bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Chronic Pain on Use-Dependent Plasticity: Corticomotor Excitability and Motor Representation in Musicians With and Without Pain
Authors: Zamorano Anna M. , De Martino Enrico , Insausti-Delgado Ainhoa , Vuust Peter , Flor Herta , Graven-Nielsen Thomas
Published: January 2024

Long-term musical training induces adaptive changes in the functional representation of the motor cortex. It is unknown if the maladaptive plasticity associated with chronic pain, frequently affecting trained musicians, may alter the use-dependent plasticity in the motor cortex. This study investigated the interaction between adaptive and maladaptive plasticity in the motor pathways, in particular how chronic pain influences long-term use-dependent plasticity. Using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), corticospinal excitability was assessed by measuring the amplitude of the motor-evoked potential (MEP), area of the motor map, volume, and center of gravity of the first dorsal interosseous muscle in 19 pain-free musicians, 17 upper limb/neck pain chronic pain musicians, and 19 pain-free non-musicians as controls. Motor map volume and MEP amplitude were smaller for both pain-free and chronic pain musicians compared to pain-free controls (P < 0.011). No significant differences were found between musicians with and without chronic pain. These findings confirm that long-term musical training can lead to focalized and specialized functional organization of the primary motor cortex. Moreover, the adaptive use-dependent plasticity acquired through fine-motor skill acquisition is not significantly compromised by the maladaptive plasticity typically associated with chronic pain, highlighting the potential of long-term sensorimotor training to counteract the effects of chronic pain in the motor system.
In Search of Conceptual Clarity About the Structure of Psychopathic Traits in Children: A Network-Based Proposal
Authors: López-Romero Laura , Andershed Henrik , Romero Estrella , Cervin Matti
Published: January 2024

Psychopathic traits in childhood have been revealed as potential identifiers of risk, being predictive of later forms of behavioral maladjustment. Yet, it is still under debate how psychopathic traits in children should be best conceptualized and which are the core dimensions for construct definition and prediction. The present study aims to examine the structure of psychopathic traits in childhood, and its predictive value, by using a combination of traditional factor analysis and more recent network-based methods. Data on psychopathic traits, as measured by theChild Problematic Traits Inventory(CPTI), were collected in a large sample of children (n = 2454; 48.2% girls), aged 3 to 6 at the onset of the study (Mage = 4.26; SD = 0.91), who were followed-up one and two years later using parent- and teacher-reports. Results showed that psychopathic traits measured via CPTI are best conceptualized as five latent factors encompassinggrandiosity,deceitfulness,callousness,impulsivityandneed of stimulation, a result that converged across informants and time. Callousness and grandiosity emerged as central traits using network analysis of parent-reports, while deceitfulness was most central using teacher-reports. Finally, callousness, impulsivity and deceitfulness emerged as the best predictors of concurrent, prospective and stable conduct problems. These results provide a refined structure of psychopathic traits in children that better accounts for the core elements of the construct. Additional theoretical and practical implications will be discussed in terms of assessment, diagnostic classification and tailored prevention/intervention.
Analysing the nexus between clean energy expansion, natural resource extraction, and load capacity factor in China: a step towards achieving COP27 targets
Authors: Usman Ojonugwa , Ozkan Oktay , Adeshola Ibrahim , Eweade Babatunde Sunday
Published: January 2024

The excessive use of non-renewable energy in 21st-century economic growth has continued to hurt the environment by accumulating carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. However, promoting environmental sustainability requires expanding clean energy utilisation. In this study, we examine the effects of clean energy expansion and natural resource extraction on load capacity factor (LCF) in China from 1970 to 2018. Using the dynamic autoregressive distributed lag simulations approach, we extend the standard load capacity curve (LCC) hypothesis by incorporating clean energy expansion and natural resource extraction as main determinants of the LCF. The empirical outcomes reveal that economic expansion is, although positively associated with the LCF, but its squared term degrades the LCF. This confirms that the LCC hypothesis is not valid for China. Moreover, while clean energy expansion has a positive effect on the LCF, the effect of natural resource extraction is negative. These effects are stronger and statistically significant only in the long run. Therefore, this study highlights the potentials for a sustainable decarbonized economy in China by investing not only in clean energy sources but also efficiently use the available natural resources in the country.
Uptake of biocrust nitrogen by tree crops in a sandy soil agroecosystem
Authors: Nevins Clayton J. , Strauss Sarah L. , Inglett Patrick W.
Published: January 2024

