bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Re-focusing sampling, design and experimental methods to assess rapid evolution by non-native plant species
Authors: Lucas M. S. , Hensen I. , Barratt C. D. , Callaway R. M. , Durka W. , Lekberg Y. , Nagy D. U. , Onstein R. E. , Shah M. A. , van Dam N. M. , Thoma A. E. , Rosche C.
Published: February 2024

Evolution can occur over contemporary timescales, which may be crucial for the invasive success of non-native plant species. Many studies have shown rapid evolution by comparing native and non-native populations in common gardens. However, our understanding of the mechanisms underpinning rapid evolution is still incomplete. Here, we identify the progress, applications, and limitations of studies on rapid evolution of non-native plants with respect to sampling, experimental design and experimental methods. To encompass broad variation within and between the ranges, we recommend sampling across large-scale environmental gradients. We also suggest careful consideration of pitfalls related to the choice of seed families and of the biotic interaction under focus. The latter should be chosen with a view on both the experimental treatment and the corresponding field data to estimate population history. Furthermore, we suggest exploiting multiple omics approaches to address the complexity of biotic interactions, and to account for non-adaptive evolution with molecular data on demographic history of populations. We also reviewed papers that studied rapid evolution in non-native plants and quantified how many of these met our criteria. We anticipate that disentangling adaptive and non-adaptive drivers of among-population variation can increase the accuracy of research on rapid evolution, and that integrating phenotypic, metabolomic and population genomic data can bring opportunities for studying complex biotic interactions. We also illustrate the importance of large collaborative networks and present our scientific network iCONNECT (integrative CONyza NEtwork for Contemporary Trait evolution), with the goal of motivating similar studies on the mechanistic understanding of rapid evolution.
The impact of germline BRCA pathogenic variants in locally advanced, triple negative breast cancer treated with platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Mutai Raz , Kuchuk Iryna , Goldshtein Alexandra , Yerushalmi Rinat , Rotem Ofer , Maisel Lotan Adi , Bdolah-Abram Tali , Gabizon Alberto , Goldvaser Hadar
Published: February 2024

Background

Whether germline BRCA (gBRCA) pathogenic variants (PV) affect prognosis of women with triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) and whether it has implications for treatment decisions in the neoadjuvant setting is unclear.

Methods

This is a retrospective two-center cohort study comprising all women with early stage TNBC who have completed genetic testing and were treated with neoadjuvant dose-dense doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide followed by paclitaxel and carboplatin. All eligible patients treated between 10.2014 and 3.2020 were included. Data on clinico-pathological, pathological response, overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were evaluated. Differences in clinico-pathological features and outcomes were analyzed according to gBRCA status.

Results

Sixty-four women were included in the final analysis, of which 31 had gBRCA PV (gBRCA carriers) and 33 were gBRCA wild-type. Clinico-pathological characteristics were similar between both groups. The odds for pathological complete response (pCR) were significantly higher in gBRCA carriers (74.2%) compared to BRCA wild-type women (48.5%), p = 0.035. At a median follow-up of 30 months, gBRCA carriers had significantly favorable OS (HR = 8.64, 95% CI 1.08–69.21, p = 0.042). The difference in DFS did not reach statistical significance (HR = 7.4, 95% CI 0.91–60.27, p = 0.062). The favorable OS for gBRCA carriers remained significant in multivariate analysis (p = 0.029) and was noted regardless of pathological response (p = 0.018).

Conclusion

Compared to wild-type, gBRCA carriers with locally advanced TNBC treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy containing carboplatin had a higher pCR rate and better outcomes. These results strengthen the contention that gBRCA status should be considered when tailoring treatment decisions in women with locally advanced TNBC.
PD-1 inhibitor combined with albumin paclitaxel and apatinib as second-line treatment for patients with metastatic gastric cancer: a single-center, single-arm, phase II study
Authors: Gou Miaomiao , Zhang Yong , Wang Zhikuan , Qian Niansong , Dai Guanghai
Published: February 2024

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have been approved for first- and third-line treatment of advanced gastric cancer. However, pembrolizumab alone in the second line did not improve overall survival compared to chemotherapy in the KEYNOTE-061 study. In this study, we aimed to explore the efficacy and safety of a three-drug regimen of PD-1 inhibitor combined with albumin paclitaxel and apatinib (a VEGFR inhibitor) for the second-line treatment of patients with metastatic gastric cancer (mGC).

Methods

This was a single-center, single-arm, phase II clinical study. Patients with mGC with stable microsatellite and negative HER-2 expression who failed first-line chemotherapy were enrolled. The enrolled patients were treated with PD-1 inhibitor (selected according to patients’ requirements) in combination with albumin paclitaxel (125 mg/m2, intravenously, days 1 and 8, or 250 mg/m2, intravenously, day 1) and apatinib (250 or 500 mg, orally, days 1–21) every 3 weeks. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS), and the secondary endpoints were overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), duration of response, and adverse events (AEs).

