bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrolyte Design Strategies for Aqueous Sodium‐Ion Batteries: Progress and Prospects
Authors: Xing Zhao , Zhao Wenxi , Yu Binkai , Wang Yuqiu , Zhou Limin , Xiong Pan , Chen Mingzhe , Zhu Junwu
Published: September 2024

Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) have emerged as one of today's most attractive battery technologies due to the scarcity of lithium resources. Aqueous sodium‐ion batteries (ASIBs) have been extensively researched for their security, cost‐effectiveness, and eco‐friendly properties. However, aqueous electrolytes are extremely limited in practical applications because of the narrow electrochemical stability window (ESW) with extremely poor low‐temperature performance. The first part of this review is an in‐depth discussion of the reasons for the inferior performance of aqueous electrolytes. Next, research progress in extending the electrochemical stabilization window and improving low‐temperature performance using various methods such as “water‐in‐salt”, eutectic, and additive‐modified electrolytes is highlighted. Considering the shortcomings of existing solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) theory, recent research progress on the solvation behavior of electrolytes is summarized based on the solvation theory, which elucidates the correlation between the solvation structure and the electrochemical performance, and three methods to upgrade the electrochemical performance by modulating the solvation behavior are introduced in detail. Finally, common design ideas for high‐temperature resistant aqueous electrolytes that are hoped to help future aqueous batteries with wide temperature ranges are summarized.
Modifying the Reactivity of Single Pd Sites in a Trimetallic Sn‐Pd‐Ag Surface Alloy: Tuning CO Binding Strength
Authors: Mohrhusen Lars , Zhang Shengjie , Montemore Matthew M. , Madix Robert J.
Published: September 2024

Improving control over active‐site reactivity is a grand challenge in catalysis. Single‐atom alloys (SAAs) consisting of a reactive component doped as single atoms into a more inert host metal feature localized and well‐defined active sites, but fine tuning their properties is challenging. Here, a framework is developed for tuning single‐atom site reactivity by alloying in an additional inert metal, which this work terms an alloy‐host SAA. Specifically, this work creates about 5% Pd single‐atom sites in a Pd33Ag67(111) single crystal surface, and then identifies Sn based on computational screening as a suitable third metal to introduce. Subsequent experimental studies show that introducing Sn indeed modifies the electronic structure and chemical reactivity (measured by CO desorption energies) of the Pd sites. The modifications to both the electronic structure and the CO adsorption energies are in close agreement with the calculations. These results indicate that the use of an alloy host environment to modify the reactivity of single‐atom sites can allow fine‐tuning of catalytic performance and boost resistance against strong‐binding adsorbates such as CO.
Investigation of the Dual‐Regulatory Mechanism of Zr in MnRE1‐xZrxO2+δ Oxide Catalysts for NO Oxidation
Authors: Xu Zihao , Chen Dongming , Chen Rui , Mao Ziteng , Zhao Zheng , Zhang Yongqi , Cui Meisheng , Hou Yongke , Han Chong , Yang Juanyu , Huang Xiaowei
Published: September 2024

Utilizing Diesel Oxidation Catalysts (DOC) to partially oxidize NO to NO2 is a crucial step in controlling NOx emissions from diesel engines. However, enhancing both catalytic activity and hydrothermal stability remains a significant challenge. Benefiting from abundant asymmetric oxygen vacancies and increased Mn4+ content, MnRE0.5Zr0.5 exhibits superior NO oxidation performance (T63 = 337 °C) and hydrothermal aging resistance (T52 = 340 °C) compared to the undoped sample (T53 = 365 °C). XPS, Raman, TPR, and XAS are employed to verify the elevation of oxygen vacancy concentration and Mn valence state modulation due to Zr introduction. Furthermore, compared to MnRE (1.36 eV), the formation energy of oxygen vacancies in MnRE0.5Zr0.5 is significantly reduced (0.17 eV). This work elucidates the dual regulatory role of Zr in the Mn‐RE‐Zr ternary system, providing theoretical support and guidance for the design of catalysts for atmospheric pollutant purification and industrial catalysis.
Dual Nanofillers Reinforced Polymer‐Inorganic Nanocomposite Film with Enhanced Mechanical Properties
Authors: Peng Boxiang , Li Qin , Yu Bing , Zhang Jiahao , Yang Sijie , Lu Ruijie , Sun Xia , Li Xiaojie , Ning Yin
Published: September 2024

Simultaneously improving the strength and toughness of polymer‐inorganic nanocomposites is highly desirable but remains technically challenging. Herein, a simple yet effective pathway to prepare polymer‐inorganic nanocomposite films that exhibit excellent mechanical properties due to their unique composition and structure is demonstrated. Specifically, a series of poly(methacrylic acid)x‐block‐poly(benzyl methacrylate)y diblock copolymer nano‐objects with differing dimensions and morphologies is prepared by polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA) mediated by reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer polymerization (RAFT). Such copolymer nano‐objects and ultrasmall calcium phosphate oligomers (CPOs) are used as dual fillers for the preparation of polymer‐inorganic composite films using sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) as a matrix. Impressively, the strength and toughness of such composite films are substantially reinforced as high as up to 202.5 ± 14.8 MPa and 62.3 ± 7.9 MJ m−3, respectively. Owing to the intimate interaction between the polymer‐inorganic interphases at multiple scales, their mechanical performances are superior to most conventional polymer films and other nanocomposite films. This study demonstrates the combination of polymeric fillers and inorganic fillers to reinforce the mechanical properties of the resultant composite films, providing new insights into the design rules for the construction of novel hybrid films with excellent mechanical performances.
Cation Engineering for Efficient and Stable Wide‐Bandgap Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhao Xiaoni , Cao Jiali , Nie Ting , Liu Shengzhong (Frank) , Fang Zhimin
Published: September 2024

