bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Affecting the Outcome and Intensity of Intergroup Encounters in Crested Macaques (Macaca nigra)
Authors: Martínez-Íñigo Laura , Rismayanti  , Engelhardt Antje , Agil Muhammad , Pilot Malgorzata , Majolo Bonaventura
Published: August 2023

Conspecific animal groups often compete for access to fitness-enhancing resources. The more valuable the resource at stake is, the greater the costs groups can afford to outcompete their neighbours, leading to between-group conflicts. We investigated what factors affected intergroup encounter outcome (win, loss, or draw) and intensity (level of aggression and duration) in wild, crested macaques (Macaca nigra). We collected data on 158 dyadic intergroup encounters among three groups of crested macaques in Tangoko Nature Reserve (Indonesia) between November 2015 and July 2016. Intergroup encounters were more likely to have a clear winner the larger the group size difference was between the opposing groups and when both groups rarely used the intergroup encounter location. Groups tended to win in specific parts of their home range, regardless of the numerical advantage, the frequency of use of the intergroup encounter location and its distance to the closest core area. Most encounters involved aggression, but contact aggression was rare. None of our candidate predictors helped to explain the differences in intergroup encounter escalation. Male intergroup aggression was more common than female intergroup aggression. The probability of female and male participation in intergroup aggression increased with the participation of the other sex. Males chased and attacked females in their group (i.e., herded them) in most encounters. Our study suggests that intragroup sexual conflict occurs during intergroup encounters in crested macaques. More detailed and longer studies on intergroup participation may help to understand the factors behind crested macaque intergroup encounter outcome and intensity.
Autism in Preschool-Aged Children: The Effects of COVID-19 Lockdown
Authors: Termine Cristiano , Galli Vera , Dui Linda Greta , Berlusconi Valentina , Lipari Rossella , Lunardini Francesca , Ferrante Simona
Published: August 2023

The COVID-19 lockdown affected children, especially those with autism spectrum disorder, due to the disruption in rehabilitation and educational activities. We conducted a cross-sectional study of 315 preschool-aged children, 35 of which had autism, to investigate this impact. A questionnaire was administered to explore socio-demographic status, familiar/home environment, and COVID-19 exposure. The clinical features of autistic subjects were also examined. Seven variables were considered to describe the effect of pandemic: Remote learning, Behavior changes, Home activities, Sleep habits, Night awakenings, Physical activity, Information about the virus. The lockdown had a significant impact on Remote learning, Behavior changes, and Information about the virus in participants with autism. Moreover, we found a worsening in repetitive movements, echolalia, restricted interests, and aggressive behaviors.
FPGA Design of Transposed Convolutions for Deep Learning Using High-Level Synthesis
Authors: Sestito Cristian , Perri Stefania , Stewart Robert
Published: August 2023

Deep Learning (DL) is pervasive across a wide variety of domains. Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) are often used for image processing DL applications. Modern CNN models are growing to meet the needs of more sophisticated tasks, e.g. using Transposed Convolutions (TCONVs) for image decompression and image generation. Such state-of-the-art DL models often target GPU-based high-performance architectures, due to the high computational and hardware resource needs of TCONV layers. To avoid prohibitive GPU energy costs, CNNs are increasingly deployed to decentralized embedded autonomous devices, such as Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs). However, this poses challenges for designing efficient hardware implementations of TCONV layers. This paper presents a parameterized design and implementation of a new TCONV module, which is synthesizable onto FPGAs. It is implemented using the High-Level Synthesis (HLS), through a C++ template to parameterize its functional and non-functional properties. These parameters allow kernel sizes, image sizes, quantization and parallelism to be varied by users. With a systematic exploration in this design space, we find an optimal instance of this TCONV module that achieves 6.25 Giga Outputs per Second (Gout/s) using just 1.53 W of power. We then use our TCONV layer in two neural networks for image decompression and image generation. Image decompression achieves a speed throughput of more than 30K frames-per-second (fps) using only the 16% of resources on average, image generation achieves an energy efficiency of 324 fps/W and outperforms comparable state-of-the-art models by at least 7.3×.
A chemotaxis reaction–diffusion model for Multiple Sclerosis with Allee effect
Authors: Bisi Marzia , Groppi Maria , Martalò Giorgio , Soresina Cinzia
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we study a modification of the mathematical model describing inflammation and demyelination patterns in the brain caused by Multiple Sclerosis proposed in Lombardo et al. (J Math Biol 75:373–417, 2017). In particular, we hypothesize a minimal amount of macrophages to be able to start and sustain the inflammatory response. Thus, the model function for macrophage activation includes an Allee effect. We investigate the emergence of Turing patterns by combining linearised and weakly nonlinear analysis, bifurcation diagrams and numerical simulations, focusing on the comparison with the previous model.
Performance assessment in teacher education research—A scoping review of characteristics of assessment instruments in the DACH region
Authors: Albu Carina , Lindmeier Anke
Published: August 2023

