bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Silk fibroin electrospun nanofiber blends with antibiotics and polyvinyl alcohol for burn wound healing
Authors: Yerra Aparna , Dadala Mary Mamatha 
Published: November 2021

AbstractSilk fibroin, is a structural and protein‐based biomacromolecule produced from Bombyx mori silkworm. Silk fibroin has been widely being used for biomedical and biomaterial applications, tissue engineering, and drug delivery since a decade. The present study mainly focused to investigate the wound healing efficiency of the developed silk fibroin‐based extracellular electrospun nanofibrous matrix. Electrospun nanofibers were developed by blending the silk fibroin solution with antibiotics (Ciprofloxacin, Amoxicillin, and Nystatin) and polyvinyl alcohol. Results have shown that the developed extracellular matrix has antimicrobial sensitivity activity against the pathogens which causes infection by forming pus at the site of burn wounds. The cell adhesion and cell viability studies have shown a positive effect on L929 fibroblast cell lines. The morphological studies were carried out on SEM. The structural conformations of the developmental matrix were carried out on XRD. The wound healing efficiency of the developed matrix was checked by using a rat model. The results exhibited a dose dependent healing efficiency. The present results demonstrate the developed silk fibroin extracellular matrix promotes cell proliferation and helps in wound healing by controlled release of the antibiotics without losing their chemical properties.
Local procurement, shared value, and sustainable development: A case study from the mining sector in Mongolia
Authors: Fraser Jocelyn , Bat‐Erdene Zorig , Lyons Jon , Kunz Nadja 
Published: November 2021

AbstractIn emerging economies, tension can arise between the pursuits of economic development to alleviate poverty versus the protection of cultural traditions. In Mongolia, for example, efforts to expand the economy through the development of mineral resources have raised understudied questions about how to accommodate the economic benefits of mining without compromising traditional ways of life. In this case study, we consider the complex and cascading challenges confronting mining, traditional livelihoods, and sustainable development. Semi‐structured interviews with 62 participants over a 3‐year period were used to investigate the role the corporate strategy of local procurement to create shared value could have in reducing tensions in a remote region where mineral exploration and mine development is underway. The findings provide insight to the barriers and opportunities for company‐initiated local procurement practices that contribute to locally led sustainability initiatives and community resilience in emerging economies.
Determinants of corporate sustainability message sharing on social media: A configuration approach
Authors: Knight Hanne , Haddoud Mohamed Yacine , Megicks Phil 
Published: November 2021

AbstractWith an increasing number of consumers receiving information on social media, companies have adopted these channels to communicate their sustainability efforts. Digital channels enable reaching large audiences in a short period of time, and engaging consumers in message sharing activities to reap those rewards has its own challenges. Companies need to understand what increases sharing of their sustainability messages, but they must be mindful of not overstating their sustainability efforts which may be perceived as greenwashing. The Information Adoption Model is used to assess how message information quality and source credibility affect sharing of corporate sustainability messages. A fuzzy‐set Qualitative Comparative Analysis is conducted on a survey of UK social media users (n = 527). Results show that dimensions of information quality and source credibility act in combination to influence sustainability message sharing. The study informs managers what to stress in social media message planning to facilitate effective sustainability communications.
Citizens and cities: Leveraging citizen science and big data for sustainable urban development
Authors: Cappa Francesco , Franco Stefano , Rosso Federica 
Published: November 2021

AbstractCitizen science (CS), that is, the involvement of citizens in data collection or analysis for research projects, is becoming more widespread. This is due to the increasing digitalization of the general public and due to the increasing number of grand challenges that society is facing. Thanks to the contributions of common citizens in data collection and data analysis conducted through technology‐mediated interactions, CS can produce a number of benefits for researchers, public organizations, policymakers, citizens, and society as a whole. Given the high density of socio‐economic activities in cities, CS can be implemented in a particularly effective way in urban environments to help tackle many “grand challenges”, namely, the pressing environmental and social issues that societies are facing at present. However, CS still has untapped potential to be explored. Indeed, we contend that even though CS involves citizens for precisely defined scientific objectives, the interaction that occurs can also be leveraged to collect data beyond the original aim, thereby producing big data (BD). Through a multiple case studies analysis, we highlight how CS can be used to collect BD as well, which can be a valuable resource for researchers, public organizations, and policymakers. With this aim in mind, this study proposes the definition of a citizen‐sourcing framework that jointly employs CS and BD, and it highlights which processes can be implemented to favor the sustainable development of urban environments. Moreover, we also discuss the looming dangers associated with citizen‐sourcing as a result of technology‐mediated interactions and the use of digital technologies, and we highlight possible future developments.
Correlated evolution of distinct signals associated with increased social selection in female white‐shouldered fairywrens
Authors: Jones John Anthony , Odom Karan J. , Hoppe Ian R. , Nason Doka , Ketaloya Serena , Karubian Jordan 
Published: November 2021

