bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Sedentary Lifestyle Changes the Composition and Predicted Functions of the Gut Bacterial and Fungal Microbiota of Subjects from the Same Company
Authors: Xu Longwei , Li Wenkun , Ling Lu , Zhang Ziran , Cui Zilu , Ge Jiang , Wang Yun , Meng Qianlong , Wang Yadan , Liu Kuiliang , Zhou Jun , Zeng Fanxin , Wang Jing , Wu Jing
Published: October 2023

A sedentary lifestyle affects the diversity and composition of the gut microbiota, but previous studies have mainly focused on bacteria instead of fungi. Here, we compared both the fecal bacterial and fungal microbiota compositions and functions in sedentary persons and controls. Subjects from the China Railway Corporation, including 99 inspectors and 88 officials, were enrolled in our study. Fecal microbiota communities were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing for bacteria and ITS sequencing for fungi. We found that the diversity of the gut microbiota of the sedentary group was significantly lower than that of the control group (P < 0.05). The sedentary group had a higher abundance of Firmicutes, a lower abundance of Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria and a higher abundance of Ascomycota, and a lower abundance of Basidiomycota. Furthermore, functional prediction analysis of the fungal microbiota revealed more L-tryptophan degradation to 2-amino-3-carboxymuconate semialdehyde, more phospholipid remodeling (phosphatidylethanolamine, yeast), and more L-tyrosine degradation I, as well as less pentose phosphate pathway (non-oxidative branch), less adenosine nucleotide biosynthesis and less L-valine biosynthesis in the sedentary group (P < 0.05). Thus, a sedentary lifestyle changes the composition and function of the gut microbiota. It may change the pentose phosphate pathway (non-oxidative branch), nucleic acid and amino acid biosynthesis and phospholipid metabolism in fungi.
Pulsed Thulium:YAG laser – What is the lithotripsy ablation efficiency for stone dust from human urinary stones? Results from an in vitro PEARLS study
Authors: Kwok Jia-Lun , Ventimiglia Eugenio , De Coninck Vincent , Panthier Frédéric , Barghouthy Yazeed , Danilovic Alexandre , Shrestha Anil , Smyth Niamh , Schmid Florian Alexander , Hunziker Manuela , Poyet Cédric , Daudon Michel , Traxer Olivier , Eberli Daniel , Keller Etienne Xavier
Published: October 2023

Background

The novel pulsed thulium:yttrium–aluminum–garnet (p-Tm:YAG) laser was recently introduced. Current studies present promising p-Tm:YAG ablation efficiency, although all are based on non-human stone models or with unknown stone composition. The present study aimed to evaluate p-Tm:YAG ablation efficiency for stone dust from human urinary stones of known compositions.

Methods

Calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM) and uric acid (UA) stones were subjected to lithotripsy in vitro using a p-Tm:YAG laser generator (Thulio®, Dornier MedTech GmbH, Germany). 200 J was applied at 0.1 J × 100 Hz, 0.4 J × 25 Hz or 2.0 J × 5 Hz (average 10W). Ablated stone dust mass was calculated from weight difference between pre-lithotripsy stone and post-lithotripsy fragments > 250 µm. Estimated ablated volume was calculated using prior known stone densities (COM: 2.04 mg/mm3, UA: 1.55 mg/mm3).

Results

Mean ablation mass efficiency was 0.04, 0.06, 0.07 mg/J (COM) and 0.04, 0.05, 0.06 mg/J (UA) for each laser setting, respectively. This translated to 0.021, 0.029, 0.034 mm3/J (COM) and 0.026, 0.030, 0.039 mm3/J (UA). Mean energy consumption was 26, 18, 17 J/mg (COM) and 32, 23, 17 J/mg (UA). This translated to 53, 37, 34 J/mm3 (COM) and 50, 36, 26 J/mm3 (UA). There were no statistically significant differences for laser settings or stone types (all p > 0.05).

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first study showing ablation efficiency of the p-Tm:YAG laser for stone dust from human urinary stones of known compositions. The p-Tm:YAG seems to ablate COM and UA equally well, with no statistically significant differences between differing laser settings.
Financial Causality Extraction Based on Universal Dependencies and Clue Expressions
Authors: Sakaji Hiroki , Izumi Kiyoshi
Published: October 2023

This paper proposes a method to extract financial causal knowledge from bi-lingual text data. Domain-specific causal knowledge plays an important role in human intellectual activities, especially expert decision making. Especially, in the financial area, fund managers, financial analysts, etc. need causal knowledge for their works. Natural language processing is highly effective for extracting human-perceived causality; however, there are two major problems with existing methods. First, causality relative to global activities must be extracted from text data in multiple languages; however, multilingual causality extraction has not been established to date. Second, technologies to extract complex causal structures, e.g., nested causalities, are insufficient. We consider that a model using universal dependencies can extract bi-lingual and nested causalities can be established using clues, e.g., “because” and “since.” Thus, to solve these problems, the proposed model extracts nested causalities based on such clues and universal dependencies in multilingual text data. The proposed financial causality extraction method was evaluated on bi-lingual text data from the financial domain, and the results demonstrated that the proposed model outperformed existing models in the experiment.
Long-term clinical and radiological outcome of a cementless titanium-coated total knee arthroplasty system
Authors: Hörlesberger Nina , Smolle Maria Anna , Leitner Lukas , Hauer Georg , Leithner Andreas , Sadoghi Patrick
Published: October 2023

Introduction

To ensure a high-quality standard, it is important to frequently evaluate different prostheses models to avoid prostheses with high failure rates. Thus, the aim of the study was to evaluate the long-term outcome of the uncemented titanium-coated total knee arthroplasty (TKA) system (Advanced Coated System (ACS) III, Implantcast, GERMANY). We hypothesized that the ACS III would have a similar performance as other cemented TKA systems.