In recent years, a new branch of teacher competence research has emerged in which competence is measured close to teaching performance. Such so-called performance assessment approaches are gaining increasing attention, but the research field is still fragmented. A lack of overview and varying reporting practices interfere with its coherent development. This scoping literature review provides an overview of recent advances and the current state of performance assessment instruments in teacher education research in German-speaking countries. We examined assessment instruments that provide objective, standardised measurement procedures based on observable behaviour regarding teaching demands. Based on 20 assessment instruments, a category system with 14 categories was inductively developed, capturing their characteristics in terms of context, test methods, and alignment with criteria for performance assessment. Despite the considerable variation, three types of teacher performance assessment instruments could be identified through qualitative and exploratory statistical analyses. The results show continuity as well as development compared to previous reviews and provide suggestions on advancing the still-emerging research field. For example, they can be used to foster the coherence of the research field by providing information on typical instrument differences and similarities as well as essential reporting demands.
Who will encourage a sustainable diet? Understanding the psychological predictors of relational organizing
Authors: Jones Megan S. , Sekar Samantha , Dillard Courtney , Mertens Andrew , Sparkman Gregg
Published: August 2023

Why do (or do not) people encourage others in their social networks to adopt climate-friendly behaviors? Encouragement like this has been referred to as “relational organizing,” and can help scale up climate action across communities. Since relational organizing is a social behavior, it likely has its own specific barriers and motivations beyond what affects personal climate action. Food is a big part of our day-to-day lives and our relationships with people we care about. It also impacts the climate, ecosystems, animal welfare, and our own health. As such, people’s climate-friendly food choices provide an ideal case study to explore drivers of relational organizing. Using an online survey with two North American samples of motivated audiences (one US-wide animal advocacy community, N = 1166, and one environmentally focused community in Boulder, Colorado, N = 363), we sought to identify and categorize the social–psychological barriers to and drivers of relational organizing for climate-friendly food choices. Using exploratory factor analysis and predictive models, we found that self-efficacy in carrying out the personal behavior, response efficacy beliefs, supportive social norms, and personal aptitude in relational organizing (e.g., personal norms) predicted relational organizing action after the survey. People’s sense of personal obligation to engage in relational organizing (i.e., personal norms), beliefs that would make a difference to important causes (i.e. response efficacy), and social identity beliefs around activism were particularly important. We discuss how these findings can help inform interventions related to climate-friendly diets, and what this means more broadly for how relational organizing can support climate action.
Pulsed Vacuum Osmotic Dehydration (PVOD) of Fermented Beetroot: Modeling and Optimization by Response Surface Methodology (RSM)
Authors: Staniszewska Izabela , Nowak Konrad W. , Zielinska Danuta , Konopka Iwona , Zielinska Magdalena
Published: August 2023

Fermented beetroots can be osmotically dehydrated and then dried to make a nutritious snack known as fermented beet chips. To ensure the best product quality, it is necessary to determine optimal parameters of osmotic dehydration. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the optimal parameters of pulsed vacuum osmotic dehydration (PVOD) of fermented beetroot slices. The response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to optimize PVOD and improve the efficiency of the process. The experimental parameters considered: (T) processing temperature (20 < T < 40 °C), (SC) sugar concentration (40 < SC < 60%), (VT) vacuum impregnation time (10 < VT < 50 min), and (ST) slice thickness (2 < ST < 6 mm). PVOD was optimized in terms of properties of beetroot tissue (hardness, HT, redness, a*T, water loss, WL, solid gain, SG) and osmotic solution (dry matter content, DMS, redness, a*S). The optimum qualities of beetroot tissue (HT = 202.0 N, a*T = 11.8, WL = 55.5%, SG = 7.1%) and osmotic solution (DMS = 57.3%, a*S = 38.9) were obtained at T = 20 °C, SC = 60%, VT = 10 min, ST = 6 mm and T = 40 °C, SC = 60%, VT = 50 min, ST = 2 mm, respectively. The beet tissue obtained by PVOD in optimal parameters was characterized by 2.58 ± 0.21 kg H2O/kg DM moisture content (MCF), 4.64 ± 0.37 mg GA/g DM total polyphenols (TPC), 2.2 ± 0.2 mg TE/g DM ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), 1125 ± 10 kg/m3 density (ρT), and 4.29 ± 0.24 total color change (ΔE*) compared to material before PVOD. 2D and 3D images of the beetroot surface structure allowed to observe the collapse of the structure and the appearance of a semi-transparent coating (most likely a sugar solution) on the material after PVOD.
The Rise of Xenophobia and Nationalism in China Since the COVID Pandemic: Insights from Discourse Analysis
Authors: Chan Lai-Ha , Lee Pak K.
Published: August 2023

Since the successful containment of COVID-19 in Wuhan in late March 2020, China had implemented a nationwide highly stringent and restrictive zero-COVID policy to manage the pandemic until the sudden swift away from it in early December 2022. How did the Chinese Communist Party discursively construct it as a ‘normal’ and legitimate policy? Using interpretivism and poststructuralist political theory, this paper examines how Chinese political elites constructed a discourse of danger for the COVID pandemic, with the dominant discursive narratives full of xenophobic and nationalist languages. The discourse framed ‘foreigners’ as ‘threats’ to Chinese people’s health, advocated that China should rely on home-made vaccines and medicines and, more importantly, argued that the Chinese Communist rule demonstrates ‘institutional superiority’ over Western governance. This xenophobic and nationalist discourse has lingered on after the dismantling of the zero-COVID policy. There are grounds for us to concern whether China is seeking self-reliance rather than integrating itself with the world. A Chinese decoupling from the world—a nationalist self-reliance policy similar with that in the Mao era—is not unthinkable.
Intimate Partner Sexual Violence Victimization Among Heterosexual Female University Students in Spain: Prevalence and Polyvictimization
Authors: Llano-Suárez Andrea , Fernández-Feito Ana , García-Díaz Vanesa , Lana Alberto
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Sexual violence victimization in the context of intimate partner among young women has been less addressed than other types of dating violence.

