bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of contamination, mobility and application of selected technology-critical elements as indicators of anthropogenic pollution of bottom sediments
Authors: Jabłońska-Czapla Magdalena , Grygoyć Katarzyna , Yandem George
Published: July 2024

The study investigates the potential of technology-critical elements (TCEs) in the bottom sediments of the Biała Przemsza River as indicators of anthropogenic activities. The mass fractions of TCEs: Ge, Ga, In, Tl, Sb and Te (and other elements) in the sediment were analysed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry with the maximum mass fractions: 2.46, 25.6, 0.528, 27.7, 12.5 and 0.293 mg/kg, respectively. Distribution and identification of TCE sources were supported by statistical analysis (principal component analysis coupled with varimax rotation and hierarchical cluster analysis). Assessments of TCE contamination using the geoaccumulation index, pollution index, contamination factor, enrichment factor and the antimony-to-arsenic ratio highlighted the high contamination of bottom sediments by Sb, Ga, Tl, Cd, As, Zn, Pb and moderate contamination by Co, In and V. Distinct behaviour patterns were observed among TCEs, revealing Sb and Tl as potential indicators of Zn-Pb ore mining activities. Co, V, Ge and, to a lesser extent, Te emerged as promising indicators of coal and coal fly ash effluents. Sequential chemical extraction of TCEs showed that Sb, In and Tl had the highest mobility from sediments. The Risk Assessment Code calculations suggest, that in the Biała Przemsza River bottom sediments, there is an average risk of contamination by As, Tl and Mn. Soluble forms of Tl, Ge, Sb, Te and In were identified in descending order, indicating their bioavailability.
Occurrence and human risk assessment of pharmaceutically active compounds (PhACs) in indoor dust from homes, schools and offices
Authors: Royano Silvia , Navarro Irene , de la Torre Adrián , Martínez María Ángeles
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the current situation and possible health risks due to pharmaceutically active compounds (PhACs) including analgesics, antibiotics, antifungals, anti-inflammatories, psychiatric and cardiovascular drugs, and metabolites, in indoor environments. To achieve this objective, a total of 85 dust samples were collected in 2022 from three different Spanish indoor environments: homes, classrooms, and offices. The analytical method was validated meeting SANTE/2020/12830 and SANTE/12682/2019 performance criteria. All indoor dust samples except one presented at least one PhAC. Although concentration levels ranged from < LOQ to 18 µg/g, only acetaminophen, thiabendazole, clotrimazole, and anhydroerythromycin showed quantification frequencies (Qf %) above 19% with median concentrations of 166 ng/g, 74 ng/g, 25 ng/g and 14 ng/g, respectively. The PhAC distribution between dust deposited on the floor and settled on elevated (> 0.5 m) surfaces was assessed but no significant differences (p > 0.05, Mann–Whitney U-test) were found. However, concentrations quantified at the three types of locations showed significant differences (p < 0.05, Kruskal–Wallis H-test). Homes turned out to be the indoor environment with higher pharmaceutical concentrations, especially acetaminophen (678 ng/g, median). The use of these medicines and their subsequent removal from the body were identified as the main PhAC sources in indoor dust. Relationships between occupant habits, building characteristics, and/or medicine consumption and PhAC concentrations were studied. Finally, on account of concentration differences, estimated daily intakes (EDIs) for inhalation, ingestion and dermal adsorption exposure pathways were calculated for toddlers, adolescents and adults in homes, classrooms and offices separately. Results proved that dust ingestion is the main route of exposure, contributing more than 99% in all indoor environments. Moreover, PhAC intakes for all studied groups, at occupational locations (classrooms and offices) are much lower than that obtained for homes, where hazard indexes (HIs) obtained for acetaminophen (7%—12%) and clotrimazole (4%-7%) at the worst scenario (P95) highlight the need for continuous monitoring.
Flow analysis-solid phase extraction system and UHPLC-MS/MS analytical methodology for the determination of antiviral drugs in surface water
Authors: Mermer Karolina , Jas Emilia , Paluch Justyna , Woźniakiewicz Aneta , Woźniakiewicz Michał , Miśkowiec Paweł , Chocholouš Petr , Sklenářová Hana , Kozak Joanna
Published: July 2024

An automated flow analysis-solid phase extraction (FA-SPE) system and methodology of ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) analysis were developed for the determination of selected antiviral drugs (acyclovir, amantadine, rimantadine, and oseltamivir) in water samples. The proposed FA-SPE approach enables the integration of various extraction stages and elimination of the sample evaporation step and offers individual customisation of SPE parameters, inter alia sample, and eluate flow rate and volume. Using the developed FA-SPE procedure, e.g. a 100-fold preconcentration of the target analytes in 1 h was achieved. A method for chromatographic analysis was also developed to determine the selected antiviral drugs in combination with the use of the FA-SPE system. The developed FA-SPE UHPLC-MS/MS method was validated including the determination of linearity of analytical graphs, limits of detection (5.5–99.9 pg mL−1) and quantification (18.3–329.8 pg mL−1), intra-day (1.8–8.3%) and inter-day (3.0–9.2%) precision, recovery (95.6–105.3%), and matrix effects (− 12.9 to 13.2%). The proposed method was successfully applied to analyse tap, drinking, and river water samples, revealing the presence of amantadine at a concentration of 40.1 pg mL−1 in one sample. The environmental impact of the developed FA-SPE sample preparation procedure was also assessed using the AGREEprep metric tool and compared with five other literature methods, achieving the most sustainable outcome.