Materials and methods

A total of 540 ACS III mobile-bearing knee joint prostheses were implanted in 495 patients. The visual analogue scale (VAS) score, Tegner activity score (TAS), knee society score (KSS), Western Ontario and McMaster (WOMAC) score, and the Short Form 12 (SF-12) score for the evaluation of quality of life (QoL) were taken after at least 9 years of follow-up. In addition, we measured range of motion (ROM) and assessed potential sex differences. In addition, the survival analysis was calculated at a median follow-up of 16.7 years.

Results

At the final follow-up, 142 patients had died, and 38 had been lost to follow-up. The rate of revision-free implant survival at 16.7 years was 90.0% (95% CI 87.1–92.2%) and the rate of infection-free survival was 97.0% (IQR 95.2–98.2%). The reasons for revision surgery were aseptic loosening (32.9%), followed by infection (27.1%), inlay exchange (15.9%), and periprosthetic fractures (5.7%). At the clinical follow-up visit, the mean VAS score was 1.9 ± 1.9, the median TAS was 3 (IQR 2–4), and the mean KSS for pain and function were 83.5 ± 15.3 and 67.5 ± 25.2, respectively. The mean WOMAC score was 81.1 ± 14.9, and the median SF-12 scores for physical and mental health were 36.9 (IQR 29.8–45.1) and 55.8 (IQR 46.2–61.0), respectively. The mean knee flexion was 102.0° ± 15.4°. Male patients had better clinical outcome scores than female patients [SF-12 mental health score, p = 0.037; SF-12 physical health score, p = 0.032; KSS pain score (p < 0.001), and KSS functional score (p < 0.001)].

Conclusion

The ACS III TKA system is a suitable option for the treatment of end-stage osteoarthritis of the knee joint because of its adequate long-term survival. Our findings are in line with published data on similar TKA systems that have shown favourable clinical scores in males.

Level of evidence

Level III—Retrospective cohort study.
High intake of ultra-processed food is associated with dementia in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies
Authors: Henney Alex E. , Gillespie Conor S. , Alam Uazman , Hydes Theresa J. , Mackay Clare E. , Cuthbertson Daniel J.
Published: October 2023

Background and aims

Poor cardiometabolic health is associated with dementia. Considering previous meta-analyses have confirmed associations between ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and cardiometabolic disease, we were interested in the contribution of UPF consumption to the risk of developing dementia.

Methods

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of all records registered on Ovid Medline and Web of Science from inception until December 2022 [PROSPERO (CRD42023388363)]. Studies that assessed UPF consumption in adults, determined according to NOVA, and that reported dementia (Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia and mild cognitive impairment) determined by clearly stated diagnostic criteria (including formal assessment of dementia or use of diagnostic codes) were included. The association between UPF consumption and dementia was assessed using random-effects meta-analysis, controlling for confounding variables. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale and evidence credibility evaluated using the NutriGrade system.

Results

Seven thousand ten records were screened, and 122 records underwent full text review. From these, 10 observational (8 longitudinal) studies, analysing 867,316 individuals, were included. Included studies adjusted for age, socioeconomic status and co-morbidity, alongside other confounders. High (vs. low) intake of UPF was associated with increased risk of dementia (pooled relative risk 1.44 (95% confidence interval 1.09–1.90) (p = 0.02)) (I2 = 97.0%), although moderate (vs. low) intake of UPF was not (1.12 (0.96–1.31) (0.13)) (85.0%). Funnel plots demonstrate low risk of publication bias.

Conclusion

High UPF consumption is associated with dementia. Public health measures to reduce overconsumption of UPFs are imperative to reduce the burden of dementia.

Graphical abstract
A new robust modified capuchin search algorithm for the optimum amalgamation of DSTATCOM in power distribution networks
Authors: Tolba Mohamed A. , Houssein Essam H. , Ali Mohammed Hamouda , Hashim Fatma A.
Published: October 2023

