bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Activation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor by 6‐formylindolo[3,2‐b]carbazole alleviated acute kidney injury by repressing inflammation and apoptosis
Authors: Tao Sibei , Guo Fan , Ren Qian , Liu Jing , Wei Tiantian , Li Lingzhi , Ma Liang , Fu Ping
Published: December 2020

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a multifactorial disease of various aetiologies. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand‐activated transcription factor that responds to ligands to induce or repress gene expressions, thereby regulating a diverse spectrum of biological or pathophysiologic effects. However, the effect of AhR on AKI remains unknown. A single intraperitoneal injection of 50% glycerol was performed to induce rhabdomyolysis in C57BL/6J mice. The bilateral renal pedicles were occluded for 30 minutes and then removed to stimulate renal I/R injury. 6‐formylindolo[3,2‐b]carbazole (FICZ), a photo‐oxidation product of tryptophan with a high affinity for AhR, was used. The in vitro study was performed on HK‐2 cells. Ferrous myoglobin and FICZ was dissolved in the medium in different cell groups. Treatment with AhR agonist FICZ significantly alleviated the elevation of serum creatinine and urea in AKI. AKI modelling‐induced renal damage was attenuated by FICZ. AhR mainly expressed in proximal tubular cells and could be activated by FICZ administration. Meanwhile, AKI triggered the production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines in injured kidneys, while FICZ inhibited their expressions. Furthermore, FICZ effectively reversed cell apoptosis in AKI models. Mechanistically, AKI stimulated the activation of NF‐κB and JNK pathways in the kidneys, while FICZ significantly suppressed these corresponding protein expressions. For the in vitro study, FICZ also inhibited inflammation and apoptosis in myoglobin or H/R‐stimulated HK‐2 cells. In summary, agonism of AhR by FICZ alleviated rhabdomyolysis and I/R‐induced AKI. FICZ inhibited inflammation and apoptosis via suppressing NF‐κB and JNK pathways in proximal tubular cells.
Carbofuran accelerates the cellular senescence and declines the life span of spns1 mutant zebrafish
Authors: Khan Alam , Fahad Talukdar Mohammad , Akther Tanjima , Zaman Tanjeena , Hasan Md Faruk , Islam Khan Md Rafiqual , Islam Mohammad Saiful , Kishi Shuji
Published: December 2020

Carbofuran is a carbamate pesticide, widely used in agricultural practices to increase crop productivity. In mammals, carbofuran is known to cause several untoward effects, such as apoptosis in the hippocampal neuron, oxidative stress, loss of memory and chromosomal anomalies. Most of these effects are implicated with cellular senescence. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the effect of carbofuran on cellular senescence and biological ageing. Spinster homolog 1 (Spns1) is a transmembrane transporter, regulates autolysosomal biogenesis and plays a role in cellular senescence and survival. Using senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase staining, we found that carbofuran accelerates the cellular senescence in spns1 mutant zebrafish. The yolk opaqueness, a premature ageing phenotype in zebrafish embryos, was accelerated by carbofuran treatment. In the survival study, carbofuran shortened the life span of spns1 mutant zebrafish. Autophagy is the cellular lysosomal degradation, usually up‐regulated in the senescent cells. To know the impact of carbofuran exposure on autophagy progress, we established a double‐transgenic zebrafish line, harbouring EGFP‐tagged LC3‐II and mCherry‐tagged Lamp1 on spns1 mutant background, whereas we found, carbofuran exposure synergistically accelerates autolysosome formation with insufficient lysosome‐mediated degradation. Our data collectively suggest that carbofuran exposure synergistically accelerates the cellular senescence and affects biological ageing in spns1 defective animals.
Group swimming behaviour and energetics in bluegillLepomis macrochirusand rainbow troutOncorhynchus mykiss
Authors: Currier Megan , Rouse Jon , Coughlin David J.
Published: December 2020

Group swimming size influences metabolic energy consumption and swimming behaviour in fishes. Hydrodynamic flows and vortices of other fish are thought to be beneficial in terms of the energetic costs of swimming. Similarly, abiotic obstructions have been shown to have similar benefits with respect to metabolic consumption in swimming fish such as rainbow troutOncorhynchus mykiss. The current study works to examine metabolic rates and swimming behaviours as a function of group swimming with bluegill sunfishLepomis macrochirusandO. mykiss.Fishes were subjected to individual and group swimming in a respiratory swim tunnel to determine oxygen consumption as a proxy for the metabolic rate of swimming fish. In addition, fish movements within the swim tunnel test chamber were tracked to examine group swimming behaviour. We hypothesized that fish would benefit metabolically from group swimming. In the case ofO. mykiss, we also hypothesized that groups would benefit from the presence of an abiotic structure, as has been previously observed in fish swimming individually. Our results suggest that the influence of group size on swimming metabolism is species specific. WhileL. macrochirusshow decreased metabolic rate when swimming in a group compared to individually,O. mykissdid not show such a metabolic benefit from group swimming.
Clients’ perceptions of marriage and family therapists’ way‐of‐being: a phenomenological analysis
Authors: Holyoak Derek L. , Fife Stephen T. , Hertlein Katherine M.
Published: December 2020

