bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discounting the Future: On Climate Change, Ambiguity Aversion and Epstein–Zin Preferences
Authors: Olijslagers Stan , van Wijnbergen Sweder
Published: January 2024

We show that ambiguity aversion and deviations from standard expected time separable utility have a major impact on estimates of the willingness to pay to avoid future climate change risk. We propose a relatively standard integrated climate/economy model but add stochastic climate disasters. The model yields closed form solutions up to solving an integral, and therefore does not suffer from the curse of dimensionality of most numerical climate/economy models. We analyze the impact of substitution preferences, risk aversion (known probabilities), and ambiguity aversion (unknown probabilities) on the social cost of carbon. Introducing ambiguity aversion leads to two offsetting effects on the social cost of carbon: a positive direct effect and a negative effect through discounting. Our numerical results show that for reasonable calibrations, the direct effect dominates the discount rate impact, so ambiguity aversion gives substantially higher estimates of the social cost of carbon.
A Cognitive Load Theory Approach to Understanding Expert Scaffolding of Visual Problem-Solving Tasks: A Scoping Review
Authors: van Nooijen Christine C. A. , de Koning Bjorn B. , Bramer Wichor M. , Isahakyan Anna , Asoodar Maryam , Kok Ellen , van Merrienboer Jeroen J. G. , Paas Fred
Published: January 2024

Visual problem-solving is an essential skill for professionals in various visual domains. Novices in these domains acquire such skills through interactions with experts (e.g., apprenticeships). Experts guide novice visual problem-solving with scaffolding behaviours. However, there is little consensus about the description and classification of scaffolding behaviours in practice, and to our knowledge, no framework connects scaffolding to underlying cognitive mechanisms. Understanding effective scaffolding is particularly relevant to domain-specific expert-novice research regarding visual problem-solving, where in-person scaffolding by an expert is a primary teaching method. Scaffolding regulates the flow of information within the learner’s working memory, thereby reducing cognitive load. By examining scaffolding research from the perspective of cognitive load theory, we aspire to classify scaffolding behaviours as cognitive behaviours of cueing (which involves attention allocation) and chunking (the practice of grouping information, often in conjunction with prior knowledge), into a cohesive and unified framework. In this scoping review, 6533 articles were considered, from which 18 were included. From these 18 articles, 164 excerpts describing expert-novice interaction were examined and categorised based on cognitive strategy (cueing or chunking) and method of expression (verbal or nonverbal). An inductive category (active or passive) was also identified and coded. Most scaffolding behaviours were categorised as active verbal cueing and active verbal chunking. Qualitative patterns in excerpts were collated into 12 findings. Our framework may help to integrate existing and new scaffolding research, form the basis for future expert-novice interaction research, and provide insights into the fine-grained processes that comprise scaffolded visual problem-solving.
Joint effects of warming and salinization on instream leaf litter decomposition assessed through a microcosm experiment
Authors: García Gabriela , Pérez Javier , Boyero Luz , Alonso Alberto , Tuñon Anyi , Pérez Edgar , Cornejo Aydeé
Published: January 2024

Stream ecosystem functioning is often impaired by warming and salinization, but the joint effect of both environmental stressors on key processes such as leaf litter decomposition is virtually unknown, particularly in the tropics. We experimentally explored how increased water temperature (26, 29 and 32°C) and salinity (no salt addition, 0.1, 1.0 and 10 g l−1 NaCl added) affected the rates of total, microbial and detritivore-mediated decomposition, in stream microcosms containing leaf litter of Ficus insipida and larvae of Chironomus sp. collected from tropical streams. Effects of temperature were strong and consistent with previous findings: it promoted microbial decomposition and reduced decomposition mediated by detritivores, which showed greater feeding activity at 26°C. Salinity was negatively correlated with microbial decomposition at 32°C; it also had a negative influence on detritivore-mediated decomposition, which was nevertheless non-significant due to the high detritivore mortality at higher salinities. Notably, total decomposition was reduced with the joint presence of both factors (32°C and salt addition treatments, compared to 26°C and no salt addition), indicating the existence of additive effects and highlighting the relevance of multiple-stressor contexts when assessing the consequences of global change on stream ecosystems.
Practitioner Adherence and Competence in MEYA, a Free Online Self-Instruction Program in Modular Psychotherapy and Counseling for Children’s Autism-Related Clinical Needs
Authors: Wood Jeffrey J. , Wood Karen S. , Rosenau Kashia A. , Cho An Chuen , Johnson Amanda R. , Muscatello Virginia S. , Tien Ingrid S. , Straus Jolie , Wolpe Samara , Zeldin Ari , Kazlauskas Kristofer , McLeod Bryce D.
Published: January 2024