Graphical abstract
Hearing, listening, and learning: how bioeconomy triple helix clusters deal with uninvited societal input
Authors: Starke Jan R. , Metze Tamara A. P. , Candel Jeroen J. L. , Termeer Katrien J. A. M.
Published: July 2024

Policymakers in the European Union embrace collaborations of businesses, governments, and academia to develop a sustainable and circular bioeconomy. These so-called Triple Helix clusters aim to stimulate innovation and learning. However, Triple Helix collaborators also face conflicting perspectives on the desirability and directionality of the bioeconomy transition, either within a cluster or with societal actors affected by a cluster’s innovations. While previous Triple Helix research focussed on how to broaden the cluster collaboration towards a more inclusive range of actors to handle such contestations, we study how cluster partners deal with uninvited input from societal actors that do not form part of a cluster. We conceptualize this input as societal back talk and distinguish organizational hearing, listening, and learning capabilities to explore how back talk contributes to innovation in three bioeconomy clusters in the Netherlands, Germany, and Ireland. Our qualitative case study analysis is based on interview transcripts, newspaper articles, and policy and planning documents. Results indicate that collaborating partners generally do not hear uninvited back talk that fundamentally challenges their tacit beliefs, because partners focus on informing the public about what they consider techno-economic benefits of their projects. As a consequence, collaborators become ‘insiders’, which hinders listening to divergent problem definitions and alternative solutions of ‘outsiders’. Learning from uninvited back talk is therefore restricted to minor adjustments. To avoid innovative solutions remaining unexplored as a result of this discursive lock-in, Triple Helix collaborators must engage in hearing and listening to critical societal actors by establishing a reflective, two-directional dialogue.
D-dimer/high sensitive troponin I ratio is useful in predicting in-hospital mortality in pulmonary embolism patients
Authors: Urfalioglu Ahmet Burak , Altug Ertugrul , Cinar Hayri , Aksay Erdem , Yesiloglu Onder , Cakir Adem , Avsar Mustafa , Diken Ozlem Ercen , Guven Ramazan , Avci Akkan
Published: July 2024

Background

Pulmonary embolism requires careful differential diagnosis as it is associated with a wide range of symptoms that may suggest different diseases such as chest pain, shortness of breath and syncope. Since the disease can be fatal, especially in cases where right ventricular failure and hemodynamic instability develop, prognostic markers are great importance in terms of monitoring the patient during the treatment process.

Aim

We aimed in our study to compare the relationship between the ratio of D-dimer and High Sensitive Troponin T (HsTnT) values ​​with short-term mortality and to compare this relationship with Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index (PESI) scoring.

Method

Our study was conducted with patients who applied to the emergency department of our hospital between 01/01/2022 and 01/01/2023 and were definitively diagnosed with Pulmonary thromboembolism after their evaluation.

Findings.

The success of D-dimer/HsTroponin, D-dimer/CK-MB and troponin/D-dimer indices calculated from the laboratory test results of the cases in predicting mortality was examined, and a comparison was made with the success of the PESI score in predicting mortality. Among these indices, D-dimer/CK-MB was found to be the most successful index in predicting 7-day mortality (AUC: 0.734; 95% CI: 0.653–0.815; p < 0.001). Additionally, the D-dimer/HsTroponin ratio was found to be statistically significant as a successful index in predicting 7-day mortality (AUC: 0.697; 95% CI: 0.621–0.774; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

FD-dimer/HsTroponin ratio, which is a powerful, fast, low-cost, easy and simple test, can be used especially in emergency services instead of the PESI score as a mortality marker in pulmonary embolism, which has a high mortality rate.
Investigating a Train-the-Trainer Model of Supervision and Peer Review for Child Interviewers in Canadian Police Services
Authors: Brubacher Sonja P. , Kirkland-Burke Meredith , Gates Valarie , Powell Martine B.
Published: July 2024

This project, conducted in one Canadian province, investigated whether a train-the-trainer model of supervision and peer review could improve the interviewing skills of police officers new to interviewing children. At 6 police services, 2 “interview specialists” were chosen by criteria (e.g. having conducted > 30 interviews with children), commitment (minimum 2 years to project), and performance evaluation of a mock and field interview. Specialists received additional training on leading group peer review and individual supervision. They carried out these activities over a 9-month period with 3–4 trainees (new interviewers) per site. Trainees’ interview performance was evaluated with mock and field interviews pre and post intervention. Qualitative interviews about project feasibility were carried out with the specialists at the end of the project, and the results of those interviews comprise the focus of this paper. At the time of the qualitative interviews, only 9 specialists and 5 sites remained in the project. Their interviews revealed that organizational buy-in was critical theme. Other emergent themes were that (different) training is needed for all levels of interviewing experience including interview specialists, that peer review formats are not one-size-fits-all across services, and that fostering a culture of peer review enhances cohesion.
First-principle calculations of magnetic properties of Ho6(Fe, Mn)Bi2 compounds
Authors: Garcia-Adeva Angel J. , Apiñaniz Estibaliz , Herrero Aritz , Aseguinolaza Ivan R. , Oleaga Alberto
Published: July 2024

The magnetic properties of Ho6MnBi2 and Ho6FeBi2 crystals are investigated by means of density functional theory. These materials are currently an active subject of research in the context of magnetic refrigeration applications since they exhibit a remarkable magnetocaloric effect. In this work, the equation of state, density of states and magnetic moments are calculated and compared with previous experimental results for these materials. Also, the Curie temperatures for the paramagnetic to ferromagnetic phase transition observed in these systems are calculated from first principles. All the calculated quantities are in reasonable agreement with experimental data, which suggests that density functional theory could provide a reliable framework to theoretically investigate the magnetic properties of intermetallic ternary compounds.