Very sensitive loads require the safe operation of electrical distribution networks, including hospitals, nuclear and radiation installations, industries used by divers, etc. To address this issue, the provided paper suggests an innovative method for evaluating the appropriate allocation of Distribution STATic COMpensator (DSTATCOM) to alleviate total power losses, relieve voltage deviation, and lessen capital annual price in power distribution grids (PDGs). An innovative approach, known as the modified capuchin search algorithm (mCapSA), has been introduced for the first time, which is capable of addressing several issues regarding optimal DSTATCOM allocation. Furthermore, the analytic hierarchy process method approach is suggested to generate the most suitable weighting factors for the objective function. In order to verify the feasibility of the proposed mCapSA methodology and the performance of DSTATCOM, it has been tested on two standard buses, the 33-bus PDG and the 118-bus PDG, with a load modeling case study based on real measurements and analysis of the middle Egyptian power distribution grid. The proposed mCapSA technique's accuracy is evaluated by comparing it to other 7 recent optimization algorithms including the original CapSA. Furthermore, the Wilcoxon sign rank test is used to assess the significance of the results. Based on the simulation results, it has been demonstrated that optimal DSTATCOM allocation contributes greatly to the reduction of power loss, augmentation of the voltage profile, and reduction of total annual costs. As a result of optimized DSTATCOM allocation in PDGs, distribution-level uncertainties can also be reduced.
Posttreatment liver function, but not baseline liver function stratifies patient survival after direct-acting antiviral treatment in decompensated cirrhosis with hepatitis C virus
Authors: Tahata Yuki , Hikita Hayato , Mochida Satoshi , Enomoto Nobuyuki , Ido Akio , Kuroda Hidekatsu , Miki Daiki , Kurosaki Masayuki , Hiasa Yoichi , Sakamori Ryotaro , Kawada Norifumi , Yamashita Taro , Suda Goki , Yatsuhashi Hiroshi , Yoshiji Hitoshi , Kato Naoya , Takami Taro , Nakao Kazuhiko , Matsuura Kentaro , Asahina Yasuhiro , Itoh Yoshito , Tateishi Ryosuke , Nakamoto Yasunari , Kakazu Eiji , Terai Shuji , Shimizu Masahito , Ueno Yoshiyuki , Akuta Norio , Miyazaki Masanori , Nozaki Yasutoshi , Kabayama Masayuki , Sobue Satoshi , Moriuchi Akihiro , Miyaki Tomokatsu , Kodama Takahiro , Tatsumi Tomohide , Yamada Tomomi , Takehara Tetsuo
Published: October 2023

Background

The prognosis of cirrhosis is clearly stratified by liver function. Although direct-acting antiviral (DAA) has recently been used to eliminate hepatitis C virus (HCV), it is not clear whether liver function stratifies the prognosis of decompensated cirrhotic patients treated with DAA.

Methods

A total of 206 HCV-associated decompensated cirrhotic patients who started DAA from February 2019 to December 2021 at 31 Japanese hospitals were prospectively registered.

Results

The median age was 68, and the proportions of patients with Child–Pugh class A (CP-A), CP-B and CP-C were 10% (20/206), 76% (156/206) and 15% (30/206), respectively. Twenty-six patients died, and two patients underwent liver transplantation (LT); the 2- and 3-year LT-free survival rates were 90.0% and 83.2%, respectively. We examined factors associated with LT-free survival using 2 models including either CP class (Model 1) or MELD score (Model 2). In multivariate Cox proportional hazard analysis, CP class at 12 weeks after the end of treatment (EOT) in Model 1 and MELD score at 12 weeks after the EOT in Model 2 were significant factors, while baseline CP class or MELD score was not. Two-year LT-free survival rates were 100%, 91.6% and 60.4% for patients with CP-A, CP-B and CP-C at 12 weeks after the EOT and 95.2% and 69.6% for patients with MELD < 15 and MELD ≥ 15 at 12 weeks after the EOT, respectively.

Conclusions

The prognosis of decompensated cirrhotic patients receiving DAA was stratified by liver function at 12 weeks after the EOT, not by baseline liver function.
Ex-post assessment of climate and hydrological projections: reliability of CMPI6 outputs in Northern Italy
Authors: Fuso Flavia , Bombelli Giovanni Martino , Bocchiola Daniele
Published: October 2023

This paper presents a validation of outputs from some GCMs of the CMIP6 project when used to assess climate projection and hydrological flows at a catchment scale for the case study area of the Lombardy region (Northern Italy). The modeling chain consists of (i) a choice of climatic scenarios from 10 GCMs of the CMIP6, (ii) the application of a stochastic downscaling procedure to make projections usable at the local scale, and (iii) the use of a semi-distributed physically based hydrological model Poli-Hydro for the generation of hydrological scenarios. Data on observed precipitation and temperature were collected from automatic weather stations, and the hydrological budget of four target catchments within the study area was assessed using Poli-Hydro. An ex-post (back-casting) analysis was performed upon the control data series from the GCMs by comparing statistics of relevant climate variables and model-simulated discharges against observed counterparts during the historical period 2002–2014. Then, during 2015–2021, the goodness of projections was assessed using confidence intervals. Our results show that the accuracy of GCMs in representing regional climate is not always reflected in a credible evaluation of local hydrology. The validation of climate patterns provides somewhat poor results; thus, the interaction among climate and hydrology needs to be explored carefully to warrant the credibility of hydrological scenarios. Overall, the spatial and temporal consistency of GCM projections, as explored here climatically and hydrologically, provides a clue about their dependability for basin scale management.
Pay-for-Performance incentives for specialised services in England: a mixed methods evaluation
Authors: Feng Yan , Kristensen Søren Rud , Lorgelly Paula , Meacock Rachel , Núñez-Elvira Alberto , Rodés-Sánchez Marina , Siciliani Luigi , Sutton Matt
Published: October 2023

Background

A Pay-for-Performance (P4P) programme, known as Prescribed Specialised Services Commissioning for Quality and Innovation (PSS CQUIN), was introduced for specialised services in the English NHS in 2013/2014. These services treat patients with rare and complex conditions. We evaluate the implementation of PSS CQUIN contracts between 2016/2017 and 2018/2019.