Biological soil crusts (biocrusts) are widespread in dryland ecosystems worldwide and were only recently discovered in agroecosystems. As agroecosystem biocrusts complete biological nitrogen (N) fixation, this research investigated if biocrust N could be released to biocrust subsoil and assimilated by a perennial tree crop. Biocrust was pulse labeled with 15NH4Cl (15N) in the greenhouse for eight weeks prior to application in a citrus (Citrus spp.) orchard in Southwest Florida, USA. Patches of labeled biocrust were applied to twelve citrus trees in September, with twelve trees in the same orchard not receiving biocrust (controls). The 15N in the biocrust, subsoil, crop fibrous roots, and crop leaves was quantified at seven dates leading up to fruit harvest 158 days after application. Sampling dates overlapped with citrus root (September–October) and shoot (March) flush periods. Isotopically labeled biocrust N was present in subsoil and crop roots one day after biocrust application and in leaves after three days. Results revealed that N was released from biocrust at a rate of 0.63% 15N released per day leading up to fruit harvest when 91.7% of 15N had been released. The amount of biocrust 15N in the fibrous roots increased during a root flush period (September–October) until 28 days after biocrust application and then decreased leading up to a leaf flush period and fruit harvest. Approximately 23.8% of total biocrust 15N was in the crop tissue at fruit harvest. Overall, these results indicate agroecosystem biocrusts have the potential to support tree crop growth during N demanding growth stages.
Thin films with implemented molecular switches for the application in polymer-based optical waveguides
Authors: Kilic Maximilian Seydi , Brehme Jules , Deja Yves , Pawlak Justus , Günther Axel , Sander Arthur , Müller Dietrich , Renz Antonia , Rajnak Cyril , Polášková Michaela , Roth Bernhard , Sindelar Ralf Franz , Renz Franz
Published: January 2024

Complexes like iron (II)-triazoles exhibit spin crossover behavior at ambient temperature and are often considered for possible application. In previous studies, we implemented complexes of this type into polymer nanofibers and first polymer-based optical waveguide sensor systems. In our current study, we synthesized complexes of this type, implemented them into polymers and obtained composites through drop casting and doctor blading. We present that a certain combination of polymer and complex can lead to composites with high potential for optical devices. For this purpose, we used two different complexes $$[\text {Fe}(\text {atrz})_{3}](2\, \text {ns})2$$

[
Fe

(
atrz
)

3

]

(
2

ns
)

2

and $$[\text {Fe}(\text {atrz})_{3}]\text {Cl}_{1.5}(\text {BF}_{4})_{0.5}$$

[
Fe

(
atrz
)

3

]

Cl

1.5

(

BF
4

)

0.5

with different polymers for each composite. We show through transmission measurements and UV/VIS spectroscopy that the optical properties of these composite materials can reversibly change due to the spin crossover effect.
Heroes as Harbingers of Social Change: Gender, Race, and Hero Choice in the USA and Britain
Authors: Kolpinskaya Ekaterina , Danilova Nataliya
Published: January 2024

Acknowledging the importance of heroes in the framing of political identities and building on the expanding interdisciplinary scholarship, this paper offers a novel approach by situating the analysis of public choices of heroes within debates on social change, and, specifically, inclusion and diversity politics. Utilising an original dataset of two individual-level, nationally representative surveys of British and US adults, we demonstrate that the landscape of popular heroism in both countries is shaped by limited acceptance of traditionally under-represented groups such as women and ethnic minorities. Using rigorous testing and regression analysis, we highlight the endurance of a white male hero whose dominance is only challenged through preferences for same-sex and same-race/ethnicity hero-figures, with both trends signposting the symbolic boundaries of embracing the difference. Overall, this paper highlights a critical role of popular heroes in advancing inclusion and diversity agendas and urges for further empirical research on the socio-political functions, and gender, race-specific drivers of heroism.
Serious Games for the Treatment of Children with ADHD: The BRAVO Project
Authors: De Luca Valerio , Schena Annamaria , Covino Attilio , Di Bitonto Pierpaolo , Potenza Ada , Barba Maria Cristina , D’Errico Giovanni , De Paolis Lucio Tommaso
Published: January 2024

Children affected by attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) exhibit several symptoms characterized by inattention, impulsivity and motor hyperactivity that impair both school performance and everyday life. The BRAVO (Beyond the tReatment of the Attention deficit hyperactiVity disOrder) project dealt with the development of several serious games based on extended reality that help patients improve in self-control, respect for rules, attention and concentration. In order to achieve both logopaedic and behavioural educational goals, serious games were developed concerning three different categories: Topological Categories, Infinite Runner and Planning. Experimental tests conducted over a six-month period assessed the patients’ performance and the emotional impact of the games, also showing a general improvement in cognitive and behavioural functions.
Starch as a successful biodegradable nucleating agent in biodegradable PHBV/PHO blends
Authors: El-Taweel Safaa H. , Al-Hamdi Arwa
Published: January 2024

The morphology and thermal properties of PHBV/PHO/starch blends are investigated using polarized optical microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, thermal gravimetric analysis, and X-ray diffraction. The crystallization behavior of the PHBV in PHBV/PHO was improved via the incorporation of a biodegradable nucleating agent, starch, as indicated by thermal analysis and polarized optical micrographs. The PHBV and PHO show phase separation in the blend. The XRD patterns of PHBV in blends are identical to those of neat PHBV. The Avrami exponents were not considerably impacted by the presence of PHO or starch. Furthermore, the nucleation constant, Kg, of the PHBV blends was evaluated using a modified Lauritzen–Hoffmann treatment. The Kg values indicated that the crystallization of PHBV in all blends occur in Regime III. PHO and starch have little impact on the maximum degradation temperature of PHBV.
Circadian clock gene expression and polymorphism in non-segmental vitiligo
Authors: Farag Azza Gaber Antar , Badr Eman A. E. , Ibrahim Asmaa Fahmy
Published: January 2024