Previous research highlights the influence of therapist factors on treatment outcomes. One therapist factor proposed as fundamental to the process of therapy is the therapist's way‐of‐being, a relational concept that refers to how the therapist regards a client—either as a person or object (Fife et al., [2014] Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 40, 20–33). Although this case has been made conceptually, there is little empirical research on therapists’ way‐of‐being with clients. The primary purpose of this research is to investigate clients’ perceptions of their therapists’ way‐of‐being. Utilizing a common factors perspective, the study seeks to explore: (a) how clients experience their therapists’ way‐of‐being and (b) the influence therapists’ way‐of‐being has on clients’ engagement. Phenomenological methods were used to gain a nuanced understanding of the phenomenon. Qualitative data were collected through semi‐structured face‐to‐face interviews with clients (N = 10) who received individual therapy from a marriage and family therapist. Results were organized into two main themes: core tenets (attunement, congruency, and aligning with clients) and operational tenets (providing affirmation and validation, balancing flexibility and structure, and accomplishing goals). Findings are used to make a case for adding the concept of way‐of‐being as an overarching construct for several well‐established therapist factors. Clinical and training implications are discussed.
New perspective on the regulation of acetylcholinesterase via the aryl hydrocarbon receptor
Authors: Xie Heidi Qunhui , Ma Yongchao , Fu Hualing , Xu Tuan , Luo Yali , Liu Yiyun , Chen Yangsheng , Xu Li , Xia Yingjie , Zhao Bin
Published: December 2020

Acetylcholinesterase (AChE, EC 3.1.1.7) plays important roles in cholinergic neurotransmission and has been widely recognized as a biomarker for monitoring pollution by organophosphate (OP) and carbamate pesticides. Dioxin is an emerging environmental AChE disruptor and is a typical persistent organic pollutant with multiple toxic effects on the nervous system. Growing evidence has shown that there is a significant link between dioxin exposure and neurodegenerative diseases and neurodevelopmental disorders, most of which involve AChE and cholinergic dysfunctions. Therefore, an in‐depth understanding of the effects of dioxin on AChE and the related mechanisms of action might help to shed light on the molecular bases of dioxin impacts on the nervous system. In the past decade, the effects of dioxins on AChE have been revealed in cultured cells of different origins and in rodent animal models. Unlike OP and carbamate pesticides, dioxin‐induced AChE disturbance is not due to direct inhibition of enzymatic activity; instead, dioxin causes alterations of AChE expression in certain models. As a widely accepted mechanism for most dioxin effects, the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR)‐dependent pathway has become a research focus in studies on the mechanism of action of dioxin‐induced AChE dysregulation. In this mini‐review, the effects of dioxin on AChE and the diverse roles of the AhR pathway in AChE regulation are summarized. Additionally, the involvement of AhR in AChE regulation during different neurodevelopmental processes is discussed. These AhR‐related findings might also provide new insight into AChE regulation triggered by diverse xenobiotics capable of interacting with AhR.

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The Zeal of the Convert Revisited
Authors: Beider Nadia
Published: December 2020

Social scientists have long been interested in the effects of conversion on religiosity. Drawing on data from the 2014 Pew Religious Landscape Survey, I revisit the zeal of the convert thesis by comparing the religiosity of both converts and cradle members within the main American religious traditions. My findings reveal that converts are not more zealous than lifelong members, in fact, converts tend to have lower levels of religious commitment. Switchers raised in strict denominations do exhibit greater zeal than cradle members. The discussion argues that people create new, hybrid forms of religious engagement based on elements from both their current and childhood religious identities. Conversion is less a sudden rupture involving dramatic, wholesale change; rather, it is a process in which some prior religious norms are retained alongside new ones.
Pharmacokinetic properties of tramadol and M1 metabolite in Northeast Brazilian donkeys (Equus asinus)
Authors: Mouta Andressa Nunes , de Oliveira Lima Isabelle , de Oliveira Maria Gláucia Carlos , Alves Letícia Pereira , de Macêdo Luã Barbalho , Araujo‐Silva Gabriel , Pérez‐Urizar José , de Paula Valéria Veras
Published: December 2020

There is currently little information available on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the analgesic opioid tramadol when used in the veterinary medicine of domestic species. In this study, we aimed to determine the pharmacokinetics of tramadol and its active metabolite M1 following intravenous administration of 2 (T2) and 4 (T4) mg/kg to Northeast Brazilian donkeys. Tramadol and M1 plasma levels were quantified using a validated liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method. We found that plasma levels of tramadol and M1 were higher than those reported as clinically meaningful in humans for at least 3 hr. However, the pharmacokinetic parameter calculation corrected by dose analysis identified no proportional increase with dose for the AUC of tramadol (T2: 2,663 ± 1,827 vs. T4: 2,964 ± 1,038 ng*h/ml) and M1 (T2: 378 ± 237 vs. T4: 345 ± 142 ng*h/ml). This finding appears to be attributable to a significant increase in clearance and a reduction in the terminal half‐life of tramadol. The frequency of adverse effects observed at the higher dose indicates that 2 mg/kg administered intravenously would be suitable for donkeys. Clinical studies are required to determine the implications of these observations regarding the pharmacodynamic response to tramadol in Northeast Brazilian donkeys.
“All is vanity, nothing is fair”
Authors: Kuehn Julia
Published: December 2020