Large voltage deficit and photoinduced halide segregation are the two primary challenges that hinder the advancement of wide‐bandgap (WBG) (Eg ≥ 1.65 eV) perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Herein, a cation engineering approach to enhance the optoelectronic properties of formamidine–cesium (FA‐Cs) WBG perovskites by incorporating methylamine (MA) as the third cation is presented. Three perovskite species with a bandgap of 1.68 eV, abbreviated as Cs0.05, Cs0.15, and Cs0.25, are systematically studied by optimizing the MA content. The incorporation of MA is found to effectively enhance the crystallinity and improve the carrier lifetimes of the three perovskite species. Moreover, the microstrain in the FA‐MA‐Cs perovskite films is significantly reduced due to the buffer effect of MA between the size‐mismatched FA and Cs, a benefit derived from the cascade cation design. The optimized compositions for the three species are Cs0.05MA0.2FA0.75PbI2.58Br0.42, Cs0.15MA0.1FA0.75PbI2.68Br0.32, and Cs0.25MA0.03FA0.72PbI2.73Br0.27, respectively. Among these, Cs0.25MA0.03FA0.72PbI2.73Br0.27 perovskite stands out due to its high crystallinity, low microstrain, and low trap density, giving rise to the highest efficiency of 20.64% with the lowest voltage loss. This perovskite also exhibits superior air, light, and thermal stability. These findings underscore the importance of rational cation design in achieving efficient and photostable WBG PSCs.
Effective treatment with afoxolaner (NexGard) of Trixacarus caviae in a pet guinea pig
Authors: Deak Georgiana , Matei Miruna‐Maria , Doboși Anca‐Alexandra , Ursache Aura Livia , Negoescu Andrada , Taulescu Marian
Published: September 2024

Trixacarus caviae is a sarcoptic mange mite infesting guinea pigs. Infestation in immunosuppressed animals produces severe dermatological problems, including alopecia, intense pruritus, hyperkeratosis and non‐dermatological issues (e.g., seizures). Treatment options are limited and include topical application of macrocyclic lactones or amitraz or injectable administration of ivermectin or doramectin. Considering the severity of the disease and the challenging treatment, the present paper aimed to determine the efficacy of oral afoxolaner in a severe case of infestation with T. caviae in a pet guinea pig. One female guinea pig was referred to the New Companion Animal Clinic due to severe dermatological problems. A clinical evaluation was done, and skin scrapings were collected and examined under the microscope. Small mites were detected and morphologically identified as T. caviae. The animal was treated with a single oral dose of 2.50 mg/kg afoxolaner, and the lesions, presence/absence of mites and intensity of pruritus were evaluated periodically until 2 months post‐treatment. A week after the medication, the lesions were milder, but pruritus was still present and was attributed to the healing process. Further examinations showed significant improvement with the complete remission of clinical signs and no mites at the microscopic examination after 4 weeks. Afoxolaner was safe and effective in this guinea pig for the treatment of T. caviae mange with no repetition needed.
Short carbon fiber reinforced poly(lactic acid) and its thermoplastic polyurethane blends: The effect of carbon fiber, polyurethane, and compatibilizer amounts
Authors: Arslan Çağrıalp , Erdem Ayşegül , Özmen Özkan , Tayfun Ümit , Doğan Mehmet
Published: September 2024

Lightweight and multifunctional carbon fiber‐reinforced composites with low production costs are crucial for aerospace and logistics applications. In this study, the integration of compatibilizer to polylactic acid (PLA)/thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) blends filled with carbon fiber (CF) is performed due to cost‐lowering, besides enhanced mechanical performance and processability. Composite sample loaded with 30% CF is selected and optimized by the varied amount of polymeric MDI (pM) inclusions. As the tensile resistance of PLA/TPU/30CF and PLA/TPU/30CF/pM is compared, it is found that pM additions led to enhancements in tensile strength and tensile modulus. A total of 5% of pM inclusion results in 43% increament in tensile strength of the tensile strength of PLA/TPU/30CF. Similarly, the flexural modulus and flexural strength of composites are improved by a high amount of pM. The impact resistance of PLA significantly increases after CF inclusion. The incorporation of TPU and compatibilizer shifts impact strength to higher levels. 204% improvement is achieved for PLA/TPU blend involving 5 wt% of pM concerning unfilled PLA. According to the thermo‐mechanical analysis of composites, the presence of pM yields a higher elastic modulus for PLA/TPU/CF composites. Additionally, reductions in the glass transition temperature of PLA and composites are observed since the polymer gains ductility by elastomer and compatibilizer inclusions. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) investigations of composites visualize these findings. Results postulated that pM integration can be utilized in large‐scale production of CF‐reinforced PLA‐TPU blend systems for cost reduction and performance improvement of composite parts in logistics and aerospace applications.