The quality of care in public schools and other community settings for school-aged youths on the autism spectrum is variable and often not evidence-based. Training practitioners in these settings to deliver evidence-based practices (EBPs) may improve the quality of care. We developed a free internet-based training and clinical guidance system synthesizing multiple EBPs for youth on the autism spectrum addressing a range of mental health needs and autism-related behaviors, entitled Modular EBPs for Youth on the Autism Spectrum (MEYA; meya.ucla.edu). A multiple baseline study was conducted with seven practitioners recruited from mental health practice settings across the United States who were providing services to children on the autism spectrum (aged 6 to 17 years). Practitioners were randomly assigned to undergo baseline conditions of 2 to 8 weeks. Once online training in MEYA commenced, practitioners engaged in algorithm-guided self-instruction in EBPs for autism. Participants video-recorded sessions. Independent coders used the MEYA Fidelity Scale (MEYA-FS) to rate adherence and competence in EBPs for autism. Practitioners also completed measures pertaining to implementation outcomes and parents rated youth outcomes on personalized target behaviors. Five of seven practitioners increased their adherence to MEYA practices (i.e., MEYA-FS scores) following MEYA training. Findings for competence were similar, though somewhat less robust. Practitioners generally viewed MEYA as feasible, understandable, and acceptable. Most youth outcomes improved during MEYA. A randomized, controlled trial of MEYA would be helpful in characterizing its effectiveness for supporting practitioner EBP implementation and youth outcomes in school and community service settings.
Pulsed field ablation and cryoballoon ablation for pulmonary vein isolation: insights on efficacy, safety and cardiac function
Authors: Rattka Manuel , Mavrakis Evangelos , Vlachopoulou Dimitra , Rudolph Isabel , Kohn Christina , Bohnen Jan , Yahsaly Loubna , Siebermair Johannes , Wakili Reza , Jungen Christiane , Rassaf Tienush , Mathew Shibu
Published: January 2024

Background

Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) has become the cornerstone treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). While in cryoablation cell damage is caused by thermal effects, lately, pulsed field ablation (PFA) has been established as a novel non-thermal tissue-specific ablation modality for PVI. However, data comparing outcomes of patients undergoing either PFA or cryoballoon ablation (CBA) for primary PVI are sparse.

Methods

Consecutive patients with AF undergoing PVI by either CBA or PFA were included in the analysis. The primary outcome was the time to AF/AT recurrence. For secondary outcomes, clinical and periprocedural parameters were compared.

Results

In total, outcomes of 141 AF patients treated by PFA (94 patients) or CBA (47 patients) were compared. After 365 days, 70% of patients in the PFA group and 61% of patients in the CBA group were free from AF/AT (HR 1.35, 95% CI 0.60–3.00; p = 0.470). No deaths occurred. While symptoms alleviated in both groups, only after PFA, we observed significant improvement of left atrial volume index (PFA group baseline: 40 [31;62] ml/m2, PFA group follow-up: 35 [29;49] ml/m2; p = 0.015), NT-pro BNP levels (PFA group baseline: 1106 ± 2479 pg/ml, PFA group follow-up: 1033 ± 1742 pg/ml; p = 0.048), and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (PFA group baseline: 55 [48;60] %, PFA group follow-up: 58 [54;63] %; p = 0.006). PVI by PFA was the only independent predictor of LVEF improvement.

Conclusion

In our study, we show that CBA and PFA for PVI are of similar efficacy when it comes to AF recurrence. However, our findings suggest that PFA rather than CBA might induce left atrial reverse remodeling thereby contributing to left ventricular systolic function.
The Nature-Based Solutions and climate change scenarios toward flood risk management in the greater Athens area—Greece
Authors: Theochari Aimilia-Panagiota , Baltas Evangelos
Published: January 2024

