bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early extracorporeal photopheresis treatment is associated with better survival in patients with chronic or recurrent acute lung allograft dysfunction
Authors: Gautschi Fiorenza , Vogelmann Tobias , Ortmanns Gernot , Knörr Fabian , Steinack Carolin , Hage René , Nägeli Mirjam , Schuurmans Macé Matthew
Published: June 2024

Background

Due to development of chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD), prognosis for patients undergoing lung transplantation (LTx) is still worse compared to other solid organ transplant recipients. Treatment options for slowing down CLAD progression are scarce with extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) as an established rescue therapy. The aim of the study was to identify characteristics of responders and non‐responders to ECP treatment, assess their survival, lung function development and by that define the subset of patients who should receive early ECP treatment.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of all LTx patients receiving ECP treatment at the University Hospital Zurich between January 2010 and March 2020. Patients were followed‐up for a maximum period of 5 years. Mortality and lung function development were assessed by CLAD stage and by CLAD subtype before initiation of ECP treatment.

Results

Overall, 105 patients received at least one ECP following LTx. A total of 57 patients (61.3%) died within the study period with a median survival of 15 months. Mortality was 57% for patients who started ECP at CLAD1, 39% for CLAD2, 93% for CLAD3, and 90% for CLAD4 (p < 0.001). Survival and lung function development was best in young patients at early CLAD stages 1 and 2. Response to ECP treatment was worst in patients with CLAD‐RAS/mixed subtype (14.3%) and patients with ECP initiation in CLAD stages 3 (7.1%) and 4 (11.1%). Survival was significantly better in a subset of patients with recurrent acute allograft dysfunction and earlier start of ECP treatment (105 vs 15 months).

Conclusion

In this retrospective analysis of a large group of CLAD patients treated with ECP after LTx, early initiation of ECP was associated with better long‐term survival. Besides a subset of patients suffering of recurrent allograft dysfunction, especially a subset of patients defined as responders showed an improved response rate and survival, suggesting that ECP should be initiated in early CLAD stages and young patients. ECP might therefore prevent long‐term disease progression even in patients with CLAD refractory to other treatment options and thus prevent or delay re‐transplantation.
Zarankiewicz numbers near the triple system threshold
Authors: Chen Guangzhou , Horsley Daniel , Mammoliti Adam
Published: June 2024

For positive integers and , the Zarankiewicz number can be defined as the maximum total degree of a linear hypergraph with vertices and edges. Guy determined for all . Here, we extend this by determining for all and, when is large, for all .
LncRNA AFAP1‐AS1 mediates breast cancer cell proliferation and migration through the miR‐21/PTEN axis
Authors: Quan Dongling , Wu Huanxian , Yang Yuqin , Lian Huining , Guan Yiqing , Yang Danni , Zhang Guohua , Liu Minfeng , Wu Shaoyu , Lv Lin
Published: June 2024

LncRNAs play various effects, mostly by sponging with miRNAs. Based on public databases integrating bioinformatics analyses and further validation in breast cancer (BC) tissue and cell lines, the effect of lncRNA AFAP1‐AS1 on breast cancer cell proliferation and migration was verified. It might work via the miR‐21/PTEN axis. The expression of AFAP1‐AS1, which was significantly upregulated in BC tissues and cell lines, was correlated with old age and lymph node metastasis of patients with BC. Knockdown of AFAP1‐AS1 inhibited the proliferation and migration of BC cells in vitro and in vivo. And downregulated miR‐21 expression and upregulated PTEN expression additionally. Mechanistically, the knockdown of lncRNA AFAP1‐AS1 upregulated PTEN expression and consequently attenuated miR‐21‐mediated enhanced BC cell proliferation and migration. LncRNA AFAP1‐AS1 is a potential prognostic biomarker for BC patients.
Cognitive interview conducted in‐person and over‐the‐phone for informants' memory of overheard conversations
Authors: Sneyd Danielle , Fisher Ronald P.
Published: June 2024

The current study examined the Cognitive Interview (CI) for eliciting information about an overheard conversation (planning a future crime). Interviews were conducted either in‐person or via telephone. The CI elicited more information, and at a comparable accuracy level, in comparison to a structured interview (SI). The efficacy of the CI was not significantly influenced by whether the interview was conducted in‐person or via telephone. It took more time to conduct the CI than the SI. Finally, various measures of efficiency showed that the CI was as or more efficient than the SI. Suggestions are offered about adapting the CI for telephone interviews.
敗血症性ショックおよび急性感染性電撃性紫斑病を併発したCapnocytophaga canimorsus感染症の1例(Case report: Septic shock and acute infectious purpura fulminans due to Capnocytophaga canimorsus infection)
Authors: 大地 田畑 , 恭輔 高端 , 勲 鵜飼 , 雄公 中川 , 公伸 鴻野
Published: June 2024