Highlights

The compatibilizing effect of pMDI on the PLA/TPU/CF blend system is investigated.

pMDI inclusions yield improvement in the mechanical resistance of composites.

CF‐reinforced PLA/TPU composites gain ductile behavior by the addition of TPU.

The increase in elastic modulus ensures an efficient enhancement of compatibility.
Exploring shape and size variations significance in hybrid nanofluid flow via rotating porous channel
Authors: Raza Qadeer , Wang Xiaodong , Ali Bagh , Shah Nehad Ali
Published: September 2024

The current study investigates the thermal performance characteristics of metallic (Cu) and non‐metallic (TiO2) nanoparticles (NPs), considering variations in their shapes and sizes. Specifically, analysis is conducted for four distinct stable shapes of NPs. A hybrid model is developed to analyze the influence of rotating porous walls on the system, particularly focusing on the impact of the permeable Reynolds number and NPs within a specific range of , in conjunction with a Newtonian fluid under the influence of magnetohydrodynamics (MHDs). Additionally, we examine the phenomena of expansion/contraction in heat and mass transfer enhancement with chemical reactions. The governing partial differential equations (PDEs) are transformed into nonlinear differential equations using the help of similarity transformation. A 4th‐order Runge–Kutta method (RK), coupled with the shooting technique, is employed as a mathematical strategy to numerically solve these nonlinear differential equations. Boosting the values of 𝐾𝑐𝑟 from 2 to 10 enhances the mass transfer rate between both porous channels. Higher values of 𝑅𝑒, 𝑀, and 𝑅 lead to increasing skin friction coefficients for both porous channels. Raising the values of both NP volume fractions ( from 1% to 5% results in enhanced heat transfer rates particularly for much better in platelet‐shaped NPs as compared to other shapes such as spherical, brick, and cylinder. Larger values of 𝛼, M, and Re cause the radial velocity profile to exhibit opposite behaviors in the middle of the wall and momentum boundary layer thickness.
Elektrokonvulsionstherapie bei Menschen mit Intelligenzminderung
Authors: Guhra M. , Kreisel S. H. , Zilles-Wegner D. , Sartorius A. , Sappok T. , Freundlieb N.
Published: September 2024

Die Elektrokonvulsionstherapie (EKT) ist eine hochwirksame Behandlungsoption bei schweren psychischen Erkrankungen. Für Menschen mit Intelligenzminderung (IM) sind die Zugangswege zur EKT bis heute erschwert, obwohl sie mindestens so häufig wie die Normalbevölkerung an psychischen Erkrankungen leiden. Im Rahmen einer systematischen Literaturrecherche und anhand eines Fallberichtes wird die wissenschaftliche Grundlage für eine EKT-Behandlung von Menschen mit IM dargestellt. Insgesamt wurden 100 Artikel mit 208 Fallberichten recherchiert und ausgewertet. Zusammengefasst sprechen diese für eine mindestens gleich gute Wirkung und ähnliche Nebenwirkungsrate im Vergleich zur Behandlung von Personen ohne IM. Neben schweren affektiven und psychotischen Störungen werden vor allem katatone Syndrome bei Menschen mit IM erfolgreich mit EKT behandelt. Eine EKT kann dabei die Lebensqualität der Patient:innen bessern und stellt nicht selten eine lebensrettende Behandlung dar. Die Rückfallprophylaxe sollte möglichst früh im Therapieprozess eingeplant werden. Leichtere Zugangsbedingungen zu einer EKT-Behandlung für Menschen mit IM zu schaffen, entspricht der wissenschaftlichen Datenlage und auch dem Recht auf eine gleichwertige Behandlung gemäß der UN-Behindertenrechtskonvention Artikel 25.
Bilateral thigh compartment syndrome following intraoperative pelvic binder reduction of open pelvic fracture: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Chung Phillip , Hasegawa Ian G. , Duong Andrew M. , Shabani Soroush , Patterson Joseph T.
Published: September 2024

Case

A 22-year-old man with a type IIIA open AO/OTA 61C2.2b pelvis fracture and hypotension received exploratory laparotomy, temporary open ligation of the bilateral internal iliac arteries, and retroperitoneal packing. After prompt fracture debridement, a pelvic binder was positioned over the thighs as a reduction aid and maintained for six hours during pelvis open reduction internal fixation. Bilateral anterior thigh compartment syndrome was diagnosed three hours after packing and binder removal.