Results

From July 11, 2019, to October 13, 2022, a total of 43 patients were enrolled, of whom 10 were PD-L1 negative, 11 were PD-L1 positive, and 22 had unknown PD-L1 expression. As of the data cutoff on April 1st, 2023, nine patients had partial response, 29 had stable disease, and five experienced progressive disease, with the ORR of 20.9% and DCR of 88.3%. The median PFS was 6.2 months (95% CI, 3.9–9.3), and the median OS was 10.1 months (95% CI, 7.5–14.1). All patients suffered from alopecia and neurotoxicity. The other main AEs of grade 1 or 2 were bone marrow suppression (N = 21, 48.8%), hand-foot reaction (N = 19, 44.2%), hypertension (N = 18, 41.9%), hypothyroidism (N = 11, 25.6%), gastrointestinal bleeding (N = 3, 7.0%), and liver function damage (N = 5, 11.6%). Two patients reported grade 3–4 immune-related liver damage.

Conclusion

Second-line PD-1 inhibitor combined with albumin paclitaxel and apatinib showed certain efficacy and safety in patients with mGC.

Trial registration

Clinical trials, NCT04182724. Registered 27 November 2019; retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04182724
Modelling primary school teachers’ acceptance of distance-based educational technologies: A post-pandemic perspective
Authors: Altan Bilge Aslan , Yorulmaz Alper , Karalar Halit
Published: February 2024

Distance-based technologies have been one of the foci of technology-related studies since the pandemic first appeared, but there is still a need for further research to gain a greater understanding of how teachers are using these technologies in the post-pandemic era. Thus, the aim of this study is to determine whether the level of digital competence (DC) and techno-pedagogical content knowledge (TPACK) influence the acceptance, by primary school teachers, of distance-based technologies in their post-pandemic teaching. To achieve this, we integrated two external variables, DC and TPACK, into the predictors of the technology acceptance model (TAM), and introduced an extended version of the TAM. The statistics were collected through an online survey of 459 primary school teachers working in various regions of Türkiye. The analysis employed structural equation modelling. The findings suggest that there are statistically significant direct effects of digital competence and perceived usefulness on primary school teachers’ intentions to use distance-based technologies. The extended model explains the connection among the variables, and the findings offer important insights for collaborators in education to better empower teachers to integrate technology favourably and to maintain distance-based technology use in the future.
Club convergence of sustainable development: fresh evidence from developing and developed countries
Authors: Eleftheriou Konstantinos , Nijkamp Peter , Polemis Michael L.
Published: February 2024

Sustainability is a process that characterizes in a broad sense a nation’s ecological performance and may display a time-varying pattern. Such dynamic trajectories may vary among different countries and prompt not only intriguing questions on space–time convergence but also on the possibility of club convergence. The scope of this study is to investigate the long-run convergence pattern of 137 countries, as presented by their sustainable development index (SDI) over the period 1990–2019. The statistical–econometric analysis used to identify convergence across (groups of) countries is based on the advanced Phillips and Sul (JAE 24:1153–1185, 2009; ECTA 75:1771–1855, 2007) method. The empirical findings from our study allow us to identify two SDI convergence clubs of countries. The first and the biggest club includes mainly the developing African and Asian countries; whereas, the second club includes many OECD countries including inter alia the US, Canada, and Australia. Our analysis brings to light that the transition paths of these two clubs show a significant divergence pattern; this a-symmetry calls also into question the effectiveness of global green policies, such as the clean development mechanism as foreseen in the Kyoto protocol.
Evaluation of lettuce germplasm for resistance to impatiens necrotic spot virus
Authors: Richardson Kelley L. , Nayak Santosh , Hasegawa Daniel K. , Eriksen Renée L.
Published: February 2024

Recently, impatiens necrotic spot virus (INSV) has emerged as a major pathogen of lettuce in the Salinas Valley of California. The virus is a member of the genus Orthotospovirus, and under natural conditions, is transmitted by the tiny insect, western flower thrips. Due to the high efficiency of virus transmission, chemical management of thrips vectors is often ineffective in preventing the spread of the disease. Utilization of genetic resistance will be a critical component for managing the disease; however, little is known about genetic sources of resistance in lettuce. Here, we evaluated 189 lettuce lines under natural disease pressure in four field experiments to identify INSV resistant germplasm. The stability of resistance was also evaluated using different inoculation methods under controlled conditions. Our results showed a significant variation (p < 0.0001) among lettuce cultivars for both INSV severity and incidence. We identified INSV resistant germplasm that belongs to different horticultural types and leaf color, including a red-leaf cultivar ‘Eruption’ with a high degree of genetic stability. Moreover, we characterized several factors influencing thrips and host plant relationships, including horticultural type, leaf color, and polyphenol concentration. Overall, INSV resistant germplasm identified in this study provide valuable resources for breeding of INSV resistant lettuce cultivars.
Developing Relational Leaders Through Sorority Engagement: A Quantitative Approach
Authors: Selznick Benjamin S. , Goodman Michael A. , McCready Adam M. , Duran Antonio
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study was to understand what personal, environmental, and experiential aspects of undergraduate sorority engagement promote relational leadership development. A robust literature review and theories of relational leadership developed for application within the collegiate context provided the foundation for this inquiry. Through use of multilevel modeling, we analyzed a sample of 8,435 undergraduate National Panhellenic Conference sorority women from 172 institutions located within the United States. Results demonstrated the substantial importance of supportive sisterhood at both the individual and group level and showcased how variations in perceptions of sisterhood (e.g., accountability), student involvement (e.g., additional activities), and background characteristics (e.g., SES) affected undergraduate sorority members’ relational leadership development. We close by discussing our findings and offering implications for future practice and research.
Adult Children’s Migration and Health-Related Quality of Life Among Older Nepali Adults
Authors: Ghimire Saruna , Singh Devendra Raj , McLaughlin Sara J. , Nath Dhirendra , McCarren Hannah , Subedi Janardan
Published: February 2024