カプノサイトファーガ・カニモルサスは主に犬・猫の口腔内常在菌である。ヒトへの感染の頻度は少ないものの，一旦感染すると全身状態が急激に悪化して敗血症性ショックやDICに至ることが多く，最近では認知の広がりとともに症例の報告が増加している。しかし，電撃性紫斑病合併例の報告は極めて少ない。一般的に，電撃性紫斑病を合併する敗血症の生命予後は極めて悪く，また急激な経過をとることが知られている。症例は70歳の女性。入院4日前に犬に指を軽く噛まれたが，自己判断で医療機関は受診しなかった。入院2日前に発熱し，入院前日に意識障害が生じたため，前医へ救急搬送された。原因不明の敗血症性ショックと診断され，集中治療目的に当院へ転院となった。当院受診時，明らかな咬傷痕は認めなかったが，顔面や四肢末梢に表在性の点状出血斑を認めた。第2病日に創部等の培養を提出し，第15病日にその創部培養と喀痰培養からカプノサイトファーガ・カニモルサスが検出された。集中治療により敗血症性ショックは軽快し救命できたものの，手指や耳介，鼻尖，口唇の血流障害は改善せず壊死へ至ったため，第26病日に電撃性紫斑病と診断した。複数回の手術加療を要し最終的に四肢切断に至った。明らかな咬傷痕がなくとも，動物咬傷の病歴があればカプノサイトファーガは鑑別に含めるべきである。
Circulating metabolites are associated with persistent elevations of ALT in patients with chronic hepatitis B with complete viral suppression
Authors: Zheng Dekai , Cheng Changhao , Tang Yanhua , Fang Zhixin , Gao Xuelian , Chen Yuchuan , You Qiuhong , Wang Kaifeng , Zhou Heqi , Lan Zhixian , Sun Jian
Published: June 2024

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) can be completely suppressed after antiviral treatment; however, some patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) exhibit elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels and sustained disease progression. This study provides novel insights into the mechanism and potential predictive biomarkers of persistently elevated ALT (PeALT) in patients with CHB after complete viral inhibition. Patients having CHB with undetectable HBV DNA at least 12 months after antiviral treatment were enrolled from a prospective, observational cohort. Patients with PeALT and persistently normal ALT (PnALT) were matched 1:1 using propensity score matching. Correlations between plasma metabolites and the risk of elevated ALT were examined using multivariate logistic regression. A mouse model of carbon tetrachloride‐induced liver injury was established to validate the effect of key differential metabolites on liver injury. Of the 1238 patients with CHB who achieved complete viral suppression, 40 (3.23%) had PeALT levels during follow‐up (median follow‐up: 2.42 years). Additionally, 40 patients with PnALT levels were matched as controls. Ser‐Phe‐Ala, Lys‐Ala‐Leu‐Glu, 3‐methylhippuric acid, 3‐methylxanthine, and 7‐methylxanthine were identified as critical differential metabolites between the two groups and independently associated with PeALT risk. Ser‐Phe‐Ala and Lys‐Ala‐Leu‐Glu levels could be used to discriminate patients with PeALT from those with PnALT. Furthermore, N‐acetyl‐
l‐methionine (NALM) demonstrated the strongest negative correlation with ALT levels. NALM supplementation alleviated liver injury and hepatic necrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride in mice. Changes in circulating metabolites may contribute to PeALT levels in patients with CHB who have achieved complete viral suppression after antiviral treatment.
The prevalence, determinants, and consequences of post‐COVID in healthcare workers: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Saade Anastasia , Didier Quentin , Cha Léo , Garlantezec Ronan , Paris Christophe , Tattevin Pierre
Published: June 2024

Data on post‐coronavirus disease (COVID) in healthcare workers (HCWs) are scarce. We aimed to assess prevalence, determinants, and consequences of post‐COVID in HCWs. In fall 2022, we performed a cross‐sectional survey in a tertiary care hospital with a web‐based questionnaire sent to HCWs. Post‐COVID was defined as persistent/new symptoms 3 months after acute COVID. Propensity score weighting was performed to assess the impact of post‐COVID on return‐to‐work. 1062 HCWs completed the questionnaire, 713 (68%) reported at least one COVID, and 109 (10%) met the definition for post‐COVID, with workplace contamination reported in 51 (47%). On multivariable analysis, risk factors for post‐COVID were female gender (p = 0.047), ≥50 years (p = 0.007), immunosuppression (p = 0.004), ≥2 COVID episodes (p = 0.003), and ≥5 symptoms during acute COVID (p = 0.005). Initial sick leave was prescribed for 94 HCWs (86% post‐COVID), for a median duration of 7 [7–9] days, and extended for 23. On return‐to‐work, 91 (84%) had residual symptoms, primarily asthenia/fatigue (72%) and cognitive impairment (25%). Cognitive impairment at return‐to‐work was associated with post‐COVID. Ten HCWs (9%) received a medical diagnosis of post‐COVID, 8 consulted the occupational physician, and four required work adaptation. Post‐COVID affected 10% of HCWs. Long‐term consequences included repeated sick leaves and residual symptoms on return‐to‐work.
Modeling and optimization of expected travel time for multi‐aisle AS/RSs with two‐class‐based storage policy
Authors: Yu Hu
Published: June 2024