Methods

The aim was to describe the prevalence of intimate partner sexual violence victimization among heterosexual female university students in Spain and to explore the presence of polyvictimization. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving female university students (n = 1064) from 10 degrees at a public university in northern Spain in 2018. Five types of intimate partner violence victimization were analyzed (coercion, detachment, humiliation, sexual violence, and physical violence).

Results

Of the female university students, 20.8% experienced intimate partner sexual violence victimization. Among victims of intimate partner sexual violence, sexual debut before the age of 16, having had three or more partners, having interrupted that violent relationship, and having a family history of intimate partner violence were more frequent. Victimization of intimate partner sexual violence was significantly associated with other forms of intimate partner violence, especially coercion and detachment.

Conclusions

Intimate partner sexual violence victimization is frequent among female university students and usually does not appear on its own. Rather, it occurs in the context of other types of intimate partner violence, especially psychological violence.

Policy Implications

At the beginning of adulthood, many young women attend university and many of them are suffering IPSV, making this an appropriate environment to address this important problem through various actions such as: information campaigns to improve the recognition of abusive behavior or the creation of care offices as a nearby resource for university women who are victims of violence.
Injectable systems of chitosan in situ forming composite gel incorporating linezolid-loaded biodegradable nanoparticles for long-term treatment of bone infections
Authors: Wassif Reem Khaled , Elkheshen Seham A. , Shamma Rehab Nabil , Amer Mohammed S. , Elhelw Rehab , El-kayal Maha
Published: August 2023

The objective of the current study was to create an efficient, minimally invasive combined system comprising in situ forming hydrogel loaded with both spray-dried polymeric nanoparticles encapsulating linezolid and nanohydroxyapatite for local injection to bones or their close vicinity. The developed system was designed for a dual function namely releasing the drug in a sustained manner for long-term treatment of bone infections and supporting bone proliferation and new tissues generation. To achieve these objectives, two release sustainment systems for linezolid were optimized namely a composite in situ forming chitosan hydrogel and spray-dried PLGA/PLA solid nanoparticles. The composite, in situ forming hydrogel of chitosan was prepared using two different gelling agents namely glycerophosphate (GP) and sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) at 3 different concentrations each. The spray-dried linezolid-loaded PLGA/PLA nanoparticles were developed using a water-soluble carrier (PVP K30) and a lipid soluble one (cetyl alcohol) along with 3 types of dl-lactide and/or dl-lactide-co-glycolide copolymer using nano-spray-drying technique. Finally, the optimized spray-dried linezolid nanoparticles were incorporated into the optimized composite hydrogel containing nanohydroxy apatite (nHA). The combined hydrogel/nanoparticle systems displayed reasonable injectability with excellent gelation time at 37 °C. The optimum formulae sustained the release of linezolid for 7–10 days, which reveals its ability to reduce the frequency of injection during the course of treatment of bones infections and increase the patients’ compliance. They succeeded to alleviate the bone infections and the associated clinical, biochemical, radiological, and histopathological changes within 2–4 weeks of injection. As to the state of art in this study and to the best of our knowledge, no such complete and systematic study on this type of combined in situ forming hydrogel loaded with spray-dried nanoparticles of linezolid is available yet in literatures.

Graphical Abstract
LVIF: a lightweight tightly coupled stereo-inertial SLAM with fisheye camera
Authors: Zhu Hongwei , Zhang Guobao , Ye Zhiqi , Zhou Hongyi
Published: August 2023

To enhance the real-time performance and reduce CPU usage in feature-based visual SLAM, this paper introduces a lightweight tightly coupled stereo-inertial SLAM with fisheye cameras, incorporating several key innovations. First, the stereo-fisheye camera is treated as two independent monocular cameras, and the SE(3) transformation is computed between them to minimize the CPU burden during stereo feature matching and eliminate the need for camera rectification. Another important innovation is the application of maximum-a-posteriori (MAP) estimation for the inertial measurement unit (IMU), which effectively reduces inertial bias and noise in a short time frame. By optimizing the system’s parameters, the constant-velocity model is replaced from the beginning, resulting in improved tracking efficiency. Furthermore, the system incorporates the inertial data in the loop closure thread. The IMU data are employed to determine the translation direction relative to world coordinates and utilized as a necessary condition for loop detection. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed system achieves superior real-time performance and lower CPU usage compared to the majority of other SLAM systems.
The Fallacy of the Common Good in the Light of the Conversion of Ignatius of Loyola
Authors: Retolaza José Luis , Aguado Ricardo
Published: August 2023