Methods

We used a mixed methods evaluative approach. In the quantitative analysis, we used a difference-in-differences design to evaluate the effectiveness of ten PSS CQUIN schemes across a range of targeted outcomes. Potential selection bias was addressed using propensity score matching. We also estimated impacts on costs by scheme and financial year. In the qualitative analysis, we conducted semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions to gain insights into the complexities of contract design and programme implementation. Qualitative data analysis was based on the constant comparative method, inductively generating themes.

Results

The ten PSS CQUIN schemes had limited impact on the targeted outcomes. A statistically significant improvement was found for only one scheme: in the clinical area of trauma, the incentive scheme increased the probability of being discharged from Adult Critical Care within four hours of being clinically ready by 7%. The limited impact may be due to the size of the incentive payments, the complexity of the schemes’ design, and issues around ownership, contracting and flexibility.

Conclusion

The PSS CQUIN schemes had little or no impact on quality improvements in specialised services. Future P4P programmes in healthcare could benefit from lessons learnt from this study on incentive design and programme implementation.
Biomass valorization via pyrolysis in microalgae-based wastewater treatment: Challenges and opportunities for a circular bioeconomy
Authors: de Morais Etiele Greque , da Silveira Jéssica Teixeira , Schüler Lisa M. , de Freitas Barbara Catarina Bastos , Costa Jorge Alberto Vieira , de Morais Michele Greque , Ferrer Ivet , Barreira Luísa
Published: October 2023

Microalgae-based wastewater treatment technology is a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional treatment systems. The biomass produced during microalgae-based wastewater treatment can be valorized via pyrolysis to generate multiple valuable products, such as biochar, bio-oil, and pyrolytic gas. This study summarizes the potential of pyrolysis for valorizing microalgal biomass produced from wastewater treatment. It shows how pyrolysis can provide a variety of valuable products, the composition of which is influenced by the type of microalgae used, the operating conditions of the pyrolysis process, and the presence of contaminants in the biomass. It also highlights the main challenges to be addressed before pyrolysis can be adopted to valorize microalgae biomass. These challenges include the high energy requirements of pyrolysis, the need for further research to optimize the process, and the potential for pyrolysis to produce harmful emissions. Despite this, pyrolysis appears as a promising technology with potential to contribute to the sustainable development of a circular economy. Future research should address these challenges and develop more efficient and environmentally friendly pyrolysis processes.

Graphical abstract
Derivatives of linseed oil and camelina oil as monomers for emulsion polymerization
Authors: Kolář Martin , Honzíček Jan , Podzimek Štěpán , Knotek Petr , Hájek Martin , Zárybnická Lucie , Machotová Jana
Published: October 2023

Acrylated methyl esters of higher fatty acids derived from camelina oil and linseed oil were synthesized through transesterification, epoxidation, and subsequent acrylation. Methyl methacrylate and butyl acrylate were copolymerized with various amounts of bio-based derivatives (5 – 30 wt% in monomer mixture) to obtain polymeric latexes for coating applications. Successful emulsion polymerizations with up to 25 wt% of the bio-based derivatives were performed with low coagulum (below 2%) and high monomer conversion (around 95%). The incorporation of bio-based derivatives into polymeric latexes was confirmed with infrared spectroscopy. Asymmetric flow field flow fractionation coupled with a multi-angle light scattering was used to analyze the synthesized copolymers in terms of their molar mass distribution. The results revealed that copolymerizing the bio-based derivatives resulted in ultra-high molar mass nanogel fractions formed because of multi-acrylated ingredients derived from polyunsaturated fatty acids. The phenomenon of nanogel formation became more pronounced for the linseed oil-based derivative. Evaluated coating properties showed that latexes comprising the bio-based derivatives provided increased water repellence (about 10° higher water contact angles were achieved for all bio-based coating compositions in contrast to a reference latex). Moreover, latexes comprising chemically modified oils in the content of 25 and 30 wt% provided water whitening-resistant coatings, making the bio-based derivatives promising candidates for replacing petroleum-based monomers in the production of sustainable latex coatings.

Graphical abstract
Aquaculture from inland fish cultivation to wastewater treatment: a review
Authors: Kashem Abdurahman Hafez Mohammed , Das Probir , Hawari Alaa H. , Mehariya Sanjeet , Thaher Mahmoud Ibrahim , Khan Shoyeb , Abduquadir Mohamamed , Al-Jabri Hareb
Published: October 2023

The aquaculture industry is rapidly developing, generating a high amount of wastewater. Inland aquaculture effluents contain nutrients and other substances that can cause eutrophication and the emergence of resistive organisms if released into the environment. Hence, aquaculture wastewater should be treated appropriately for reuse in different applications or safely released into the environment, promoting a sustainable industry and a circular economy. The current review provides insight into aquaculture wastewater generation, constituents, and treatment through various technologies. This study’s treatment technologies could be classified as physical, chemical, and biological. SWOT analysis was conducted on each technology to provide an in-depth understanding of the advantages and drawbacks. Suggestions were also stated to shed light on the importance of a sustainable aquaculture industry and the means to transition toward a circular economy.