Class‐based storage policy with optimized contour‐shaped class boundary can significantly improve storage system's performance. Surprisingly, this policy has not been explored in widely used multi‐aisle automated storage and retrieval systems (MA‐AS/RSs), which use one storage and retrieval machine to serve multiple aisles with the help of an aisle‐transfer technique. This paper investigates the two‐class‐based storage policy with contour‐shaped class boundary in MA‐AS/RSs that use a transfer car for aisle transfer. The aim is to optimize the system dimensions and class boundary by minimizing system's expected travel time. Based on the approximation of the MA‐AS/RS with a continuous cube and the proposed hierarchical procedure, analytical expected travel time expressions for systems with any dimensions and class boundary are calculated. In addition, based on several proved properties, closed‐form optimal system dimensions and class boundary are derived. Numerical results show the accuracy of our continuous cubic approximation is sufficient. By measuring the performance using the average of expected travel time over all tested systems with various dimensions, we find that (1) class‐based policy with our optimal class boundary can respectively improve the performance by at least 40%, 10%, and 50% compared to three previous policies in the case of 20/80 ABC curve; and (2) system with our optimal dimensions can improve the performance by about 20%–30%. Several managerial insights for warehouse practitioners are presented.
Longitudinal changes of psychological distress among childhood cancer survivors: The Swiss Childhood Cancer Survivor Study
Authors: Raguindin Peter Francis , Rueegg Corina S. , Kälin Sonja , Bergstraesser Eva , von der Weid Nicolas X. , Tinner Eva Maria , Kuehni Claudia E. , Michel Gisela
Published: June 2024

Background

Childhood cancer survivors may experience psychological distress due to the disease, cancer treatments, and potential late effects. Limited knowledge exists regarding longitudinal changes in psychological distress after childhood cancer. We aimed to determine changes in psychological distress over time and explore determinants of changes.

Methods

The Swiss Childhood Cancer Survivor Study collected data at baseline (2007–2009) and follow‐up (2010–2012). Psychological distress was measured using the Brief Symptom Inventory 18 (BSI‐18), including three symptom scales (somatization, depression, anxiety) and an overall distress index (Global Severity Index, GSI). Sum‐scores were T‐standardized (mean = 50; standard deviation [SD] = 10). Survivors with a score ≥57 on the GSI or two symptom scales were classified as cases with distress. We used linear mixed effects regression to identify potential sociodemographic and clinical determinants of change in psychological distress.

Results

We analyzed 696 survivors at baseline (mean age = 24 years [SD = 4], 49% females, mean time since diagnosis = 16 years [SD = 4]). On follow‐up (2.4 years, SD = 1), 317 survivors were analyzed, including 302 participants with repeated measures. We found that 13% (39/302) were cases at baseline, and 25% (76/302) were cases on follow‐up. Those older at study and longer since diagnosis, females, diagnosed with central nervous system (CNS) tumors, and those reporting late effects were more likely to experience higher levels of distress. Females and unemployed are at higher risk for developing or persisting psychological distress than males and those who are employed or in training.

Conclusion

We observed an increase in psychological distress score over time, with higher proportion of psychological distress on follow‐up. Anticipatory guidance and screening should be implemented in regular follow‐up care.
Robust security‐based model predictive control for nonlinear cyber‐physical system under random occurring deception attacks and actuator saturation
Authors: Wu Yuying , Zhang Langwen , Xie Wei
Published: June 2024

This article presents a robust security‐based model predictive control (MPC) framework for a class of discrete‐time nonlinear cyber‐physical systems (CPSs) suffering random deception attacks and persistent actuator saturation. In CPSs, the attacks can significantly degrade the control performance. Naturally, a larger degree of control is required, prompting the consideration of actuator saturation in CPS's structure. In our work, the cyberattacks on the controller‐actuator (C‐A) channel are described as a stochastic process with specific probability and bounded energy. The security‐related constraint is introduced to improve the resistance and robustness against attacks. Mean‐square quadratic boundedness is derived to estimate the robustly invariant set. By placing the saturated input into a convex hull, a robust security‐based MPC optimization problem is addressed less conservatively with linear matrix inequality technique. Furthermore, the feasibility of the proposed method is proved recursively, and the stability and security of the closed‐loop system are established in mean‐square sense. In the end, the laboratory tank and reactor‐separator process are applied to validate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Robust adaptive safety control of uncertain nonlinear systems and its application to differential robots
Authors: Han Xingzhe , Long Lijun
Published: June 2024

This article focuses on the problem of robust adaptive safety control of a class of nonlinear systems with parametric uncertainties. Two novel definitions, that is, robust adaptive control Lyapunov function (RACLF) and robust adaptive control barrier function (RACBF) are introduced in this article. Also, an estimation of unknown parameters is obtained based on multiple identification models, state predictors and a logic switching mechanism. The switching mechanism plays a vital role in enhancing the transient properties of nonlinear systems. Meanwhile, a safe motion framework for differential robots is provided based on the existence of parametric uncertainties in RACLF and RACBF, and a safe and stable controller is obtained by solving quadratic programming. Finally, simulation results of differential robot capable of safe motion in space are presented to verify the validity of the design method.
Is There a Genetic Confound in the Relation of Home Literacy Environment with Children's Reading Skills? A Familial Control Method Approach
Authors: Zhang Su‐Zhen , Inoue Tomohiro , Georgiou George K.
Published: June 2024