Traditionally, adult children have served as primary caretakers and providers for older Nepali adults. However, out-migration of adult children for employment and other opportunities is increasing. Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in older Nepali adults in general and in the context of adult children’s migration is poorly understood. This study aims to assess HRQOL of older Nepali adults and its relationship with adult children’s migration. We used existing cross-sectional survey data on 260 older adults from Krishnapur municipality, which has witnessed a high rate of adult migration. HRQOL, quantified using the SF-12 scale, is expressed in terms of a physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) health component. A higher PCS and MCS score, each ranging from 0 to 100, indicates better physical and mental health, respectively. The correlates of HRQOL were assessed in simple and multiple linear regression. Participants had suboptimal HRQOL [mean (± SD): PCS = 40.4 ± 9.2 and MCS = 45.2 ± 7.7]. After adjusting for covariates, adult children’s migration was associated with lower MCS scores (β: -2.33, 95%CI: -4.21, -0.44). Individuals with more than one child had higher MCS scores (β: 2.14, 95%CI: 0.19, 4.09). Females (β: -3.64, 95%CI: -7.21, -0.06) and those with a history of unemployment (β: -6.36, 95%CI: -10.57, -2.15) had lower PCS scores than their respective counterparts. The presence of chronic conditions was associated with significantly lower PCS and MCS scores. Our findings suggest that adult children’s migration may negatively affect HRQOL among older Nepali adults, specifically their psychological well-being. Further research investigating potential moderating factors that may serve as important buffers is needed.
Exploring dyadic relationships between Science Parks and universities: bridging theory and practice
Authors: Löfsten Hans , Klofsten Magnus
Published: February 2024

This paper delves into the dyadic relationships between Science Parks (SPs) and universities from the perspective of SPs. It explores various dimensions, including organizational functions, co-location, collaboration, management team activities, partnerships, and connections with university students and senior academics. A survey of 120 European SPs underscores the significance of having the University-Industry Liaison Office within the SP, fostering increased collaboration with the local university, providing career opportunities for university students, and promoting alumni network activities. Additionally, the proximity of universities and research institutions within a 50 km radius positively impacts the relationships between SPs and universities. Additionally, the paper offers several managerial implications. Establishing communication channels between SP management and universities fosters an environment that boosts the open exchange of ideas, collaborative discussions, and problem-solving. The alignment of SPs and universities' goals and objectives, particularly in areas such as research themes, industry partnerships, technology transfer, and talent development, further solidifies the mutually advantageous nature of these relationships, establishing a strong foundation for their enhancement. Within the SP environment, universities can closely collaborate with businesses, start-ups, and entrepreneurs, promoting innovation, commercializing research findings, and incubating spin-off ventures.
The use of an artificial neural network for assessing tone perception in electric powertrain noise, vibration and harshness
Authors: Ricardo Souza Marcos , Haris Ahmed , Rodrigues Leon , Offner Guenter , Sopouch Martin , Diwoky Franz , Mohammadpour Mahdi , Theodossiades Stephanos
Published: February 2024

The transition from internal combustion engines to electric powertrains brings new challenges for the Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) analysis of these vehicles. The tonal nature of the electromagnetic excitations and of the gear meshing mechanism are reflected in the radiated noise of electric powertrains, often leading drivers and passengers to rate the noise from electric vehicles with an increased nuisance even if they are quieter than internal combustion driven powertrains. In this paper, a flexible multi-body dynamics model is developed to calculate the vibration and forces transmitted from the bearings to the housing of an electric powertrain. Acceleration, force and sound spectra data are used to train an artificial neural network to assess the prominence of tones in the noise based on the results of the structural simulation. The results show it is possible to identify psychoacoustic metrics from the multibody dynamics simulation alone. With this new approach, it is feasible to quickly investigate how changes in the powertrain will affect the tonal perception of the noise without the need of new acoustic simulations and experiments. For the tonal perception analysis, the Prominence Ratio is used as a metric. This framework of combining multibody dynamics simulation with initial acoustic data and neural networks can be also applied to different NVH metrics as appropriate.
Paradigm uniformity effects on French liaison
Authors: Storme Benjamin
Published: February 2024