Background

Vitiligo is an acquired and progressive mucocutaneous disease with the damage of functioning epidermal melanocytes. Metabolic syndrome is associated with inflammatory skin diseases incorporating vitiligo. The circadian dysfunction triggers the pathogenesis of metabolic diseases, so our study aimed to determine the relationship between aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator-like gene, a ligand-activated transcription factor and sensor of environmental chemicals, expression and polymorphism with non-segmental vitiligo, as well as its effect on lipid profile.

Methods

This case-control study was handled on 50 non-segmental vitiligo patients (generalized (12) and localized type (focal; 24 and acrofacial; 14)) and 50 matched controls. Each subject was proposed for full history taking, clinical examinations, serum lipid profile, and measurement of BMAL1 gene expression in the blood, and BMAL1 rs2279287 polymorphism of DNA extract from whole blood by real time-PCR.

Results

We identified that total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein were significantly higher, but high-density lipoprotein was significantly lower in non-segmental vitiligo patients than in the control group. A significant increase in circadian gene expression in non-segmental vitiligo patients was observed, with more detection of the BMAL1 T/C genotype (92%) than the T/T genotype. There was a significant positive relationship between the level of the circadian gene and the vitiligo patient’s age, age of onset, and VIDA Score. The level of the circadian gene at Cutoff  ≥ 1.16 can predict the prognosis of vitiligo with a sensitivity of 78%, specificity of 84%, and accuracy of 81%.

Conclusion

The circadian gene has an active role in the progress of non-segmental vitiligo and targeting this gene could have a significant impact on its management.
Assisted Upscaling of Miscible CO2-Enhanced Oil Recovery Floods Using an Artificial Neural Network-Based Optimisation Algorithm
Authors: Ogbeiwi P. , Stephen K. D.
Published: January 2024

Due to the high computing cost of the fine-scale compositional simulations needed to effectively model miscible CO2 flooding, upscaling techniques are needed to approximate the behaviour of these fine-scale grids on more realistic coarse-scale models. The use of transport coefficients to better represent small-scale interactions, such as the time-dependent flux of the components within the hydrocarbon phases (molecular diffusion), and the pseudoisation of relative permeabilities to ensure the matching of large-scale effects, such as the volumetric fluxes of the phases, are two of these procedures. Most times, a mismatch between the phase fluxes of the integrated fine-scale and that of the coarse-scale is observed. By adjusting or calibrating some of the generated coarse-scale pseudo functions, such as the transport coefficients, absolute permeability, or relative permeability endpoints, the accuracy of the upscaling results can be improved. This procedure can be treated a reservoir history matching problem which is typically computationally expensive. In this study, we provide a framework for representing the dynamics of small-scale molecular diffusion and macro-scale heterogeneity-induced channelling related to miscible CO2 displacements on upscaled coarser grid reservoir models. The method used was based on the pseudoisation of relative permeability and transport coefficients and was applied to two benchmark reservoir models from the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE). Our results demonstrated that using effectively calibrated transport coefficients improved the upscaling results, so that the  calculated pseudo-relative permeability functions can be ignored. We proposed a unique approach to upscaling miscible floods that utilised a genetic algorithm and a neural-network-based proxy model to minimise the associated computing cost. The data-driven approximation model considerably decreased the computing cost associated with the assisted tuning technique, and the optimisation algorithm was used to reduce the error between the predictions of the upscaled models. In conclusion, the methodology described in this study effectively captured the small- and large-scale behaviour related to the miscible displacements on upscaled coarse-scale reservoir models while reduced associated computational costs.
Wool production and quality traits of pure- and crossbred Merino-type sheep
Authors: Theron P.G. , Brand T.S. , Cloete S.W.P. , van Zyl J.H.C
Published: January 2024

Very little information is available on the quality of wool produced by terminal crosses out of wool producing dam lines. This study was therefore undertaken to elucidate the wool quality traits of four crossbred lines relative to Merinos and Dohne Merinos, which served as dam lines. Each dam line was mated to rams of their own breed as well as to Dormer or Ile de France rams to create four crossbred lines, namely, Dohne x Dormer, Dohne x Ile de France, Merino x Dormer, and Merino x Ile de France, in addition to the purebred Dohne Merino and Merino lines. Four rams and four ewes from each of these lines were reared up to one year of age under optimal growth conditions and shorn at the end of that time. Fleeces were weighed and samples collected for analysis. Neither sex nor genotype influenced clean fleece weight or clean yield percentage, but fibre diameter differed between genotypes. Purebred Merino had the finest wool (18.26 μm) and the Merino x Dormer cross the coarsest (26.01 μm). However, all lines still produced wool that could be used in manufacturing clothing, while fleeces showed good uniformity. The two purebred lines had the highest comfort factor (> 98%). The crossbred lines produced a similar quantity of wool as the purebreds, although of poorer quality. All genotypes except Merino x Dormer appear to produce wool that could be processed into garments, although the crossbred wool would only be suitable for outerwear.
An Evaluation of Radon Concentrations in Arin Lake, Bitlis
Authors: Çelik Şule Karatepe , Bal Sultan Şahin
Published: January 2024