We examined the relation between home literacy environment (HLE), parents' reading skills, and children's emergent literacy skills (pinyin letter knowledge, phonological awareness, and vocabulary) and reading (word reading and reading comprehension) in a sample of 168 Chinese children (Mage = 74.26 months) followed from kindergarten to Grade 1. Results of structural equation modeling showed that code‐related HLE activities and access to literacy resources continued to predict children's emergent literacy skills after controlling for the effects of family's socioeconomic status and both parents' reading skills. Parents' reading skills also exerted a direct effect on children's reading comprehension. These findings suggest that HLE exerts a true environmental effect on children's reading skills that is not due to a genetic confound.
Comparison of dry (air classification) and wet fractionated pea protein on protein molecular structure and gelling properties
Authors: Kottage Samitha Madushani , Samaranayaka Anusha Geethangani Perera , Bhowmik Pankaj , Chen Lingyun
Published: June 2024

Dry fractionation is an environmentally friendly and cost‐effective method to separate protein fractions. While most research has focused on the structure and functional properties of pea protein isolates (PPI), the information on dry fractionated pea protein (DFPP) is limited. This study compared DFPP (protein content (PC): 50.7%, insoluble fiber: 17%), to PPI (PC: 80.1%, insoluble fiber: 8.33%), in terms of the protein structure, solubility, and heat‐induced gelation. SDS‐Page, size‐exclusive chromatographic, and Fourier‐transform infrared spectrophotometer analysis indicated that DFPP contained the major protein components in pea, and their native structures were well maintained. Whereas for PPI, some proteins were lost during wet extraction, and partial protein unfolding and aggregation were observed. At neutral pH, DFPP showed significantly higher solubility (44.64 ± 0.55%) than PPI (12.09 ± 1.42%). Interestingly, DFPP showed good gelling capacity as reflected by lower gelling concentration and higher gel mechanical strength and elasticity compared to those made from PPI. The DFPP gels were twice higher in mechanical strength (7.71 ± 0.21 kPa) than that prepared from PPI at pH 7. Strong gels were also obtained for DFPP at pH 5. The gel morphology revealed phase separation between protein and polysaccharides by heating, with stick‐shaped fiber (10–25 μm) dispersed in the continuous protein networks. Eventually, the polysaccharides including fiber and starch helped strengthen the gel network by acting as fillers. This knowledge will help to expand the applications of DFPP as a gelling ingredient in food formulations, but also allow industry to benefit from the dietary fiber co‐exist in the protein to develop healthier food products using a holistic approach.
Ternary Nanocomposites of Copper/graphitic‐Phase Carbon Nitride/rare‐Earth Pentaborate for Photocatalytic Applications Under Simulated Sunlight Illumination
Authors: Sun Xiaorui , Chen Zuli , Chen Min , Li Yan , Yang Jia
Published: June 2024

A wide variety of borate materials are emerging as photocatalysts. Usually, the borates possess a large bandgap which limits their absorption of visible light, and the strategy of preparing nanocomposites is an effective way to enhance the absorption of light. X‐ray powder diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy were used to show that a three‐component nanocomposites was successfully prepared. For the photo‐degraded reactions of rhodamine B(RhB) and doxycycline hydrochloride(DH), the optimum composition of the ternary composite is a molar ratio of Gd0.9Ce0.1B5O9(GCBO) and g‐C3N4(CN) of 7 : 93, besides the mass of Cu is 2 % of the sum of the above two masses, and the ternary composite is abbreviated as 2Cu/CN@GCBO‐7. The kinetic constant for the photodegradation of RhB of sample 2Cu/CN@GCBO‐7 is 0.0580 min−1, which is 3.6 and 3.8 times that of non‐composite CN and GCBO. The mechanism postulated by free radical quenching experiments suggests that the importance of the three radicals is hole >⋅OH>⋅O2− in the photodegradation reaction. In addition, the kinetic constant for the photodegradation of DH of sample 2Cu/CN@GCBO‐7 is 0.0018 min−1, and the sample 2Cu/CN@GCBO‐7 has a hydrogen evolution rate of 11.8 μmol/h/g.
I2/DMSO Mediated Direct Selenylation of Uracils with Diorganoyl Diselenides – A Simple Protocol to Access 5‐Selanyl‐Uracils
Authors: Thedy Maria Eduarda C. , Gularte Mylena M. , Azeredo Juliano B. , Braga Antonio L.
Published: June 2024

This study demonstrates a direct and regioselective selenylation protocol of unprotected uracils with diorganoyl diselenides using equivalent amount of DMSO as oxidant and minimum solvent, under catalysis by molecular iodine. This methodology tolerates a broad scope of functional groups to provide several 5‐organoseleno‐substituted uracil derivatives in good to excellent yields.
Professional recognition and parity: A necessity for New South Wales sonographers
Authors: Clark Amy , Kennedy Narelle , Brown Paula , Thomas Liza
Published: June 2024

Accredited Medical Sonographers are highly specialised healthcare professionals who have specific knowledge, competence, and responsibility. While the profession of sonography is evolving in terms of career pathways and regulation, sonographers in NSW are divided according to pay, working conditions, career progression, and gender pay inequality. To retain quality staff amidst a national sonographer shortage, urgent award reform is needed. Professional equality and unification of sonographers along with career diversity and satisfaction is crucial to ensure NSW patients receive the highest quality healthcare.
The Temperature of Pretreatment on Microstructure Change of Lump Ore and Improvement of Metallurgical Properties
Authors: Zhang Jianliang , Hao Liangyuan , Liu Zhengjian , Feng Ben , Niu Lele , Li Sida , Li Zhen , Wang Yaozu
Published: June 2024