This research paper focuses on implementing two Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) in the Sarantapotamos river basin upstream of Magoula settlement, evaluating their effectiveness through flood hydrograph calculations before and after NBS, and under future climate scenarios, encompassing lower, mean, and upper conditions representing ± 95%. The study area covers an area of 226 km2 in Attica, Greece, susceptible to extreme flood events. The research contributes to NBS knowledge, emphasizing flood resilience and protecting settlements downstream. Land cover change and retention ponds, applied individually and combined, serve as NBS approaches. Flood hydrographs are calculated using the time–area (TA) diagram method in a geographic information system (GIS) with the Hydrological Engineering Center’s Hydrological Modeling System (HEC-HMS). Results demonstrate NBS effectiveness in current climate conditions, reducing peak discharge by 9.3% and 28% for land cover change and retention ponds, respectively. The combined NBS achieves a 40.5% peak discharge reduction and a significant 15.7% total flood volume decrease. Under climate change scenarios, impacts on design precipitation and flood hydrographs vary. The upper climate change scenario exhibits a 3348% increase in peak discharge and a 600% rise in total flood volume, while the lower scenario sees a 44.6% reduction in total flood volume. In the mean climate change scenario, land cover change and retention ponds reduce peak discharge by 9.73% and 23.11% and total flood volume by 9.25% and 2.17%, respectively. In conclusion, retention ponds show substantial peak discharge reduction, while land cover changes extend the time to peak, emphasizing their potential in flood risk management.
Chaos and integrability of relativistic homogeneous potentials in curved space
Authors: Szumiński Wojciech , Przybylska Maria , Maciejewski Andrzej J.
Published: January 2024

Relativistic Hamiltonian systems of n degrees of freedom in static curved spaces are considered. The source of space-time curvature is a scalar potential $$V(\varvec{q})$$

V
(

q

)

. In the limit of weak potential $$2V(\varvec{q})/mc^2\ll 1$$

2
V

(

q

)

/
m

c
2

≪
1

, and small momentum $$|\varvec{p} |/ mc\ll 1$$

|

p

|
/
m
c
≪
1

, these systems transform into the corresponding non-relativistic flat Hamiltonian’s with the standard sum of kinetic energy plus potential $$V(\varvec{q})$$

V
(

q

)

. We compare the dynamics of the classical and the corresponding relativistic curved counterparts on examples of important physical models: the Hénon–Heiles system, the Armbruster–Guckenheimer–Kim galactic system and swinging Atwood’s machine. Our main results are formulated for relativistic Hamiltonian systems with homogeneous potentials of non-zero integer degree k of homogeneity. First, we show that the integrability of a non-relativistic flat Hamiltonian with a homogeneous potential is a necessary condition for the integrability of its relativistic counterpart in curved space-time with the same homogeneous potential or with a non-homogeneous potential that the lowest homogenous part coincides with this homogeneous potential. Moreover, we formulate necessary integrability conditions for relativistic Hamiltonian systems with homogeneous potentials in curved space-time. These conditions were obtained from analysis of the differential Galois group of variational equations along a particular straight-line solution defined by a non-zero vector $$\varvec{d}$$

d

satisfying $$V'(\varvec{d})=\gamma \varvec{d}$$

V
′

(

d

)

=
γ

d

for a certain $$\gamma \ne 0$$

γ
≠
0

. They are very strong: if the relativistic system is integrable in the Liouville sense, then either $$k=\pm 2$$

k
=
±
2

, or all non-trivial eigenvalues of the re-scaled Hessian $$\gamma ^{-1}V''(\varvec{d})$$

γ

-
1

V

′
′

(

d

)

are either 0, or 1. Certain integrable relativistic systems are presented.
Performance characterization and modeling of an oscillating surge wave energy converter
Authors: Ahmed Alaa , Yang Lisheng , Huang Jianuo , Shalaby Ahmed , Datla Raju , Zuo Lei , Hajj Muhammad
Published: January 2024

Testing wave energy converters in the ocean could be expensive and complex, which necessitates the use of numerical modeling. However, accurately modeling the response of wave energy converters with high-fidelity simulations can be computationally intensive in the design stage where different configurations must be considered. Reduced-order models based on simplified equations of motion can be very useful in the design, optimization, or control of wave energy converters. Given the complex dynamics of wave energy converters, accurate representation, and evaluation of relative contributions by different forces are required. This effort is concerned with a performance characterization of the hydrodynamic response of an oscillating surge wave energy converter that is based on a reduced-order model. A state-space model is used to represent the radiation damping term. Morison’s representation of unsteady forces is used to account for the nonlinear damping. Wave tank tests are performed to validate simulations. A free response simulation is used to determine the coefficients of the state-space model. Torque-forced simulations are used to identify the coefficients of the nonlinear damping term for different amplitudes and wave frequencies. The impact of varying these coefficients on the response is investigated. An assessment of the capability of the model in predicting the hydrodynamic response under irregular forcing is performed. The results show that the maximum error is 3% when compared with high-fidelity simulations. It is determined that the nonlinear damping is proportional to the torque amplitude and its effects are more pronounced as the amplitude of the flap oscillations increases.
Pharmaceutical and pesticide mixtures in a Mediterranean coastal wetland: comparison of sampling methods, ecological risks, and removal by a constructed wetland
Authors: Martínez-Megías Claudia , Arenas-Sánchez Alba , Manjarrés-López Diana , Pérez Sandra , Soriano Yolanda , Picó Yolanda , Rico Andreu
Published: January 2024