Arin Lake, situated in the Bitlis province, is a soda lake that holds significant ecological importance as a habitat for migratory bird species such as flamingos and white-headed ducks. In order to investigate the potential radiation exposure to the environment and living organisms in the area, radon concentration levels and dose calculations were determined for water samples collected from 27 different points in Arin Lake. The radon levels were determined using the AlphaGUARD PQ2000 PRO radon monitoring system, which has the range of 2–2.106 Bqm−3. The results of the radon concentration measurements are between 0.06 and 0.39 Bq/L, with a mean of value of 0.17 Bq/L. The annual effective doses for ingestion (Deff-ing) and inhalation (Deff-inh) were calculated at values ranging from 0.14 to 0.99 µSv/year. The radon levels were found to be lower than international standard values. Furthermore, the outcomes of this research were subjected to comparison with other studies in the literature.
A bio-chemo-hydro-mechanical model of transport, strength and deformation for bio-cementation applications
Authors: Bosch Jose A. , Terzis Dimitrios , Laloui Lyesse
Published: January 2024

Bio-cementation through microbially induced calcite precipitation (MICP) has the potential to overcome several technical and environmental limitations of conventional cement-based soil improvement techniques. While a significant amount of research has been directed towards better understanding and controlling MICP processes, there is still a lack of multiphysical formulations that can be used for the design of real geotechnical applications in which both the treatment extent and its strength and deformability need to be evaluated. This paper presents the development and application of a comprehensive bio-chemo-hydro-mechanical model that can be used for designing MICP treatments with the finite element method. To overcome the limitations of current approaches based on elasticity, the formulation involves an elastoplastic constitutive model based on Mohr–Coulomb that can predict the strength increase of MICP-improved soils. The model can easily be calibrated with existing experimental results. The scope of model application is demonstrated through the case of a 2D shallow foundation strengthening. Results reveal that the questions of what level of cementation to target and how to distribute cementation efficiently are of equal importance to ultimately serve the needs of specific geotechnical problems, such as those of bearing capacity.
Mechanical behaviour and grain breakage characteristics of Tibetan glacial tills under triaxial compression
Authors: Zeng Zhi-Xiong , Zhang Li-Min , Xu Zheng-Dan , Zarch M. Kamali
Published: January 2024

Deglaciation due to warming climate has left a great amount of glacial tills in ravine slopes and channels in southern Tibet, which can lead to destructive debris flows and pose great threats to downstream residents and infrastructures. The mechanical properties and grain size characteristics of glacial tills are key factors that influence the initiation and development of these debris flows. In this work, a series of consolidated undrained (CU) triaxial compression tests under different confining pressures were carried out on Zelongnong glacial tills at various relative densities of 9.2%, 49.5%, 69.0% and 88.7%. The grain size distribution change before and after the CU tests was also determined. Results show that the glacial tills at relative densities of 9.2%, 49.5% and 69.0% exhibited a remarkable strain-softening and contractive behaviour during shearing, while those at a relative density of 88.7% presented a dilatant behaviour. As the relative density increased, the shear strength, elastic modulus and shearing friction angle increased, reducing the liquefaction potential. Based on the increasing rate of mechanical resistance with the increasing relative density, a critical value of 69.0% was identified to appreciate the distinct mechanical responses of the specimens. From the grain size distributions before and after CU tests, the content of grains with a diameter larger than 0.85 mm decreased due to the grain breakage while that of grains smaller than 0.3 mm increased. The higher the specimen relative density, the larger the grain breakage ratio owing to the increasing friction resistance. This grain breakage in turn causes a downward shift of the critical state line on the plane of void ratio and mean effective stress.
Adapting Schools to Climate Change with Green, Blue, and Grey Measures in Barcelona: Study Protocol of a Mixed-Method Evaluation
Authors: Sanz-Mas Marta , Ubalde-López Mònica , Borràs Sílvia , Brugueras Sílvia , Continente Xavier , Daher Carolyn , Marí-Dell’Olmo Marc , López María José
Published: January 2024