Goethite is one of the most common minerals in iron ore, and is the main source of internal crystal water generated during the heating process of lump ore. To address this challenge, three measures are proposed: first, minimizing the decomposition of crystalline water upon the introduction of lump ores into the furnace; second, reducing the heat absorption of water vapor within the furnace; and third, increasing the proportion of lump ores being introduced into the furnace. With this in mind, the lump ore preheating treatment technology is introduced. By preheating the lumps at different temperatures, the influence of pretreatment on the reduction and soft melting of the lumps is studied. The results show that at different preheating temperatures, due to the transformation of FeOOH to Fe2O3, the natural goethite gradually changes from natural granular to spherical at higher preheating temperatures. When the preheating temperature is 400–700 °C, the coexisting phase of goethite and hematite in the pores changes obviously. The metallurgical properties of lump ore change dramatically. When the temperature is lower than 400 °C or higher than 700 °C, almost all goethite in lump ore is transformed into hematite, and the morphology does not change.
A bibliometric perspective on the occurrence and migration of microplastics in soils amended with sewage sludge
Authors: Fu Bomin , Zhou Weimin , Chen Yucai , Wu Yang , Gan Wenhui , She Nian , Ma Yibing
Published: June 2024

The land application of sewage sludge from wastewater treatment plants has been recognized as a major source of microplastic contamination in soil. Nevertheless, the fate and behavior of microplastics in soil remain uncertain, particularly their distribution and transport, which are poorly understood. This study does a bibliometric analysis and visualization of relevant research publications using the CiteSpace software. It explores the limited research available on the topic, highlighting the potential for it to emerge as a research hotspot in the future. Chinese researchers and institutions are paying great attention to this field and are promoting close academic cooperation among international organizations. Current research hot topics mainly involve microplastic pollution caused by the land application of sewage sludge, as well as the detection, environmental fate, and removal of microplastics in soil. The presence of microplastics in sludge, typically ranging from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of particles (p)/kg, inevitably leads to their introduction into soil upon land application. In China, the estimated annual accumulation of microplastics in the soil due to sludge use is approximately 1.7 × 1013 p. In European countries, the accumulation ranges from 8.6 to 71 × 1013 p. Sludge application has significantly elevated soil microplastic concentrations, with higher application rates and frequencies resulting in up to several‐fold increases. The primary forms of microplastics found in soils treated with sludge are fragments and fibers, primarily in white color. These microplastics consist primarily of components such as polyamide, polyethylene, and polypropylene. The vertical transport behavior of microplastics is influenced by factors such as tillage, wind, rainfall, bioturbation, microplastic characteristics (e.g., fraction, particle size, and shape), and soil physicochemical properties (e.g., organic matter, porosity, electrical conductivity, and pH). Research indicates that microplastics can penetrate up to 90 cm into the soil profile and persist for decades. Microplastics in sewage sludge‐amended soils pose potential long‐term threats to soil ecosystems and even human health. Future research should focus on expanding the theoretical understanding of microplastic behavior in these soils, enabling the development of comprehensive risk assessments and informed decision‐making for sludge management practices.

Practitioner Points

Microplastics in sewage sludge range from tens to hundreds of thousands per kilogram.

Sludge land application contributes significantly to soil microplastic pollution.

The main forms of microplastics in sludge‐amended soils are fragments and fibers.

Microplastics are mainly composed of polyamide, polyethylene, and polypropylene.

Microplastics can penetrate up to 90 cm into the soil profile and persist for decades.
LnSb2O4Br (Ln=Nd and Er) and Sb4O5Br2: Lanthanoid‐Bearing and ‐Free Antimony(III) Oxide Bromides
Authors: Locke Ralf J. C. , Weis Maria , Schleid Thomas
Published: June 2024

Sb4O5Br2 crystallizes plate‐shaped in the monoclinic space group P21/c with the lattice parameters a=660.82(5) pm, b=513.71(4) pm, c=1346.35(9) pm and β=97.876(3)° for Z=2. Its crystal structure contains
{[Sb4O5]2+} layers with connected [(Sb1)O3+1]5− ψ1‐units and undisturbed pyramidal [(Sb2)O3]3− ψ1‐units, where the free electron pair is counted as a pseudo‐ligand (ψ). The bromide anions required for charge compensation of these cationic
{[Sb4O5]2+} layers form single sheets and are only bonded via van‐der‐Waals interactions in this crystal structure, as the nearest distance to antimony cations is at least 300 pm. NdSb2O4Br crystallizes plate‐shaped in the monoclinic space group P21/c as well, but with the lattice parameters a=896.24(6) pm, b=801.16(5) pm, c=799.27(5) pm and β=92.129(3)° for Z=4. The [NdO8]13− polyhedra are linked to each other via four edges and thus form fluorite‐related layers
{[NdO
]5−}, which run parallel to the (100) plane. The [SbO3]3− anions share vertices to build chains
{[SbO
O
]−} along [001], which align parallel within the (100) plane. The isolated Br− anions arrange in layers and show a minimum distance of 319 pm to the next Sb3+ cation. ErSb2O4Br crystallizes plate‐shaped in the non‐centrosymmetric tetragonal space group P4212 with the lattice parameters a=774.76(4) pm, c=899.53(6) pm and c/a=1.161 for Z=4. The erbium‐oxygen environment appears to be roughly the same as in NdSb2O4Br, so the main difference is the linkage of the ψ1‐[SbO3]3− units. Four of these [SbO3]3− anions assemble in a ring structure
{[Sb4O8]4−} by sharing corners. Layers of rings are located in the (001) plane and almost planar bromide‐anion slabs assemble between the antimony‐oxygen layers. In this article, all three crystal structures are compared with each other and single‐crystal Raman spectra were recorded and analyzed for NdSb2O4Br and ErSb2O4Br.
Axial Perturbation of Intermediate Spin (S=3/2) Iron(III) Complexes with Square Pyramidal N4X Coordination: Solid State Structures and Electronic Properties
Authors: Egner Sebastian , Akintola Oluseun , Plass Winfried , Liebing Phil , Schlörer Nils , Hörner Gerald , Weber Birgit
Published: June 2024