The achievement of the common good is generally identified, specially in Christian social, economic and cultural environments, with the Kingdom of God. While for many this is an obvious thinking, in this paper this vision is challenged and dismissed. The recent celebration of the 500 anniversary of the conversion of St Ignatius of Loyola serves us as a revulsive to analyze his process of conversion in order to give light to the discussion about the common good and the Kingdom of God. At the same time, we will use the narrative of the three temptations of Christ in order to reinforce our conclusions. In addition, we will reflect about the purpose of the corporation regarding the conversion of St. Ignatius and will discuss if the orthodox economic model could be a way of building the Kingdom of God. Finally, we will propose that only an economic approach that places in its core love, compassion and the logic of the gift could be compatible with building the Kingdom of God on earth.
Thermal Runaway Characteristics and Modeling of LiFePO4 Power Battery for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Sun Tao , Wang Luyan , Ren Dongsheng , Shi Zhihe , Chen Jie , Zheng Yuejiu , Feng Xuning , Han Xuebing , Lu Languang , Wang Li , He Xiangming , Ouyang Minggao
Published: August 2023

LiFePO4 (LFP) lithium-ion batteries have gained widespread use in electric vehicles due to their safety and longevity, but thermal runaway (TR) incidents still have been reported. This paper explores the TR characteristics and modeling of LFP batteries at different states of charge (SOC). Adiabatic tests reveal that TR severity increases with SOC, and five stages are identified based on battery temperature evolution. Reaction kinetics parameters of exothermic reactions in each TR stage are extracted, and TR models for LFP batteries are established. The models accurately simulate TR behaviors at different SOCs, and the simulated TR characteristic temperatures also agree well with the experimental results, with errors of TR characteristic temperatures less than 3%. The prediction errors of TR characteristic temperatures under oven test conditions are also less than 1%. The results provide a comprehensive understanding of TR in LFP batteries, which is useful for battery safety design and optimization.
Corporate heritage marketing to support the buyer–seller relationship initiation: the case of a small winery
Authors: Fraboni Pier Franco Luigi
Published: August 2023

Due to the complexity of postmodern markets, firms are developing corporate heritage marketing initiatives to engage in consumer research for emotional ties. Due to its rising relevance in the literature, several aspects of corporate heritage marketing need to be examined in depth, especially within the b2b context. This study explores how corporate heritage marketing supports the initiation phase of the buyer–seller relationship. The originality of this study relies on the fact that, thus far, no studies have discussed the connection between corporate heritage marketing and buyer–seller relationship initiation, a crucial period for the establishment of the business relationship, which in turn has been scarcely investigated in the management literature. The findings suggest that corporate heritage marketing might act as an initiation contributor for the buyer–seller relationship: it facilitates the first contacts between the parties by conveying emotional and rational values that improve seller attractiveness, and the first formal agreement after primary interactions by increasing seller trustworthiness. This study contributes to the corporate heritage marketing and buyer–seller relationship development literature. Relevant managerial implications are also provided, suggesting a simplified model for the SMEs for corporate heritage marketing management along with advice for buyers.
Multimodal and multiscale investigation for the optimization of AlSi10Mg components made by powder bed fusion-laser beam
Authors: Cognigni Flavio , Sgambetterra Mirko , Zucca Guido , Gentile Domenico , Ricci Sara , Testa Gabriel , Rizzi Gabriele , Rossi Marco
Published: August 2023

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the use of additive manufacturing (AM) to fabricate metallic components with tailored microstructures and improved mechanical properties. One of the most promising techniques for the aerospace industry is powder bed fusion-laser beam (PBF-LB). This technique enables the creation of complex shapes and structures with high accuracy and repeatability, which is especially important for the aerospace industry where components require high precision and reliability. However, the impact of the PBF-LB process on microstructural features, such as the grain size distribution and porosity, remains an important area of research since it influences mechanical properties and performance of materials. In this study, a multimodal and multiscale correlative microscopy approach is used to investigate the microstructure of AlSi10Mg components made by PBF-LB. The study found that the correlative microscopy approach involving X-ray images with visual, chemical, and diffraction information coming from optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) is highly effective in reaching a more comprehensive understanding of the relationship between the fabrication process and the effective microstructure of PBF-LB fabricated components enabling the optimization of their performance for a wide range of applications.
Fibroadipose vascular anomaly successfully treated with sirolimus: experience in 3 children
Authors: Chaudhary Aman , Rastogi Sameer , Goyal Ankur , Barwad Adarsh , Upadhya P. Swasthik
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Fibro-adipose vascular anomaly (FAVA) is a unique lesion composed of dense fibro-fatty tissue and slow-flow vascular malformations and is associated with somatic PIK3CA mutations. The patient usually presents with pain, swelling, functional restriction, and skin hyperesthesia. Therapeutic armamentarium includes cryoablation, sirolimus, and surgical debulking/excision. Sirolimus is highly effective for treatment of FAVA and is well tolerated. Here, we report our experience of treating FAVA with sirolimus in 3 patients.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed data of 3 patients with FAVA who were treated with sirolimus at our institution.

Results

A total of 3 patients with FAVA being managed with sirolimus were assessed. Two out of 3 were male. The ages of the patients were 2, 12, and 17 years respectively. Sirolimus was started at a dose of 0.8 mg/m2/dose two times a day, and patients were treated for a mean of 10.6 months (range 10–11 months). Dose adjustments were made to keep trough serum levels between 5 and 12 ng/ml. All of them had reduction in pain, and 1 of them experienced it within 4 days of therapy initiation. Follow-up MRI revealed reduction in size in all 3 patients. Sirolimus was well tolerated with mild acne and dyslipidaemia being the only side effects observed.