Under the framework of the Urban Innovative Actions program of the European Commission, in 2020, 11 primary schools in Barcelona were transformed into climate shelters by implementing green, blue, and grey measures. Schoolyards were also opened to the local community to be used during non-school periods. Here we present the study protocol of a mixed-method approach to evaluate the effectiveness of the interventions in terms of improving environmental quality and health for users. We evaluated school level through the following: (1) quantitative pre-post quasi-experimental study, and (2) qualitative evaluation. The quantitative study included measures of (a) environmental variables (collected via low-cost and non-low-cost sensors), (b) students’ health and well-being (collected via health questionnaires, attention levels test, and systematic observations), and (c) teachers’ health and well-being (collected via thermal comfort measurements and health questionnaires). The qualitative methods evaluated the perceptions about the effects of the interventions among students (using Photovoice) and teachers (through focus groups). The impact of the interventions was assessed at community level during summer non-school periods through a spontaneous ethnographic approach. Data collection started in August 2019 and ended in July 2022. The evaluation provides the opportunity to identify those solutions that worked and those that need to be improved for future experiences, as well as improve the evaluation methodology and replication for these kinds of interventions.
Pose-based tremor type and level analysis for Parkinson’s disease from video
Authors: Zhang Haozheng , Ho Edmond S. L. , Zhang Francis Xiatian , Del Din Silvia , Shum Hubert P. H.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Current methods for diagnosis of PD rely on clinical examination. The accuracy of diagnosis ranges between 73 and 84%, and is influenced by the experience of the clinical assessor. Hence, an automatic, effective and interpretable supporting system for PD symptom identification would support clinicians in making more robust PD diagnostic decisions.

Methods

We propose to analyze Parkinson’s tremor (PT) to support the analysis of PD, since PT is one of the most typical symptoms of PD with broad generalizability. To realize the idea, we present SPA-PTA, a deep learning-based PT classification and severity estimation system that takes consumer-grade videos of front-facing humans as input. The core of the system is a novel attention module with a lightweight pyramidal channel-squeezing–fusion architecture that effectively extracts relevant PT information and filters noise. It enhances modeling performance while improving system interpretability.

Results

We validate our system via individual-based leave-one-out cross-validation on two tasks: the PT classification task and the tremor severity rating estimation task. Our system presents a 91.3% accuracy and 80.0% F1-score in classifying PT with non-PT class, while providing a 76.4% accuracy and 76.7% F1-score in more complex multiclass tremor rating classification task.

Conclusion

Our system offers a cost-effective PT classification and tremor severity estimation results as warning signs of PD for undiagnosed patients with PT symptoms. In addition, it provides a potential solution for supporting PD diagnosis in regions with limited clinical resources.
Experimental Validation is Always Required for Molten Oxide Electrolysis Laboratory Crucibles
Authors: Ford Kathryn T. , Marshall Aaron T. , Watson Matthew J. , Bishop Catherine M.
Published: January 2024

Molten oxide electrolysis (MOE) is a promising electrochemical route to de-carbonize primary and secondary metal production. Developing MOE processes starts with laboratory experiments at temperatures > $$1000\,^\circ{\rm C}$$

1000

∘

C

lasting ~10 hours and requiring long heating/cooling times to protect furnace hardware. Before investigating MOE processes, crucibles must be selected that tolerate the required temperatures while minimizing chemical interactions with the oxide to control melt contamination and contain the melt. Unfortunately no general procedure guiding MOE crucible selection is documented. Here we focus on laboratory crucibles in air for two MOE melts: titania-sodia at $$1100\,^\circ{\rm C}$$

1100

∘

C

and neodymia-boria at $$1300\,^\circ{\rm C}$$

1300

∘

C

. After shortlisting generic crucible materials using Ashby’s method, thermodynamic predictions were made for all-oxide titania-sodia charges using FactSage and cup test experiments were conducted on (i) all-oxide and carbonate charges for titania-sodia and (ii) neodymia-boria charges. While magnesia was predicted to be the best crucible for the titania-sodia melt, alumina was the best choice for both oxide and carbonate charges. The grain boundary networks of both magnesia and YSZ were infiltrated by the oxide and carbonate charges. Platinum was the best crucible for neodymia-boria melts. We show that compositional control during long, high-temperature MOE experiments requires experimental validation for specific chemistries every time.
Microbial contaminated paper substrate: UV–Vis–NIR spectra of model systems
Authors: Gál Lukáš , Paračková Patrícia , Kaliňáková Barbora , Šimonová Simona , Reháková Milena , Čeppan Michal
Published: January 2024

This study aims to study the possibility of distinguishing the UV–Vis–NIR spectra of filamentous fungi on a paper substrate from the background. Model samples of five filamentous fungi were used: Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus niger, Cladosporium herbarum, Penicillium chrysogenum, and Trichoderma atroviride. The model samples were cultivated on paper substrates, and two methods, cross-validation (CV) and principal component analysis (PCA), were utilised to compare their spectra with the reference background spectra. The results of the CV analysis indicated that certain combined spectra sets of Cladosporium herbarum, Penicillium chrysogenum, Trichoderma atroviride, Aspergillus niger, and Alternaria alternata, at specific surface concentrations, exhibited two active components, signifying distinguishable differences from the background spectra. Additionally, the score scatter diagrams derived from PCA revealed clusters of samples, further confirming the distinguishability of the filamentous fungi spectra from the background. However, for Trichoderma atroviride, the scatter diagram demonstrated a relatively large scattering of points, impeding the resolution of spectra with a surface concentration of 2 105 cm−2 due to measurement inaccuracies. Based on the combined results of CV and PCA, the study concluded that the lower threshold of measurability for UV–Vis–NIR spectra varied among the different filamentous fungi. For example, Cladosporium herbarum, Penicillium chrysogenum, and Trichoderma atroviride exhibited a threshold around a surface concentration of 2 106 cm−2, while Aspergillus niger had a threshold around 2 105 cm−2, and Alternaria alternata had a threshold around 2 103 cm−2. In summary, this research provides insights into the distinguishability of filamentous fungi spectra on the paper substrate from background spectra using spectral analysis techniques, offering potential applications in fungal identification and characterisation.
Beyond text: Marketing strategy in a world turned upside down
Authors: Wang Xin , Bendle Neil , Pan Yinjie
Published: January 2024

