bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scalable Fabrication of Superhydrophobic Coating with Rough Coral Reef‐Like Structures for Efficient Self‐Cleaning and Oil‐Water Separation: An Experimental and Molecular Dynamics Simulation Study
Authors: Cai Huidong , Duan Chongxiong , Fu Mingli , Zhang Jin , Huang Haomin , Hu Yun , Shi Jie , Ye Daiqi
Published: April 2023

Superhydrophobic coating has a great application prospect in self‐cleaning and oil‐water separation but remains challenging for large‐scale preparation of robust and weather‐resistant superhydrophobic coatings via facile approaches. Herein, this work reports a scalable fabrication of weather‐resistant superhydrophobic coating with multiscale rough coral reef‐like structures by spraying the suspension containing superhydrophobic silica nanoparticles and industrial coating varnish on various substrates. The coral reef‐like structures effectively improves the surface roughness and abrasion resistance. Rapid aging experiments (3000 h) and the outdoor building project application (3000 m2) show that the sprayed superhydrophobic coating exhibits excellent self‐cleaning properties, weather resistance, and environmental adaptability. Moreover, the combined silica‐coating varnish‐polyurethane (CSCP) superhydrophobic sponge exhibits exceptional oil‐water separation capabilities, selectively absorbing the oils from water up to 39 times of its own weight. Furthermore, the molecular dynamics (MD) simulation reveals that the combined effect of higher surface roughness, smaller diffusion coefficient of water molecules, and weaker electrostatic interactions between water and the surface jointly determines the superhydrophobicity of the prepared coating. This work deepens the understanding of the anti‐wetting mechanism of superhydrophobic surfaces from the perspective of energetic and kinetic properties, thereby paving the way for the rational design of superhydrophobic materials and their large‐scale applications.
Construction of Inorganic/Organic Hybrid Layer for Stable Na Metal Anode Operated under Wide Temperatures
Authors: Lv Xiang , Tang Fang , Xu Shitan , Yao Yu , Yuan Zishun , Liu Lin , He Shengnan , Yang Yaxiong , Sun Wenping , Pan Hongge , Rui Xianhong , Yu Yan
Published: April 2023

Sodium metal battery is supposed to be a propitious technology for high‐energy storage application owing to the advantages of natural abundance and low cost. Unfortunately, the uncontrollable dendrite growth critically hampers its practical implementation. Herein, an inorganic/organic hybrid layer of NaF/CF/CC on the surface of Na foil (IOHL‐Na) is designed and synthesized through the in situ reaction of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and metallic sodium. This protective layer possesses satisfactory Young's modulus, good kinetic property, and sodiophilicity, which can distinctly stabilize Na metal anode. As a result, the symmetric IOHL‐Na cell achieves a lifespan of 770 h at 1 mAh cm−2/1 mA cm−2 in carbonate electrolyte. The assembled full battery of IOHL‐Na||Na3V2(PO4)3 delivers a high discharge capacity of 85 mAh g−1 at 10 C after 600 cycles under ambient temperature. Furthermore, the IOHL‐Na||Na3V2(PO4)3 cell still can steadily operate at 10 C for 600 cycles at 55 °C. And when testing at an ultralow temperature of −40 °C, the full cell achieves 40 mAh g−1 at 0.5 C with a prolonged lifespan of 450 cycles. This work offers a new approach to protect the metal sodium anode without dendrite growth under wide temperatures.
Revealing Atomic Configuration and Synergistic Interaction of Single‐Atom‐Based Zn‐Co‐Fe Trimetallic Sites for Enhancing Oxygen Reduction and Evolution Reactions
Authors: Lin Xiaorong , Li Qingqing , Hu Yixuan , Jin Zeyu , Reddy Kolan Madhav , Li Kaikai , Lin Xi , Ci Lijie , Qiu Hua‐Jun
Published: April 2023

Anchoring single metal atom to carbon supports represents an exceptionally effective strategy to maximize the efficiency of catalysts. Recently, dual‐atom catalysts (DACs) emerge as an intriguing candidate for atomic catalysts, which perform better than single‐atom catalysts (SACs). However, the clarification of the polynary single‐atom structures and their beneficial effects remains a daunting challenge. Here, atomically dispersed triple Zn‐Co‐Fe sites anchored to nitrogen‐doped carbon (ZnCoFe‐N‐C) prepared by one‐step pyrolysis of a designed metal‐organic framework precursor are reported. The atomically isolated trimetallic configuration in ZnCoFe‐N‐C is identified by annular dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscopy and spectroscopic techniques. Benefiting from the synergistic effect of trimetallic single atoms, nitrogen, and carbon, ZnCoFe‐N‐C exhibits excellent catalytic performance in bifunctional oxygen reduction/evolution reactions in an alkaline medium, outperforming other SACs and DACs. The ZnCoFe‐N‐C‐based Zn‐air battery exhibits a high specific capacity (liquid state: 931.8 Wh kgZn−1), power density (liquid state: 137.8 mW cm−2; all‐solid‐state: 107.9 mW cm−2), and good cycling stability. Furthermore, density‐functional theory calculations rationalize the excellent performance by demonstrating that the ZnCoFe‐N‐C catalyst has upshifted d‐band center that enhances the adsorption of the reaction intermediates.
Diatom Frustules Decorated with Co Nanoparticles for the Advanced Anode of Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Chen Yu‐xin , Liu Hong‐chang , Xie Wei‐qi , Shen Ze , Xia Jin‐lan , Nie Zhen‐yuan , Xie Jian‐ping
Published: April 2023