This article analyzes what it means to be a hero or heroine in the world of William Thackeray’s novel Vanity Fair. It argues that Thackeray offers a new and modern vision of heroism, one that is ordinary and canny rather than the result of a privileged birth or physical strength; one that leads the male and female protagonists of Vanity Fair from the chivalrous and brave worlds of Jane Austen and Sir Walter Scott towards the principles of On Liberty and Das Kapital. The article situates heroism, first, in the context of Thomas Carlyle’s and conventional ideas of (military and male) bravery. It then analyzes Becky Sharp’s path and character within the context of modern capitalism and a money‐ready society, as it reads Karl Marx’s essay “The power of money in a bourgeois society” alongside Thackeray's text.
Chemical Ablation of Genicular Nerve with Phenol for Pain Relief in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Prospective Study
Authors: Risso Roberta Cristina , Ferraro Leonardo Henrique Cunha , Nouer Frederico Thiago , Peng Philip W. H. , Luzo Marcus Vinicius , Debieux Pedro , Sakata Rioko Kimiko
Published: December 2020

Background

Radiofrequency ablation of the genicular nerve is performed for knee osteoarthritis (KOA) when conservative treatment is not effective. Chemical ablation may be an alternative, but its effectiveness and safety have not been examined. The objective of this prospective open‐label cohort study is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of ultrasound‐guided chemical neurolysis for genicular nerves with phenol to treat patients with chronic pain from KOA.

Methods

Forty‐three patients with KOA with pain intensity score (Numeric Rating Scale, NRS) ≥ 4, and duration of pain of more than 6 months were considered for enrollment. Ultrasound‐guided diagnostic blocks of genicular nerves (superomedial, inferomedial, and superolateral) with 1.5 mL of 0.25% bupivacaine at each site were performed. Those who reported more than 50% reduction in NRS went on to undergo chemical neurolysis, using 1.5 mL 7% glycerated phenol in each genicular nerve. NRS and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) scores were assessed before intervention and at 2 weeks and 1, 2, 3, and 6 months following the intervention.

Results

NRS and WOMAC scores improved at all time points. Mean pain intensity improved from 7.2 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.8 to 7.7) at baseline to 4.2 (95%CI: 3.5 to 5.0) at 6‐month follow‐up (P < 0.001). Composite WOMAC score improved from 48.7 (95%CI: 43.3 to 54.2) at baseline to 20.7 (95%CI: 16.6 to 24.7) at 6‐month follow‐up (P < 0.001). Adverse events did not persist beyond 1 month and included local pain, hypoesthesia, swelling, and bruise.

Conclusion

Chemical neurolysis of genicular nerves with phenol provided efficacious analgesia and functional improvement for at least 6 months in most patients with a low incidence of adverse effects.
Dapsone‐induced methemoglobinemia in pediatrics post‐renal transplant
Authors: Hindka Aditi , Huynh Dao , Verghese Priya S.
Published: December 2020

Dapsone has been utilized for the prevention of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in immunosuppressed patients including pediatric kidney transplant recipients, in whom trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole (TMP‐SMX) is contraindicated. Dapsone adverse effects include methemoglobinemia, but there are no reports of the burden and impact of methemoglobinemia in pediatric kidney recipients that are taking dapsone for PJP prophylaxis. We conducted a retrospective chart review of all pediatric kidney recipients who had received dapsone at any time posttransplant. The indication, duration, and adverse effects of dapsone therapy were assessed. In addition, methemoglobin levels were assessed, and summary statistics performed. Data demonstrated that more than half of the patients on dapsone were not screened for methemoglobinemia. Of those screened, there was a significantly higher acquired‐methemoglobinemia (77%) than previously reported in the literature. We also demonstrate significantly more anemia in patients on dapsone. Methemoglobinemia did not affect patient or graft survival and resolved with cessation of dapsone. We conclude that pediatric kidney recipients often develop methemoglobinemia and / or anemia on dapsone. We recommend if pediatric transplant recipients are prescribed dapsone, routine testing for methemoglobinemia and anemia should be done.
Dual carving and minimal rationalism
Authors: Witmer D. Gene
Published: December 2020

In his Consciousness and Fundamental Reality (2017), Philip Goff defends his anti‐physicalist argument against what he calls the "Dual Carving" objection—the idea that two representations of the very same fact could both be conceptually independent and "transparent," that is, revealing of the essences of the entities in question. His defense invokes a thesis he calls "Minimal Rationalism." I explore exactly how Minimal Rationalism is supposed to turn aside the objection and argue that the formulation of Minimal Rationalism on offer is ambiguous between stronger and weaker readings. Goff needs the stronger reading to use it in defense of his argument, but only the weaker reading is warranted by the considerations he brings to bear in favor of his rationalism. His "Minimal Rationalism" is, in sum, insufficiently minimal. The upshot is not only that Goff is deprived of a way of turning back an important objection to his case against physicalism; we also gain a better sense of what kind of rationalist thesis is properly invoked in metaphysics.
Investigating the Links Between Cultural Values and Belief in Conspiracy Theories: The Key Roles of Collectivism and Masculinity
Authors: Adam‐Troian Jais , Wagner‐Egger Pascal , Motyl Matt , Arciszewski Thomas , Imhoff Roland , Zimmer Felix , Klein Olivier , Babinska Maria , Bangerter Adrian , Bilewicz Michal , Blanuša Nebojša , Bovan Kosta , Bužarovska Rumena , Cichocka Aleksandra , Çelebi Elif , Delouvée Sylvain , Douglas Karen M. , Dyrendal Asbjørn , Gjoneska Biljana , Graf Sylvie , Gualda Estrella , Hirschberger Gilad , Kende Anna , Krekó Peter , Krouwel Andre , Lamberty Pia , Mari Silvia , Milosevic Jasna , Panasiti Maria Serena , Pantazi Myrto , Petkovski Ljupcho , Porciello Giuseppina , Prims J. P. , Rabelo André , Schepisi Michael , Sutton Robbie M. , Swami Viren , Thórisdóttir Hulda , Turjačanin Vladimir , Zezelj Iris , van Prooijen Jan‐Willem
Published: December 2020