Graphical abstract
Processing of grammatical gender agreement morphemes in Polish: evidence from the Visual World Paradigm
Authors: Fuchs Zuzanna
Published: October 2023

This paper presents a psycholinguistic study of the processing of grammatical gender agreement morphemes in Polish, which has three gender categories (masculine, feminine, neuter), as well as what language-internal factors impact this processing. Results from an eye-tracking study using the Visual World Paradigm show that, during real-time language comprehension, adult monolingual speakers of Polish use cues from gender agreement on a prenominal adjective to anticipate the upcoming noun. An exploration of language-internal factors affecting this anticipatory processing finds this effect in all three genders, suggesting that encountering the relevant nominative-case agreement morpheme during language comprehension leads to automatic activation of a gender node in the mental lexicon, consistent with the literature on other languages with grammatical gender. These results hold true for the neuter agreement morpheme, despite the fact that this morpheme also instantiates default gender agreement in the language and is syncretic with the nominative plural agreement morpheme in all three genders. Further investigation finds that, while agreement morphemes for each gender prompt anticipatory processing, the reliability of a masculine agreement morpheme as a cue to gender is reduced in the presence of a neuter distractor, and vice versa. This raises questions regarding phonological proximity between the realized suffix and the suffix that would cue the distractor, with implications for the acquisition and processing of gender agreement morphology in Polish.
Heat-Affected Zone Characterization of X2CrNiN22-2 Lean Duplex Stainless Steel by Metallographic and Electrochemical Techniques
Authors: Varbai Balázs
Published: October 2023

This research aimed to investigate the heat-affected zone of lean duplex stainless steel grade X2CrNiN22-2. Different heat-affected zone microstructures and grain morphologies were developed by Gleeble simulations. The governing microstructures were evaluated by metallographic techniques and electrochemical corrosion measurements. It was found that the 1200-800 °C cooling time significantly affects the microstructure, austenite content, and corrosion properties. The average austenite content in the case of 1 s cooling time is 30.7 ± 1%, which increased with the longer cooling times up to 38.6 ± 0.9%. The rapid cooling times resulted in a more ferritic microstructure, which promoted nitride precipitation in the ferrite grains. The nitride precipitations acted as nucleation sites for pitting initiation in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution. The lowest pitting potential was measured in the case of the most rapidly cooled sample: 573 ± 31 mV, while the balanced, annealed microstructure had much better pitting corrosion resistance, showing a pitting potential of 1308 ± 62 mV vs. the Ag/AgCl (KCl sat.) reference electrode. The results of this research can be used in designing welding parameters for the welding of the X2CrNiN22-2 lean duplex stainless steel.

Graphical Abstract
“For a Pole, It all was a Great Abomination”: Grassroots Homonationalism and State Homophobia à la Polonaise—A History Lesson from a Place Between East and West
Authors: Karczewski Kamil
Published: October 2023

The article historicizes social and state practices that Jasbir Puar dubbed “homonationalism.” It argues against simplistic applications of the term to the relations between “western” and “eastern” European countries. Instead, it appeals for a more profound contextualisation of every national case. Using 20th-century Poland as a case study, it demonstrates that both homophobia and homonationalism had antecedents and that both can be used as political strategies by nationalist actors that have not previously deployed them. It also seeks to decentre the narrative about homonationalism by averting attention from the state and focusing it on lived queer experiences in Poland. The term grassroots homonationalism is an attempt to bring such analytical attention to the agency of queer subjects and their communities. It aims to conceptualise their attitudes toward nationalist discourses and state practices (both homophobic and homonationalist) and expose ways in which non-normative sexualities and their history have been politically instrumentalised. It helps to analyse attitudes that some queers in Poland have adopted when facing the issue that Puar described as a “collusion of nationalism and queer subjects”.
Who saves the saviours during a pandemic? career calling protects healthcare workers from burnout and resigning
Authors: Dalla Rosa Anna , Vianello Michelangelo , Mauno Saija
Published: October 2023

This study investigates whether career calling protects individuals from the challenges posed by fear of COVID-19 and job demands on burnout and turnover intentions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Cross-sectional data were collected from February to March 2021, involving a sample of 275 healthcare workers in Italy responsible for treating COVID-19 patients. Path analysis was employed to test direct, indirect, and conditional associations. The findings revealed a significant sequential mediation: Job demands partially mediated the relation between fear of COVID-19 and burnout, while burnout completely mediated the relation between fear of COVID-19 and turnover intentions. Furthermore, career calling moderated the relation between fear of COVID-19 and job demands, as well as between burnout and turnover intentions. When an individual’s sense of calling was high, the relation between fear of COVID-19 and perceived job demands, as well as between burnout and turnover intentions, was null. This study supports the notion that career calling acts as a personal resource, providing protection for individuals in the face of highly stressful work environments.
Understanding the role of training sample size in the uncertainty of high-resolution LULC mapping using random forest
Authors: Phinzi Kwanele , Ngetar Njoya Silas , Pham Quoc Bao , Chakilu Gashaw Gismu , Szabó Szilárd
Published: October 2023