Graphical abstract
CircSorbs1 regulates myocardial regeneration and reduces cancer therapy-related cardiovascular toxicity through the Mir-99/GATA4 pathway
Authors: Huang Kang , Huang Denggao , Li Qiang , Zeng Jiangting , Qin Ting , Zhong Jianghua , Zhong Zanrui , Lu Shijuan
Published: July 2024

Due to the cancer therapy-related cardiovascular toxicity, heart failure following cancer therapy has a significant mortality rate. Gene-targeted therapy promotes the re-entry of existing cardiomyocytes into the cell cycle to achieve myocardial regeneration, which is a promising strategy for preventing and treating heart failure after myocardial infarction. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are considered as potential targets for myocardial regeneration due to their strong stability, resistance to degradation, and potential role in heart development and cardiovascular diseases. By comparing the myocardial tissue of mice in the sham operation group and the Doxorubicin therapy group (DOX), we observed a significant decrease in Cirsorbs expression in the DOX group. Cirsorbs was predominantly localized in cardiomyocytes and exhibited high conservation. Subsequent investigations revealed that Cirsorbs could promote myocardial proliferation and inhibit myocardial apoptosis. Mechanistic studies further demonstrated that Cirsorbs could bind to miR99 and reduce its expression level. Meanwhile, miR99 was found to bind to GATA4 mRNA and decrease its expression level. The binding of Cirsorbs to miR99 alleviated the repression of miR99, thereby enhancing GATA4 expression and the transcription of downstream cyclin A2 and cyclin E1. This, in turn, increased cardiomyocyte proliferation and reduced apoptosis. In conclusion, Cirsorbs holds promise as an effective target for myocardial regeneration in reducing cancer therapy-related cardiovascular toxicity.
Prognostic value of fibrinogen change value in adrenocortical carcinoma patients
Authors: Ma Chengquan , Yang Bin , Mao Quanzong
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The aim was to explore the preoperative and postoperative fibrinogen changes value (FCV) as a prognosis biomarker for in patients with adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC).

Methods

We identified 42 patients with ACC and 190 patients with adrenal adenoma (AA) who underwent surgery at our institution between 2015 and 2023. Preoperative fibrinogen, postoperative fibrinogen and follow-up information of the patients were recorded and analysed. The relationship between FCV and overall survival (OS)/ relapse-free survival (RFS) was evaluated.

Results

The mean level of preoperative and postoperative fibrinogen for ACC were 4.00 ± 1.64 g/L and 2.75 ± 0.59 g/L, respectively (p < 0.001). The mean level of preoperative and postoperative fibrinogen for AA were 2.79 ± 0.59 g/L and 2.71 ± 0.58 g/L, respectively (p = 0.144). In ACC, the lower FCV (≤ 1.25 g/L) showed a significantly poorer RFS than the higher (> 1.25 g/L) (p = 0.007); however, the lower FCV (≤ 1.25 g/L) showed no poorer OS than the higher (> 1.25 g/L) (p = 0.243). On multivariate survival analyses, FCV remained a predictor of RFS (HR 3.138).

Conclusion

According to the data in this study, it can be said that FCV is correlated with prognosis of ACC. The FCV might be a new biomarker for predicting the RFS of ACC.
Advanced Microfluidic Platform for Tumor Spheroid Formation and Cultivation Fabricated from OSTE+ Polymer
Authors: Panuška Petr , Smejkal Jiří , Štofik Marcel , Žmudová Zuzana , Španbauerová Klára , Havlica Jaromír , Harrandt Václav , Vinopal Stanislav , Aubrecht Petr , Malý Jan
Published: July 2024

In the evolving landscape of cancer research, 3D cell cultures, particularly tumor cell spheroids, are increasingly preferred in drug screening due to their enhanced mimicry of in vivo tumor environments, especially in drug resistance aspects. However, the consistent formation of uniform spheroids and their precise manipulation remain complex challenges. Among various methodologies, droplet microfluidics emerges as a highly effective approach for tumor spheroid formation. This paper introduces a novel, multifaceted microfluidic system that streamlines the entire spheroid cultivation process: (i) generating tumor spheroids from cell suspensions within individual droplets, (ii) merging these droplets into a continuous aqueous phase once spheroid formation is complete, and (iii) transferring the spheroids to a specialized cultivation area within the chip, equipped with trapping elements for extended cultivation in perfusion mode. Remarkably, this process requires no hydrogel encapsulation or external handling, as all operations are conducted within the microfluidic chip. Fabricated from the innovative OSTE+ (off-stoichiometry thiol-ene epoxy) polymer, the chip is designed for repeated use. To show its efficacy, we successfully formed spheroids from MCF-7, GAMG, and U87 cell lines in our system and compared them with spheroids prepared by a traditional agarose microwell method. Additionally, our methodology has successfully enabled the in-chip release of spheroids from droplets, followed by their effective trapping for subsequent cultivation, a process we have exemplified with MCF-7 spheroids. To our knowledge, this research represents the first instance of a fully integrated droplet microfluidic platform achieving scaffoldless tumor spheroid formation and handling. Our method holds promise for improving high-throughput, automated procedures in the formation, transfer, and cultivation of tumor cell spheroids.