French liaison is a type of external sandhi involving the use of a special consonant-final allomorph before vowel-initial words. Consonants occurring at the end of these allomorphs are challenging for phonological theory because of evidence that their prosodic and segmental realization is intermediate between the realizations of word-final and word-initial consonants. This puzzling behavior of French liaison has been used to motivate new phonological and lexical representations, including floating consonants, lexical constructions and gradient symbolic representations. This paper proposes an alternative analysis: the variable realization of liaison is derived as a paradigm uniformity effect, assuming traditional phonological and lexical representations. In a Word1-Word2 sequence, the liaison consonant at the boundary between the two words ends up acquiring properties of both word-final and word-initial consonants because of a pressure to make contextual variants of Word1 and Word2 similar to their citation forms. The proposal is implemented in a probabilistic constraint-based grammar including paradigm uniformity constraints and is shown to account for the intermediate behavior of liaison both in terms of prosodic attachment and segmental realization. The paper provides evidence for two key predictions of this analysis, using judgment data on the prosodic attachment of liaison consonants in European French and phonetic data on the interaction between liaison and affrication in Quebec French.
Enhancing students’ classical Chinese reading through a two-year flipped self-regulated learning intervention program
Authors: Lau Kit-Ling , Qian Quan
Published: February 2024

This study investigated the feasibility and effectiveness of using a flipped classroom (FC) approach to combine self-regulated learning (SRL) instruction and out-of-class eLearning activities in a two-year reading intervention program to facilitate students’ learning of classical Chinese reading. A total of 352 junior secondary students from three Hong Kong secondary schools participated in the study voluntarily. Using a quasi-experimental design, students from each school were assigned to one of the following conditions: SRL instruction plus out-of-class eLearning (EG-I+E), SRL instruction only (EG-I), and control (CG). Both quantitative methods, including reading tests and student questionnaires, and qualitative methods, including teacher and student interviews, were adopted to collect data for the program evaluation. Findings indicate that after implementing the intervention program, EG students perceived significant changes in their classical Chinese lessons to be more SRL-oriented. While all treatment groups significantly improved their performance in the reading post-tests, only EG students significantly improved their strategy use, self-efficacy, and intrinsic motivation. Although both EG groups had similar improvements in all outcome measures, teachers and students of EG-I+E opined that the eLearning component of FC facilitated teachers’ implementation of the intervention and students’ strategy learning and motivation. Findings are discussed to shed light on applying SRL instruction and FC in a school subject long dominated by teacher-centered instruction.
Local community development and higher education institutions: Moving from the triple helix to the quadruple helix model
Authors: Shyiramunda Theophile , van den Bersselaar Dmitri
Published: February 2024

This article examines issues of local community development in Rwanda, building on the triple helix model proposed by Henry Etzkowitz and Loet Leydesdorff in the 1990s to draw insights from international perspectives. The authors favour an expanded quadruple helix model which includes the local community as a unit of analysis, alongside higher education institutions (HEIs), the private sector and government. In this fourfold model, the local community is identified as an additional helix based on the idea that HEIs can serve as engines for boosting economic development. The results of the authors’ analysis show that innovations in higher education which are directed towards community development can, in turn, lead to changes in existing practices and teaching to better reflect the needs of the local community as well as the broader community beyond the immediate context of HEIs. Graduates’ employable skills can be strengthened through outreach initiatives by HEIs, along with the collaborative support of all elements in the fourfold model. The authors’ review of relevant literature and policy documents goes further to illustrate how each element can play an optimal role in forming a strong and sustainable partnership at the local level. The robust cooperation among helices in this model may lead to higher rates of graduates’ employment in a knowledge-based society. These innovations can further lead to full alleviation of poverty, starting from the sphere of local community development.
Temporal and Periodic Analysis of Penumbra–Umbra Ratio for the Last Four Solar Cycles
Authors: Chowdhury Partha , Kilcik Ali , Saha Ankit , Rozelot Jean-Pierre , Obridko Vladimir , Erdélyi Robertus
Published: February 2024

We investigate the long-term dynamic behavior of the sunspot penumbra to umbra area ratio by analyzing the Debrecen Photoheliographic Data (DPD) of sunspot groups during the period 1976–2017 (Solar Cycles 21–24). We consider all types of spots and find that the average penumbra–umbra ratio does not exhibit any significant variation with spot latitudes, solar-cycle phases as well as sunspot-cycle strengths. However, the behavior of this ratio is different when we consider the latitudinal distribution of the northern and southern hemispheres separately. Our analysis indicates that for daily total sunspot area the average spot ratio varies from 5.5 to 6.5 and for very large sunspots (> 5000 $\mu$
μ
Hem; one $\mu$
μ
Hem is $10^{-6}$