Conclusion

Prolonged application of a pelvic binder to the thighs as an intraoperative reduction tool, shortly after temporary internal iliac artery ligation, may be associated with reperfusion injury and thigh compartment syndrome.
Insurance coverage and environmental risk in an evolutionary oligopoly
Authors: Colivicchi Ilaria , Iannucci Gianluca
Published: September 2024

This paper studies the evolution of an oligopoly market where two types of companies, brown and green, are present. Green firms adopt a less polluting technology that allows a reduction in emissions. We want to investigate the possibility of an environmental-friendly transition where insurance can give its support to cover the (endogenous) climate change loss. The model is composed of two parts. We analyze a two-stages game in which the companies maximize their profits by choosing output in the first stage and insurance coverage in the second one. Then we develop an evolutionary game to endogenize the selection of being brown or green, according to the expected random profits. We derive analytically the dynamic regimes may arise and we perform a sensitivity analysis at the stable inner steady state, where firms coexist, changing the main key parameters to understand which ones may be strategic for an ecological transition.
Towards Culturally Sensitive Care: Addressing Challenges in Asian and Asian American Mental Health Services
Authors: Su-Kubricht Li Ping , Chen Hao-Min , Guo Shuiyan , Miller Richard B.
Published: September 2024

Past research has indicated the factors that prevented Asians/Asian Americans from seeking mental health services. However, few studies examined their experiences in receiving mental health services. This study utilized a convenience sample with a non-identifying online survey. As part of the larger survey, this analysis concentrated on addressing two open-ended questions that inquired about the obstacles and challenges that the participants encountered while receiving therapy and the strategies they employed to overcome these challenges. Using qualitative methods to analyze the data, four themes emerged to describe the obstacles Asian/Asian American clients experience in mental health services, including a lack of trust in therapy and therapists, lack of cultural understanding by therapists, language barrier, and challenges related to access and resources. Results are discussed along with best practices and clinical implications for therapists working with Asian/Asian American individuals, couples, and families.
The Role of Acculturative Stress on the Mental Health of Immigrant Youth: A Scoping Literature Review
Authors: Lerias Doukessa , Ziaian Tahereh , Miller Emily , Arthur Nancy , Augoustinos Martha , Pir Tara
Published: September 2024

Acculturation after settlement has been identified as a risk factor affecting the mental health of immigrant youth. Increasing rates of immigration and expanding populations of immigrant youth mean that addressing their mental is a priority. Acculturative stress is the stress-response resulting from the effects of multiple stressors that result from the need to acculturate. Among youth within the developmental stages of late adolescence and emerging adulthood, increased sensitivity to stress, and developmental demands, impact their mental health. The effects of acculturative stress place an additional burden on the mental health of immigrant youth. This scoping review examined existing literature that investigated a variety of relationships between acculturative stress and youth mental health. A comprehensive search strategy that focused on studies involving youth, mainly aged between 15-24, with a proximal history of international migration, published between 2012-2022, resulted in a collection of fifty-three studies. This review examined significant relationships between acculturative stress and major depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, substance misuse, behavioural problems and poor psychological wellbeing. This scoping review was truly explorative as it included youth from immigrant minorities, had no geographical limits, and included various study designs. Acculturative stress continues to be an important contributor to the mental health of youth who have a proximal history of international migration. This review provided an exploration of the state of research, identified the importance of the settlement context, and provided recommendations for the direction of future studies, supportive policies, and practice considerations, related to the mental health of immigrant youth.
Irregularly regulated collecting markets: antiquities, fossils, and wildlife
Authors: Mackenzie Simon , Yates Donna , Hübschle Annette , Bērziņa Diāna
Published: September 2024

This paper examines the dynamics of ‘irregularly regulated markets’, specifically those dealing with what we term ‘criminogenic collectables’: antiquities, fossils, and wildlife. Through the lens of ‘irregular regulation’ we consider how inconsistencies and loopholes in legal frameworks contribute to criminal activities in these markets. We outline five ways that such markets can be considered irregular: socially, jurisdictionally, temporally, culturally and discursively. Through this discussion, we address the subjective nature of legality in these markets, contested by cultural, economic, and political influences, and the role of market actors in manipulating perceptions. This study offers a nuanced perspective on the sociology of crime which includes consideration of the objects of crime. Here we emphasize not only the significance of market regulation and legal frameworks in shaping criminal behaviour, but also the agentic qualities of the target objects themselves. We argue that the idea of irregularity is a useful hermeneutic device for considering the grey areas and hot zones of debate that constitute the current global market for contested objects.
Histopathology reveals environmental stress in dusky flounder Syacium papillosum of the Yucatan Peninsula continental shelf
Authors: Couoh-Puga Eunice Danilú , Chávez-Sánchez María Cristina , Vidal-Martínez Víctor Manuel , Gold-Bouchot Gerardo , Centeno-Chalé Oscar Arturo , Aguirre-Macedo M.Leopoldina
Published: September 2024

The histological changes in the liver, kidney, spleen, and gills of Syacium papillosum from the continental shelf of the Yucatan Peninsula, Gulf of Mexico, and their statistical associations with environmental conditions and pollutants were assessed in 2010, 2011, and 2012. We evaluated the extension and severity of the lesions through a degree of tissue change (DTC), and, with the sum of the number of lesion types within each of their DTC stages, we determined the histological alteration index (HAI). The liver and kidney were the most affected organs, with HAI values > 100. Fish with the most severe damage were observed on the Campeche Bank and the Caribbean Sea, contrasting with those collected from the northern Yucatan continental shelf. The presence of foci cellular alteration and abundant melanomacrophage centers indicated that these flatfishes were chronically exposed to environmental stress factors. Redundancy analyses showed strong associations between HAI values and hydrocarbon and heavy metal concentrations in muscle. Our results provide evidence for the first time of a differential health condition of the Yucatan shelf through the histopathology shown in S. papillosum, establishing the baseline for future monitoring programs in the region.