Graphical abstract
Natural approaches for the management of ulcerative colitis: evidence of preclinical and clinical investigations
Authors: Subudhi Rudra Narayan , Poonia Neelam , Singh Dilpreet , Arora Vimal
Published: July 2024

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a recurring autoimmune disorder characterized by persistent inflammation in the mucosal lining of the lower part of the large intestine. Conventional treatment options such as salicylates, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressants often come with severe side effects, limited bioavailability, and the development of drug resistance, which hampers their therapeutic effectiveness. Therefore, it is imperative to explore natural strategies as safe and alternative treatments for UC. Currently, around 40% of UC patients find relief through natural constituents, which can help reduce toxic side effects and maintain clinical remission. This review aims to provide a summary of both preclinical and clinical evidence supporting the efficacy of various natural substances in the prophylaxis of UC. These natural options include plant extracts, essential oils, nutraceuticals, and phytochemicals. Furthermore, we will delve into the potential mechanisms that underlie the protective and curative actions of these novel herbal agents. In summary, this review will explore the effectiveness of natural remedies for UC, shedding light on their preclinical and clinical findings and the mechanisms behind their therapeutic actions. These alternatives offer hope for improved treatment outcomes and reduced side effects for individuals suffering from this challenging autoimmune condition.

Graphical Abstract
Spectrum of super commuting graphs of some finite groups
Authors: Dalal Sandeep , Mukherjee Sanjay , Patra Kamal Lochan
Published: July 2024

Let$$\Gamma $$Γbe a simple finite graph with vertex set$$V(\Gamma )$$V(Γ)and edge set$$E(\Gamma )$$E(Γ). Let$$\mathcal {R}$$Rbe an equivalence relation on$$V(\Gamma )$$V(Γ). The$$\mathcal {R}$$R-super$$\Gamma $$Γgraph$$\Gamma ^{\mathcal {R}}$$ΓRis a simple graph with vertex set$$V(\Gamma )$$V(Γ)and two distinct vertices are adjacent if either they are in the same$$\mathcal {R}$$R-equivalence class or there are elements in their respective$$\mathcal {R}$$R-equivalence classes that are adjacent in the original graph$$\Gamma $$Γ. We first show that$$\Gamma ^{\mathcal {R}}$$ΓRis a generalized join of some complete graphs and using this we obtain the adjacency and Laplacian spectrum of conjugacy super commuting graphs and order super commuting graphs of dihedral group$$D_{2n}\; (n\ge 3)$$D2n(n≥3), generalized quaternion group$$Q_{4m} \;(m\ge 2)$$Q4m(m≥2)and the nonabelian group$$\mathbb {Z}_p \rtimes \mathbb {Z}_q$$Zp⋊Zqof orderpq, wherepandqare distinct primes with$$q|(p-1)$$q|(p-1).
Determinants of adoption of urban agriculture (UA) as climate-smart agriculture (CSA) practices and its impact on food security: evidence from Wolaita Sodo city, South Ethiopia
Authors: Masha Mamush , Bojago Elias , Ngare Innocent
Published: July 2024

Background

Climate change is one of humanity's biggest problems. CSA offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to adapt to global climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. UA can improve food security by providing affordable, nutritious alternatives to commercially produced food, especially for economically disadvantaged people. This study examined the factors influencing the adoption of UA as CSA practices, as well as their effects on food security in Wolaita Sodo City, South Ethiopia.

Methods

Data was collected from primary and secondary sources, both qualitative and quantitative form. A structured and semi-structured questionnaire was used to gather data from 384 randomly chosen urban households through surveys/interviews, focus group conversations, and observation. The percentage and mean differences between UA adopters and non-adopters were calculated using the chi-square test and t-test. A propensity score matching (PSM) model assessed UA's impact on food security. A binary logistic regression model was used to determine factors influencing adoption of UA as CSA practice in the study area.

Results

The descriptive analysis showed that 53.53% of respondents used UA. Statistics showed the existence of a significant mean differences between adopters and non-adopters in employment level, UA attitudes, and household size. Logit model computations showed that family size, home ownership, the household head's occupation, perceptions of UA, market demand, and access to training and support influenced UA adoption as a climate-smart farming practice.

Conclusions

As per the study's findings, there could be a correlation between specific factors and the adoption of UA as CSA in the studied area. The PSM study confirmed that UA deployment significantly improves food security. UA adoption increased food security by 0.685-fold. The report recommends that municipal education offices, UA offices, and cooperative offices create an integrated functional adult education programme for urbanites. Since UA is vital to fighting food insecurity, it suggests increasing support for cooperative entities.
Defining “success” in large-scale agricultural investment: a typology based on different stakeholder perspectives
Authors: Cochrane Logan , ElAlfy Amr , Azadi Hossein , Dejene Melisew
Published: July 2024