10

−
6

the area of visual solar hemisphere) its value rises to about 8.3. In the case of the group-sunspot area, the average spot ratio is ∼6.76. Furthermore, we found that this ratio exhibits a trend for both smaller (area <100 $\mu$
μ
Hem) and large (area > 100 $\mu$
μ
Hem) sunspots. Finally, we report the periodic and quasiperiodic variations present in this ratio time series after applying the multitaper method (MTM) and Morlet-wavelet technique. We found that along with the ∼11-year solar-cycle period, the penumbra to umbra area ratio also shows several midterm variations, specifically, Rieger-type and quasibiennial periodicities. We also found that Rieger-type periods occur in all cycles, but the temporal evolution and the modulation of these types of periodicities are different in different solar cycles.
Dynamical Phenomena in the Martian Atmosphere Through Mars Express Imaging
Authors: Sánchez-Lavega A. , del Río-Gaztelurrutia T. , Spiga A. , Hernández-Bernal J. , Larsen E. , Tirsch D. , Cardesin-Moinelo A. , Machado P.
Published: February 2024

This review describes the dynamic phenomena in the atmosphere of Mars that are visible in images taken in the visual range through cloud formation and dust lifting. We describe the properties of atmospheric features traced by aerosols covering a large range of spatial and temporal scales, including dynamical interpretations and modelling when available. We present the areographic distribution and the daily and seasonal cycles of those atmospheric phenomena. We rely primarily on images taken by cameras on Mars Express.
Bad social norms rather than bad believers: examining the role of social norms in bad beliefs
Authors: Müller Basil
Published: February 2024

People with bad beliefs — roughly beliefs that conflict with those of the relevant experts and are maintained regardless of counter-evidence — are often cast as bad believers. Such beliefs are seen to be the result of, e.g., motivated or biased cognition and believers are judged to be epistemically irrational and blameworthy in holding them. Here I develop a novel framework to explain why people form bad beliefs. People with bad beliefs follow the social epistemic norms guiding how agents are supposed to form and share beliefs within their respective communities. Beliefs go bad because these norms aren’t reliably knowledge-conducive. In other words, bad beliefs aren’t due to bad believers but due bad social epistemic norms. The framework also unifies different explanations of bad beliefs, is testable and provides distinct interventions to combat such beliefs. The framework also helps to capture the complex and often contextual normative landscape surrounding bad beliefs more adequately. On this picture, it’s primarily groups that are to be blamed for bad beliefs. I also suggest that some individuals will be blameless for forming their beliefs in line with their group’s norms, whereas others won’t be. And I draw attention to the factors that influence blameworthiness-judgements in these contexts.
Blood group AB is associated with reduced blood loss but also elevated cardiovascular mortality in aortocoronary bypass surgery
Authors: Masseli Franz , Veseli Arlinda , Pfohl Marvin , Hoch Jochen , Treede Hendrik , Schiller Wolfgang
Published: February 2024

Patient blood group (BG) is predictive for von-Willebrand-factor (VWF) and Factor VIII variation. The clinical impact of this ABO-effect on blood loss, cardiovascular complications and outcome has been described for several patient cohorts. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of patient BG on blood loss and outcome after coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG). Patient records, intraoperative data and perioperative transfusion records of 5713 patients receiving an on-pump CABG procedure between 05/2004 and 12/2018 were analyzed. A logistic regression model for death due to perioperative myocardial ischaemia (PMI) was developed from initially 24 variables by using an univariate and multivariate selection process. BG AB patients required less blood transfusions as compared to the other blood groups, especially in case of emergency operations. However, BG AB patients also had a higher mortality which was due to secondary cardiovascular complications. The impact of blood type on the rate of cardiovascular mortality was confirmed in the logistic regression model. BG AB patients have a worse outcome after CABG surgery due to an increased incidence of fatal cardiovascular complications. As perioperative myocardial ischemia due to graft occlusion appears to be the most likely explanation, stricter anticoagulation for BG AB patients should be discussed.
Water Quality and Dissolved Organic Carbon Content in Agricultural Streams: Northern Nile Delta Region, Egypt
Authors: Bakr Noura , Shahin Sahar A. , Essa E. F. , Elbana Tamer A.
Published: February 2024

Sustainable development goals (SDGs) 2 (zero hunger), 6 (clean water and sanitation), and 15 (life on land) are related to the human-water-soil nexus. Soil organic carbon and nutrients can be removed and transported to waterways through runoff and drainage. The main goals of this study are to quantify the water quality for irrigation and assess the dissolved organic carbon (DOC) contents in streams in the northern Nile Delta, Egypt. A 4-year water quality monitoring program is accomplished by collecting 35 irrigation and drainage water samples per year from the study area. The measured water quality parameters are as follows: salinity, pH, Na, SAR, Cl, and NO3–N. In addition, the DOC content is accessed. The salinity hazard ranged from moderate, for most irrigation samples, to high and very high for drainage samples. All collected water samples have low to medium sodium hazards. Results indicate that average DOC contents in irrigation canals are 2.32 and 2.93 mg L−1 for the summer and winter, respectively. The respective means of DOC concentration in drainage canals for the summer and winter seasons are around 3.96 and 5.09 mg L−1. This study revealed significant differences in EC, pH, Na, Cl, and SAR, as water quality parameters, between irrigation and drainage canals. Additionally, the studied agroecosystem has seasonal variability in DOC concentration in irrigation and drainage canals between summer and winter. Overall, reusing drainage water for irrigation in the study area requires the selection of suitable crops and site-specific management.
Urban Green Space Usage and Life Satisfaction During the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Refisch Martin , Kurz Karin , Hartmann Jörg
Published: February 2024