AbstractConspicuous female signals have recently received substantial scientific attention, but it remains unclear if their evolution is the result of selection acting on females independently of males or if mutual selection facilitates female change. Species that express female, but not male, phenotypic variation among populations represents a useful opportunity to address this knowledge gap. White‐shouldered fairywrens (Malurus alboscapulatus) are tropical songbirds with a well‐resolved phylogeny where female, but not male, coloration varies allopatrically across subspecies. We explored how four distinct signaling modalities, each putatively associated with increased social selection, are expressed in two populations that vary in competitive pressure on females. Females in a derived subspecies (M.a.moretoni) have evolved more ornamented plumage and have shorter tails (a signal of social dominance) relative to an ancestral subspecies (M.a.lorentzi) with drab females. In response to simulated territorial intrusions broadcasting female song, both sexes ofM.a.moretoniare more aggressive and more coordinated with their mates in both movement and vocalizations. Finally,M.a.moretonisongs are more complex thanM.a.lorentzi, but song complexity does not vary between sexes in either population. These results suggest that correlated phenotypic shifts in coloration and tail morphology in females as well as song complexity and aggression in both sexes may have occurred in response to changes in the intensity of social selection pressures. This highlights increased competitive pressures in both sexes can facilitate the evolution of complex multimodal signals.
A model comparison of fire return interval impacts on carbon and species dynamics in a southeastern U.S. pineland
Authors: Flanagan Steven A. , Hiers J. Kevin , Callaham Mac A. , Goodrick Scott , O’Brien Joseph J. , Starr Gregory , Wiesner Susanne , Klepzig Kier D. , Loudermilk E. Louise 
Published: November 2021

AbstractEcosystem process models can be used to predict forest response to disturbances at a range of scales. Selection of the spatial class of model should depend on the scale of the research or management question, and model type should depend on the ecosystem attributes of interest. In some cases, multiple classes of models could be used to address a single research question, with evaluations at each scale having potential benefits and drawbacks. This study examines two classes of models relative to how fire return intervals impact carbon and species dynamics in a southeastern U.S. pineland. A model that can be run as a global class model (ED) and a landscape class model (LANDIS‐II) were parameterized with species inventory data from an experimental Pinus Palustris (longleaf pine) forest in southwest Georgia, and simulations were calibrated with literature values, then validated with eddy‐covariance data from the study site. A variety of fire scenarios that included prescribed fire with a 2‐yr return interval, fire exclusion, and three wildfire scenarios (20‐, 50‐, and 100‐yr return intervals) were used for model runs. Results were compared and evaluated with regard to ecosystem carbon and species dynamics. Both models illustrated that prescribed fire provided the greatest carbon sequestration potential and most stable aboveground biomass through time when compared to the wildfire scenarios. The fire exclusion scenario for LANDIS‐II was the only scenario where prescribed fire did not provide the greatest carbon sequestration potential. However, fire exclusion on the order of centuries was a condition of this outcome and the occurrence of such long fire‐free periods is considered unrealistic in this fire‐prone landscape. Differences between models were primarily the result of the underlying characteristics of each model class, namely the spatial resolution and number of species included. In the end, two vastly different scale models supported the conclusion that high frequency prescribed fire in southeastern U.S. pinelands stabilizes carbon and maintains species composition in an ecosystem that is a known ecological hotspot.
Broad aggressive interactions among African carnivores suggest intraguild killing is driven by more than competition
Authors: Curveira‐Santos Gonçalo , Gigliotti Laura , Silva André P. , Sutherland Chris , Foord Stefan , Santos‐Reis Margarida , Swanepoel Lourens H. 
Published: November 2021

AbstractTheory on intraguild killing (IGK) is central to mammalian carnivore community ecology and top‐down ecosystem regulation. Yet, the cryptic nature of IGK hinders empirical evaluations. Using a novel data source – online photographs of interspecific aggression between African carnivores – we revisited existing predictions about the extent and drivers of IGK. Compared with seminal reviews, our constructed IGK network yielded 10 more species and nearly twice as many interactions. The extent of interactions increased 37% when considering intraguild aggression (direct attack) as a precursor of killing events. We show that IGK occurs over a wider range of body‐mass ratios than predicted by standing competition‐based views, with highly asymmetrical interactions being pervasive. Evidence that large species, particularly hypercarnivore felids, target sympatric carnivores with a wide range of body sizes suggests that current IGK theory is incomplete, underestimating alternative competition pathways and the role of predatory and incidental killing. Our findings reinforce the potential for IGK‐mediated cascades in species‐rich assemblages and community‐wide suppressive effects of large carnivores.
Impact of the mesoscale structure of a bipartite ecological interaction network on its robustness through a probabilistic modeling
Authors: Chabert‐Liddell Saint‐Clair , Barbillon Pierre , Donnet Sophie 
Published: November 2021