Analyzing unstructured text, e.g., online reviews and social media, has already made a major impact, yet a vast array of publicly available, unstructured non-text data houses latent insight into consumers and markets. This article focuses on three specific types of such data: image, video, and audio. Many researchers see the potential in analyzing these data sources, going beyond text, but remain unsure about how to gain insights. We review prior research, give practical methodological advice, highlight relevant marketing questions, and suggest avenues for future exploration. Critically, we spotlight the machine learning capabilities of major platforms like AWS, GCP, and Azure, and how they are equipped to handle such data. By evaluating the performance of these platforms in tasks relevant to marketing managers, we aim to guide researchers in optimizing their methodological choices. Our study has significant managerial implications by identifying actionable procedures where abundant data beyond text could be utilized.
Unraveling the Olmec rubber balls from El Manatí, Mexico: a technological and compositional analysis
Authors: Pérez Nora A. , Guzmán Víctor Hugo , Ruvalcaba José Luis , de Lucio Oscar G. , Pérez Miguel , Nagaya Alan , Cano Nathael , Mitrani Alejandro , Esquivel Baldomero , Tapia Everardo , León Mayra , del Pilar Ponce María , del Carmen Rodríguez María , Ortiz Ponciano
Published: January 2024

This work presents an analysis towards a description of the manufacturing technique of the Olmec rubber balls found at the offerings at El Manatí. The results present this procedure from the extraction of the Mesoamerican rubber from the Castilla elastica tree, discussing its composition and origin of the rubber balls analyzed towards the production of strips that are rolled to make the ball round form. This characterization was achieved through a series of imaging techniques (radiography imaging, UV-induced fluorescence imaging, and optical microscopy) and portable non-destructive and non-invasive analyses (XRF and FTIR) performed on the collection of archaeological rubber balls and compared with contemporary made rubber balls in the region near El Manatí. The methodology was complemented with laboratory chemical analytical techniques (13C NMR-MAS, FTIR, CEA, and GC-MS) applied to selected Olmec rubber microsamples. The new physical and chemical data obtained was also interpreted considering conservation science, to help understand the alterations and transformation processes that the balls have undergone since their recovery in the 1980s.
Establishing altruistic ethics to use technology for Social Welfare—How Japan manages Web3 and self-sovereign identity in local communities
Authors: Kim Daum , Kokuryo Jiro
Published: January 2024

Technologies of self-sovereign identity (SSI) and Web3 tools that strongly protect individual autonomy, combined with the ethics of Asian altruism, can effectively guide the governance of the emerging cyber civilization. In contrast, governance in Western industrial civilization stresses the pursuit of individual self-interest and struggles to balance the benefits of big tech with the protection of individual dignity and the preservation of the common good. We demonstrate, with reference to a local community in Japan, that SSI is successful in encouraging communal collaboration and well-being while providing individuals with greater control over their personal data. We also show that Web3 tools provide incentives for altruistic behaviors while safeguarding SSI. Integration of SSI and social protection demonstrates the potential for building an information society grounded in altruistic values, honoring individual dignity, and recognizing the government’s role in protecting social welfare. Ultimately, this research unveils how altruistic values can be fostered through SSI and Web3.
Phytochemical analysis, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxicity activities of Schinus molle (L.) extracts
Authors: M. E. Shehata , El-Sherbiny Gamal M. , Sharaf Mohamed H. , Kalaba Mohamed H. , Shaban Abdelghany S.
Published: January 2024