Conclusion

Sirolimus is quite an effective treatment for patients with FAVA and is well-tolerated without any major adverse effects. Given the rapid responses and a favourable safety profile, we believe that sirolimus can be considered for all patients with FAVA as a first-line therapy, but long-term follow-up data from well-designed clinical trials are required.
Sharp constants in inequalities admitting the Calderón transference principle
Authors: KOSZ DARIUSZ
Published: August 2023

The aim of this note is twofold. First, we prove an abstract version of the Calderón transference principle for inequalities of admissible type in the general commutative multilinear and multiparameter setting. Such an operation does not increase the constants in the transferred inequalities. Second, we use the last information to study a certain dichotomy arising in problems of finding the best constants in the weak type
$(1,1)$
and strong type
$(p,p)$
inequalities for one-parameter ergodic maximal operators.
Probability or time: Effect of presentation format on continuous risky decisions
Authors: Wei Zi-Han , Wang Xiao-Zhuang , Jia Li-Qian , Liu Hong-Zhi
Published: August 2023

Continuous risky decisions refer to decisions that involve trade-offs among options with persistent risks. People can use the probability of occurrence per unit time (e.g., ‘the probability of occurrence is 1% per month’) or the average time of risk occurrence (e.g., ‘the average occurrence time is 100 months’) to represent continuous risky options. In this study, we examined the effect of the presentation format (i.e., the probability of occurrence per unit time vs. the average time of risk occurrence) on continuous risky decisions in the gain domain and further explored the underlying mechanism. In Study 1 (N = 122), we demonstrated the effect of presentation format on continuous risky decisions and the moderating effect of the magnitude of probabilities. Specifically, when the probabilities were relatively low, compared with the probability of occurrence per unit time, using the average time of risk occurrence to present the continuous risky options led to more risk-averse decisions. However, when the probabilities were relatively high, compared with the probability of occurrence per unit time, the presentation format of the average time occurrence led to more risk-seeking decisions. In Study 2 (N = 136), we found that the moderating effect of the option probabilities on continuous risky decisions was mediated by the subjective attribute-wise difference judgment. In Study 3 (N = 221), we replicated the effect of presentation format on continuous risky decisions in more natural scenarios. The study offered a deep understanding of the mechanism of continuous risky decision-making, and the results were conducive to further developing theories in relevant fields.
Outer-layer similarity and energy transfer in a rough-wall turbulent channel flow
Authors: Ma Guo-Zhen , Xu Chun-Xiao , Sung Hyung Jin , Huang Wei-Xi
Published: August 2023

Direct numerical simulations (DNSs) are performed to investigate the roughness effects on the statistical properties and the large-scale coherent structures in the turbulent channel flow over three-dimensional sinusoidal rough walls. The outer-layer similarities of mean streamwise velocity and Reynolds stresses are examined by systematically varying the roughness Reynolds number

$k^{+}$

and the ratio of the roughness height to the half-channel height

$k / \delta$

. The energy transfer mechanism of turbulent motions in the presence of roughness elements with different sizes is explored through spectral analysis of the transport equation of the two-point velocity correlation and the scale-energy path display of the generalized Kolmogorov equation. The results show that, with increasing

$k^+$

, the downward shift of the mean streamwise velocity profile in the logarithmic region increases and the peak intensities of turbulent Reynolds stresses decrease. At an intermediate Reynolds number (

$Re_{\tau }= 1080$

), the length scale and intensity of the large-scale coherent structures increase for a small roughness (

$k^{+}=10$

), which leads to failure of the outer-layer similarity in rough-wall turbulence, and decrease for a large roughness (

$k^{+}=60$

), as compared with the smooth-wall case. The existence of the small roughness (

$k^{+}=10$

) enhances the mechanism of inverse energy cascade from the inner-layer small-scale structures to the outer-layer large-scale structures. Correspondingly, the self-sustaining processes of the outer-layer large-scale coherent structures, including turbulent production, interscale transport, pressure transport and spatial turbulent transport, are all enhanced, whereas the large roughness (

$k^{+}=60$

) weakens the energy transfer between the inner and outer regions.
Bubble nucleation and jetting inside a millimetric droplet
Authors: Rosselló Juan Manuel , Reese Hendrik , Raman K. Ashoke , Ohl Claus-Dieter
Published: August 2023