Whereas research in Germany has focused mainly on how environmental burdens such as noise or air pollution affect health or well-being, little is known about the effects of environmental goods. Our study examines urban green spaces as one such environmental good, and asks how their usage affected life satisfaction during the coronavirus pandemic. Drawing on attention restoration and stress reduction theory as well as on theories of social integration, we further ask how different kinds of activities such as meeting friends or doing sports mediate the effects of green spaces on life satisfaction. Our empirical analysis builds on unique individual panel data for residents of Hannover and Braunschweig taken from interviews before and during the coronavirus pandemic. Using causal difference-in-difference models, our results reveal no robust effect of increased or decreased green space usage on life satisfaction. However, results depend on the operationalization: Analyses point to a negative effect of reduced green space visits only when green space use is assessed retrospectively. Hence, our study highlights the need for further causality-oriented research on the relationship between green space usage and life satisfaction. Moreover, it stresses the value of performing robustness checks by applying alternative operationalizations in causal analyses.
Using Voice-to-Voice Machine Translation to Overcome Language Barriers in Clinical Communication: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Hudelson Patricia , Chappuis François
Published: February 2024

Background

Machine translation (MT) apps are used informally by healthcare professionals in many settings, especially where interpreters are not readily available. As MT becomes more accurate and accessible, it may be tempting to use MT more widely. Institutions and healthcare professionals need guidance on when and how these applications might be used safely and how to manage potential risks to communication.

Objectives

Explore factors that may hinder or facilitate communication when using voice-to-voice MT.

Design

Health professionals volunteered to use a voice-to-voice MT app in routine encounters with their patients. Both health professionals and patients provided brief feedback on the experience, and a subset of consultations were observed.

Participants

Doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals working in the Primary Care Division of the Geneva University Hospitals, Switzerland.

Main Measures

Achievement of consultation goals; understanding and satisfaction; willingness to use MT again; difficulties encountered; factors affecting communication when using MT.

Key Results

Fourteen health professionals conducted 60 consultations in 18 languages, using one of two voice-to-voice MT apps. Fifteen consultations were observed.

Professionals achieved their consultation goals in 82.7% of consultations but were satisfied with MT communication in only 53.8%. Reasons for dissatisfaction included lack of practice with the app and difficulty understanding patients. Eighty-six percent of patients thought MT-facilitated communication was easy, and most participants were willing to use MT in the future (73% professionals, 84% patients). Experiences were more positive with European languages. Several conditions and speech practices were identified that appear to affect communication when using MT.

Conclusion

While professional interpreters remain the gold standard for overcoming language barriers, voice-to-voice MT may be acceptable in some clinical situations. Healthcare institutions and professionals must be attentive to potential sources of MT errors and ensure the conditions necessary for safe and effective communication. More research in natural settings is needed to inform guidelines and training on using MT in clinical communication.
Modification of faba bean protein isolate by high-intensity ultrasound treatment: screening of physicochemical, thermal, and structural properties
Authors: Adal E.
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to investigate the impacts of high-intensity ultrasound treatments on the physicochemical, thermal, and structural properties of faba bean protein isolates (FPI). Aqueous FPI suspensions were sonicated at 20 kHz for 1, 3, 5, and 10 min. Ultrasound treatment increased the solubility of FPI at all sonicated times, with maximum solubility (89.11%) observed at the 3-min treatment. Particle size (from 370.47 to 187.87 nm) and zeta potential (from − 40.83 to − 37.17 mV) reduction (in magnitude) by sonication were observed at all studied times. The usage of ultrasound has been found to have a more pronounced antibrowning impact compared to unsonication (higher L* and b*, lower a*, C*, H*, BI, and ΔE). With the increase in sonication treatment from 0 to 3 min, the Td decreased from 103.07 to 99.58 °C and ΔHd from 2.21 to 1.12 J/g, which were related to the changes in the secondary structure of proteins. Sonication changed the secondary structure of FPI, decreasing the α-helix, β-turn, and random coil content, and increasing the β-sheet for samples treated up to 3 min. Prolonged sonication increased the α-helices due to the extension of certain types of hydrogen bonds in the structure. The microstructural changes of FPI caused by ultrasound were further validated through observations made using a scanning electron microscope, which revealed the presence of smaller fragments. The present study indicates that the use of ultrasound has the potential to improve the functionality of FPI, hence potentially enhancing the efficacy of FPI-based food products.