High-resolution sensors onboard satellites are generally reputed for rapidly producing land-use/land-cover (LULC) maps with improved spatial detail. However, such maps are subject to uncertainties due to several factors, including the training sample size. We investigated the effects of different training sample sizes (from 1000 to 12,000 pixels) on LULC classification accuracy using the random forest (RF) classifier. Then, we analyzed classification uncertainties by determining the median and the interquartile range (IQR) of the overall accuracy (OA) values through repeated k-fold cross-validation. Results showed that increasing training pixels significantly improved OA while minimizing model uncertainty. Specifically, larger training samples, ranging from 9000 to 12,000 pixels, exhibited narrower IQRs than smaller samples (1000–2000 pixels). Furthermore, there was a significant variation (Chi2 = 85.073; df = 11; p < 0.001) and a significant trend (J-T = 4641, p < 0.001) in OA values across various training sample sizes. Although larger training samples generally yielded high accuracies, this trend was not always consistent, as the lowest accuracy did not necessarily correspond to the smallest training sample. Nevertheless, models using 9000–11,000 pixels were effective (OA > 96%) and provided an accurate visual representation of LULC. Our findings emphasize the importance of selecting an appropriate training sample size to reduce uncertainties in high-resolution LULC classification.
Overexpressing Ugp1 promotes phosphate uptake and accumulation in rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: Zhang Wenqi , Meng Qi , Liu Wei , Qin Pinzhu , Li Bowen , Xu Guohua
Published: October 2023

Plant responses to phosphate (Pi) starvation stress involve an array of adaptive strategies including enhanced accumulation and shoot-to-root transport of carbohydrates required for activating the plant Pi starvation signaling. However, the contribution of carbohydrate biosynthesis genes to maintaining phosphorus (P) homeostasis remains unknown, and the functional characterization of sugar metabolism genes is often impeded or compromised due to the loss of fertility of the null mutants. Here, a highly expressed gene encoding UDP-glucose pyrophosphorylase in rice (Oryza sativa), Ugp1, was functionally characterized. Ugp1 was transcriptionally induced in leaf blades by Pi starvation. As a link between sucrose (Suc) and P, we assumed that overexpression of Upg1 would alter the Suc concentration. Given that Suc is a signaling molecule, such concentration changes would affect the P deficiency signal transduction, thereby altering the homeostasis of endogenous P. The results showed that, overexpression of Ugp1 decreased plant biomass, increased sucrose content, and promoted Pi accumulation. The elevated Pi accumulation in Ugp1-OX plants was accompanied by the up-regulation of Pi-starvation-induced genes. Taken together, these results demonstrate that Ugp1 is a positive regulator of sucrose accumulation, and is required for maintaining P homeostasis in rice. Ugp1 thus represents a novel entry point to dissect the mechanisms underlying the carbon-P crosstalk.
Multichannel segmentation of planar point clouds using evolving curves
Authors: Tomek Lukáš , Beran Branislav , Erdélyi Ján , Honti Richard , Mikula Karol
Published: October 2023

The paper deals with the multichannel curve segmentation of planar point clouds, scanned by a terrestrial laser scanner (TLS), which usually represent walls of buildings. Information derived from the point cloud can be used for quality check of a building (e.g. wall flatness or mutual perpendicularity of walls) or creation of virtual models of buildings. Therefore, segmentation of the planar point cloud into subsets representing the surface of the wall and other structures (e.g. door, electrical outlets) is desired. We describe a mathematical model of evolving planar curves, which is used for the segmentation of the point cloud. The evolution of curves is controlled by the properties of the scanned walls, such as colour and intensity. We discretize the model using the finite-volume method and the semi-implicit Inflow-Implicit/Outflow-Explicit (IIOE) scheme. We demonstrate the functionality of segmentation on real data.
Behavioural and Psychological Functioning of Children and Adults with Sagittal Synostosis
Authors: Osborn Amanda J. , Roberts Rachel M. , Dorstyn Diana S. , Grave Ben G. , David David J.
Published: October 2023

Research examining the behavioural and psychological functioning of children and adults with sagittal synostosis (SS) is scarce, often disparate, and lacks well-matched control groups. Clinicians are therefore often unable to provide families with guidance about their child’s anticipated functioning. Social media channels were used to recruit community-based parents of children with SS, or adults with SS (n = 56) and an age- and sex-matched control group (n = 56). Families completed an online survey encompassing a range of demographic and clinical variables and a comprehensive battery of validated questionnaires. Surveys were either parent-rated (children 2 to < 5 years), both parent-rated and self-reported (children 5 to ≤ 18 years), or self-reported only (adults ≥ 19 years). Results show that for both unadjusted and adjusted (SES) analyses, children and adults were functioning at a similar level to their peers. Whilst mean parent-rated scores generally indicated that children with SS were experiencing slightly more difficulties, group differences were not statistically significant. Most adjusted Hedges’ g effect sizes were trivial (g = .10) to small (g = .20). Nonetheless, more children with SS were assessed as having clinically significant problems on each composite of the Behavior Assessment System for Children 3rd Ed. In addition, screening rates of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (18%; Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function 2) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (15%; Social Responsiveness Scale-2), in children with SS, were high. Findings suggest that children with SS should be monitored and referrals for appropriate support made readily available, as required.
Advances on Axial Coordination Design of Single-Atom Catalysts for Energy Electrocatalysis: A Review
Authors: Zhang Linjie , Jin Na , Yang Yibing , Miao Xiao-Yong , Wang Hua , Luo Jun , Han Lili
Published: October 2023