Research suggests that belief in conspiracy theories (CT) stems from basic psychological mechanisms and is linked to other belief systems (e.g., religious beliefs). While previous research has extensively examined individual and contextual variables associated with CT beliefs, it has not yet investigated the role of culture. In the current research, we tested, based on a situated cultural cognition perspective, the extent to which culture predicts CT beliefs. Using Hofstede's model of cultural values, three nation‐level analyses of data from 25, 19, and 18 countries using different measures of CT beliefs (Study 1, N = 5323; Study 2a, N = 12,255; Study 2b, N = 30,994) revealed positive associations between masculinity, collectivism, and CT beliefs. A cross‐sectional study among U.S. citizens (Study 3, N = 350), using individual‐level measures of Hofstede's values, replicated these findings. A meta‐analysis of correlations across studies corroborated the presence of positive links between CT beliefs, collectivism, r = .31, 95% CI = [.15; .47], and masculinity, r = .39, 95% CI = [.18; .59]. Our results suggest that in addition to individual differences and contextual variables, cultural factors also play an important role in shaping CT beliefs.
Longer photoperiods negate the CO2 stimulation of photosynthesis in Betula papyrifera Marsh: Implications to climate change‐induced migration
Authors: Tedla Binyam , Dang Qing‐Lai , Inoue Sahari
Published: December 2020

In response to global warming, trees are expected to shift their distribution ranges to higher latitudes. The range shift will expose them to novel environmental conditions, such as new photoperiod regimes. These factors can interact with rising atmospheric CO2 ([CO2]) to affect trees' physiology and growth. This study simulated future environmental conditions to investigate photosynthetic responses to changes in photoperiod regimes (seed origin [48°N], 52, 55, and 58°N) and [CO2] (ambient 400 vs. elevated 1000 μmol mol−1) in white birch (Betula papyrifera Marsh.) seedlings. Our results show that elevated [CO2] stimulated leaf photosynthesis (Pn) at the two lower latitudes (48 and 52°N). However, this stimulation by elevated [CO2] was lost in the two higher latitudes (55 and 58°N). Elevated [CO2] led to the downregulation of maximum Rubisco activity (Vcmax) for the two higher latitudes, and maximum electron transport rate (Jmax) and triose phosphate utilization (TPU) at 58°N, while it enhanced Jmax and TPU for the two lower latitudes. Increased instantaneous water‐use efficiency (IWUE) for the two lower latitudes was primarily attributed to the CO2 stimulation of Pn while the higher IWUE under the photoperiod regimes of 55 and 58°N latitudes was explained by reduced water loss. Photoperiod effects varied with [CO2]: Pn increased at the photoperiod regimes of 55 and 58°N in ambient [CO2] while it tended to decline under these photoperiods in elevated [CO2]. Our study suggests that the photosynthesis of white birch will likely respond negatively to northward migration or seed transfer in response to climate change.
Rhizosphere pH and cation‐anion balance determine the exudation of nitrification inhibitor 3‐epi‐brachialactone suggesting release via secondary transport
Authors: Egenolf Konrad , Verma Supriya , Schöne Jochen , Klaiber Iris , Arango Jacobo , Cadisch Georg , Neumann Günter , Rasche Frank
Published: December 2020

Biological nitrification inhibition (BNI) of Brachiaria humidicola has been attributed to nitrification‐inhibiting fusicoccanes, most prominently 3‐epi‐brachialactone. However, its release mechanism from B. humidicola roots remains elusive. Two hydroponic experiments were performed to investigate the role of rhizosphere pH and nutritional N form in regulating 3‐epi‐brachialactone release by B. humidicola and verify the underlying release pathway. Low rhizosphere pH and NH4+ nutrition promoted 3‐epi‐brachialactone exudation. However, the substitution of NH4+ by K+ revealed that the NH4+ effect was not founded in a direct physiological response to the N form but was related to the cation‐anion balance during nutrient uptake. Release of 3‐epi‐brachialactone correlated with the transmembrane proton gradient ΔpH and NH4+ uptake (R2 = 0.92 for high ~6.8 and R2 = 0.84 for low ~4.2 trap solution pH). This corroborated the release of 3‐epi‐brachialactone through secondary transport, with the proton motive force (ΔP) defining transport rates across the plasma membrane. It was concluded that 3‐epi‐brachialactone release cannot be conceptualized as a regulated response to soil pH or NH4+ availability, but merely as the result of associated changes in ΔP.
Preserved action recognition in children with autism spectrum disorders: Evidence from an EEG and eye‐tracking study
Authors: Sotoodeh Mohammad Saber , Taheri‐Torbati Hamidreza , Hadjikhani Nouchine , Lassalle Amandine
Published: December 2020

Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have difficulties recognizing and understanding others’ actions. The goal of the present study was to determine whether children with and without ASD show differences in the way they process stimuli depicting Biological Motion (BM). Thirty‐two children aged 7–16 (16 ASD and 16 typically developing (TD) controls) participated in two experiments. In the first experiment, electroencephalography (EEG) was used to record low (8‒10 Hz) and high (10‒13 Hz) mu and beta (15‒25 Hz) bands during the observation three different Point Light Displays (PLD) of action. In the second experiment, participants answered to action‐recognition tests and their accuracy and response time were recorded, together with their eye‐movements. There were no group differences in EEG data (first experiment), indicating that children with and without ASD do not differ in their mu suppression (8‒13 Hz) and beta activity (15‒25 Hz). However, behavioral data from second experiment revealed that children with ASD were less accurate and slower than TD children in their responses to an action recognition task. In addition, eye‐tracking data indicated that children with ASD paid less attention to the body compared to the background when watching PLD stimuli. Our results indicate that the more the participants focused on the PLDs, the more they displayed mu suppressions. These results could challenge the results of previous studies that had not controlled for visual attention and found a possible deficit in MNS functions of individuals with ASD. We discuss possible mechanisms and interpretations.
Empowering the Female City Manager to Succeed: What Role Does Mentoring Play in the Personal Development and Preparation of Women for this Leadership Position?
Authors: French P. Edward , Eskridge Robert D.
Published: December 2020

How does mentoring impact the personal work‐related attitudes of female city managers in the United States? Data from a survey of female city managers from cities of 5,000 people or more show that mentoring relationships often have a positive impact on the participant's self‐confidence and preparation for her position in terms of understanding work processes, responsibilities, and relationships. Mentoring is especially important to females who are employed in their first city manager position as survey data indicate that nonmentored female managers perceive more personal challenges with several activities including general administrative duties, developing and managing the budget and policies, and preparing and implementing a strategic plan, as well as a healthy balance of their work and personal life.
Defining Dependence: The Natural Resource Community Typology*
Authors: Mueller J. Tom
Published: December 2020

Natural resource dependence, although commonly invoked in natural resource sociology, has often been ambiguously defined. Communities are frequently described as dependent on natural resource development, but limited attention has been paid to what that means. In the literature, resource dependence is often treated as over‐specialization in, or over‐reliance upon, the natural resource sectors. However, the logic of over‐specialization conceptually grounds dependence in poor economic outcomes. Thus, a one‐dimensional typology of dependence based on a threshold of the share of development in the natural resource sector—as commonly used—does not fully capture the concept and risks tautology. In this paper, I address this ambiguity by formally defining natural resource dependence as over‐specialization in the natural resource sectors. I then present an ideal typology, known as the Natural Resource Community Typology, and a corresponding classification scheme for rural communities in the United States. The typology integrates both extractive and non‐extractive natural resource activity and has two dimensions—the level of development and the level of economic prosperity—and six mutually exclusive categories—extractive specialized, extractive dependent, non‐extractive specialized, non‐extractive dependent, hybrid specialized, and hybrid dependent. I classify counties from 2000 to 2015 and find that while extractive dependence decreased over the study period, non‐extractive dependence increased.
Exact analytical solution of a novel modified nonlinear Schrödinger equation: Solitary quantum waves on a lattice
Authors: Luo Jingxi
Published: December 2020

A novel modified nonlinear Schrödinger equation is presented. Through a traveling wave ansatz, the equation is solved exactly and analytically. The soliton solution is characterized in terms of waveform and wave speed, and the dependence of these properties upon parameters in the equation is detailed. It is discovered that some parameter settings yield unique waveforms, while others yield degeneracy, with two distinct waveforms per set of parameter values. The uniwaveform and biwaveform regions of parameter space are identified. Finally, the equation is shown to be a model for the propagation of a quantum mechanical exciton, such as an electron, through a collectively‐oscillating plane lattice with which the exciton interacts. The physical implications of the soliton solution are discussed.
Addictive internet behaviors: The role of trait emotional intelligence, self‐esteem, age, and gender
Authors: Sechi Cristina , Loi Giorgia , Cabras Cristina
Published: December 2020

Internet is essential part of everyday life and certainly facilitate it on several levels. It is a helpful information tool, and knowledge, but its unlimited range often is risky for users. The behaviors and outcomes of internet abuse have already been well‐documented in the literature; less is known about the role of personal factors that reinforce internet addiction. Based on the Interaction of Person‐Affect‐Cognition‐Execution model (I‐PACE), the current study investigates the role of trait emotional intelligence and self‐esteem, age, and gender in relation to addictive internet behaviors. We conducted an online investigation among respondents. The participants were Italian university students who voluntarily completed the Abuse Internet Addiction scale (UADI) and the Rosenberg Self‐esteem scale. Path analysis results revealed that both trait emotional intelligence and self‐esteem had a protective direct effect on addictive internet behaviors. Age negatively affects addictive internet behaviors; younger are more likely to develop addictive internet behaviors than older individuals. Finally, we did not find an effect of gender on addictive internet behaviors. Our results suggest the need to develop prevention plans for addictive internet behaviors and educational programs to increase emotional intelligence and self‐esteem components to help younger to improve interpersonal and emotional management skills to better handle their internet use.
Interrelationship of emotional stability, hassles, uplifts, coping and stress‐related symptoms in Swedish female and male military veterans
Authors: Larsson Gerry , Lundell Emil , Svensén Sofia , Nilsson Sofia
Published: December 2020