Graphical abstract
Providing a Rigorous Benchmark Measurement Foundation for Modeling-Informed Qualification and Certification of Metal Additive Manufactured Components
Authors: Levine Lyle , Lane Brandon , Glaessgen Edward , Gorelik Michael
Published: February 2024

Metal additive manufacturing (AM) is a transformative set of technologies that are increasingly being used for demanding structural applications. However, persistent challenges regarding reliability and properties of the printed parts seriously impact qualification and certification (Q&C). Computational approaches can mitigate these challenges, but availability of benchmark measurement data for model validation is a key requirement. Q&C will be discussed in the context of the Computational Materials for Qualification and Certification (CM4QC) steering group, a tightly focused collaboration of aviation-focused companies, research and regulatory government agencies, and universities that is working to develop a roadmap for increasing the use of computational approaches in the aviation Q&C process. Benchmark measurement data will be discussed in the context of the Additive Manufacturing Benchmark Test Series (AM Bench), a broad collaboration of 10 NIST divisions and about 20 external organizations, including several that are collaborators on CM4QC, that provide rigorous measurement data for validating AM simulations for a wide range of AM technologies and material systems. Technical standards also play an important role for Q&C and the confluence between CM4QC, AM Bench, and standards organizations will be discussed.
Measures of Ethics and Social Responsibility Among Undergraduate Engineering Students: Findings from a Longitudinal Study
Authors: Howland Shiloh James , Jesiek Brent K. , Claussen Stephanie , Zoltowski Carla B.
Published: February 2024

Prior research on engineering students’ understandings of ethics and social responsibility has produced mixed and sometimes conflicting results. Seeking greater clarity in this area of investigation, we conducted an exploratory, longitudinal study at four universities in the United States to better understand how engineering undergraduate students perceive ethics and social responsibility and how those perceptions change over time. Undergraduate engineering students at four U.S. universities were surveyed three times: during their 1st (Fall 2015), 5th (Fall 2017), and 8th semesters (Spring 2019). The students who completed all three surveys (n = 226) comprise the sample that was analyzed in this paper for changes in their scores on five instruments: Fundamentals of Engineering/Situational Judgment, Moral Disengagement, ABET Engineering Work and Practice Considerations, Macroethics, and Political and Social Involvement Scale. We found that students modestly increased their knowledge of ethics and ability to apply that knowledge in situations calling for them to exercise judgment. In addition, they consistently indicated that health and safety considerations in engineering were of highest importance. They also showed steady levels of social consciousness over time, in contrast to other studies which detected a culture of increasing disengagement in engineering students throughout the four years of their undergraduate studies.
Impact of COVID-19 on testicular function: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Cannarella Rossella , Marino Marta , Crafa Andrea , Bagnara Vincenzo , La Vignera Sandro , Condorelli Rosita A. , Calogero Aldo E.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Studies investigating the effects of SARS-CoV-2 on male reproductive function are few and heterogeneous, and results are often conflicting. This systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out on studies conducted in men with active or anamnestic SARS-CoV-2 infection to evaluate its consequences on the male sex hormone profile and semen parameters.

Materials and method

This meta-analysis follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) protocols. PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and Embase databases were searched to identify relevant studies. We originally selected 3553 articles. After the eligibility phase, 16 articles met our inclusion criteria encompassing 11 case-control studies and 5 cohort studies (2 prospective and 3 retrospective studies). We performed the quantitative analysis with Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Software. Cochran-Q and heterogeneity (I2) indexes were used to assess statistical heterogeneity. Sensitivity analysis and publication bias tests were also performed.

Results

Overall, 1250 patients with active or recent (up to 80 days before) COVID-19 infection and 1232 matched healthy controls were included. Sperm concentration, total sperm count, and total motility were significantly lower in patients compared with controls. Patients also showed lower levels of total testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone, and higher levels of luteinizing hormone, 17β-estradiol, and prolactin compared with healthy controls. None of the included studies found the presence of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA in the semen of infected patients.

Conclusion

The present systematic review and meta-analysis suggests the presence of an association between SARS-CoV-2 infection and primary testicular damage manifested with a picture of altered steroidogenesis and worsening spermatogenesis. The absence of the virus in the seminal fluid indicates a low possibility of sexual transmission of the infection to partners and offspring. However, our findings mostly show short-term follow-up, while few studies have considered the long-term consequences of the viral infection, thus further studies are needed to evaluate the long-term consequences on male reproductive health.
Precise control of microfluidic flow conditions is critical for harnessing the in vitro transfection capability of pDNA-loaded lipid-Eudragit nanoparticles
Authors: Santhanes Diviya , Zhang Huiming , Wilkins Alex , Aitken Robert John , Gannon Anne-Louise , Liang Mingtao
Published: February 2024