Graphical abstract
Fundamental regions for non-isometric group actions
Authors: Leistner Thomas , Teisseire Stuart
Published: September 2024

We generalise results about isometric group actions on metric spaces and their fundamental regions to the context of merely continuous group actions. In particular, we obtain results that yield the relative compactness of a fundamental region for a cocompact group action. As a consequence, we obtain a criterion for a cocompact cyclic group of semi-Riemannian homotheties to be inessential.
Mathematical Morphology on Directional Data
Authors: Hauch Konstantin , Redenbach Claudia
Published: September 2024

We define morphological operators and filters for directional images whose pixel values are unit vectors. This requires an ordering relation for unit vectors which is obtained by using depth functions. They provide a centre-outward ordering with respect to a specified centre vector. We apply our operators on synthetic directional images and compare them with classical morphological operators for grey-scale images. As application examples, we enhance the fault region in a compressed glass foam and segment misaligned fibre regions of glass fibre-reinforced polymers.
Exploring Trust in Research Among Black American Men at a Health Promotion Symposium in Rural North Carolina
Authors: Lloyd Shawnta L. , Williams Kelvin Lamonte , Byrd Goldie S.
Published: September 2024

Despite efforts to diversify research and health programs, Black American men remain a “hard-to-reach” population while collectively suffering from some of the worst health outcomes in the United States. Faith- and community-based approaches have shown potential to engage Black Americans in health promotion and health research activities. The purpose of this article is to examine health research participation and trust in research among a sample of Black American men in rural North Carolina who attended a community-based health symposium, culturally tailored for Black American men (n = 112). A cross-sectional survey was administered among men to learn about health status, health concerns, and perception of health research. Among 106 men who completed the survey, most reported no prior participation in health research (68.87%), but almost a third of men reported interest in participating in health research. No significant differences in trust in research was found based on interest in research participation (interested in research participation, not interested in research participation, no response), presenting an opportunity to increase the trustworthiness of medical institutions and build relationships with this population. These findings will inform future research and health programming for Black American men in rural locations.
Reviewing the use of the Brief Religious Coping Scale (Brief RCOPE) across diverse cultures and populations
Authors: Saunders Nicola , Stephenson Zoe
Published: September 2024

To discern the religious coping methods which individuals employ when confronting life stressors, Pargament devised the Religious Coping Scale (RCOPE) in 1997. Subsequently, in 1998, Pargament et al. formulated an abbreviated iteration, the Brief RCOPE, intended for both research and practical application. The Brief RCOPE has been found to be a reliable and valid measure, however much of the research looking into the psychometric properties of this measure has been conducted in the United States. The aim of the current review was to draw together findings from studies which have investigated the reliability and/or validity of the measure amongst populations outside of the United States. A narrative approach was adopted, involving searches of academic databases using keywords and the application of specific inclusion criteria. It was found that the reliability of the measure has been demonstrated across a number of countries, and across a range of different religions. The measure has also demonstrated good convergent, construct and concurrent validity in diverse cultures. The findings from this review suggest that the Brief RCOPE can be used in a range of diverse religions and cultures. However, more research is needed to ascertain the accuracy of the measure with other religions and cultures and with those in minority groups.
Evaluating large language models for user stance detection on X (Twitter)
Authors: Gambini Margherita , Senette Caterina , Fagni Tiziano , Tesconi Maurizio
Published: September 2024

Current stance detection methods employ topic-aligned data, resulting in many unexplored topics due to insufficient training samples. Large Language Models (LLMs) pre-trained on a vast amount of web data offer a viable solution when training data is unavailable. This work introduces Tweets2Stance - T2S, an unsupervised stance detection framework based on zero-shot classification, i.e. leveraging an LLM pre-trained on Natural Language Inference tasks. T2S detects a five-valued user’s stance on social-political statements by analyzing their X (Twitter) timeline. The Ground Truth of a user’s stance is obtained from Voting Advice Applications (VAAs). Through comprehensive experiments, a T2S’s optimal setting was identified for each election. Linguistic limitations related to the language model are further addressed by integrating state-of-the-art LLMs like GPT-4 and Mixtral into the T2S framework. The T2S framework’s generalization potential is demonstrated by measuring its performance (F1 and MAE scores) across nine datasets. These datasets were built by collecting tweets from competing parties’ Twitter accounts in nine political elections held in different countries from 2019 to 2021. The results, in terms of F1 and MAE scores, outperformed all baselines and approached the best scores for each election. This showcases the ability of T2S, particularly when combined with state-of-the-art LLMs, to generalize across different cultural-political contexts.
Vibration transmission through the seated human body captured with a computationally efficient multibody model
Authors: Desai Raj , Papaioannou Georgios , Happee Riender
Published: September 2024