Silica is regarded as a promising anode material for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) because of its high theoretical capacity. However, large volume variation and poor electrical conductivity are limiting factors for the development of SiO2 anode materials. To solve this problem, combining SiO2 with a conductive phase and designing hollow porous structures are effective ways. In this work, The Co(II)‐EDTA chelate on the surface of diatom biosilica (DBS) frustules and obtained DBS@C‐Co composites decorated with Co nanoparticles by calcination without a reducing atmosphere is first precipitated. The unique three‐dimensional structure of diatom frustules provides enough space for the volume change of silica during lithiation/delithiation. Co nanoparticles effectively improve the electrical conductivity and electrochemical activity of silica. Through the synergistic effect of the hollow porous structure, carbon layer and Co nanoparticles, the DBS@C‐Co‐60 composite delivers a high reversible capacity of >620 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1 after 270 cycles. This study provides a new method for the synthesis of metal/silica composites and an opportunity for the development of natural resources as advanced active materials for LIBs.
Effect of Citric Acid and Sodium Trimetaphosphate Induced Crosslinking on Functional, Rheological, Structural, and Thermal Properties of Buckwheat Starch
Authors: Kumar Yogesh , Singh Sukhcharn , Saxena Dharmesh Chandra
Published: April 2023

The present study utilizes citric acid (CA, 12–60% of dry starch) and sodium trimetaphosphate (STMP, 6–30% of dry starch) to crosslink buckwheat starch. The major morphological changes are observed for CAinduced crosslinking, which erodes the polygonal and irregular shaped granules surface leading to formation of indentation and disappearance of pores. FTIR analysis confirms CA crosslinking, which introduces a new peak at 1720 cm−1 (stretching vibration of C═O). XRD pattern reveals both crosslinkers disrupt the crystalline region of native granules leading to reduction in crystallinity index. These changes detrimentally affect the solubility and swelling power even at higher temperature (95 °C). As a result, the pasting curve gets flattened and very poor gel is formed. The crosslinked starch gels are highly flowable, have low yield stress, and show shear thinning behavior. The thermal analysis shows that CA starches gelatinize at lower temperatures due to poor crystalline structure and require lower energy. Thermogravimetric analysis shows crosslinked starches have higher residual mass (10.20–25.17%) at 450 °C compared to native (8.66%). Conclusively, as the concentration of crosslinkers increases, the properties of BS undergo more pronounced changes, resulting in severe alterations in its functional, rheological, and thermal properties at higher concentrations.
Progression of river BOD/DO modeling for water quality management
Authors: Lung Wu‐Seng
Published: April 2023

A historical perspective of river BOD/DO modeling using the Streeter‐Phelps equation in the past century is presented with cases in the United States, Taiwan, and India. The main emphasis is on the regulatory aspects of modeling during the five decades following the passage of the 1972 Clean Water Act (CWA) in the United States. Success of the CWA in river clean‐up is demonstrated via BOD/DO modeling for management use. Continuing interests outside the United States in anaerobic rivers and eutrophication‐related low dissolved oxygen problems are serving as new proving ground for applications of river BOD/DO modeling. In addition, road blocks on BOD/DO modeling under future conditions for water quality management are outlined.

Practitioner Points

Water quality‐based control to set end‐of‐pipe limits prior to 1970s

Switched to technology‐based control following the 1972 Clean Water Act

Back to water quality‐based control with field data support since 1980

Modeling to support technology‐based and water quality‐based control for renewed river BOD/DO problems in the 21st century
An analytical computed microtomography methodology for identification of microplastic fragments in aqueous media
Authors: Funcke R. P. , de Araújo O. M. O. , Machado A. S. , Oliveira D. F. , Lopes R. T.
Published: April 2023

The impact of microplastics (MPs) on the environment is a major concern that affects not only marine life but also the entire ecosystem. MPs are defined as tiny artificial polymer‐based particles, measuring less than 5 mm in length. The impact of these compounds on human health concerns the metabolic alterations, reproductive disorders, neurological disorders, and hormone‐dependent tumors. Due to the problems involved in the improper disposal of this material in nature (in beaches, rivers, lakes, ponds, and oceans), and also, all the risks of MPs both for the ecosystem and for all beings alive, it became extremely important to develop a methodology that makes it possible to quantify this material when present in aqueous media. Therefore, the aim of this study is to present a methodology developed in the laboratory to quantify MP fragments present in an aqueous media. For this, phantoms were developed with plastic fragments from 0.18 to 0.71 mm, in diameter, which were later analyzed using the computed microtomography technique (microCT). The microCT is a non‐invasive imaging technique that uses X‐rays to produce detailed 3D images of the internal structure of an object. The results showed a good contrast pattern, and the quantitative analysis represented satisfactory results for all samples, with relative error below 20%.
Thermal three-point functions from holographic Schwinger-Keldysh contours
Authors: Pantelidou Christiana , Withers Benjamin
Published: April 2023