Microfluidics is widely regarded as a leading technology for industrial-scale manufacture of multicomponent, gene-based nanomedicines in a reproducible manner. Yet, very few investigations detail the impact of flow conditions on the biological performance of the product, particularly biocompatibility and therapeutic efficiency. Herein, this study investigated the engineering of a novel lipid-Eudragit hybrid nanoparticle in a bifurcating microfluidics micromixer for plasmid DNA (pDNA) delivery. Nanoparticles of ~150 nm in size, with uniform polydispersity index (PDI = 0.2) and ξ-potential of 5–11 mV were formed across flow rate ratios (FRR, aqueous to organic phase) of 3:1 and 5:1, respectively. The hybrid nanoparticles maintained colloidal stability and structural integrity of loaded pDNA following recovery by ultracentrifugation. Importantly, in vitro testing in human embryonic kidney cell line (HEK293T) revealed significant differences in biocompatibility and transfection efficiency (TE). Lipid-Eudragit nanoparticles produced at FRR 3:1 displayed high cellular toxicity (0–30% viability), compared with nanoparticles prepared at FRR 5:1 (50–100% viability). Red fluorescent protein (RFP) expression was sustained for 24–72 h following exposure of cells to nanoparticles, indicating controlled release of pDNA and trafficking to the nucleus. Nanoparticles produced at FRR 5:1 resulted in markedly higher TE (12%) compared with those prepared at FRR 3:1 (2%). Notably, nanoparticles produced using the bench-scale nanoprecipitation method resulted in lower biocompatibility (30–90%) but higher RFP expression (25–38%). These findings emphasize the need for in-depth analysis of the effect of formulation and flow conditions on the physicochemical and biological performance of gene nanomedicines when transitioning from bench to clinic.

Graphical abstract

Transitioning lipid-Eudragit hybrid nanoparticles from bench-scale nanoprecipitation to industrial-scale microfluidics
Terahertz Time-Domain Spectroscopic (THz-TDS) Insights into Protein Deformation
Authors: Abouelsayed A. , El-Bahy Gamal S. , Abdelrazzak Abdelrazek B.
Published: February 2024

In this study, we utilized terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) to study the radiation-induced protein deformation. The absorption coefficient spectra obtained from THz-TDS measurements in the frequency range (0.06–2 THz) was fitted using the Lorentzian model. The absorption coefficient fitting data was used to identify the α-helix and β-structure relative contributions in the protein secondary structure of the kidney tissue of rats irradiated with 10-cGy and 2-Gy X-ray separately or in combination. Our data show that 2-Gy X-irradiation leads to an increase in the β-structure contribution associated with a decrease in the α-helix contribution as indicated by the fitting parameters extracted from fitting the absorption coefficient α(ω) spectra with the Lorentzian function. The results point out that there is a strong correlation between the strength of the hydrogen bonds located between or inside the polypeptide chains of the extended β-sheet and α-helix, respectively, and the absolute value of the absorption coefficient α(ω), the refractive index, and the dielectric constant. The lowest refractive index and dielectric constant are recorded in the 2-Gy-irradiated group followed by the 10-cGy–2 Gy-irradiated group while the least effect was recorded in the 10-cGy-irradiated group. These data provide evidence of the adaptive effect of the 10-cGy X-irradiation delivered 24 h prior to the 2-Gy x-irradiation.
The prognostic value of two histopathologic classification models of ANCA-associated glomerulonephritis: a prospective study
Authors: Christodoulou Michalis , Moysidou Eleni , Lioulios Georgios , Stai Stamatia , Bandis Konstantinos , Flaris Nikolaos , Nikolaidou Christina , Fylaktou Asimina , Papagianni Aikaterini , Stangou Maria
Published: February 2024

Background

Berden Classification and anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) Renal Risk Score are classification models for rating renal histology and predicting outcome in patients with ANCA-associated Vasculitis/Glomerulonephritis (AAV/GN). In the present study we compare their ability to predict renal function outcome in short- and long-term follow up.

Methods

Patients with an initial diagnosis of AAV/GN based on kidney biopsy were classified according to Berden and Renal Risk Score, started on the same treatment protocol, and were followed prospectively for up to 60 months. Renal function was recorded at 3mo(T3), 6mo(T6) and 60mo(T60), and results were compared to both classification systems.

Results

Ninety four AAV/GN patients, M/F = 36/58, age = 60.05 (18–82)yrs were included. Based on Berden classification, patients grouped as Focal (n = 24), Crescentic (n = 35), Mixed (n = 21) and Sclerotic (n = 14), had significant differences in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) only at T3, while the percentage of those requiring hemodialysis differed at T0, T3, T6 but not at T60. According to the Renal Risk Score, patients were classified as Low (n = 8), Medium (n = 47) and High (n = 39) risk, and showed significant differences in both eGFR levels, proportion of hemodialysis, at T0, T3, T6 and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) at T60. Even patients classified as Mixed (Berden) and as Medium or High risk (Renal Risk Score) had significant improvement from T0 to T6. Relapse could not be predicted by either system.

Conclusion

Both methods were able to predict short-term renal function outcome and need for hemodialysis, but the Renal Risk Score showed significant superiority in predicting renal function outcome and ESKD after long-term follow up.

Graphical Abstract