In 2007/2008, a triple crisis of food, fuel and finance sparked a global rush for agricultural land; tens of millions of hectares were acquired, primarily by foreign investors, within countries in the Global South. Amidst those transactions, intergovernmental organizations, national governments, investors, and community members envisioned what “success” of such investments entails. Although not explicitly defined, each stakeholder had different conceptualizations and measures of it, based upon the descriptions used and desired outcomes sought. Despite a large amount of literature analyzing the global rush for land, as far as we are aware no one has analyzed the diverse viewpoints about what success entails. This paper compares conceptualizations among four key stakeholder groups, based on ideal types from dominant narratives, and develops a typology of ideal stakeholder framing of success to allow comparisons of uses and thereby provide a foundation for researchers who are assessing the global land rush. This paper provides clarity about widely used, but inconsistently defined, framing providing an important foundation for clarity of meaning and comparative differences between stakeholders. The typology advances the discourse on the land rush by providing nuance to this widely used framing and makes explicit its diverse meanings.
Enhancing Intercultural Business English Communication Factors Evaluation System Using the Termite Life Cycle Optimization Algorithm and Dynamically Stabilized Recurrent Neural Network
Authors: Zhang Yandong
Published: July 2024

In today's globalized business environment, effective intercultural communication in English is paramount for successful collaboration among professionals from diverse backgrounds. To enhance the accuracy of the evaluation system, enhancing intercultural business English communication factors evaluation system using the termite life cycle optimization algorithm and dynamically stabilized recurrent neural network (IBEC–DSRNN–TLCOA) is proposed in this manuscript. The input image is captured from mobile camera. Then the input images are preprocessed using intelligent weight decreasing firefly–particle filtering (IWDFPF) to remove noise and enhance the input images. Afterwards, the preprocessed image is fed to the entropy-founded spatial fuzzy C-means clustering approach for segmenting the image. Then the contrast, correlation, energy and homogeneousness features are extracted by using force-invariant improved feature extraction technique. The extracted features are given to dynamically stabilized recurrent neural network (DSRNN) to image target detection and English description generation. Termite life cycle optimization algorithm (TLCOA) is employed to enhance the weight parameters of DSRNN. The proposed IBEC–DSRNN–TLCOA method is implemented. The proposed IBEC–DSRNN–TLCOA method provides 32.53%, 31.86%, and 35.72% higher accuracy; 35.58%, 32.16%, and 37.72% higher F-measure when compared with the existing methods, such as exploration of intelligent translation with evaluation systems for business English (IBEC–RCNN), E-learning engagement with convolution neural networks on business education (IBEC–CNN), and deep neural network-based research on scoring business English oral training (IBEC–DNN), respectively.
Reconfigurable and versatile augmented reality optical setup for tangible experimentations
Authors: Bousquet Bruno , Hachet Martin , Casamayou Vincent , Normand Erwan , Guillet Jean-Paul , Canioni Lionel
Published: July 2024

HOBIT, which stands for "Hybrid Optical Bench for Innovative Teaching and learning" is an educational platform that leverages the combination of numerical simulation and physical manipulation to facilitate learning of complex phenomena and motivate users about wave optics in practical work. HOBIT operates in real time and is self-adaptive, providing realistic displays of optical phenomena with virtual augmentations designed to facilitate their understanding. HOBIT makes it quick and easy to build any reconfigurable optical experiment. Students can manipulate optical components and observe the changes induced on detectors and displays. We detail the technology, the simulation model and the initial teaching aids. Current and future enhancements should meet the needs of students at different levels, from high school to higher education degrees.
Freshwater Biogeochemical Hotspots: High Primary Production and Ecosystem Respiration in Shallow Waterbodies
Authors: Rabaey Joseph S. , Holgerson Meredith A. , Richardson David C. , Andersen Mikkel R. , Bansal Sheel , Bortolotti Lauren E. , Cotner James B. , Hornbach Daniel J. , Martinsen Kenneth T. , Moody Eric K. , Schloegel Olivia F.
Published: July 2024

Ponds, wetlands, and shallow lakes (collectively “shallow waterbodies”) are among the most biogeochemically active freshwater ecosystems. Measurements of gross primary production (GPP), respiration (R), and net ecosystem production (NEP) are rare in shallow waterbodies compared to larger and deeper lakes, which can bias our understanding of lentic ecosystem processes. In this study, we calculated GPP, R, and NEP in 26 small, shallow waterbodies across temperate North America and Europe. We observed high rates of GPP (mean 8.4 g O2 m−3 d−1) and R (mean −9.1 g O2 m−3 d−1), while NEP varied from net heterotrophic to autotrophic. Metabolism rates were affected by depth and aquatic vegetation cover, and the shallowest waterbodies had the highest GPP, R, and the most variable NEP. The shallow waterbodies from this study had considerably higher metabolism rates compared to deeper lakes, stressing the importance of these systems as highly productive biogeochemical hotspots.
The Climatological Perspective of Remote Rainfall Events Triggered by the Northeasterly Wind and the Outer Circulation of Typhoon in Taiwan
Authors: Hsu Li‐Huan , Su Shih‐Hao , Tseng Wen‐Wei , Chu Jung‐Lien , Su Jau‐Lang , Lin Lee‐Yaw
Published: July 2024