The combination of planar‐directing, strong‐field [N4] ligands with a weak axial field component is known to stabilize five‐coordinate iron(III) complexes in otherwise uncommon spin states. In this work, a series of axially perturbed iron(III) complexes of an [N4] macrocyclic ligand of the Jäger type, [Fe(L)X] (with X: Cl, Br, I, NCS) gave intermediate‐spin ground states with axially steered admixture of the high‐spin state, S=3/2; 5/2. The nature of the electronic ground‐state as deduced from SQUID magnetometry, 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy in the solid, and 1H NMR and EPR spectroscopies in (frozen) solutions was discussed in the light of the solid‐state structures, which were obtained from single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. A DFT‐based protocol was established to quantify the axial field effects and, by including relevant [N4] systems, predict the differential equatorial ligand field components.
A Geometric Analysis of Masonry Sail Vaults at the Magistral Palace, Valletta, for the Study of Maltese Stereotomy
Authors: Antista Armando , Morena Sara , Mifsud Christian
Published: June 2024

The research deals with an interesting interdisciplinary case study for the knowledge and dissemination of masonry sail vaults in Malta between the 16th and the 17th centuries. In particular, it focuses on the sail vaults of the Magistral Palace, which have a distinctive structure. Based on a digital survey, the necessary data was extrapolated to critically analyse the geometry, through drawing and three-dimensional modelling. The paper, therefore, presents graphical and geometric investigations, which complement the study of the history of the Magistral Palace. Comparisons with the Maltese architectural context between the 16th and 17th centuries show the use of different solutions for the construction of sail vaults, according to different geometries. This implies knowledge of the international debate on the theory of stonecutting at the time.
Multilayered cork-STF composite structures enhanced with laser texturing for impact mitigation
Authors: Fernandes Telmo R.M. , Alves de Sousa Ricardo J. , Fernandes Fábio A.O.
Published: June 2024

Cork and its composites have shown great potential to be employed in protective equipment, damping, and crashworthy systems. Their sustainability is far more positive than that of the solutions currently used. Recent advances in the development of cork composites with shear thickening fluids (STFs) have demonstrated promising results for impact mitigation, mainly focusing on layered structures. This study investigates disruptive configurations of cork-based multilayered structures strategically enhanced with shear-thickening fluid interfaces. In addition, laser texturing of the cork surface to enhance the STF interaction was also investigated. The samples were then subjected to low-energy impact tests with a hemispherical impactor. Additionally, samples were subjected to scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) to investigate the interactions with STF and modifications caused by the interaction with the laser beam. Some of the explored configurations substantially reduced the impact force, achieving a maximum reduction of 19.7%, mainly benefiting from the STF incorporation between cork layers and enhanced with laser texturing.
Examining functional group-dependent effects on the ionization of lignin monomers using supercritical fluid chromatography/electrospray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Prothmann Jens , Molins-Delgado Daniel , Braune Alexander , Sandahl Margareta , Turner Charlotta , Spégel Peter
Published: June 2024

The chemical and biological conversion of biomass-derived lignin is a promising pathway for producing valuable low molecular weight aromatic chemicals, such as vanillin or guaiacol, known as lignin monomers (LMs). Various methods employing chromatography and electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (ESI–MS) have been developed for LM analysis, but the impact of LM chemical properties on analytical performance remains unclear. This study systematically optimized ESI efficiency for 24 selected LMs, categorized by functionality. Fractional factorial designs were employed for each LM to assess ESI parameter effects on ionization efficiency using ultra-high-performance supercritical fluid chromatography/ESI–MS (UHPSFC/ESI–MS). Molecular descriptors were also investigated to explain variations in ESI parameter responses and chromatographic retention among the LMs. Structural differences among LMs led to complex optimal ESI settings. Notably, LMs with two methoxy groups benefited from higher gas and sheath gas temperatures, likely due to their lower log P and higher desolvation energy requirements. Similarly, vinyl acids and ketones showed advantages at elevated gas temperatures. The retention in UHPSFC using a diol stationary phase was correlated with the number of hydrogen bond donors. In summary, this study elucidates structural features influencing chromatographic retention and ESI efficiency in LMs. The findings can aid in developing analytical methods for specific technical lignins. However, the absence of an adequate number of LM standards limits the prediction of LM structures solely based on ESI performance data.