In this work we present experiments and simulations on the nucleation and successive dynamics of laser-induced bubbles inside liquid droplets in free-fall motion, i.e. a case where the bubbles are subjected to the influence of a free boundary in all directions. Within this spherical millimetric droplet, we have investigated the nucleation of secondary bubbles induced by the rarefaction wave that is produced when the shock wave emitted by the laser-induced plasma reflects at the drop surface. Interestingly, three-dimensional clusters of cavitation bubbles are observed. Their shape is compared with the negative pressure distribution computed with a computational fluid dynamics model and allows us to estimate a cavitation threshold value. In particular, we observed that the focusing of the waves in the vicinity of the free surface can give rise to explosive cavitation events that end up in fast liquid ejections. High-speed recordings of the drop/bubble dynamics are complemented by the velocity and pressure fields simulated for the same initial conditions. The effect of the proximity of a curved free surface on the jetting dynamics of the bubbles was qualitatively assessed by classifying the cavitation events using a non-dimensional stand-off parameter${\Upsilon\hskip -1,05em -\,}$that depends on the drop size, the bubble maximum radius and the relative position of the bubble inside the drop. Additionally, we studied the role of the drop's curvature by implementing a structural similarity algorithm to compare cases with bubbles produced near a flat surface to the bubbles inside the drop. Interestingly, this quantitative comparison method indicated the existence of equivalent stand-off distances at which bubbles influenced by different boundaries behave in a very similar way. The oscillation of the laser-induced bubbles promotes the onset of Rayleigh–Taylor and Rayleigh–Plateau instabilities, observed on the drop's surface. This phenomenon was studied by varying the ratio of the maximum radii of the bubble and the drop. The specific mechanisms leading to the destabilisation of the droplet surface were identified.
James Valentine (20 November 1926–7 April 2023), co-founder of Paleobiology and master of idiographically informed nomothetism
Authors: Marshall Charles R.
Published: August 2023

In 1980, Steven J. Gould published an essay on the emergence of paleobiology as a nomothetic discipline (Gould 1980), nomothetism referring to the search for general laws or principles. Gould contrasted this with the foundation of paleontology, the idiographic tradition of detailing the history of life from the description of new fossil taxa to the elucidation of the long-term patterns of change through time. Among the pioneers of this nomothetic expansion was Jim Valentine. Here I pay tribute to Jim as one of the first paleobiologists, a colleague, coauthor, and friend, emphasizing his intellectual style and insights as much as his lasting contributions. I have written this in part as a eulogy, a remembrance for those who knew him, but also as an introduction to the continuing relevance of his work for those who may be unfamiliar with it.
New records and updated distributional patterns of macroalgae from the South Shetland Islands and northern Weddell Sea, Antarctica
Authors: Pellizzari Franciane , De Mello João Pedro Dos Santos , Santos-Silva Michelle C. , Osaki Vanessa Sayuri , Brandini Frederico Pereira , Convey Peter , Henrique Rosa Luiz
Published: August 2023

This study provides new species records (NRs) of macroalgal assemblages present in rocky habitats from the South Shetland Islands (SSI) and north-eastern Antarctic Peninsula (EAP), Weddell Sea. Surveys were conducted during the summers of 2013/2014 to 2017/2018 at Elephant, Deception, Half Moon and Vega islands. Data from the present study and those available in the literature from the western Antarctic Peninsula (WAP) were combined to provide an updated checklist, giving insights into macroecology and potential changes in thermohaline circulation patterns. A total of 48 macroalgal taxa were identified from our sampling, with eight representing NRs to the EAP sector of the Weddell Sea and five representing NRs to the SSI. Statistical differences among the assemblages from the SSI, WAP and EAP were identified. NRs, including opportunistic species and new information about the biogeographical distributions of species reported here, give insights into ecoregional connectivity and environmental changes. This study updates macroalgal diversity records in regions that are currently experiencing the impacts of climate change. Future and ongoing monitoring for conservation purposes is required to detect non-native species, new dispersal pathways and patterns related to thermohaline anomalies in Antarctic waters.
Reflections on international ocean science and ocean governance: Can our global structures rise to the occasion?
Authors: Hill Katherine Louise
Published: August 2023

There is increasing awareness that the ocean touches all aspects of our lives and that a healthy ocean is central to a healthy planet and sustainable future. The ocean is a highly connected system and ocean science is characterized by voluntary international collaboration supported by an enthusiastic and engaged community. Increasingly, it is being recognized that international structures and instruments need to be stronger and more holistic than the current arrangements. This article outlines some perspectives on this, drawing on experience in ocean science and scientists at national, international and intergovernmental levels.
Crustal Structure of the Western U.S. From Rayleigh and Love Wave Amplification Data
Authors: Sturgeon William , Ferreira Ana M. G. , Schardong Lewis , Marignier Augustin
Published: August 2023

Surface wave amplification measurements have narrower depth sensitivity when compared to more traditional seismic observables such as surface wave dispersion measurements. In particular, Love wave amplification measurements have the advantage of strong sensitivity to the crust. For the first time, we explore the potential of Love wave amplification measurements to image crustal velocity in the western U.S. The effects of overtone interference, radial anisotropy and Moho depth are all explored. Consequently, we present SWUS‐crust, a three‐dimensional shear‐wave velocity model of crustal structure in the western U.S. We use Rayleigh wave amplification measurements in the period range of 38–114 s, along with Love wave amplification measurements in the period range of 38–62 s. We jointly invert over 6,400 multi‐frequency measurements using the Monte‐Carlo based Neighborhood Algorithm, which allows for uncertainty quantification. SWUS‐crust confirms several features observed in previous models, such as high‐velocity anomalies beneath the Columbia basin and low‐velocity anomalies beneath the Basin and Range province. Certain features are sharpened in our model, such as the northern border of the High‐Lava Plains in southern Oregon in the middle crust.
Full‐Depth Eddy Kinetic Energy in the Global Ocean Estimated From Altimeter and Argo Observations
Authors: Ni Qinbiao , Zhai Xiaoming , LaCasce J. H. , Chen Dake , Marshall David P.
Published: August 2023

