume‐influenced Sverdrup Basin after a melt‐free period of about 10–15 Myr, even though the plume is already ∼500 km away. Hence, actively melting zones do not necessarily represent the location of the deeper plume stem at a given time, especially for secondary pulses. Additional processes such as (minor) plume flux variations or local lithospheric extension may alter the timing and volume of HALIP pulses, but are to first order not required to reproduce the long‐lived and multi‐pulse magmatism of HALIP. Since melting zones are always plume‐fed, we would expect HALIP magmatism to exhibit plume‐related trace element signatures throughout time, potentially shifting from mostly tholeiitic toward more alkalic compositions.
Resolving Convection of CO2 Ice Clouds in the Martian Polar Nights
Authors: Caillé Vincent , Spiga Aymeric , Määttänen Anni , Falletti Lola , Mathé Christophe
Published: June 2024

Martian CO2 ice clouds are intriguing features, representing a rare occurrence of atmospheric condensation of a major component. These clouds play a crucial role due to their radiative properties, interactions with surface, and coupling with microphysical cycles of aerosols. Observations have been limited, prompting modeling studies to understand their formation and dynamics. Here, we present the first high‐resolution 3D simulations of CO2 ice clouds using a Large‐Eddy Simulation (LES) model incorporating CO2 microphysics. We investigate cloud formation in idealized temperature perturbations in the polar night. A reference simulation with a −2K perturbation demonstrates that the formed CO2 ice cloud possesses a convective potential, leading to its ascent in the troposphere. We determine the timescales and orders of magnitude of various phenomena involved in the lifecycle of a CO2 ice cloud. Sensitivity tests show that convection can be inhibited or intensified by the thermodynamic and microphysical conditions of the simulated environment.
Circulation Timescales and Pathways of Atlantic Water in the Canada Basin: Insights From Transient Tracers 129I and 236U
Authors: Payne Annabel , Wefing Anne‐Marie , Christl Marcus , Vockenhuber Christof , Williams William , Smith John N. , Casacuberta Núria
Published: June 2024

Anthropogenic radionuclides 129I and 236U are used to investigate pathways of the Atlantic Water flow in the Canada Basin, estimate transport timescales, and investigate mixing dynamics within the Atlantic Water layer and the overlying Pacific Water. Transit Time Distribution (TTD) model mean ages indicate water takes 25–35 years to reach the Canada Basin from the entrance of the Arctic, with limited lateral and vertical mixing along the core of the Arctic Ocean Boundary Current. Mode ages obtained from the model yield shorter transport times of 20–32 years. These age estimates agree with previous studies using these radionuclides and ventilation tracers in this region, indicating a steady‐state flow of Atlantic Water for the last 15 years. The distribution of the isotopes in the Atlantic layer indicates two pathways Atlantic Water may take into the basin, supported by the distribution of ages in the TTD model. End‐member mixing models indicate that the Pacific Winter water acquires a 20%–40% Atlantic Water signal of the radionuclides, upwelled over short periods, most likely along the shelf and Barrow Canyon region.
Controlling Effect of Particle Size on Gas Hydrate Enrichment in Fine‐Grained Sediments
Authors: Bai Chenyang , Su Pibo , Xu Xiaolei , Zhang Yu , Han Shujun , Liang Jinqiang
Published: June 2024

The particle size of sediments below the seabed is a crucial factor affecting the formation and enrichment of gas hydrates. Apart from the formation and enrichment law of gas hydrate in coarse‐grained sediments (dominated by a sandy‐sized fraction), in the fine‐grained sediments (<62.5 μm) which accounts for more than 90% of offshore gas hydrate resources globally, the control effect of sediment particle size on gas hydrate is still unclear. Therefore, understanding the relationship between the fine‐grained sediment particle size and gas hydrate enrichment is essential for revealing the global distribution and dynamic evolution of gas hydrates. Here, we analyzed the vertical gas hydrate saturation, particle size parameters of sediments, whole‐rock minerals, and clay mineral components based on drilling data and sediment samples from fine‐grained gas hydrate reservoirs (GHRs) in the Shenhu area of the northern South China Sea. The results show that in fine‐grained sediments, the coarse particles cannot improve the reservoir quality or enrich the gas hydrate because many fine particles fill the intergranular pores formed by the coarse particles. Meanwhile, the fine particles were dominated by clay minerals, especially in the illite/smectite mixed layer, which significantly reduced the permeability of the sediment layer and was not conducive to the enrichment of gas hydrates. Moreover, sedimentary processes directly control the sediment particle size and mineral composition, which play an essential role in controlling GHRs at the macroscale. In the fine‐grained sediments, very fine sediments (<8 μm) have a more significant negative impact on gas hydrate enrichment.