Abstract

We compute fully retarded scalar three-point functions of holographic CFTs at finite temperature using real-time holography. They describe the nonlinear response of a holographic medium under scalar forcing, and display single and higher-order poles associated to resonant QNM excitations. This involves computing the bulk-to-bulk propagator on a piecewise mixed-signature spacetime, the dual of the Schwinger-Keldysh contour. We show this construction is equivalent to imposing ingoing boundary conditions on a single copy of a black hole spacetime, similar to the case of the two-point function. We also compute retarded scalar correlators with stress-tensor insertions in general CFTs by solving Ward identities on the Schwinger-Keldysh contour.
3D ultrasound strain imaging of puborectal muscle with and without unilateral avulsion
Authors: Das Shreya , Hendriks Gijs A. G. M. , van den Noort Frieda , Manzini Claudia , van der Vaart C. H. , de Korte Chris L.
Published: April 2023

Introduction and hypothesis

The puborectal muscle (PRM), one of the female pelvic floor (PF) muscles, can get damaged during vaginal delivery, leading to disorders such as pelvic organ prolapse. Current diagnosis involves ultrasound (US) imaging of the female PF muscles, but functional information is limited. Previously, we developed a method for strain imaging of the PRM from US images in order to obtain functional information. In this article, we hypothesize that strain in the PRM would differ from intact to the avulsed end.

Methods

We calculated strain in PRMs at maximum contraction, along their muscle fiber direction, from US images of two groups of women, which consisted of women with intact (n1 = 8) and avulsed PRMs (unilateral) (n2 = 10). Normalized strain ratios between both ends of the PRM (avulsed or intact) and the mid region were calculated. Subsequently, the difference in ratio between the avulsed and intact PRMs was determined.

Results

We observe from the obtained results that the contraction/strain pattern of intact and undamaged PRMs is different from PRMs with unilateral avulsion. Normalized strain ratios between avulsed and intact PRMs were statistically significant (p = 0.04).

Conclusion

In this pilot study, we were able to show that US strain imaging of PRMs can show differences between intact PRMs and PRMs with unilateral avulsion.
Foot cues can elicit covert orienting of attention
Authors: Dalmaso Mario
Published: April 2023

Humans tend to orient their attentional resources towards the same location indicated by spatial signals coming from the others, such as pointing fingers, head turns, or eye-gaze. Here, two experiments investigated whether an attentional orienting response can be elicited even by foot cues. Participants were asked to localize a peripheral target while a task-irrelevant picture of a naked human foot, oriented leftward or rightward, was presented on the centre of the screen. The foot appeared in a neutral posture (i.e., standing upright) or an action-oriented posture (i.e., walking/running). In Experiment 1, neutral and action-oriented feet were presented in two distinct blocks, while in Experiment 2 they were presented intermixed. The results showed that the action-oriented foot, but not the neutral one, elicited an orienting response, though this only emerged in Experiment 2. This work suggests that attentional shifts can be induced by action-oriented foot cues, as long as these stimuli are made contextually salient.
DFT study of adsorbing SO2, NO2, and NH3 gases based on pristine and carbon-doped Al24N24 nanocages
Authors: Taha R. A. , Shalabi A. S. , Assem M. M. , Soliman K. A.
Published: April 2023

The adsorption of SO2, NO2, and NH3
toxic gases on Al24N24 and Al24N23C nanocages was investigated by using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The adsorption energies, frontier orbitals, charge transfer using natural bonding orbital (NBO) analysis, dipole moment, the partial density of states (PDOS), thermodynamic relationships, non-covalent interaction (NCI), and quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) were considered. The results reveal that carbon-doped Al24N24 nanocage increases the adsorption energies for SO2 and NO2 gases while decreasing the adsorption energy of NH3 gas. The ΔG for all configurations were negative except the configurations A1 and G2 confirming the weak adsorption of these two complexes. In conclusion, Al24N24 and Al24N23C nanocages are in general promising adsorbents for the removal of SO2, NO2, and NH3 toxic gases. The Al24N24 and Al24N23C nanocages are ideal electronic materials.
Diameter growth of European beech on carbonate: a regional versus forest type perspective
Authors: Bončina Andrej , Trifković Vasilije , Ficko Andrej , Klopčič Matija
Published: April 2023