The climate characteristics of remote rainfall events in Taiwan from September to February over 41 years (1980–2020) are studied. These events are induced by the interaction between the northeasterly flow and the typhoon's outer circulation. Our findings reveal that rainfall in northeastern Taiwan becomes more prominent when tropical cyclones move to the remote rainfall‐prone area, located in the north Philippine area to the northern South China Sea, and when the background northeasterly wind speed exceeds 7 m s−1. Under these criteria, the confluence of the typhoon's outer circulation and the northeasterly flow creates a convergence area that enhances rainfall in northeastern Taiwan, increasing the occurrence of moderate to extreme rainfall (ER) events. This leads to an average enhancement in rainfall amount of 80–220 mm per day. Additionally, when typhoons are in the remote rainfall‐prone area, there is a greater than 20% chance for events with maximum rainfall over 200 mm day−1 to occur, particularly in the region of 20°–22°N, 116°−124°E, and north to Luzon Island. In this area, the occurrence rate can exceed more than a 45% chance. The highest risk of ER events occurs between 20°–22°N and 118°−120°E, with a probability of over 90%. Notably, the convergence area for the Taiwan cases does not necessarily coincide with the baroclinic forcing as that associated with remote rainfall events observed in Japan, Korea, and North America.
Mechanical properties of rubble pile asteroids (Dimorphos, Itokawa, Ryugu, and Bennu) through surface boulder morphological analysis
Authors: Robin Colas Q. , Duchene Alexia , Murdoch Naomi , Vincent Jean-Baptiste , Lucchetti Alice , Pajola Maurizio , Ernst Carolyn M. , Daly R. Terik , Barnouin Olivier S. , Raducan Sabina D. , Michel Patrick , Hirabayashi Masatochi , Stott Alexander , Cuervo Gabriela , Jawin Erica R. , Trigo-Rodriguez Josep M. , Parro Laura M. , Sunday Cecily , Vivet Damien , Mimoun David , Rivkin Andrew S. , Chabot Nancy L.
Published: July 2024

Planetary defense efforts rely on estimates of the mechanical properties of asteroids, which are difficult to constrain accurately from Earth. The mechanical properties of asteroid material are also important in the interpretation of the Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) impact. Here we perform a detailed morphological analysis of the surface boulders on Dimorphos using images, the primary data set available from the DART mission. We estimate the bulk angle of internal friction of the boulders to be 32.7 ± 2. 5° from our measurements of the roundness of the 34 best-resolved boulders ranging in size from 1.67–6.64 m. The elongated nature of the boulders around the DART impact site implies that they were likely formed through impact processing. Finally, we find striking similarities in the morphology of the boulders on Dimorphos with those on other rubble pile asteroids (Itokawa, Ryugu and Bennu). This leads to very similar internal friction angles across the four bodies and suggests that a common formation mechanism has shaped the boulders. Our results provide key inputs for understanding the DART impact and for improving our knowledge about the physical properties, the formation and the evolution of both near-Earth rubble-pile and binary asteroids.
Coupling sensor to enzyme in the voltage sensing phosphatase
Authors: Yu Yawei , Zhang Lin , Li Baobin , Fu Zhu , Brohawn Stephen G. , Isacoff Ehud Y.
Published: July 2024

Voltage-sensing phosphatases (VSPs) dephosphorylate phosphoinositide (PIP) signaling lipids in response to membrane depolarization. VSPs possess an S4-containing voltage sensor domain (VSD), resembling that of voltage-gated cation channels, and a lipid phosphatase domain (PD). The mechanism by which voltage turns on enzyme activity is unclear. Structural analysis and modeling suggest several sites of VSD-PD interaction that could couple voltage sensing to catalysis. Voltage clamp fluorometry reveals voltage-driven rearrangements in three sites implicated earlier in enzyme activation—the VSD-PD linker, gating loop and R loop—as well as the N-terminal domain, which has not yet been explored. N-terminus mutations perturb both rearrangements in the other segments and enzyme activity. Our results provide a model for a dynamic assembly by which S4 controls the catalytic site.
Diagnostic and predictive power of plasma proteins in Alzheimer's disease: a cross-sectional and longitudinal study in China
Authors: Li Wei , Sun Lin , Yue Ling , Xiao Shifu
Published: July 2024

Convenient and effective biomarkers are essential for the early diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In the cross-sectional study, 103 patients with AD, 82 patients with aMCI and 508 normal controls (NC) were enrolled. The single‐molecule array (Simoa) technique was used to assess the levels of plasma proteins, including NfL, T-tau, P-tau-181, Aβ40, Aβ42. Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) was used to assess the overall cognitive function of all subjects. Moreover, Amyloid PET and structural head MRI were also performed in a subset of the population. In the follow-up, the previous 508 normal older adults were followed up for two years, then COX regression analysis was used to investigate the association between baseline plasma proteins and future cognitive outcomes. NfL, T-tau, P-tau-181, Aβ40, Aβ42 and Aβ42/40 were altered in AD dementia, and NfL, Aβ42 and Aβ42/40 significantly outperformed all plasma proteins in differentiating AD dementia from NC, while NfL and Aβ42/40 could effectively distinguish between aMCI and NC. However, only plasma NfL was associated with future cognitive decline, and it was negatively correlated with MoCA (r = − 0.298, p < 0.001) and the volume of the left globus pallidus (r = − 0.278, p = 0.033). Plasma NfL can help distinguish between cognitively normal and cognitively impaired individuals (MCI/dementia) at the syndrome level. However, since we have not introduced other biomarkers for AD, such as PET CT or cerebrospinal fluid, and have not verified in other neurodegenerative diseases, whether plasma NFL can be used as a biomarker for AD needs to be further studied and explored.
Enhancing substance identification by Raman spectroscopy using deep neural convolutional networks with an attention mechanism
Authors: Xie Yuhao , Wang Zilong , Chen Qiang , Tang Heshan , Huang Jie , Liang Pei
Published: July 2024