Drawing on previous research, two hypotheses were tested: (1) the higher the frequency of daily uplifts and use of functional coping strategies, and the lower the frequency of daily hassles and use of dysfunctional coping strategies, the lower the prevalence of stress‐related symptoms will be, and vice versa; and (2) the direct relationship between the personality dimension emotional stability and stress‐related symptoms, will be moderated by daily hassles, daily uplifts and coping processes. A quantitative test of a qualitatively developed model was performed. A questionnaire was sent to all Swedish military veterans who had served in the period 2011–2015 and 1859 individuals (1,614 men and 199 women, 46 individuals did not mark gender) responded (40.5% total response rate). All analyses were made separately for men and women. Comparisons between theoretically favorable and unfavorable profiles across the model variables, daily uplifts, daily hassles, functional coping and dysfunctional coping (based on a cluster analysis), showed considerable differences regarding the prevalence of stress‐related symptoms as predicted by the model and supporting the first hypothesis. Regression and moderation analyses yielded limited support for the second hypothesis. As predicted, female veterans reported a higher frequency of physical, emotional and cognitive stress‐related symptoms than male veterans. The main conclusion is that the theoretical model stood up well when empirically tested and offers a promising approach to future studies on everyday stress and health. The results contribute with new knowledge of military veterans compared to the main stream PTSD, depression and drug abuse‐oriented studies.
The burden of injury in field hockey: A secondary analysis of prospective cohort data
Authors: Rees Huw , McCarthy Persson Ulrik , Delahunt Eamonn , Boreham Colin , Blake Catherine
Published: December 2020

Most studies report injuries based upon their incidence rate, or the number of injuries which occur in a sport per unit of time. While this is recommended across numerous consensus statements on reporting injury data in sport, it may be of benefit to consider injury burden also. Reporting injuries as the duration of injury per 1000 exposure hours highlights those injuries which will likely cause greater disruption within a team. Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to report the burden of injury in field hockey. This secondary analysis of epidemiological data employed two methods of data collection: self‐reported through an online reporting software, and through contact with the team physiotherapist. Athletes reported injury‐related symptoms for 4170 days in total, giving rise to an injury burden of 121.0/1000 h, of which 61.4/1000 h were days lost through injury. Injuries to the hamstring, as well as muscle strain injuries, caused the most significant injury burden in athletes (22.6 and 35.8/1000 h respectively). Reporting injuries as the duration of injuries per 1000 hours highlights those injuries which cause the most significant disruption within a squad. Future injury prevention strategies in field hockey should prioritize the injuries which are most burdensome.
To dry perchance to live: Insights from the genome of the desiccation‐tolerant biocrust moss Syntrichia caninervis
Authors: Silva Anderson T. , Gao Bei , Fisher Kirsten M. , Mishler Brent D. , Ekwealor Jenna T. B. , Stark Lloyd R. , Li Xiaoshuang , Zhang Daoyuan , Bowker Matthew A. , Brinda John C. , Coe Kirsten K. , Oliver Melvin J.
Published: December 2020

With global climate change, water scarcity threatens whole agro/ecosystems. The desert moss Syntrichia caninervis, an extremophile, offers novel insights into surviving desiccation and heat. The sequenced S. caninervis genome consists of 13 chromosomes containing 16 545 protein‐coding genes and 2666 unplaced scaffolds. Syntenic relationships within the S. caninervis and Physcomitrella patens genomes indicate the S. caninervis genome has undergone a single whole genome duplication event (compared to two for P. patens) and evidence suggests chromosomal or segmental losses in the evolutionary history of S. caninervis. The genome contains a large sex chromosome composed primarily of repetitive sequences with a large number of Copia and Gypsy elements. Orthogroup analyses revealed an expansion of ELIP genes encoding proteins important in photoprotection. The transcriptomic response to desiccation identified four structural clusters of novel genes. The genomic resources established for this extremophile offer new perspectives for understanding the evolution of desiccation tolerance in plants.
Complications of blood donation reported to haemovigilance systems: analysis of eleven years of international surveillance
Authors: Wiersum‐Osselton Johanna C , Politis Constantina , Richardson Clive , Goto Naoko , Grouzi Elisavet , Marano Giuseppe , Land Kevin J
Published: December 2020

Background and Objectives

The International Haemovigilance Network collects aggregate data on complications of blood donation from member haemovigilance systems (HVS). We analysed the data collected in 2006–2016 in order to learn from it and consider future improvements.

Materials and Methods

National HVS entered annual data on donation complications and on annual whole blood and apheresis donations in the ‘ISTARE’ (International Surveillance of Transfusion Adverse Reactions and Events) online database. We calculated national and aggregate donation complication rates.