AbstractThe robustness of an ecological network quantifies the resilience of the ecosystem it represents to species loss. It corresponds to the proportion of species that are disconnected from the rest of the network when extinctions occur sequentially. Classically, the robustness is calculated for a given network, from the simulation of a large number of extinction sequences. The link between network structure and robustness remains an open question. Setting a joint probabilistic model on the network and the extinction sequences allows analysis of this relation. Bipartite stochastic block models have proven their ability to model bipartite networks for example, plant‐pollinator networks: species are divided into blocks and interaction probabilities are determined by the blocks of membership. Analytical expressions of the expectation and variance of robustness are obtained under this model, for different distributions of primary extinction sequences. The impact of the network structure on the robustness is analyzed through a set of properties and numerical illustrations. The analysis of a collection of bipartite ecological networks allows us to compare the empirical approach to our probabilistic approach, and illustrates the relevance of the latter when it comes to computing the robustness of a partially observed or incompletely sampled network.
Analysis of the sound sources of lean premixed methane–air flames
Authors: Herff Sohel , Pausch Konrad , Meinke Matthias , Schröder Wolfgang 
Published: November 2021

AbstractTwo investigations on the sound generation mechanisms of lean methane–air flames are reviewed and linked. A two‐step approach is used for the analysis. First, the compressible conservation equations are solved in a large‐eddy simulation formulation to compute the acoustic source terms of the reacting fluid. Second, the acoustic source terms are used in computational aeroacoustics simulations to determine the acoustic field by solving the acoustic perturbation equations. To identify the contributions of the different source terms to the overall sound emission of the flames different source term formulations are considered in the computational aeroacoustics simulations. The results of various flames of increasing complexity are shown: harmonically excited laminar flames, a turbulent jet flame, and an unconfined and a confined swirl flame. The results show that in general the heat release source alone does not determine the acoustic emission of the flame. Only the acoustic emission of the unconfined swirl flame could be computed by the heat release source. To accurately predict the phase and the amplitude of the sound emission of the other flames the acceleration of density gradients occurring at the flame front must be included in the considered set of source terms.
Factors associated with depression across age groups of older adults: The Singapore Chinese health study
Authors: Barrenetxea Jon , Pan An , Feng Qiushi , Koh Woon‐Puay 
Published: November 2021

AbstractObjectivesWe studied sociodemographic and health factors associated with depression across three age groups of community‐dwelling older adults.Methods/DesignWe used data from 16,785 participants from the third follow‐up of the Singapore Chinese Health Study (mean age: 73, range: 61‐96 years). We defined depression as having a score of ≥5 using the 15‐item Geriatric Depression Scale. We used regression splines to examine the pattern of depression risk with age and applied multivariable logistic regression to study factors associated with depression.ResultsIncreasing age was associated with depression in an inverted J‐shape relationship with the highest odds ratio (OR) at age 75. Compared to the youngest‐old (<70 years), the middle‐old (70‐80 years) had higher odds of depression [OR = 1.20, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.09–1.31], while the oldest‐old (>80 years) had no increased risk (OR = 1.01, 95% CI = 0.89–1.15). We also found demographic (men, lower education, unemployment), social (living alone, poor social support, no social activity) and health factors (instrumental limitations, poor physical function, function‐limiting pain, chronic diseases, cognitive impairment, poor sleep quality, poor self‐rated health) associated with depression. In stratified analysis by age groups, the OR estimates for lower education level, instrumental limitations and cognitive impairment decreased with age, whereas the risk of depression for men increased with age (all p‐values for interaction<0.03).ConclusionsCompared to the youngest‐old, the likelihood of depression was highest among middle‐old adults and decreased to null in the oldest‐old. The associations between some factors and depression were attenuated with age, suggesting a coping mechanism among oldest‐old survivors.
Functional magnetic resonance imaging responses during perceptual decision‐making at 3 and 7 T in human cortex, striatum, and brainstem
Authors: Colizoli Olympia , de Gee Jan Willem , van der Zwaag Wietske , Donner Tobias H. 
Published: November 2021