Schinus molle seeds and leaves are frequently employed in traditional medicine to treat a range of diseases. This study aims to explore the potential of Schinus mole (L.) seed and leaf extracts in terms of their phytochemical constituents and antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic activities. The study utilized GC-MS spectroscopy, antimicrobials, antioxidants, and cytotoxicity techniques to evaluate the extracts. The result of phytochemical analysis revealed that Schinus molle seed extract contains seven peaks with a major compound, bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (59.11%), followed by n-hexadecanoic acid (10.84), while Schinus molle leaf extract exhibits sixteen peaks with a main compound, squalene (16.87%), followed by azulene (14.88%) and lupeol (12.4%). The Schinus molle seeds and leaf exhibited the high antimicrobial activity with inhibition zones ranging from 15 ± 0.57 to 27.33 ± 0.88 mm against tested microorganisms. In addition, it was investigated that the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of different extracts against microbial strains, including Bacillus cereus, Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 13883, and Cryptococcus neoformans, were found to be 62.5 μg/ml, while Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has a MIC of 125 μg/ml with seed extract and 250 μg/ml with leaf extract. The other strains, including Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, have a MIC of 500 μg/ml in both seed and leaf extracts. Schinus molle seeds and leaf exhibited considerable antioxidant action compared with ascorbic acid. Moreover, significant variation in the effects on Allium cepa root tips was observed upon treatment with Schinus molle seed and leaf extracts. The mitotic index in the group receiving Schinus molle seed and leaf extract showed a significant decrease when compared to the control cells. This decrease was based on the duration and dosage of exposure. On the other hand, there was a clear increase in the occurrence of chromosomal abnormalities. Finally, the findings showed that Schinus molle seed and leaf extract exhibit antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticytotoxic activities and revealed that they are a significant source of bioactive compounds with the possibility of use in biomedical applications.
Enhancing Reproducibility in Precipitate Analysis: A FAIR Approach with Automated Dark-Field Transmission Electron Microscope Image Processing
Authors: Zia Ghezal Ahmad Jan , Hanke Thomas , Skrotzki Birgit , Völker Christoph , Bayerlein Bernd
Published: January 2024

High-strength aluminum alloys used in aerospace and automotive applications obtain their strength through precipitation hardening. Achieving the desired mechanical properties requires precise control over the nanometer-sized precipitates. However, the microstructure of these alloys changes over time due to aging, leading to a deterioration in strength. Typically, the size, number, and distribution of precipitates for a quantitative assessment of microstructural changes are determined by manual analysis, which is subjective and time-consuming. In our work, we introduce a progressive and automatable approach that enables a more efficient, objective, and reproducible analysis of precipitates. The method involves several sequential steps using an image repository containing dark-field transmission electron microscopy (DF-TEM) images depicting various aging states of an aluminum alloy. During the process, precipitation contours are generated and quantitatively evaluated, and the results are comprehensibly transferred into semantic data structures. The use and deployment of Jupyter Notebooks, along with the beneficial implementation of Semantic Web technologies, significantly enhances the reproducibility and comparability of the findings. This work serves as an exemplar of FAIR image and research data management.
Reconstructing Microstructures From Statistical Descriptors Using Neural Cellular Automata
Authors: Seibert Paul , Raßloff Alexander , Zhang Yichi , Kalina Karl , Reck Paul , Peterseim Daniel , Kästner Markus
Published: January 2024

The problem of generating microstructures of complex materials in silico has been approached from various directions including simulation, Markov, deep learning and descriptor-based approaches. This work presents a hybrid method that is inspired by all four categories and has interesting scalability properties. A neural cellular automaton is trained to evolve microstructures based on local information. Unlike most machine learning-based approaches, it does not directly require a data set of reference micrographs, but is trained from statistical microstructure descriptors that can stem from a single reference. This means that the training cost scales only with the complexity of the structure and associated descriptors. Since the size of the reconstructed structures can be set during inference, even extremely large structures can be efficiently generated. Similarly, the method is very efficient if many structures are to be reconstructed from the same descriptor for statistical evaluations. The method is formulated and discussed in detail by means of various numerical experiments, demonstrating its utility and scalability.
Anxiety Prevalence in Youth with Autism: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Methodological and Sample Moderators
Authors: Thiele-Swift Henry Noah , Dorstyn Diana-Santa
Published: January 2024

Research on the prevalence of anxiety in children and adolescents with autism remains fragmented due to a reliance on help-seeking populations and differences in anxiety assessment. We present the pooled findings from 15 community studies (N = 4459) sourced from the Embase, PubMed, and PsycINFO databases (1970–2023). Equally high rates of anxiety symptoms and disorders were identified via self-report (33%, CI = 25 to 40%) and diagnostic interview (19%, CI = 7 to 40%). Higher IQ and male gender were identified as significant covariates, although these results may reflect sampling biases. The findings highlight the need for routine screening, with multiple informants, and improved sampling methods. Protocol was registered on Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/7mtca/).
Ketogenic nutritional therapy (KeNuT)—a multi-step dietary model with meal replacements for the management of obesity and its related metabolic disorders: a consensus statement from the working group of the Club of the Italian Society of Endocrinology (SIE)—diet therapies in endocrinology and metabolism
Authors: Barrea L. , Caprio M. , Camajani E. , Verde L. , Perrini S. , Cignarelli A. , Prodam F. , Gambineri A. , Isidori A. M. , Colao A. , Giorgino F. , Aimaretti G. , Muscogiuri G.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The ketogenic nutritional therapy (KeNuT) is an effective dietary treatment for patients with obesity and obesity-related comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes, dyslipidaemia, hypertension, coronary artery disease, and some type of cancers. However, to date an official document on the correct prescription of the ketogenic diet, validated by authoritative societies in nutrition or endocrine sciences, is missing. It is important to emphasize that the ketogenic nutritional therapy requires proper medical supervision for patient selection, due to the complex biochemical implications of ketosis and the need for a strict therapeutic compliance, and an experienced nutritionist for proper personalization of the whole nutritional protocol.