Graphical Abstract
Prediction of lymph node metastasis in T1 colorectal cancer based on combination of body composition and vascular invasion
Authors: Zhou Shizhen , Yuan Qinggang , Liu Lixiang , Wang Kai , Miao Ji , Wang Hao , Ding Chao , Guan Wenxian
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Lymph node metastasis (LNM) in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients is not only associated with the tumor’s local pathological characteristics but also with systemic factors. This study aims to assess the feasibility of using body composition and pathological features to predict LNM in early stage colorectal cancer (eCRC) patients.

Methods

A total of 192 patients with T1 CRC who underwent CT scans and surgical resection were retrospectively included in the study. The cross-sectional areas of skeletal muscle, subcutaneous fat, and visceral fat at the L3 vertebral body level in CT scans were measured using Image J software. Logistic regression analysis were conducted to identify the risk factors for LNM. The predictive accuracy and discriminative ability of the indicators were evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Delong test was applied to compare area under different ROC curves.

Results

LNM was observed in 32 out of 192 (16.7%) patients with eCRC. Multivariate analysis revealed that the ratio of skeletal muscle area to visceral fat area (SMA/VFA) (OR = 0.021, p = 0.007) and pathological indicators of vascular invasion (OR = 4.074, p = 0.020) were independent risk factors for LNM in eCRC patients. The AUROC for SMA/VFA was determined to be 0.740 (p < 0.001), while for vascular invasion, it was 0.641 (p = 0.012). Integrating both factors into a proposed predictive model resulted in an AUROC of 0.789 (p < 0.001), indicating a substantial improvement in predictive performance compared to relying on a single pathological indicator.

Conclusion

The combination of the SMA/VFA ratio and vascular invasion provides better prediction of LNM in eCRC.
Hydraulic Fracture Propagation in Layered Heterogeneous Rocks with Spatially Non-Gaussian Random Hydromechanical Features
Authors: Sarmadi Nima , Harrison Matthew , Mousavi Nezhad Mohaddeseh , Fisher Quentin J.
Published: June 2024

This study proposes a stochastic method to analyse the propagation of hydraulic fractures affected by layered heterogeneity in rocks in a toughness-dominated regime. The study utilises the phase-field method in the context of two-dimensional finite element analysis to model the hydraulic fracture (HF) propagation in rock materials in laboratory scale. Field data on hydrogeologic properties of some rocks reveal that material heterogeneity may appear in the form of leptokurtic marginal distributions. Generalised sub-Gaussian (GSG) model is capable of capturing physical characteristics of such rocks, and it is employed to stochastically model rocks with layered lithologic heterogeneity by generating a large number of auto- and cross-correlated random fields for hydro-geomechanical properties. To investigate the sensitivity of the cracking response to the inherent characteristics of material heterogeneity, various GSG distribution forms are considered in Monte Carlo (MC) analyses. The HF’s deviation from the theoretically predicted direction, which is perpendicular to the direction of the minimum in situ stress, is correlated with the distribution of hydro-geomechanical properties, showing a Gaussian-type distribution. This study concludes that the differential stress and the bedding orientation are the main factors affecting the HF deviation and the required breakdown pressure for initiating the HF propagation from a borehole. In the application of directional hydraulic fracturing (DHF), the effect of bedding layers becomes dominant when the bedding orientation is aligned with the direction of perforations in the boreholes.
OIL: an industrial case study in language engineering with Spoofax
Authors: Bunte Olav , Denkers Jasper , van Gool Louis C. M. , Vinju Jurgen J. , Visser Eelco , Willemse Tim A. C. , Zaidman Andy
Published: June 2024

Domain-specific languages (DSLs) promise to improve the software engineering process, e.g., by reducing software development and maintenance effort and by improving communication, and are therefore seeing increased use in industry. To support the creation and deployment of DSLs, language workbenches have been developed. However, little is published about the actual added value of a language workbench in an industrial setting, compared to not using a language workbench. In this paper, we evaluate the productivity of using the Spoofax language workbench by comparing two implementations of an industrial DSL, one in Spoofax and one in Python, that already existed before the evaluation. The subject is the Open Interaction Language (OIL): a complex DSL for implementing control software with requirements imposed by its industrial context at Canon Production Printing. Our findings indicate that it is more productive to implement OIL using Spoofax compared to using Python, especially if editor services are desired. Although Spoofax was sufficient to implement OIL, we find that Spoofax should especially improve on practical aspects to increase its adoptability in industry.
Nonlinear crossing strategy-based particle swarm optimizations with time-varying acceleration coefficients
Authors: Watanabe Keigo , Xu Xiongshi
Published: June 2024