We studied the impacts of site, stand and tree variables on the diameter growth of beech trees (Fagussylvatica L.) on carbonate bedrock and examined to what extent the regional diameter growth model can be used at the forest type level. Based on 12,193 permanent sampling plots (500 m2 each) with 94,770 beech trees, we first developed a linear mixed-effect model of the periodic diameter increment at the regional level (Dinaric region, Slovenia, 1.7 thousand km2). Subsequently, we parametrized the model for five forest types within the region (submontane, thermophilous, montane, upper montane and subalpine) and used a homogeneity-of-slopes model to test whether the covariates have different effects in the five forest types. The regional model suggested the positive impact of tree diameter (nonlinear), tree diameter diversity, mean diurnal temperature range and mean annual temperature and the negative impact of basal area, proportion of beech, inclination, rockiness and annual amount of precipitation. Stand basal area and the proportion of beech contributed > 50% of the total explained diameter increment variability, followed by tree diameter (44%), topographic (3%) and climatic variables (< 2%). The regional model was well transferable to forest types; the only variable with a significantly different effect in forest types was tree diameter. However, models at the forest type level differed with respect to the slopes and significance of several predictors, wherein coefficients for some predictors were even of opposite sign. Not all predictors from the regional model were included in the forest type models if predictor selection and model parameterization were performed independently for each forest type. Our study suggests that some growth characteristics of beech can be detected at the regional level only, while analyses at the forest type level can reveal significant differences in beech growth response to tree, stand and environmental variables.
Mechanisms of chromosomal instability (CIN) tolerance in aggressive tumors: surviving the genomic chaos
Authors: Dhital Brittiny , Rodriguez-Bravo Veronica
Published: April 2023

Chromosomal instability (CIN) is a pervasive feature of human cancers involved in tumor initiation and progression and which is found elevated in metastatic stages. CIN can provide survival and adaptation advantages to human cancers. However, too much of a good thing may come at a high cost for tumor cells as excessive degree of CIN-induced chromosomal aberrations can be detrimental for cancer cell survival and proliferation. Thus, aggressive tumors adapt to cope with ongoing CIN and most likely develop unique susceptibilities that can be their Achilles’ heel. Determining the differences between the tumor-promoting and tumor-suppressing effects of CIN at the molecular level has become one of the most exciting and challenging aspects in cancer biology. In this review, we summarized the state of knowledge regarding the mechanisms reported to contribute to the adaptation and perpetuation of aggressive tumor cells carrying CIN. The use of genomics, molecular biology, and imaging techniques is significantly enhancing the understanding of the intricate mechanisms involved in the generation of and adaptation to CIN in experimental models and patients, which were not possible to observe decades ago. The current and future research opportunities provided by these advanced techniques will facilitate the repositioning of CIN exploitation as a feasible therapeutic opportunity and valuable biomarker for several types of human cancers.
A gender affinity effect: the role of gender in teaching evaluations at a Danish university
Authors: Binderkrantz Anne Skorkjær , Bisgaard Mette
Published: April 2023

A series of studies have identified gender bias in teaching evaluations in higher education—with women being evaluated lower than men. However, other recent studies indicate that gender bias is not present across all contexts. Our study adds to the understanding of the role of gender in teaching evaluations by focusing on a Danish university—a national context with relatively high educational gender equality and support for egalitarian gender norms. Crucially, the study pays systematic attention to the role of students’ gender in explaining evaluation outcomes. In a quantitative analysis of 125,000 evaluations in the social sciences at a Danish university, we identify a same-gender affinity. While there is no overall gender bias in the evaluations, students evaluate a teacher of their own gender best. To understand the mechanisms behind this pattern, we analyze comments provided by students in teaching evaluations and 20 interviews with students. Students are generally more positive in their descriptions of a teacher of their own gender. Moreover, we identify gendered patterns in the perceptions of teachers as well as in the aspects of teachers’ behavior and characteristics appreciated by students.
The correlation between morphological parameters and the incidence of de novo chromosomal abnormalities in 3238 biopsied blastocysts
Authors: Gao Jiangman , Wei Nan , Zhu Xiaohui , Li Rong , Yan Liying , Qiao Jie
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between morphological parameters and the incidence of de novo chromosomal abnormalities.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of 652 patients who underwent 921 cycles with 3238 blastocysts biopsied. The embryo grades were evaluated according to Gardner and Schoolcraft’s system. The incidence of euploidy, whole chromosomal aneuploidy (W-aneuploidy), segmental chromosomal aneuploidy (S-aneuploidy), and mosaicism in trophectoderm (TE) cell biopsies was analyzed.

Results

The euploidy decreased significantly with maternal age and was positively correlated biopsy day and morphological parameters. The W-aneuploidy increased significantly with maternal age and was negatively correlated biopsy day and morphological parameters. Parental age, TE biopsy day, and morphological parameters were not associated with S-aneuploidy and mosaicism, except that TE grade C blastocysts had significantly higher mosaicism than TE grade A blastocysts. Subanalysis in different female age groups showed that euploidy and W-aneuploidy had a significant correlation with TE biopsy day among women aged ≤ 30 y and 31–35 y, with expansion degree among women aged ≥ 36 y, with ICM grade among women aged ≥ 31 y, and with TE grade among all female age ranges.