Methods

This practical guide provides an update of main clinical indications and contraindications of ketogenic nutritional therapy with meal replacements and its mechanisms of action. In addition, the various phases of the protocol involving meal replacements, its monitoring, clinical management and potential side effects, are also discussed.

Conclusion

This practical guide will help the healthcare provider to acquire the necessary skills to provide a comprehensive care of patients with overweight, obesity and obesity-related diseases, using a multistep ketogenic dietary treatment, recognized by the Club of the Italian Society of Endocrinology (SIE)—Diet Therapies in Endocrinology and Metabolism.
Hydrologic Extremes in a Changing Climate: a Review of Extremes in East Africa
Authors: Taye Meron Teferi , Dyer Ellen
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Eastern Africa has a complex hydroclimate and socio-economic context, making it vulnerable to climate change-induced hydrological extremes. This review presents recent research on drivers and typologies of extremes across different geographies and highlights challenges and improvements in forecasting hydrological extremes at various timescales.

Recent Findings

Droughts and floods remain the major challenges of the region. Recently, frequent alterations between droughts and floods have been a common occurrence and concern. Research underlines the heterogeneity of extremes and the impact of climate change as increased intensity and duration of extremes. Moreover, the importance of local and antecedent conditions in changing the characteristics of extremes is emphasized.

A better understanding of these drivers and how they interact is required. Observational and modeling tools must capture these relationships and extremes on short timescales. Although there are improvements in forecasting these extremes, providing relevant information beyond meteorological variables requires further research.
The Role of Male Consent in Assisted Reproductive Technology Procedures: an Examination of Japanese Court Cases
Authors: Muraoka Yuko , Kokado Minori , Kato Kazuto
Published: January 2024

With the development of assisted reproductive technologies, medical, ethical, legal, and social issues have arisen that did not exist when natural conception was the only means of childbirth. In Japan, men tend to believe that assisted reproductive technologies are not directly related to them, with the literature showing that men are often reluctant to be involved in fertility treatment processes. To better understand this situation, this study analyzes the role of male consent during assisted reproductive technology procedures in Japan. First, we examined Japanese court cases that dealt with issues related to male consent during assisted reproductive technology procedures and identified three situations in which problems related to male consent during such procedures may arise. Next, we analyzed the background of such issues and the implications of the lack of consent regarding men’s reproductive rights. Finally, we explored the need for legislation on assisted reproductive technologies. The study concludes that discussions on the scope of male partner rights in assisted reproductive technology procedures are key for minimizing unnecessary conflict between partners, thus ensuring both the rights of women who wish to have children and the welfare of their children.
Antioxidant, Cytotoxicity, and Anti-inflammation Activities of Phenanthroline Adducts of Zn(II) and Ni(II) bis(N-alkyl-N-phenyldithiocarbamate)
Authors: Saiyed Tanzimjahan A. , Adeyemi Jerry O. , Singh Moganavelli , Onwudiwe Damian C.
Published: January 2024

In this study, 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline adducts of Ni(II) and Zn(II) of N-methyl or ethyl-N-phenyldithiocarbamate were synthesized and the final adducts were represented as [Zn(L1)2L3], [Zn(L2)2L3], [Ni(L1)2L3], [Ni(L2)2L3] (where L1 = methyl, L2 = ethyl, L3 = bathophenanthroline) and characterized using various spectroscopic techniques and elemental analysis. Both the FT-IR and NMR analysis suggest that all the adducts possessed six coordination geometry by the metal atom centres upon the emergence of a new M-N bond. This was shown by the changes observed in the peaks and chemical shifts of the adducts in comparison to the parent complexes. The cytotoxicity, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties were evaluated using different assays to ascertain their biological properties. In all the assays, no noticeable trend was observed between the adducts of similar ligands and metals. Nevertheless, in the antioxidant assays, a good to moderate activity was observed, especially in the DPPH assay, which gave the best radical scavenging properties. Additionally, the estimated IC50 values of 0.011 and 14.76 µM were calculated for the cytotoxicity in the human cervical cancer (HeLa) cell line for both [Zn(L1)2L3] and [Ni(L2)2L3] adducts, respectively, in comparison to 5-Flurouracil (17.48 µM). On the other hand, very low cytotoxicity was found for most of the adducts in the embryonic kidney 293 (HEK 293) cell lines, especially for [Zn(L1)2L3], demonstrating its superior amongst the other adduct and the standard drug. Moreover, the adducts exhibited good to moderate anti-inflammatory properties compared to diclofenac, a controlled drug. These findings thus suggest that the adducts, particularly [Zn(L1)2L3], hold promise as potential anticancer agents and warrant further evaluation through clinical trials.