Raman spectroscopy is widely used for substance identification, providing molecular information from various components along with noise and instrument interference.
Dietary bitter ginger-derived zerumbone improved memory performance during aging through inhibition of the PERK/CHOP-dependent endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway
Authors: Yang Chuan , Zhao Meihuan , Chen Yuanyuan , Song Juxian , Wang Dan , Zou Mi , Liu Jingru , Wen Wen , Xu Shijun
Published: July 2024

Zerumbone rescued aging-related cognitive deficits (ARCD) through inhibiting the PERK/CHOP-dependent excessive endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress.
Supplementation with Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis MH-022 for remission of motor impairments in a 6-OHDA-induced Parkinson's disease rat model by reducing inflammation, reshaping the gut microbiome, and fostering specific microbial taxa
Authors: Tsao Shu-Ping , Yeh Tu-Hsueh , Lin Ya-Tin , Pan Chun-Hsu , Lee Yuan-Kun , Wu Chieh-Hsi , Huang Hui-Yu
Published: July 2024

Inflammation significantly influences the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in Parkinson's disease (PD), which is potentially intensified by associated gut dysbiosis.
Limosilactobacillus fermentum HNU312 alleviates lipid accumulation and inflammation induced by a high-fat diet: improves lipid metabolism pathways and increases short-chain fatty acids in the gut microbiome
Authors: Li Jiahe , Zhang Zeng , Xu Yuan , Li Wanggao , Jiang Shuaiming , Zhang Jiachao , Xue Hui
Published: July 2024

The potential mechanism of L. fermentum HNU312 in improving metabolic disorders and inflammation induced by a high-fat diet.
Translational applications of magnetic nanocellulose composites
Authors: Awasthi Shikha , Komal  , Pandey Sarvesh Kumar
Published: July 2024

Magnetic nanocellulose composite (MNC) has emerged as a potential ‘green’ material owing to its inimitable properties.
Controlled orthogonal reactions in neat polymerizations
Authors: Reese Caleb J. , Musgrave Grant M. , Wang Chen
Published: July 2024

In this Minireview, we discuss recent implementations of orthogonal neat polymerization reactions for emerging applications including 3D printing, multimaterials, optical materials, and photo-responsive materials.
High-strength fluorosilicone rubber with exceptional shape memory performance obtained through stereochemical structure regulation
Authors: Shi Ruirui , Zheng Wei , Wang Yifan , Long Teng , Liu Zhe , Xu Yushu , Wang Hua , Zhou Chuanjian
Published: July 2024

The strain-induced crystallization effect arising from high stereochemical structural regularity leads to FSR exhibiting exceptional tensile strength.
Ordered patterns in electroactive polymer ionic liquid blends: effect of long range interactions
Authors: Choudhury Ashima , Dayal Pratyush
Published: July 2024

Harnessing long-range interactions and a uniform electric field to create ordered patterns in electroactive polymer ionic liquid blends.
Sustainable synthesis of activated porous carbon from lignin for enhanced CO2 capture: a comparative study of physicochemical activation routes
Authors: Patel Himanshu , Mohanty Amar , Misra Manjusri
Published: July 2024

A sustainable and readily available material, lignin protobind 2400, was upcycled to activated porous carbon (APC) compatible with post-combustion CO2 capture.
Cloud‐mediated self‐triggered synchronisation of a general linear multi‐agent system over a directed graph
Authors: Namba Takumi , Takaba Kiyotsugu
Published: July 2024

The authors propose a self‐triggered synchronisation control method of a general high‐order linear time‐invariant multi‐agent system through a cloud repository. In the cloud‐mediated self‐triggered control, each agent asynchronously accesses the cloud repository to obtain past information about its neighbouring agents. Then, the agent predicts future behaviours of its neighbours as well as of its own and locally determines its next access time to the cloud repository. In the case of a general high‐order linear agent dynamics, each agent has to estimate exponential evolution of its trajectory characterised by eigenvalues of a system matrix, which is different from single/double integrator or first‐order linear agents. The authors’ proposed method deals with exponential behaviours of the agents by tightly evaluating the bounds on matrix exponentials. Based on these bounds, the authors design the self‐triggered controller through a cloud that achieves the bounded state synchronization of the closed‐loop system without exhibiting any Zeno behaviours. The effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated through the numerical simulation.
An enhanced 13‐level triple voltage gain switched capacitor inverter with lower power electronics devices
Authors: Derakhshandeh Masoumeh , Hosseinpour Majid , Seifi Ali , Shahparasti Mahdi
Published: July 2024

In this study, a 13‐level switched‐capacitor inverter with triple voltage gain is proposed. The proposed structure generates 13‐level output voltage using only one DC source, eleven switches, and three capacitors. The capacitors have the capability of self‐balancing without the use of additional circuits or complex control methods. Additionally, the inrush current of the capacitors has been reduced using a soft charging method. The proposed structure has been compared with different 13‐level structures presented in recent studies in terms of various parameters such as the number of semiconductor devices, the number of DC sources, voltage gain, Maximum Blocking Voltage (MBV), and Total standing Voltage (TSV). Another advantage of the proposed structure is the non‐use of any diode and its cost‐effectiveness. In addition, the power losses of the proposed structure have been evaluated, and its efficiency has been calculated for various output powers. Finally, the performance of the proposed structure has been verified through simulation and laboratory implementation under both stable and various dynamic conditions.
Experimental Study on ASP Flooding Horizontal-Vertical Joint Development
Authors: Jiang Xinyu
Published: July 2024