Conclusion

Female age, embryo developmental speed and blastocyst morphological parameters are associated with euploidy and whole chromosomal aneuploidy. The predictive value of these factors varies across female age groups. Parental age, embryo developmental speed, expansion degree, and ICM grade are not associated with the incidence of segmental aneuploidy or mosaicism, but TE grade seemingly has a weak correlation with segmental aneuploidy and mosaicism in embryos.
SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies in Commercial Immunoglobulin Products Show Markedly Reduced Cross-reactivities Against Omicron Variants
Authors: Lindahl Hannes , Chen Puran , Åberg Mikael , Ljunggren Hans-Gustaf , Buggert Marcus , Aleman Soo , Smith C. I. Edvard , Bergman Peter
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Patients with antibody deficiencies often receive maintenance treatment with donor plasma-derived immunoglobulin (Ig) preparations to decrease the incidence and severity of infections. We have previously shown that IgG antibodies to the original SARS-CoV-2 strain were not consistently present in off-the-shelf Ig batches produced up to approximately 18 months after the first identified case of COVID-19 in the USA and that Ig batches with anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG primarily contained vaccine-induced spike specific antibodies. This study aimed to investigate the degree of cross-reactivity between vaccine-induced anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies against Wuhan strain and subsequent viral variants.

Methods

Samples were collected from 74 Ig batches supplied by three different commercial manufacturers. All batches were used at the Immunodeficiency Unit at the Karolinska University Hospital from the start of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic until September 2022. Antibody quantity and potential to neutralize virus entry into host cells were assessed against the original SARS-CoV-2 Wuhan strain and the following nine variants: Alpha, Beta, Delta, IHU, and the Omicron BA.1, BA.1.1, BA.1 with spike mutation L452R, BA.2, and BA.3.

Results

Ig batches produced approximately 18 months after the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak (from around July 2021) and later consistently contained high quantities of antibodies that bind the Wuhan strain. The Ig batches had overall low reactivity to the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid, which implies that plasma donor spike IgG essentially is the result of vaccination. We assessed the degree of cross-reactivity towards each virus variant by plotting the variant/Wuhan strain ratio, which was consistent regardless of production date, suggesting cross-reactivity with vaccine-induced antibodies rather than virus exposure in the plasma donor population. Viral variants that emerged later during the pandemic systematically had a lower reactivity ratio, except for the Delta and IHU variants. The Ig batches displayed markedly low neutralizing potential towards the Beta variant and all tested Omicron variants.

Conclusion

Commercial Ig batches currently contain large quantities of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine-induced antibodies. Cross-reactivity with variant strains is evident but varies, with markedly low neutralizing potential observed against Omicron variants.
Exploring the Perspectives of Parents of Individuals with Autism from Low-Resourced Communities to Inform Family Navigator Programs
Authors: Burke Meghan M. , Johnston Amanda N. , Cheung W. Catherine , Li Chak , Monárrez Edwin , Aleman-Tovar Janeth
Published: April 2023

Family navigator programs are becoming increasingly common among families of children with autism. Yet, it is unclear how family navigators are developed; by exploring the input of families of children with autism, such programs can be responsive to family needs. In this study, 12 parents of autistic children from low-resourced communities were interviewed to inform the development of a family navigator program. Findings demonstrated that programs need to prepare navigators to address barriers such as limited knowledge and difficulty accepting an autism diagnosis. Programs should teach navigators to use strategies with families including educating families about services and connecting families with peer support. Program content should reflect direct services, government services, and advocacy strategies. Implications are discussed.
Are cities venturing green? A global analysis of the impact of green entrepreneurship on city air pollution
Authors: Cojoianu Theodor F. , Hoepner Andreas G. F. , Hu Xi , Ramadan Moustafa , Veneri Paolo , Wójcik Dariusz
Published: April 2023

Situated at the intersection between environmental entrepreneurship and urban sustainability, our paper seeks to investigate the links between city-level green venture ecosystems and the ability of urban centres to reduce air pollution. Using a large dataset of 12,834 urban centres from around the world and their associated yearly average particulate matter (PM2.5), we show that an increase in the cumulative number of green start-ups drives the lowering of PM2.5 levels. Looking closely at the subsectors that drive the results, we observe that the urban centres which hosted increased numbers of innovators in smart grid technologies, energy efficiency and wind energy generation (the low carbon energy sector overall) also experienced a decrease in air pollution over the 2010–2019 period. Thus, our study is a global analysis of the environmental impact of green entrepreneurship on local air pollution.
Ginsenosides enhance P2X7-dependent cytokine secretion from LPS-primed rodent macrophages
Authors: Dhuna Kshitija , Helliwell Ray , De Luca Simone N. , Spencer Sarah J. , Stokes Leanne
Published: April 2023

The activation of P2X7 is a well-known stimulus for the NLRP3-caspase 1 inflammasome and subsequent rapid IL-1β secretion from monocytes and macrophages. Here we show that positive allosteric modulators of P2X7, ginsenosides, can enhance the release of three important cytokines, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α from LPS-primed rodent macrophages using the J774 mouse macrophage cell line and primary rat peritoneal macrophages. We compared the immediate P2X7 responses in un-primed and LPS-primed macrophages and found no difference in calcium response amplitude or kinetics. These results suggest that under inflammatory conditions positive allosteric modulators are capable of increasing cytokine secretion at lower concentrations of ATP, thus boosting the initial pro-inflammatory signal. This may be important in the control of intracellular infections.
Exhaust emissions of gaseous and particle size-segregated water-soluble organic compounds from diesel-biodiesel blends
Authors: Evtyugina Margarita G. , Gonçalves Cátia , Alves Célia , Corrêa Sérgio M. , Daemme Luiz Carlos , de Arruda Penteado Neto Renato
Published: April 2023