Although the surface eddy kinetic energy (EKE) has been well studied using satellite altimeter and surface drifter observations, our knowledge of EKE in the ocean interior is much more limited due to the sparsity of subsurface current measurements. Here we develop a new approach for estimating EKE over the full depth of the global ocean by combining 20 years of satellite altimeter and Argo float data to infer the vertical profile of eddies. The inferred eddy profiles are surface‐intensified at low latitudes and deep‐reaching at mid‐ and high latitudes. They compare favorably to the first empirical orthogonal function obtained from current meter velocities. The global‐integrated EKE estimated from the inferred profiles is about 3.1 × 1018 J, which is close to that estimated from the surface mode (3.0 × 1018 J) but about 30% smaller than that estimated from the traditional flat bottom modes (4.6 × 1018 J).
Impact of BMI on patient outcome in acute myeloid leukaemia patients receiving intensive induction therapy: a real-world registry experience
Authors: Enßle Julius C. , Wolf Sebastian , Scheich Sebastian , Weber Sarah , Kramer Michael , Ruhnke Leo , Schliemann Christoph , Mikesch Jan-Henrik , Krause Stefan , Sauer Tim , Hanoun Maher , Reinhardt Hans Christian , Kraus Sabrina , Kaufmann Martin , Hänel Mathias , Fransecky Lars , Burchert Andreas , Neubauer Andreas , Crysandt Martina , Jost Edgar , Niemann Dirk , Schäfer-Eckart Kerstin , Held Gerhard , Kaiser Ulrich , Wass Maxi , Schaich Markus , Müller-Tidow Carsten , Platzbecker Uwe , Baldus Claudia D. , Bornhäuser Martin , Röllig Christoph , Serve Hubert ,   Study Alliance Leukemia (SAL), Steffen Björn
Published: August 2023

Background

Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is treated with intensive induction chemotherapy (IT) in medically fit patients. In general, obesity was identified as a risk factor for all-cause mortality, and there is an ongoing debate on its impact on outcome and optimal dosing strategy in obese AML patients.

Methods

We conducted a registry study screening 7632 patients and assessed the impact of obesity in 1677 equally IT treated, newly diagnosed AML patients on the outcome (OS, EFS, CR1), comorbidities, toxicities and used dosing strategies.

Results

Obese patients (BMI ≥ 30) displayed a significant inferior median OS (29.44 vs. 47.94 months, P = 0.015) and CR1 rate (78.7% vs. 84.3%, P = 0.015) without differences in median EFS (7.8 vs. 9.89 months, P = 0.3) compared to non-obese patients (BMI < 30). The effect was predominantly observed in older (≥60 years) patients. Obesity was identified as an independent risk factor for death, and obese patients demonstrated higher rates of cardiovascular or metabolic comorbidities. No differences for OS, EFS, CR1 or treatment-related toxicities were observed by stratification according to used dosing strategy or dose reduction.

Conclusions

In conclusion, this study identifies obesity as an independent risk factor for worse OS in older AML patients undergoing curative IT most likely due to obesity-related comorbidities and not to dosing strategy.
Kidins220 sets the threshold for survival of neural stem cells and progenitors to sustain adult neurogenesis
Authors: del Puerto Ana , Lopez-Fonseca Coral , Simón-García Ana , Martí-Prado Beatriz , Barrios-Muñoz Ana L. , Pose-Utrilla Julia , López-Menéndez Celia , Alcover-Sanchez Berta , Cesca Fabrizia , Schiavo Giampietro , Campanero Miguel R. , Fariñas Isabel , Iglesias Teresa , Porlan Eva
Published: August 2023

In the adult mammalian brain, neural stem cells (NSCs) located in highly restricted niches sustain the generation of new neurons that integrate into existing circuits. A reduction in adult neurogenesis is linked to ageing and neurodegeneration, whereas dysregulation of proliferation and survival of NSCs have been hypothesized to be at the origin of glioma. Thus, unravelling the molecular underpinnings of the regulated activation that NSCs must undergo to proliferate and generate new progeny is of considerable relevance. Current research has identified cues promoting or restraining NSCs activation. Yet, whether NSCs depend on external signals to survive or if intrinsic factors establish a threshold for sustaining their viability remains elusive, even if this knowledge could involve potential for devising novel therapeutic strategies. Kidins220 (Kinase D-interacting substrate of 220 kDa) is an essential effector of crucial pathways for neuronal survival and differentiation. It is dramatically altered in cancer and in neurological and neurodegenerative disorders, emerging as a regulatory molecule with important functions in human disease. Herein, we discover severe neurogenic deficits and hippocampal-based spatial memory defects accompanied by increased neuroblast death and high loss of newly formed neurons in Kidins220 deficient mice. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that Kidins220-dependent activation of AKT in response to EGF restraints GSK3 activity preventing NSCs apoptosis. We also show that NSCs with Kidins220 can survive with lower concentrations of EGF than the ones lacking this molecule. Hence, Kidins220 levels set a molecular threshold for survival in response to mitogens, allowing adult NSCs growth and expansion. Our study identifies Kidins220 as a key player for sensing the availability of growth factors to sustain adult neurogenesis, uncovering a molecular link that may help paving the way towards neurorepair.
Discovery of a pyrrole-pyridinimidazole derivative as novel SIRT6 inhibitor for sensitizing pancreatic cancer to gemcitabine
Authors: Song Nannan , Guan Xian , Zhang Siqi , Wang Yanqing , Wang Xuekai , Lu Zhongxia , Chong Daochen , Wang Jennifer Yiyang , Yu Rilei , Yu Wengong , Jiang Tao , Gu Yuchao
Published: August 2023