AbstractWhile functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) at ultra‐high field (7 T) promises a general increase in sensitivity compared to lower field strengths, the benefits may be most pronounced for specific applications. The current study aimed to evaluate the relative benefit of 7 over 3 T fMRI for the assessment of responses evoked in different brain regions by a well‐controlled cognitive task. At 3 and 7 T, the same participants made challenging perceptual decisions about visual motion combined with monetary rewards for correct choices. Previous work on this task has extensively characterized the underlying cognitive computations and single‐cell responses in cortical and subcortical structures. We quantified the evoked fMRI responses in extrastriate visual cortical areas, the striatum, and the brainstem during the decision interval and the post‐feedback interval of the task. The dependence of response amplitudes on field strength during the decision interval differed between cortical, striatal, and brainstem regions, with a generally bigger 7 versus 3 T benefit in subcortical structures. We also found stronger responses during relatively easier than harder decisions at 7 T for dopaminergic midbrain nuclei, in line with reward expectation. Our results demonstrate the potential of 7 T fMRI for illuminating the contribution of small brainstem nuclei to the orchestration of cognitive computations in the human brain.
Road traffic injury in Lebanon: A prospective study to assess injury characteristics and risk factors
Authors: Ghoubaira Joseph , Diab Marwa , Nassereldine Hasan , Tamim Hani , Saadeh Samer , Price Raymond , Moustafa Moustafa , Al‐Hajj Samar 
Published: November 2021

AbstractBackgroundRoad traffic injury (RTI) is a significant yet poorly characterized cause of morbidity and mortality in the Middle East. This hospital‐based‐study examined RTI in Lebanon and provided an understanding of their characteristics.MethodsWe collected prospective RTI data from three participating hospitals over 3 months using a designed tool based on Canadian CHIRPP and WHO tools. We performed logistic regression analysis to examine the relationship between contributing risk factors (age, sex) and injury types as well as the association of safety measures used (seatbelts or helmets) and body parts injured.ResultsA total of 153 patients were collected. Male preponderance with 72%, with mean age 32.6 (SD = 14.9) years. RTI was highest among passengers aged 15 to 29 (48%). Motorcyclists comprised the greatest injury proportion (38%), followed by vehicle‐occupants (35%), and pedestrians (25%) (P = .04). Hip injuries represented the most affected body part (48.7%), followed by head/neck (38.2%). Only 31% (n = 47) of victims applied safety measures (seatbelts or helmets). Six drivers (7%) reported cell phone use at collision. The use of safety measures was associated with a substantial reduction in head/neck injuries (P = .03), spine injuries (P = .049), and lower risk of traumatic brain injury (TBI) (P = .02).ConclusionsRTI is a major health problem in Lebanon. Safety measures, though poorly adhered to, were associated with less severe injuries, and should be further promoted via awareness campaigns and enforcement. Trauma registries are needed to assess the RTI burden and inform safety interventions and quality‐of‐care improvement programs.
β‐Caryophyllene inhibits Fas‐ receptor and caspase‐mediated apoptosis signaling pathway and endothelial dysfunction in experimental myocardial infarction
Authors: Yovas Anita , Ponnian Stanely Mainzen Prince 
Published: November 2021

AbstractWe planned to appraise the effects of β‐caryophyllene on Fas‐ receptor and caspase‐mediated apoptosis signaling pathway and endothelial dysfunction in rats infarcted with isoproterenol. Rats were induced myocardial infarction by using isoproterenol (100 mg/kg body weight [b.w]). Serum creatine kinase‐MB, serum cardiac troponin‐T, heart weight, heart rate, and heart lipid peroxidation were greatly (p < 0.05) augmented, while heart enzymatic antioxidants and plasma nonenzymatic antioxidants were greatly (p < 0.05) lessened in isoproterenol‐treated rats. Reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction study revealed augmented expressions of Fas‐receptor and caspases 8, 9, and 3 genes in myocardial infarcted rats. Furthermore, iNOS protein expression was amplified and eNOS protein was lessened in the myocardial infarcted heart. Three weeks pre‐ and cotreatment with β‐caryophyllene (20 mg/kg b.w) greatly (p < 0.05) protected isoproterenol‐treated rats against these altered structural, biochemical, molecular, and immunohistochemical parameters, by its anti‐cardiac hypertrophic, anti‐tachycardial, antioxidant, anti‐apoptotic, and anti‐endothelial dysfunction effects. In conclusion, these findings projected the use of β‐caryophyllene for the therapy of human myocardial infarction after clinical trials.