This study assessed the emissions of gaseous pollutants and particle size distributed water-soluble organics (WSO) from a diesel vehicle fuelled with ultralow sulphur diesel (B0) and 10 (B10), 20 (B20), and 30% (B30) biodiesel blends in a chassis dynamometer tested under transient mode. Particulate emission sampling was carried out in an ultraviolet (UV) test chamber using a 10-stage impactor. Samples were grouped into three size fractions and analysed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Increasing the biofuel ratio up to 30% in the fuel reduced WSO emissions by 20.9% in comparison with conventional diesel. Organic acids accounted for 82–89% of WSO in all tested fuels. Dicarboxylic acids were the most abundant compound class, followed by hydroxy, aromatic, and linear alkanoic acids. Correlations between compounds demonstrated that adding biodiesel to diesel fuel reduces the emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx), benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylenes (BTEX), methane (CH4), total and nonmethane hydrocarbons (THC and NMHC), and dicarboxylic and hydroxy acids, but increases emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) and alkanoic and aromatic acids. Emissions of dicarboxylic and hydroxy acids were strongly correlated with the biodiesel content. WSO emissions of coarse and fine (1.0–10 μm) particles decreased with the increasing biofuel content in fuel blend. The total share of ultrafine (0.18–1.0 μm) and nanoparticles (< 0.18 μm) increased in WSOs emissions from B20 and B30 blends, when compared with petrodiesel. The biodiesel content also affected the chemical profile of WSO size fractions.
Novel specification tests for synchronous additive concurrent model formulation based on martingale difference divergence
Authors: Freijeiro-González Laura , Febrero-Bande Manuel , González-Manteiga Wenceslao
Published: April 2023

This paper presents new specification tests for a general synchronous additive concurrent model formulation. As a novelty, our proposal does not require a preliminary model or error structure estimation. No tuning parameters are involved either. We develop a suitable test statistic using the martingale difference divergence coefficient. As a result, this statistic measures the departure from the conditional mean independence in the concurrent model framework, considering the information of all observed time instants. In particular, global as well as partial dependence tests are introduced. Then, we allow one to quantify the effect of a group of covariates or to apply covariates selection one by one. We obtain its asymptotic distribution under the null and propose a bootstrap algorithm to compute the p-values in practice. Through simulations, we illustrate our method, and its performance is compared to existing competitors. In addition, we use this in the analysis of three real datasets related to gait data, flu activity, and casual bike rentals.
Innovations in the Treatment of Gastric Outlet Obstruction: Is This the Era of Endoscopic Ultrasonography-Guided Gastroenterostomy?
Authors: van de Pavert Yorick L. , Moons Leon M. G. , Bogte Auke , Vleggaar Frank P.
Published: April 2023

Purpose of review

Gastric outlet obstruction is a syndrome that is caused by several benign and malignant diseases. Endoscopic ultrasonography-guided gastroenterostomy (EUS-GE) is a novel treatment that seems to combine the advantages of the two traditional treatments: enteral stent placement (ES) and surgical gastrojejunostomy (SGJ). This review aims to determine the current position of EUS-GE amidst the two traditional treatment options.

Recent findings

Different approaches can be adopted to facilitate EUS-GE. Direct gastroenterostomy seems to have the shortest procedure time. All methods possess high technical success rates. Several retrospective analyses have compared EUS-GE to ES and SGJ. EUS-GE seems to have better stent patency compared to ES and a lower adverse event rate compared to SGJ. Recently, randomized trials have been initiated which compare EUS-GE with ES or SGJ.

Although the currently published literature unequivocally shows the great promises of EUS-GE, properly powered and controlled studies are warranted to ascertain the definitive position of EUS-GE within the treatment repertoire of GOO. Until reliable data has been collected, EUS-GE can be considered a safe and effective alternative to ES and SGJ.
Cannibalism—overview and medicolegal issues
Authors: Byard Roger W.
Published: April 2023

Cannibalism, the consumption of another by an individual of the same species, is a widespread practice amongst many animal groups. Human cannibalism or anthropophagy, however, is less common but has been found in many diverse groups ranging from hominids to Crusaders and soldiers in World War II. Although the existence of human cannibalism has been vigorously debated in recent times, it seems clear that well-described cases have occurred. The motivation for consuming human tissues may be (1) nutritional, (2) ritual and (3) pathological. A case of alleged cannibalism involving one of the victims of the so-called Snowtown serial killings in South Australia, Australia, is reported with an analysis of the history and features of cannibalism. Forensic problems may occur in accurately identifying remains that have been cannibalized; however, if ritualistic, serial and/or sadistic homicides are encountered, cannibalism should be considered, particularly if body parts are missing.
Diversity, distribution and composition of abyssal benthic Isopoda in a region proposed for deep-seafloor mining of polymetallic nodules: a synthesis
Authors: Kaiser Stefanie , Christodoulou Magdalini , Janssen Annika , Kihara Terue C. , Mohrbeck Inga , Pasotti Francesca , Schnurr Sarah M. , Vink Annemiek , Arbizu Pedro Martinez
Published: April 2023