Results

Twenty‐four HVS provided data for 138 country years (CY; median 7 CY, IQR 2–8), covering 155 M donations. The overall complication rate was 6·3/1000 donations and the median country rate 3·2/1000 (IQR 1·1–10·1). Overall and severe complication rates varied considerably between HVS. Vasovagal reactions (VVR) were most commonly reported: 4·6/1000 donations, median country rate 3·1/1000 donations (IQR 0·6–7·7). Rare complications included generalized allergic reaction (0·10/100 000) and major blood vessel injury (category available since 2015; 0·12/100 000). Eighteen HVS reported complications of whole blood donation (WBD) and apheresis separately (89 CY, 101·6 M WBD and 26·3 M apheresis donations). The median country VVR rate was 3·4/1000 WBD (IQR 1·0–9·1) and 1·5/1000 apheresis donations (1·0–4·2). Rates of venepuncture‐related complications tended to be higher for apheresis: the median country rate of reported haematomas was 0·39/1000 WBD (IQR 0·31–1·2) vs. 4·2/1000 apheresis donations (0·69–5·6).

Conclusion

International reporting allows HVS to study rates of blood donation complications and capture information about very rare events. The present variability of reporting and severity assessment hampers comparisons between HVS and requires further work.
Degradation of tetracycline in aqueous solution by persulphate assisted gas‐liquid dielectric barrier discharge
Authors: Wu Haixia , Fan Jiawei , Liu Feng , Shu Lisha , Yin Baojian
Published: December 2020

In order to promote the decomposition of pollutants, potassium peroxodisulphate (PDS) has been added to a gas‐liquid dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) reactor with rod plate configuration for processing tetracycline (TC) wastewater. The effects of applied voltage, PDS dose, discharge gap, initial pH and TC concentration are discussed. The results show that the addition of PDS can significantly improve the removal efficiency of TC, the kinetic constant and the energy utilization of DBD. Compared with DBD treatment alone, the removal efficiency of TC (80 mg/L) can be increased by 45.5% after adding 0.6 g/L PDS. The TC removal efficiency increases with the increase of applied voltage and the decrease of TC concentration and discharge gap. The PDS dose has an optimal value. Weakly alkaline conditions are conducive to the removal of TC. Inorganic ions (Cl− and
) have a significant effect on removing TC. The overall findings suggest an effective method to remove organic pollutants in wastewater.
Historical tools and current societal challenges: reflections on a collection of environmental migration cases
Authors: Biasillo Roberta
Published: December 2020

Through considering a "Geo Archive" as a tool of history, this paper explores several conundrums concerning environmental migration in social sciences. It demonstrates how historical perspectives can problematize and unsettle various automatisms that are widely present in journalistic, public, and policy discourses. Through examples from the Geo Archive, the article illustrates how unavoidable historical dimensions can enrich our understandings on the interaction between environmental issues and migration flows. This paper engages with an open access "archive in-the-making". This Geo Archive includes case studies of migration flows and puts those flows in conversation with environmental transformations and climatic changes. The analysed collection presents high-profile stories which are representative samples of different approaches, temporalities, geographies, sources of information, narratives, and scales. This endeavour encompasses different disciplines and fields of expertise: environmental humanities, IT and communication experts, and political ecology. The archive places itself within the realms of public history, environmental history, and history of the present and aims to reach out to wider audiences. This digital humanities project stemmed from a support action funded by the EU initiative Horizon 2020 titled CLISEL whose overarching goal was to analyse and better inform institutional responses and policies addressing climate refugees and migrants.
Mental health, coloniality and fieldwork in the European university: a reflection in three challenges – commentary to Taylor
Authors: Hirsch Lioba
Published: December 2020

In this reflection piece, I discuss three challenges to the way we think about fieldwork and mental health in the context of European universities. These challenges emerged out of reading and reflecting on Stephen Taylor’s paper “The long shadows cast by the field: violence, trauma and the ethnographic researcher”. Specifically I reflect on coloniality and whiteness and the ways in which I consider them to be entangled in both the problem and the discussion around universities’ handling of the mental health of their staff and students. In doing so I rely on decolonial and critical whiteness literature to argue that universities’ disregard for the (mental health) risks associated with conducting ethnographic fieldwork as well as the academic culture which fuels this disregard, reveal the ways in which universities and the knowledge they produce privilege whiteness.
Combating the shocks of the 'unplayful' field. Alone! – commentary to Taylor
Authors: MCFARLANE-MORRIS Shenika
Published: December 2020

This brief reflection is centered on the article, “The long shadows cast by the field: violence, trauma, and the ethnographic researcher.” The author, Stephen Taylor, should be commended for his bold move to detail his experiences with trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) which were subsequent to the commencement of his doctoral fieldwork in a violent location of South Africa. The work of Taylor is stark evidence of the kaleidoscope of challenges surrounding fieldwork that the early career geographer oftentimes bear on their own, which potentially compromise their mental and physical well-being. Compounding these challenges is the cursoriness of preparedness of fledgling geographers for immersed fieldwork, and secondly, the availability of organized support systems for such individuals, once they are in the field. On these premises, I call for action amongst universities to improve the manner in which they prepare ethnographic researchers for fieldwork, particularly those to be conducted in developing countries.
Doctoral research work and work of care: reflections in times of a pandemic
Authors: Barata Catarina , Coutinho Luísa , Manfredi Federica , Schamarella Madelon
Published: December 2020