Existing models of vibration transmission through the seated human body are primarily two-dimensional, focusing on the mid-sagittal plane and in-plane excitation. However, these models have limitations when the human body is subjected to vibrations in the mid-coronal plane. Three-dimensional (3D) human models have been primarily developed for impact analysis. Recently, we showed that such a 3D active human model can also predict vibration transmission. However, existing 3D body models suffer from excessive computational time requirements due to their complexity. To effectively analyze motion comfort, this research presents a 3D computationally efficient human model (EHM), running faster than real-time, with scope for real-time vehicle and seat motion control to enhance comfort. The EHM is developed by considering various combinations of body segments and joint degrees of freedom, interacting with multibody (MB) and finite element (FE) seat compliance models. Postural stabilization parameters are estimated using an optimization process based on experimental frequency-dependent gain responses for different postures (erect/slouched) and backrest support (low/high) conditions. The model combines two postural control mechanisms: 1) joint angle control capturing reflexive and intrinsic stabilization for each degree of freedom with PID controllers, including integration to eliminate drift, and 2) head-in-space control minimizing 3D head rotation. Interaction with a compliant seat was modeled using deformable finite elements and multibody contact models. Results showed the importance of modeling both compressive and shear deformation of the seat and the human body. Traditional stick-slip multibody contact failed to reproduce seat-to-human vibration transmission. Combining efficient body modeling principles, innovative postural adaptation techniques, and advanced seat contact strategies, this study lays a robust foundation for predicting and optimizing motion comfort.
Rapid in-field soil analysis of plant-available nutrients and pH for precision agriculture—a review
Authors: Najdenko Elena , Lorenz Frank , Dittert Klaus , Olfs Hans-Werner
Published: September 2024

There are currently many in-field methods for estimating soil properties (e.g., pH, texture, total C, total N) available in precision agriculture, but each have their own level of suitability and only a few can be used for direct determination of plant-available nutrients. As promising approaches for reliable in-field use, this review provides an overview of electromagnetic, conductivity-based, and electrochemical techniques for estimating plant-available soil nutrients and pH. Soil spectroscopy, conductivity, and ion-specific electrodes have received the most attention in proximal soil sensing as basic tools for precision agriculture during the last two decades. Spectral soil sensors provide indication of plant-available nutrients and pH, and electrochemical sensors provide highly accurate nitrate and pH measurements. This is currently the best way to accurately measure plant-available phosphorus and potassium, followed by spectral analysis. For economic and practicability reasons, the combination of multi-sensor in-field methods and soil data fusion has proven highly successful for assessing the status of plant-available nutrients in soil for precision agriculture. Simultaneous operation of sensors can cause problems for example because of mutual influences of different signals (electrical or mechanical). Data management systems provide relatively fast availability of information for evaluation of soil properties and their distribution in the field. For rapid and broad adoption of in-field soil analyses in farming practice, in addition to accuracy of fertilizer recommendations, certification as an official soil analysis method is indispensable. This would strongly increase acceptance of this innovative technology by farmers.
Interindividual variability in platelet reactivity among individuals with or without antiplatelet therapy: results from a large tertiary care hospital
Authors: Galli Mattia , Terracina Sergio , Schiera Eleonora , Mancone Massimo , Frati Luigi , Angiolillo Dominick J. , Pulcinelli Fabio M.
Published: September 2024

Antiplatelet therapy is crucial for reducing thrombotic events in patients with atherosclerotic disease, but the response vary widely among individuals. The identification of patients at high (HPR), optimal (OPR) or low platelet reactivity (LPR) is dependent on high interlaboratory variability. We report results of a large dataset of patients to assess the gold standard light transmission aggregometry (LTA). A total of 11,913 patients who sequentially underwent LTA assessment using several stimuli (ADP-2µM, collagen-2 µg/ml, arachidonic acid 0.5 mM, epinephrine 10µM) with a standardized methodology between 2004 and 2022 were screened. After application of inclusion-exclusion criteria, 5,901 patients were included and divided into five groups: healthy-volunteers (HV; N = 534); controls (CTR; N = 1073); aspirin-treated patients (ASA; 75–150 mg/die; N = 3280); clopidogrel-treated patients (CLOP; 75 mg/die; N = 495) and patients treated with dual antiplatelet therapy, ASA plus CLOP (DAPT; N = 519). The mean PA% in response to ADP 2 μm was 72.4 ± 33.3 in the CTR population, 40.6 ± 29.9 in the ASA group, 25.1 ± 35.1 in the CLOP group and 10.2 ± 18.5 in the DAPT group. The mean PA% in response to collagen 2 ug/ml was 90.7 ± 10.5 in the CTR population, 40.8 ± 26.3 in the ASA group, 79.4 ± 21.8 in the CLOP group and 17.9 ± 19.9 in the DAPT group. The percentage of patients at OPR following ADP stimuli was 66%, 25%, and 26%, in the ASA, CLOP, and DAPT group, respectively. The percentage of patients at OPR following collagen stimuli was 56%, 22%, and 41%, in the ASA, CLOP, and DAPT group, respectively. LTA was significantly increased in response to ADP (72.4 ± 33.3vs62.7 ± 37.1; p < 0.001) and AA (90.7 ± 15.6vs87.6 ± 20.5; p < 0.001) in CTR compared to HV. Our findings support the concept that a significant proportion of individuals present a hyper- or hypo-reactive platelet phenotype potentially affecting the safety and efficacy of antiplatelet therapy. The variability in response to antiplatelet therapy was particularly evident in patients undergoing single as opposed to dual antiplatelet therapy regimens. These data support ongoing strategies of guided selection of antiplatelet therapy in patients with cardiovascular disease.