Due to the increasing challenge of meeting human demands for metals from land-based resources, interest in extracting mineral ores from the deep sea has gained momentum in recent years. Targeted mining of deep-seabed minerals could have adverse effects on the associated ecosystems, but knowledge on the biological communities found there, their structure and functions is still limited. The focus of this study is to provide an overview on isopod crustaceans from the Clarion Clipperton Fracture Zone (CCFZ), an area well-known for its abundance of high-grade polymetallic nodules. Isopods generally comprise an important part of the macrofaunal communities of soft deep-sea sediments and indeed are one of the most dominant macrobenthic groups in the CCFZ. In this review, we have compiled all available data and information on isopod diversity and distribution in the CCFZ in a hybrid manner, which includes published data from the literature as well as the analysis of previously unpublished sources and newly collected data. Although isopods are one of the more prevalent and better-known groups of the CCFZ fauna, this study shows that it is still remarkably difficult to obtain a clear perception of isopod diversity and distribution, as well as the factors that could be responsible for the observed patterns. In many places, knowledge remains incomplete, which is largely due to the low sampling and taxonomic effort, non-standardised sample protocols and the limited taxonomic inter-calibration between studies. The latter is pivotal due to the high proportion of undescribed and presumably new species that typically occur there. An important starting point would therefore be to increase sampling effort and its spatial and temporal coverage in a standardised way, to intensify (integrative) taxonomic work as well as to facilitate sample and data exchange between scientists and contractors. These are fundamental requirements to improve our understanding of the biodiversity of isopods, but also of other faunal groups, in the CCFZ, before mining operations begin.
Behavioural Sciences Contribution to Suppressing Transmission of Covid-19 in the UK: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Hubbard Gill , Daas Chantal den , Johnston Marie , Dunsmore Jennifer , Maier Mona , Polson Rob , Dixon Diane
Published: April 2023

Background

Governments have relied on their citizens to adhere to a variety of transmission-reducing behaviours (TRBs) to suppress the Covid-19 pandemic. Understanding the psychological and sociodemographic predictors of adherence to TRBs will be heavily influenced by the particular theories used by researchers. This review aims to identify the theories and theoretical constructs used to understand adherence to TRBs during the pandemic within the UK social and legislative context.

Methods

A systematic review identified studies to understand TRBs of adults in the UK during the pandemic. Identified theoretical constructs were coded to the Theoretical Domains Framework. Data are presented as a narrative summary.

Results

Thirty-five studies (n = 211,209) investigated 123 TRBs, applied 13 theoretical frameworks and reported 50 sociodemographic characteristics and 129 psychological constructs. Most studies used social cognition theories to understand TRBs and employed cross-sectional designs. Risk of sampling bias was high. Relationships between constructs and TRBs varied, but in general, beliefs about the disease (e.g. severity and risk perception) and about TRBs (e.g. behavioural norms) influenced behavioural intentions and self-reported adherence. More studies than not found that older people and females were more adherent.

Conclusions

Behavioural scientists in the UK generated a significant and varied body of work to understand TRBs during the pandemic. However, more use of theories that do not rely on deliberative processes to effect behaviour change and study designs better able to support causal inferences should be used in future to inform public health policy and practice.

Prospero Registration

CRD42021282699.
Wetlands Insight Tool: Characterising the Surface Water and Vegetation Cover Dynamics of Individual Wetlands Using Multidecadal Landsat Satellite Data
Authors: Dunn Bex , Ai Emma , Alger Matthew J. , Fanson Ben , Fickas Kate C. , Krause Claire E. , Lymburner Leo , Nanson Rachel , Papas Phil , Ronan Mike , Thomas Rachael F.
Published: April 2023

Wetlands around the world provide crucial ecosystem services and are under increasing pressure from multiple sources including climate change, changing flow and flooding regimes, and encroaching human populations. The Landsat satellite imagery archive provides a unique observational record of how wetlands have responded to these impacts during the last three decades. Information stored within this archive has historically been difficult to access due to its petabyte-scale and the challenges in converting Earth observation data into biophysical measurements that can be interpreted by wetland ecologists and catchment managers. This paper introduces the Wetlands Insight Tool (WIT), a workflow that generates WIT plots that present a multidecadal view of the biophysical cover types contained within individual Australian wetlands. The WIT workflow summarises Earth observation data over 35 years at 30 m resolution within a user-defined wetland boundary to produce a time-series plot (WIT plot) of the percentage of the wetland covered by open water, areas of water mixed with vegetation (‘wet’), green vegetation, dry vegetation, and bare soil. We compare these WIT plots with documented changes that have occurred in floodplain shrublands, alpine peat wetlands, and lacustrine and palustrine wetlands, demonstrating the power of satellite observations to supplement ground-based data collection in a diverse range of wetland types. The use of WIT plots to observe and manage wetlands enables improved evidence-based decision making.
Glucocorticoids and cognitive function: a walkthrough in endogenous and exogenous alterations
Authors: De Alcubierre D. , Ferrari D. , Mauro G. , Isidori A. M. , Tomlinson J. W. , Pofi R.
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis exerts many actions on the central nervous system (CNS) aside from stress regulation. Glucocorticoids (GCs) play an important role in affecting several cognitive functions through the effects on both glucocorticoid (GR) and mineralocorticoid receptors (MR). In this review, we aim to unravel the spectrum of cognitive dysfunction secondary to derangement of circulating levels of endogenous and exogenous glucocorticoids.