Single-atom catalysts (SACs) have garnered increasingly growing attention in renewable energy scenarios, especially in electrocatalysis due to their unique high efficiency of atom utilization and flexible electronic structure adjustability. The intensive efforts towards the rational design and synthesis of SACs with versatile local configurations have significantly accelerated the development of efficient and sustainable electrocatalysts for a wide range of electrochemical applications. As an emergent coordination avenue, intentionally breaking the planar symmetry of SACs by adding ligands in the axial direction of metal single atoms offers a novel approach for the tuning of both geometric and electronic structures, thereby enhancing electrocatalytic performance at active sites. In this review, we briefly outline the burgeoning research topic of axially coordinated SACs and provide a comprehensive summary of the recent advances in their synthetic strategies and electrocatalytic applications. Besides, the challenges and outlooks in this research field have also been emphasized. The present review provides an in-depth and comprehensive understanding of the axial coordination design of SACs, which could bring new perspectives and solutions for fine regulation of the electronic structures of SACs catering to high-performing energy electrocatalysis.
Antimicrobial property, corrosion resistance and tarnish resistance of cold-sprayed additive manufactured copper-nickel alloy
Authors: Tran Thi Thuy Tien , Krishnan Kannoorpatti
Published: October 2023

The management of infectious diseases has posed a significant challenge in recent years, drawing the attention of scientific communities. Copper is renowned for its robust antimicrobial properties; however, it is susceptible to tarnishing. In contrast, copper-nickel alloy demonstrates not only commendable mechanical strength and corrosion resistance but also exceptional antimicrobial efficacy. A suitable copper-nickel alloy was synthesised using cold spray additive manufacturing, blending copper and nickel powders. The resultant as-printed coupons underwent heat treatment at varying temperatures to ensure alloy formation, porosity reduction, and property enhancement. Both corrosion properties and hardness were investigated across different selected heat treatment conditions. The specimens exhibiting the highest corrosion resistance and hardness were selected for antibacterial and tarnish resistance testing. Stainless Steel 316 was employed in the antibacterial evaluation as a negative control for comparison. Notably, a fair well distribution of copper and nickel was observed within the as-printed product. The optimal heat treatment condition for the copper-nickel alloy was determined to be 1030 °C followed by air cooling, as it exhibited superior material properties compared to alternative heat treatment conditions. An assessment of antimicrobial performance underscored the alloy’s effectiveness in rapidly eradicating bacteria. Additionally, the highest strength samples underwent a tarnish resistance study, revealing elevated tarnish resistance. The nature of material performance in response to the heat-treatment process and antibacterial performance are discussed.
Character Shifts in Harry Potter Fanfiction
Authors: Brottrager Judith , Doat Joël , Häußler Julian , Weitin Thomas
Published: October 2023

In fanfictions, authors can explore the fictitious universe of a fandom without restricting themselves to its canonical rules and orders. These explorations are often linked to diverging character conceptualizations based on readers’ response to omissions and indeterminacies in the source material. Following a three part structure, we examine these character shifts in German Harry Potter fanfictions by (1) comparing basic frequency distributions of character names, (2) analyzing character co-occurrences in order to identify central character pairings as well as collocations surrounding these characters, and (3) using a word embedding-based approach to sentiment analysis to quantify the emotional charging of characters. We identified certain character types predestined for re-conceptualization, such as minor characters or figures from pre- or sequels who generate interest among fanfiction writers, as well as villainous characters whose redesign follows typical fanfiction tropes such as »Enemies to Lovers«.
SAPT: a synchrotron-based proton therapy facility in Shanghai
Authors: Zhang Man-Zhou , Li De-Ming , Shen Li-Ren , Zhang Hai-Rong , Chen Zhi-Ling , Du Han-Wen , Gu Ming , Li Rui , Liu De-Kang , Pu Yue-Hu , Yu Jun-Feng , Chen Jian-Feng , Chen Chu , Guo Chun-Long , Guo Hao , Jiang Ge-Yang , Jiang Zhi-Qiang , Jin Lin , Li Wen-Jing , Li Xiu-Fang , Lin Ye , Liu Ming , Liu Yong-Hao , Liu Ya-Juan , Lv Ming , Mi Qing-Ru , Ouyang Lian-Hua , Shi Wei-Guo , Shu Hang , Tang Qi-Sheng , Wang Kun , Wang Zhi-Shan , Wu Jun , Wu Xiao-Bing , Xu Jia-Qiang , Xu Wen-Zhen , Yin Chong-Xian , Yu Cheng , Yuan Ren-Xian , Yuan Qi-Bing , Zhang Hai-Qun , Zhang Miao , Zhang Wen-Zhi , Zhao Li-Ying , Zhou Wei-Min , Fang Shou-Xian , Sun Xi-Dong , Zhao Zhen-Tang
Published: October 2023

Because of its excellent dose distribution, proton therapy is becoming increasingly popular in the medical application of cancer treatment. A synchrotron-based proton therapy facility was designed and constructed in Shanghai. The synchrotron, beam delivery system, and other technical systems were commissioned and reached their expected performances. After a clinical trial of 47 patients was finished, the proton therapy facility obtained a registration certificate from the National Medical Products Administration. The characteristics of the accelerator and treatment systems are described in this article.
3D Electrospinning of Al2O3/ZrO2 fibrous aerogels for multipurpose thermal insulation
Authors: Dong Shiling , Maciejewska Barbara , Millar Robert , Grobert Nicole
Published: October 2023