Graphical Abstract
Influence of High Current Impulses on Element Distribution in Creep-Deformed Single-Crystal Ni-Based Superalloys
Authors: Reschka Silvia , Gerstein Gregory , Herbst Sebastian , Epishin Alexander , Maier Hans Jürgen
Published: September 2024

Nickel-based superalloys are typically employed for high-temperature applications. One well-known degradation mechanism is the rafting of the γ′-phase. In this study, it was investigated, whether a high current impulse treatment is suitable to induce changes in element distribution that are opposite to those observed during the rafting process. Thus, samples of CMSX-4 were treated with high current impulses up to 4 kA/mm2. Energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy measurements showed changes in element distribution due to these treatments. The changes in element distribution were observed to become more pronounced with increasing current density and partly counteracted those induced by prior creep. The extent of the compositional changes also depends on the element. Variations in the Al and Ta content showed stronger tendencies than, e.g., Cr, Co and W.
Discovering a new fossil chironomid from Lower Cretaceous Lebanese Amber: Electroneura pinhoi sp. nov. Amaral, Silva & Baranov (Chironomidae: Tanypodinae)
Authors: da Silva Fabio Laurindo , Amaral André P. , Azar Dany , Baranov Viktor
Published: September 2024

Here we present new insights into Chironomidae (Insecta, Diptera) preserved in Lower Cretaceous Lebanese amber. We describe a new genus and species, Electroneura pinhoi gen. et sp. nov., seemingly related to Tanypodinae and offer an amended description of Libanopelopia cretacica Veltz, Azar and Nel, 2007. Moreover, our investigation highlights the challenges of assigning fossils to modern taxonomic groups, based on previous studies of Tanypodinae, underscoring the necessity of considering the geological context and utilizing, when possible, both morphological and molecular data from extant taxa to validate taxonomic assignments in paleontological studies.
Long Amplicon Nanopore Sequencing for Dual-Typing RdRp and VP1 Genes of Norovirus Genogroups I and II in Wastewater
Authors: Scott G. , Ryder D. , Buckley M. , Hill R. , Treagus S. , Stapleton T. , Walker D. I. , Lowther J. , Batista F. M.
Published: September 2024

Noroviruses (NoVs) are the leading cause of non-bacterial gastroenteritis with societal costs of US$60.3 billion per annum. Development of a long amplicon nanopore-based method for dual-typing the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) and major structural protein (VP1) regions from a single RNA fragment could improve existing norovirus typing methods. Application to wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) and environmental testing could enable the discovery of novel types and improve outbreak tracking and source apportionment. Here, we have developed such a method with a consensus-based bioinformatics pipeline and optimised reverse transcription (RT) and PCR procedures. Inhibitor removal and LunaScript® RT gave robust amplification of the ≈ 1000 bp RdRP + VP1 amplicon for both the GI and GII PCR assays. Platinum™ Taq polymerase showed good sensitivity and reduced levels non-specific amplification (NSA) when compared to other polymerases. Optimised PCR annealing temperatures significantly reduced NSA (51.3 and 42.4% for GI and GII), increased yield (86.5% for GII) and increased taxa richness (57.7%) for GII. Analysis of three NoV positive faecal samples showed 100% nucleotide similarity with Sanger sequencing. Eight GI genotypes, 11 polymerase types (p-types) and 13 combinations were detected in wastewater along with 4 GII genotypes, 4 p-types and 8 combinations; highlighting the diversity of norovirus taxa present in wastewater in England. The most common genotypes detected in clinical samples were all detected in wastewater while we also frequently detected several GI genotypes not reported in the clinical data. Application of this method into a WBE scheme, therefore, may allow for more accurate measurement of norovirus diversity within the population.
Valorization of coffee by-products in the industry, a vision towards circular economy
Authors: Gil-Gómez Julie Andrea , Florez-Pardo Luz Marina , Leguizamón-Vargas Yuly Camila
Published: September 2024

Coffee production worldwide has grown by almost 200% since 1950 due to increased demand, being the world's most important traded commodity after oil and the second most popular beverage after water, with more than 500 billion cups of coffee consumed annually (Visser and Dlamini in Sustainability 13:6558, 2021). Colombia is the third largest producer and exporter of coffee worldwide (Garcia-Freites et al. in Biomass Bioenerg 140, 2020). Due to its nature, the coffee sector produces a large amount of waste throughout its production chain, with ~ 0.9 kg of accumulated waste per 1 kg of coffee cherries harvested, equivalent to about 4 thousand tons per year for Colombian production (Garcia-Freites et al. in Biomass Bioenerg 140, 2020). Among the variety of remnants or by-products generated are those from plant pruning and coffee processing (Mendoza Martinez in Biomass Bioenergy 120:68–76, 2019, Hejna in Waste Manage 121:296–330, 2021). This diversity of by-products represents a varied source of molecules suitable for utilisation in different industries in a promising way to solve the environmental and economic impacts represented by the disposal of these remnants. This review aims to present the value and utilisation of these by-products in different industries in which several articles published on the subject were compiled and discussed, with utilisation in the food, agriculture, biorefinery and bioplastics industries. Based on the review presented, it is discovered that the by-products of the coffee industry offer many valuable options developed by scientists to generate value in the coffee production chain that contribute to environmental protection with a promising approach in search of a circular economy.