In contemporary particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithms, to efficiently explore global optimum solutions, it is common practice to set the inertia weight to monotonically decrease over time for stability, while allowing the two acceleration coefficients, representing cognitive and social factors, to adopt decreasing or increasing functions over time, including random variations. However, there has been little discussion on a unified design approach for these time-varying acceleration coefficients. This paper presents a unified methodology for designing monotonic decreasing or increasing functions to construct nonlinear time-varying inertia weight and two acceleration coefficients in PSO, along with a control strategy for exploring global optimum solutions. We first construct time-varying coefficients by linearly amplifying well-posed monotonic functions that decrease or increase over normalized time. Here, well-posed functions ensure satisfaction of specified conditions at the initial and terminal points of the search process. However, many of the functions employed thus far only satisfy well-posedness at either the initial or terminal points of the search time, prompting the proposal of a method to adjust them to virtually meet specified initial or terminal points. Furthermore, we propose a crossing strategy where the developed cognitive and social acceleration coefficients intersect within the search time interval, effectively guiding the search process by pre-determining crossing values and times. The performance of our Nonlinear Crossing Strategy-based Particle Swarm Optimization (NCS-PSO) is evaluated using the CEC2014 (Congress on Evolutionary Computation in 2014) benchmark functions. Through comprehensive numerical comparisons and statistical analyses, we demonstrate the superiority of our approach over seven conventional algorithms. Additionally, we validate our approach, particularly in a drone navigation scenario, through an example of optimal 3D path planning. These contributions advance the field of PSO optimization techniques, providing a robust approach to addressing complex optimization problems.
Rethinking Experts’ Perceptions in Money Laundering Risk Assessment
Authors: Ogbeide Henry , Thomson Mary Elizabeth , Gonul Mustafa Sinan , Onkal Dilek , Bhowmick Sanjay , Bello Abdullahi Usman
Published: June 2024

This paper examines the factors that influence experts’ risk assessments of money laundering in the context of anti-money laundering (AML) measures. Employing a mixed-methods approach, a survey was first administered to 1497 AML risk assessment experts, followed by semi-structured interviews with nine selected AML experts. The study’s findings suggest that AML experts often heavily rely on their organization’s established risk response frameworks, sometimes at the expense of not exercising independent judgment. Personal biases, including preconceived notions about risk and fear of facing repercussions for independent judgment, significantly influence risk assessments. Based on these results and guidance from the literature, we propose a new decision framework aimed at shedding light on the mediating strategies employed by AML experts during risk assessment. The proposed framework offers valuable insights into the role of expert judgment in assessing money laundering risk for AML-regulated entities, with a particular focus on financial institutions aiming to enhance their risk assessment frameworks.
Towards a Critical Race Criminology: Decolonising Criminological Practice
Authors: Glynn Martin , Breen Damian
Published: June 2024

This article presents a rationale and strategy for bringing urgent attention to ‘minority’, ‘excluded’, and ‘marginalised’ perspectives within contemporary mainstream criminology. Russell (2022) has previously called for the development of ‘Black criminology’, whilst Phillips and Bowling (2003) further argued that there is a need to develop ‘minority perspectives’ within mainstream criminology. In allyship with these traditions, this article applies a Critical Race Theory lens to provide a rationale for a new criminological perspective presented here as Critical Race Criminology (CRC). CRC is applied here to demonstrate the necessity for centring on ‘race and the racialization of crime’ within the discipline of criminology specifically, and within a global context more widely. It further calls for the development and articulation of a ‘counter narrative’ around race and crime within the discipline of criminology itself. Achieving this requires transcending the binary of the Global North–South divide, moving towards a unifying ‘Critical Race Criminology’ (CRC).
The Law as a Necropolitical Tool: A Genealogy of Police Violence in Brazil
Authors: Spesny Sara León
Published: June 2024

This article explores the necropolitical foundations of police violence in Brazil via a genealogical approach of analysis of criminal codes, creation decrees, and other legal documents and insights from ethnographic research. In this paper I argue that antiblackness determines the role of the police in contemporary Brazil and has inscribed its place in law. Historically, the police had the legal duty to repress and punish enslaved people; but their role in imparting immediate justice persisted with expanded powers during the dictatorship and democracy’s social demands over the war on drugs. Through all these political and ideological transitions, the police have been resilient to change precisely because of their unique necropolitical power.
Can a naturally depauperate Ephemeroptera, Plectoptera and Trichoptera (EPT) fauna track river degradation in south-western Australia?
Authors: Greenop Kathryn R. , Stewart Barbara A. , Close Paul G.
Published: June 2024

Freshwater aquatic ecosystems are threatened globally. Biological monitoring is required to deliver rapid and replicable assessment of changes in habitat quality. The Ephemeroptera, Plectoptera, Trichoptera (EPT) index is a globally recognised rapid bioassessment that measures taxa richness of three insect orders whose larvae are considered sensitive to freshwater habitat degradation. South-western Australia contains threatened freshwater ecosystems but has depauperate EPT fauna and high endemism, potentially reducing the capacity of the EPT index to track degradation. This study investigated if EPT species richness, composition or individual species tracked physical or chemical river degradation in three catchments in south-western Australia. We sampled EPT fauna and measured water chemistry, erosion, sedimentation, riparian vegetation cover and instream habitat at 98 sites in the winters of 2007 and 2023. We found 35 EPT taxa across the study area with a median number of species per site of two. EPT species richness had weak positive associations with a composite water quality index and dissolved oxygen and weak negative associations with electrical conductivity and total nitrogen. No association was found between physical and fringing zone degradation measures and EPT species richness. EPT community structure generally did not distinguish between sites with high or low degradation levels. The presence of the mayfly Nyungara bunni tracked salinity, dissolved oxygen and nitrogen levels, but its usefulness as a bioindicator could be limited by its restricted range. This study suggests that the EPT index would need modification or combination with other indices to be a useful rapid bioassessment in south-western Australia.