ASP flooding oil technology, as a highly concerned method for improving oil recovery in recent years, has the advantages of high oil displacement efficiency and good environmental protection. Horizontal-vertical joint development technology is a method of achieving efficient oil-field development by optimizing well network layout, adjusting injection production parameters, and other means. It improves the pressure field and flow field distribution inside the reservoir, enhances sweep efficiency and oil recovery efficiency, thereby achieving the goal of increasing crude oil recovery rate. This article aims to explore the combined application effect and mechanism of ASP flooding oil technology and horizontal-vertical joint development technology through experimental research, providing new ideas and methods for efficient development of oil fields. The joint application of ASP flooding oil technology and horizontal-vertical joint development technology provides a new approach for efficient oil-field development. This joint application can not only improve the recovery rate of crude oil, reduce development costs, but also help reduce environmental pollution and achieve the sustainability of oil-field development.
Assessment of river flow future changes in the Upper Volga and Kama basins based on climate modeling data
Authors: Sidorova Maria , Yasinsky Sergey
Published: July 2024

The ongoing climate changes affect water resources and the water bodies’ regime. This is reflected in the water management complex operation. Analysis of possible hydrological changes in the Upper Volga and Kama basins in the 21st century is based on projections of future climate in the ensemble of atmospheric and oceanic general circulation models (AGOGS) of the CMIP6 project (Coupled Model Intercomparison Project). Models were selected according to the reliability of regional climate reproduction. An assessment of possible changes in the annual average river flow in the 21st century for five reservoir basins of the Upper Volga and three Kama reservoirs basins was made. The assessment was carried out according to two scenarios - optimistic and pessimistic, which provides a wide range of assessments of future changes. It is shown during the 21st century no fundamental changes in river flow are expected in the study areas.
Current dynamics of air temperature in Saint Petersburg and suburbs
Authors: Sturman Vladimir I. , Loginovskaya Alyona N.
Published: July 2024

The dynamics of mean annual, seasonal and monthly temperatures at meteorological stations of Saint Petersburg and its suburbs in 1960-2023 was studied. It was found that actual growth of temperatures is revealed for annual and seasonal averages, but not for monthly values - in half of the cases only. This trends reflects only global processes, as the difference between the city and suburbs has not changed significantly over the period under consideration. The increase is mainly due to winter temperatures, while summer temperatures increased minimally.
Effect of hydrochemical indicators of Sangzor river water on mollusk population indicators
Authors: Boymurodov Khusniddin T. , Khodjaeva Nasiba D. , Raximov Matnazar Sh. , Bobonazarov Gappar Ya. , Boymurodov Suhrob X. , Khurazov Sayfulla J. , Davronov Barno О.
Published: July 2024

The article presents information about the influence of hydrochemical parameters of Sangzor river water on mollusk population parameters. The hydrochemical indicators of the water of the Sangzor River are oil and oil products, the level of mineralization is not higher than REM, and the water temperature, flow speed, clarity are favorable for bivalve mollusks of the families Unionidae and Sorbiculidae and bubble growth was determine to be high. Its downstream is in the water after the city of Jizzakh (Khairabad) oil and oil products, mineralization level is higher than REM, pollution of water environment factors, weight, shell length, height, and bubble growth of bivalve mollusks of Unionidae and Sorbiculidae families were determined to be small, affecting the growth of shells to a certain extent as limiting factors.
Transcranial Doppler ultrasonography to evaluate cerebral hemodynamic changes in neurocysticercosis
Authors: Sanchez-Boluarte Sofia S. , Barrientos-Iman Danny M. , Ramirez-Quiñones Jorge , Bustos Javier , Ecos Rosa , Gonzales Isidro , Saavedra Herbert , Garcia Hector H.
Published: July 2024

Background Arteritis is a complication of neurocysticercosis (NCC), which is not well known and could trigger strokes. The transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD) is a noninvasive method for detecting, staging, and monitoring cerebrovascular diseases. Nonetheless, the utility of TCD to evaluate cerebral hemodynamic changes, suggesting vasculitis associated with NCC remains uncertain.

Objective To evaluate cerebral hemodynamic changes using TCD in patients with subarachnoid and parenchymal NCC.

Methods There were 53 patients with NCC evaluated at a reference hospital for neurological diseases included (29 with subarachnoid and 24 with parenchymal). Participants underwent a clinical interview and serology for cysticercosis and underwent TCD performed within 2 weeks of enrollment. Mean flow velocity, peak systolic velocity, end diastolic velocity, and pulsatility index were recorded.

Results Among the participants, there were 23 (43.4%) women, with a median age of 37 years (IQR: 29–48). Cerebral hemodynamic changes suggesting vasculitis were detected in 12 patients (22.64%); the most compromised vessel was the middle cerebral artery in 11 (91.67%) patients. There were more females in the group with sonographic signs of vasculitis (10/12, 83.33% vs. 13/41, 31.71%; p = 0.002), and this was more frequent in the subarachnoid NCC group (9/29, 31.03% vs. 3/24, 12.5%; p = 0.187), although this difference did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusion Cerebral hemodynamic changes suggestive of vasculitis are frequent in patients with NCC and can be evaluated using TCD.