Graphical Abstract
Adopting a Framework for Rapid Real-World Data Analyses in Safety Signal Assessment
Authors: Wang Lu , Golchin Negar , Klot Stephanie von , Salinas Claudia A. , Manlik Katrin , Patadia Vaishali , Miller Mary K. , Asubonteng Julius , McDermott Rachel , Barberio Julie , Gipson Geoffrey
Published: September 2024

The expanding availability of real-world data (RWD) has led to an increase in both the interest and possibilities for using this information in postmarketing safety analyses and signal management. While there is enormous potential value from the safety insights generated through RWD, the analysis preparation, execution, and communication required to reliably deliver the evidence can be time consuming. Since the safety signal assessment process is a regulated and timebound process, any supporting RWD analyses require a rapid turnaround of well-designed and informative results. To address this challenge, a TransCelerate BioPharma working group was formed and developed a framework to help teams responsible for safety signal assessment overcome the challenges of working with RWD rapidly to deliver analyses within regulatory timelines. Here, a previously performed safety assessment was evaluated within the context of the developed framework to illustrate how the framework may be adopted in practice.
Examining the Philippines’ infrastructure and connectivity cooperation with China and the European Union
Authors: Santarita Joefe B. , Gerstl Alfred
Published: September 2024

Like many other countries in the Global South, the Philippines is in dire need of foreign investments and loans to develop its infrastructure. Former President Rodrigo Duterte (2016–2022) sought close cooperation with China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) to complement his ambitious Build! Build! Build! program. His successor Ferdinand Marcos Jr. continued many BRI projects, but canceled others, due to lack of funding from China and increased tensions in the South China Sea. Moreover, he deepened cooperation with the European Union (EU) in security and infrastructure, thereby benefiting from the EU’s Global Gateway Initiative (GGI). The findings of this study, which is theoretically located at the intersection of foreign, economic, and domestic politics, build strongly on a representative survey conducted in the Philippines in 2022. One of the major findings is the occurrence of perceptions of the Philippine citizens and elites of China and the EU that are strongly in line with each other. Another finding is the extent of the Filipinos’ ability to differentiate between “good”, “bad”, and “beautiful” effects of BRI projects despite their negative attitude towards China. Conversely, even though the EU is seen in a very positive light, the study concludes that the GGI can only then become an additional infrastructure offer, if the GGI projects bring tangible benefits to the Filipinos. Both the BRI and the GGI illustrate that offering infrastructure collaboration is strongly based on geopolitical and geo-economic reasoning, but that the recipient can utilize this fact to further its economic interests.
Users’ Perspective on Revised Simple Simulator for Calculating Nutritional Food Stocks in Preparation for Large-scale Disasters
Authors: Takeda Tamaki , Sudo Noriko , Shimada Ikuko , Tsuboyama-Kasaoka Nobuyo
Published: September 2024

Objective:

In 2020, Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare developed an Excel workbook entitled “Simple Simulator for calculating nutritional food stocks in preparation for large-scale disasters.” In September 2021, it was modified as the “Revised Simulator” to plan food stockpiles in normal times and post-disaster meals. This study aimed to further improve the Revised Simulator.

Methods:

Eight group interviews were conducted with 12 public health dietitians, 9 disaster management officers, and 2 public health nurses from September to November 2021. They provided nutritional support during previous disasters or prepared for predicted future disasters. Qualitative analysis was conducted on interview transcriptions, then the Revised Simulator was improved based on their feedback.

Results:

The Revised Simulator was improved to the “Simulator for calculating nutritional food stocks and meals for large-scale disasters” with significant changes such as adding specific tags in the food list to denote long shelf life and elderly-friendly foods, as well as displaying bar graphs to visualize the required and supplied amounts of energy and nutrients.

Conclusions:

The Revised Simulator was upgraded for planning and assessing stockpiles and meals in ordinary conditions and emergencies. This study will contribute to enhancing the quality and quantity of food supplies during disasters.
Death at Dreamworld: Ten pathways to disaster and failure to learn
Authors: Gregson Sarah , Quinlan Michael G.
Published: September 2024

Deaths in workplace incidents – of both workers and members of the public – normally spark a number of official responses, including coronial inquests. In many instances, however, these investigations have examined the incident in isolation from the wider context of hazards in that industry and are rarely informed by the extensive research literature on health and safety, and death and disaster, at work. In this examination of a tragic theme park disaster in 2016, we demonstrate that applying a wider lens and drawing on the ‘ten pathways model’ not only provides a more compelling explanation of how and why safety measures failed but may also inform more fatality and injury prevention measures. Drawing on James Reasonʼs concept of latent failures, the ten pathways model identifies latent failures that are repeatedly associated with death and disaster in workplaces across different industries. Using the Dreamworld coronial inquest findings and other related source material, this paper finds that at least nine and possibly all ten pattern failures were present in the Thunder River Rapids ride disaster at the Dreamworld theme park and contributed to the deaths of four visitors. In particular, it highlights the corroding effects of poor maintenance, inadequate management systems, and regulatory failure. The paper also raises questions about why theme parks as high-hazard workplaces marked by injuries, deaths, and ‘near misses’ were not subject to more rigorous oversight prior to the event and how regulatory failures might best be addressed.