In the face of the pandemic, we have been forced to adopt strategies in order to balance our doctoral work at the same time as caring for our families. As the digital turn has pervaded both social and academic milieus, we consider the potentials and shortcomings of remote interactions and approaches and how they have impacted our work and personal lives. We focus on the challenges of balancing paid work and the unpaid work of care, as well as considering potential changes to the concept of care in terms of building a caring culture.
And now what? Changing fields and methodologies during the Covid-19 pandemic: from international mobilities to education
Authors: De Barros Antonio Pedro , Guerreiro Ana Daniela , Mascarenhas Mafalda F. , Reis Rita
Published: December 2020

The Covid-19 pandemic and the worldwide lockdown have brought about profound changes to the way in which fieldwork is done. During a time particularly marked by social distancing, how do social scientists cope with the need to alter their methodologies with fields in transition? This essay reflects upon the changes caused by the pandemic, both in the field and in the methodologies adopted by the authors – all in different phases of their PhD research. Drawing from their research areas, it focuses on two main thematic axes, both deeply affected by the current situation: international mobilities (of commodities and people) and education (in Portugal and abroad).
Stochastic Response Analysis and Reliability-Based Design Optimization of Nonlinear Electromechanical Energy Harvesters With Fractional Derivative Elements
Authors: Petromichelakis Ioannis , Psaros Apostolos F. , Kougioumtzoglou Ioannis A.
Published: December 2020

A methodology based on the Wiener path integral (WPI) technique is developed for stochastic response determination and reliability-based design optimization of a class of nonlinear electromechanical energy harvesters endowed with fractional derivative elements. In this regard, first, the WPI technique is appropriately adapted and enhanced to account both for the singular diffusion matrix and for the fractional derivative modeling of the capacitance in the coupled electromechanical governing equations. Next, a reliability-based design optimization problem is formulated and solved, in conjunction with the WPI technique, for determining the optimal parameters of the harvester. It is noted that the herein proposed definition of the failure probability constraint is particularly suitable for harvester configurations subject to space limitations. Several numerical examples are included, while comparisons with pertinent Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) data demonstrate the satisfactory performance of the methodology.
Investigation of the Mechanical Integrity of Prismatic Li-Ion Batteries Under Multi-Position Indentation
Authors: Wang Tao , Hu Rufu , Chen Xiaoping , Wu Yaobo , Raleva Katerina , Ji Hongbo , Li Ling , Yuan Quan , Ji Yingping , Liu Yuezhuan , Zheng Weigong
Published: December 2020

Understanding the mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of prismatic lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is vital to battery safety design, which is key to electric vehicle safety. This study investigated prismatic LIBs subjected to multiple-position indentation loading. The side face of an intact prismatic LIB cell is divided into 15 compressed sections. Experimental results indicate that indentation loading of all sections could initiate thermal runaway. Among the sections studied, that near the positive terminal shows the highest risk of thermal runaway, whereas that near the top-right corner is relatively safe. Failure mode analysis reveals that short circuits may result from contact between the positive and negative current collectors.
Influence of Carbon Nanoparticles Additives on Nanosilver Joints in LTJT Technology
Authors: Szałapak Jerzy , Kiełbasiński Konrad , Dybowska-Sarapuk Łucja , Krzeminski Jakub , Teodorczyk Marian , Kowaluk Tomasz , Jakubowska Małgorzata
Published: December 2020

Ninety percent of high temperature electronic devices operate in temperatures in the range of 150 to 300 °C, and for such temperature needs, technologies typical for the military range might be adapted. To make it possible, new joining techniques are developed, one of them is use of pastes with silver nanoparticles sintered with low temperature joining technique. Silver sintered joints have three times higher thermal conductivity and five times lower electrical resistivity than typical solders, while being able to operate in temperatures reaching 350 °C. In this paper, the authors show the impact of additions of carbon nanoparticles on joints prepared in low temperature joining technology (LTJT). The authors prove that an addition of few percent of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) or carbon nanotubes (CNTs) improves joints mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties, while ensuring proper rheology of pastes.
An Enhanced Semi-Coupled Methodology for the Analysis and Design of Floating Production Systems
Authors: Cruces-Giron Aldo Roberto , Mendez Rodriguez William Steven , Correa Fabrício Nogueira , Jacob Breno Pinheiro
Published: December 2020

This work presents an enhanced hybrid methodology for the analysis and design of floating production systems (FPS). The semi-coupled (S-C) procedure exploits the advantages of coupled and uncoupled models, incorporated into a three-stage sequence of analyses that can be fully automated within a single analysis program, presenting striking reductions of computational costs. The procedure begins by determining, through a full nonlinear static coupled analysis, the mean equilibrium position of the FPS with its mooring lines and risers. Then, it automatically evaluates equivalent six degrees-of-freedom (6DOF) stiffness matrices and force vectors representing the whole array of lines. Finally, these matrices/vectors are transferred to the dynamic analysis, solving the global 6DOF equations of motion restarted from the static equilibrium position. This way, the S-C methodology represents all nonlinear effects associated with the lines and considers their influence on the dynamic behavior of the hull. However, in some situations, it could still overestimate dynamic amplitudes of low-frequency (LF) motions and/or underestimate amplitudes of line tensions. Thus, to improve the overall accuracy, enhanced procedures are incorporated to better represent damping and inertial contribution of the lines. Results of case studies confirm that this methodology provides results adequate for preliminary or intermediary design stages.