Pancreatic cancer is a highly aggressive cancer, and is primarily treated with gemcitabine, with increasing resistance. SIRT6 as a member of sirtuin family plays important roles in lifespan and diverse diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, inflammation and neurodegenerative diseases. Considering the role of SIRT6 in the cytoprotective effect, it might be a potential anticancer drug target, and is associated with resistance to anticancer therapy. However, very few SIRT6 inhibitors have been reported. Here, we reported the discovery of a pyrrole-pyridinimidazole derivative, 8a, as a new non-competitive SIRT6 inhibitor, and studied its roles and mechanisms in the antitumor activity and sensitization of pancreatic cancer to gemcitabine. Firstly, we found a potent SIRT6 inhibitor compound 8a by virtual screening and identified by molecular and cellular SIRT6 activity assays. 8a could effectively inhibit SIRT6 deacetylation activity with IC50 values of 7.46 ± 0.79 μM in FLUOR DE LYS assay, and 8a significantly increased the acetylation levels of H3 in cells. Then, we found that 8a could inhibit the cell proliferation and induce cell apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells. We further demonstrate that 8a sensitize pancreatic cancer cells to gemcitabine via reversing the activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR and ERK signaling pathways induced by gemcitabine and blocking the DNA damage repair pathway. Moreover, combination of 8a and gemcitabine induces cooperative antitumor activity in pancreatic cancer xenograft model in vivo. Overall, we demonstrate that 8a, a novel SIRT6 inhibitor, could be a promising potential drug candidate for pancreatic cancer treatment.
Targeting of SLC25A22 boosts the immunotherapeutic response in KRAS-mutant colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhou Qiming , Peng Yao , Ji Fenfen , Chen Huarong , Kang Wei , Chan Lam-Shing , Gou Hongyan , Lin Yufeng , Huang Pingmei , Chen Danyu , Wei Qinyao , Su Hao , Liang Cong , Zhang Xiang , Yu Jun , Wong Chi Chun
Published: August 2023

KRAS is an important tumor intrinsic factor driving immune suppression in colorectal cancer (CRC). In this study, we demonstrate that SLC25A22 underlies mutant KRAS-induced immune suppression in CRC. In immunocompetent male mice and humanized male mice models, SLC25A22 knockout inhibits KRAS-mutant CRC tumor growth with reduced myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSC) but increased CD8+ T-cells, implying the reversion of mutant KRAS-driven immunosuppression. Mechanistically, we find that SLC25A22 plays a central role in promoting asparagine, which binds and activates SRC phosphorylation. Asparagine-mediated SRC promotes ERK/ETS2 signaling, which drives CXCL1 transcription. Secreted CXCL1 functions as a chemoattractant for MDSC via CXCR2, leading to an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Targeting SLC25A22 or asparagine impairs KRAS-induced MDSC infiltration in CRC. Finally, we demonstrate that the targeting of SLC25A22 in combination with anti-PD1 therapy synergizes to inhibit MDSC and activate CD8+ T cells to suppress KRAS-mutant CRC growth in vivo. We thus identify a metabolic pathway that drives immunosuppression in KRAS-mutant CRC.
A flexible optoacoustic blood ‘stethoscope’ for noninvasive multiparametric cardiovascular monitoring
Authors: Jin Haoran , Zheng Zesheng , Cui Zequn , Jiang Ying , Chen Geng , Li Wenlong , Wang Zhimin , Wang Jilei , Yang Chuanshi , Song Weitao , Chen Xiaodong , Zheng Yuanjin
Published: August 2023

Quantitative and multiparametric blood analysis is of great clinical importance in cardiovascular disease diagnosis. Although there are various methods to extract blood information, they often require invasive procedures, lack continuity, involve bulky instruments, or have complicated testing procedures. Flexible sensors can realize on-skin assessment of several vital signals, but generally exhibit limited function to monitor blood characteristics. Here, we report a flexible optoacoustic blood ‘stethoscope’ for noninvasive, multiparametric, and continuous cardiovascular monitoring, without requiring complicated procedures. The optoacoustic blood ‘stethoscope’ features the light delivery elements to illuminate blood and the piezoelectric acoustic elements to capture light-induced acoustic waves. We show that the optoacoustic blood ‘stethoscope’ can adhere to the skin for continuous and non-invasive in-situ monitoring of multiple cardiovascular biomarkers, including hypoxia, intravascular exogenous agent concentration decay, and hemodynamics, which can be further visualized with a tailored 3D algorithm. Demonstrations on both in-vivo animal trials and human subjects highlight the optoacoustic blood ‘stethoscope’‘s potential for cardiovascular disease diagnosis and prediction.