Methods

All relevant human prospective and retrospective studies published up to 2022 in PubMed reporting information on HPA disorders, GCs, and cognition were included.

Results

Cognitive impairment is commonly found in GC-related disorders. The main brain areas affected are the hippocampus and pre-frontal cortex, with memory being the most affected domain. Disease duration, circadian rhythm disruption, circulating GCs levels, and unbalanced MR/GR activation are all risk factors for cognitive decline in these patients, albeit with conflicting data among different conditions. Lack of normalization of cognitive dysfunction after treatment is potentially attributable to GC-dependent structural brain alterations, which can persist even after long-term remission.

Conclusion

The recognition of cognitive deficits in patients with GC-related disorders is challenging, often delayed, or mistaken. Prompt recognition and treatment of underlying disease may be important to avoid a long-lasting impact on GC-sensitive areas of the brain. However, the resolution of hormonal imbalance is not always followed by complete recovery, suggesting irreversible adverse effects on the CNS, for which there are no specific treatments. Further studies are needed to find the mechanisms involved, which may eventually be targeted for treatment strategies.
Team Flow Among Firefighters: Associations with Collective Orientation, Teamwork-Related Stressors, and Resources
Authors: Aust Fabienne , Heinemann Lena , Holtz Maik , Hagemann Vera , Peifer Corinna
Published: April 2023

Flow is often experienced under stress-related conditions and associated with improved performance and well-being. Different workplace stressors and resources demonstrably affect individual flow. Considering the team level, our study explores the associations between typical teamwork-related stressors and resources and team flow. Firefighters work under extremely challenging conditions and rely on functioning teamwork processes, thereby constituting a promising sample for examining team flow and its associated factors. An online questionnaire was implemented in Germany examining frequency of team flow, experienced teamwork-related stressors, and resources in firefighting missions. Collective orientation was also measured as a factor potentially associated with team flow. The final sample consisted of 317 experienced firefighters. Multiple regression analyses showed that the more often firefighters experienced stressors of teamwork (e.g., problems regarding leadership or lacking shared mental models) the less often they experienced team flow. Conversely, the experience of resources of teamwork (e.g., good communication and shared mental models) was associated with more frequent team flow. Collective orientation was positively associated with team flow. As team competencies are trainable, the study offers concrete approaches for interventions strengthening teamwork and team flow, thereby benefitting firefighters but also teams in other professions.
There's no such thing as 'the economy', stupid: using Utopia to imagine society 'after money'.
Authors: Levitas Ruth
Published: April 2023

This paper uses qualitative sociological modelling to assess the transformative potential of Modern Monetary Theory as set out in recent work by Stephanie Kelton and Mariana Mazzucato. The starting point is Ruth Levitas’s (2013) Utopia as Method. This defines and develops Utopia as an exploratory, speculative sociological method characterised by a holistic and ecologically embedded approach. This is then used to explore the potential of MMT for envisioning social transformation. The paper argues that the neglect of unpaid work and a commitment to economic growth undermines the radical potential of MMT, as does the abstraction of ‘the economy’ from a wider understanding of social structures and processes. It suggests also that the project to use MMT to reform capitalism is fundamentally flawed since there is a conflict between the compound growth on which capitalism depends and the environmental imperatives that both Kelton and Mazzucato acknowledge.
Saints, Miracles, and Social Problems in Italian Renaissance Art
Authors: Presciutti Diana Bullen
Published: April 2023

In this book, Diana Bullen Presciutti explores how images of miracles performed by mendicant saints-reviving dead children, redeeming the unjustly convicted, mending broken marriages, quelling factional violence, exorcising the demonically possessed-actively shaped Renaissance Italians' perceptions of pressing social problems related to gender, sexuality, and honor. She argues that depictions of these miracles by artists-both famous (Donatello, Titian) and anonymous-played a critical role in defining and conceptualizing threats to family honor and social stability. Drawing from art history, history, religious studies, gender studies, and sociology, Presciutti's interdisciplinary study reveals how miracle scenes-whether painted, sculpted, or printed-operated as active agents of 'lived religion' and social negotiation in the spaces of the Renaissance Italian city.
Describing Variation in Formula Base Prices for U.S.-Fed Cattle: A Hedonic Approach
Authors: Rogers Sheppard G. , Schroeder Ted C. , Tonsor Glynn T. , Coffey Brian K.
Published: April 2023

The United States Department of Agriculture Agricultural Marketing Service (USDA AMS) began publishing formula base price information in August 2021. Considerable variation in the types of cattle priced via formula has raised questions about the level of base price transparency that can be gleaned from formula base price reports. This study employs 6 years of transactions to estimate hedonic models assessing the capability of existing data to describe variation in formula base prices. Results suggest factors beyond those reported to USDA AMS by packers influence base prices. We offer suggestions for improved data collection to make hedonic modeling of base prices more effective for reporting market information.