Ceramic aerogels are excellent ultralight-weight thermal insulators yet impractical due to their tendency towards structural degradation at elevated temperatures, under mechanical disturbances, or in humid environments. Here, we present flexible and durable alumina/zirconia fibrous aerogels (AZFA) fabricated using 3D sol–gel electrospinning — a technique enabling in situ formation of 3D fiber assemblies with significantly reduced time consumption and low processing cost compared to most existing methods. Our AZFAs exhibit ultralow density (> 3.4 mg cm−3), low thermal conductivity (> 21.6 mW m−1 K−1), excellent fire resistance, while remaining mechanically elastic and flexible at 1300 °C, and thermally stable at 1500 °C. We investigate the underlying structure-thermal conductivity relationships, demonstrating that the macroscopic fiber arrangement dictates the solid-phase thermal conduction, and the mesopores in the fiber effectively trap air thereby decreasing the gas conduction. We show experimentally and theoretically that directional heat transport, i.e., anisotropic thermal conductivity, can be achieved through compressing the fiber network. We further solve the moisture sensitivity problem of common fibrous aerogels through fluorination coating. The resulting material possesses excellent hydrophobicity and self-cleaning properties, which can provide reliable thermal insulation under various conditions, including but not limited to high-temperature conditions in vehicles and aircraft, humid conditions in buildings, and underwater environments for oil pipelines.

Graphical Abstract
Indigenous Foodways as Persistence in the Alta California Mission System
Authors: Noe Sarah J.
Published: October 2023

This article investigates Indigenous persistence within Mission Santa Clara de Asís in central California through the analysis of animal food remains. The Spanish colonial mission system within Alta California had a profound social and ecological impact on Indigenous peoples, altering traditional subsistence strategies and foodway patterns. Past research has highlighted the continued use of precolonial foods within the Alta California mission system alongside the daily consumption of colonial-style beef stews. This article expands on that literature to consider how Indigenous and colonial residents differentially acquired ingredients and prepared daily meals within the Alta California colonial mission system. This assessment demonstrates a sharp divergence between Indigenous and colonists’ daily diet, manifested in the continued use of wild food resources by Indigenous people as well as the maintenance of precolonial culinary practices in the preparation of cattle meat for daily stews. These findings complicate our understanding of foodways within the Spanish mission system and expand our understanding of Indigenous autonomy within conditions of colonialism.
Challenges in catalyzing and sustaining research in translational science
Authors: Kim Mimi , Marantz Paul , Suadicani Sylvia , Milman Sofiya , Keller Marla J.
Published: October 2023

Advancing the new field of translational science and developing innovative solutions to overcome translational roadblocks are key priorities of the Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSA) Program of the National Center for Advancing Translational Science (NCATS). However, interpreting this emerging concept of “translational science” (TS) as a field of inquiry distinct from “translational research” (TR) and developing real-world investigations in TS can be challenging. The goal of this paper is to share the obstacles the Einstein-Montefiore CTSA hub has faced in generating institutional interest and research in TS and to present potential strategies for addressing them. The aim is to stimulate dialog within the wider CTSA community and beyond about the need to systematically examine how TS should be efficiently and effectively pursued, that is, the science of translational science. The collective sharing of experiences and innovative approaches to overcoming TS challenges that arise at CTSA hubs is critical if the field is to grow and gain wider recognition and acceptance by the scientific and broader communities.
An update and ecological perspective on certain sentinel helminth endoparasites within the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Palomba Marialetizia , Marchiori Erica , Tedesco Perla , Fioravanti Marialetizia , Marcer Federica , Gustinelli Andrea , Aco-Alburqueque Renato , Belli Beatrice , Canestrelli Daniele , Santoro Mario , Cipriani Paolo , Mattiucci Simonetta
Published: October 2023

The Mediterranean Sea is recognized as a marine biodiversity hotspot. This enclosed basin is facing several anthropogenic-driven threats, such as seawater warming, pollution, overfishing, bycatch, intense maritime transport and invasion by alien species. The present review focuses on the diversity and ecology of specific marine trophically transmitted helminth endoparasites (TTHs) of the Mediterranean ecosystems, aiming to elucidate their potential effectiveness as ‘sentinels’ of anthropogenic disturbances in the marine environment. The chosen TTHs comprise cestodes and nematodes sharing complex life cycles, involving organisms from coastal and marine mid/upper-trophic levels as definitive hosts. Anthropogenic disturbances directly impacting the free-living stages of the parasites and their host population demographies can significantly alter the distribution, infection levels and intraspecific genetic variability of these TTHs. Estimating these parameters in TTHs can provide valuable information to assess the stability of marine trophic food webs. Changes in the distribution of particular TTHs species can also serve as indicators of sea temperature variations in the Mediterranean Sea, as well as the bioaccumulation of pollutants. The contribution of the chosen TTHs to monitor anthropogenic-driven changes in the Mediterranean Sea, using their measurable attributes at both spatial and temporal scales, is proposed.
Would a Viable Consent App Create Headaches for Consequentialists?
Authors: Woodcock Scott
Published: October 2023

Greater public awareness of the occurrence of sexual assault has led to the creation of mobile phone apps designed to facilitate consent between sexual partners. These apps exhibit serious practical shortcomings in realistic contexts; however, in this paper I consider the hypothetical case in which these practical shortcomings are absent. The prospect of this viable consent app creates an interesting challenge for consequentialism – one that is comparable to the objection that the theory justifies killing innocent persons to prevent large numbers of less serious harms like experiencing brief, painful headaches. I outline and reject the most straightforward way for consequentialists to address this challenge, and I argue that the empirical calculations at stake reveal something rarely appreciated: consequentialists ought to sometimes favour reinforcing deontological constraints in common-sense morality rather than seeking to undermine them.