Pharmaceuticals and pesticides can be considered hazardous compounds for Mediterranean coastal wetland ecosystems. Although many of these compounds co-occur in environmental samples, only a few studies have been dedicated to assessing the ecotoxicological risks of complex contaminant mixtures. We evaluated the occurrence of 133 pharmaceuticals and pesticides in 12 sites in a protected Mediterranean wetland, the Albufera Natural Park (ANP), based on conventional grab sampling and polar organic chemical integrative samplers (POCIS). We assessed acute and chronic ecological risks posed by these contaminant mixtures using the multi-substance Potentially Affected Fraction (msPAF) approach and investigated the capacity of a constructed wetland to reduce chemical exposure and risks. This study shows that pharmaceuticals and pesticides are widespread contaminants in the ANP, with samples containing up to 75 different compounds. POCIS samplers were found to be useful for the determination of less predictable exposure profiles of pesticides occurring at the end of the rice cultivation cycle, while POCIS and grab samples provide an accurate method to determine (semi-)continuous pharmaceutical exposure. Acute risks were identified in one sample, while chronic risks were determined in most of the collected samples, with 5–25% of aquatic species being potentially affected. The compounds that contributed to the chronic risks were azoxystrobin, ibuprofen, furosemide, caffeine, and some insecticides (diazinon, imidacloprid, and acetamiprid). The evaluated constructed wetland reduced contaminant loads by 45–73% and reduced the faction of species affected from 25 to 6%. Our study highlights the need of addressing contaminant mixture effects in Mediterranean wetlands and supports the use of constructed wetlands to reduce contaminant loads and risks in areas with high anthropogenic pressure.
Comparing the Effect of Low-Temperature Plasma on Cleaning and Polishing Coins with a Chemical Method and the Reversed Effect on the Plasma Properties
Authors: Talab A. A. , Abido Amr M. N. , Mohamed Gehad G. , Fikry Mohamed
Published: January 2024

The main goal of this work is to use a simplified idea to provide a scientifically accurate plasma device at a reasonable cost and benefit to society. It is an attempt to present designing and building one plasma system that can operate as three plasma experiments using the same instruments. These experiments are glow discharge, magnetron, and sputtering. This study focused on working the device as a DC glow discharge argon plasma device by a positive electrode made of a copper rod. The Paschen curve was measured at different distances between the cathode and the anode (4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 cm). From these results, the operating conditions of argon gas pressure and voltage that will produce plasma at each distance were determined. The investigated pressures were $$1 \times {10 }^{-1}$$

1
×

10

-
1

and $$2 \times {10 }^{-1}$$

2
×

10

-
1

mbar, while the operating voltage ranged from 110 to 160 V. The generated plasma was used to clean and polish the surface of two Egyptian fifty-piaster coins (still in circulation) at different exposure times as a practical application for the designed plasma device. After that, the results will be compared with cleaning and polishing a coin by a chemical method. The observed cleaning and polishing by the plasma is better and resists the environmental effect more than the chemical polishing method. This is related to the plasma treatment of the surface of the metal, while the chemical replaces the dirty layer as a result of reaction with it without treating the metal surface itself. The reversed effect of the sample (coins) on the plasma parameters (voltage and current) during its exposure time is considered one of the most novel included in this work. Besides, the temperature increases of the chamber surface during the working time were recorded.
Wahrnehmung von Genderaspekten in der Beziehung zwischen Ärzt:innen und Patient:innen bei myalgischer Enzephalomyelitis/chronischem Fatigue-Syndrom (ME/CFS)
Authors: Habermann-Horstmeier Lotte , Horstmeier Lukas M.
Published: January 2024

Hintergrund

Frauen sind mehr als doppelt so häufig von myalgischer Enzephalomyelitis/chronischem Fatigue-Syndrom (ME/CFS) betroffen wie Männer. Da viele von einer problematischen Beziehung zwischen Ärzt:innen und Patient:innen (AP-Beziehung) berichten, sollen hier Genderaspekte analysiert werden, die aus Sicht der erkrankten Frauen Einfluss hierauf haben könnten.

Methode

Im Rahmen eines explorativen qualitativen Surveys wurden 544 ärztlich diagnostizierte ME/CFS-Erkrankte (> 20 Jahre; ♀ n = 455, ♂ n = 89) schriftlich nach ihren Erfahrungen bezüglich ihrer AP-Beziehungen befragt. Der Fragebogen war analog eines fokussierten Leitfadeninterviews aufgebaut. Die erhobenen Daten wurden einer qualitativen Inhaltsanalyse nach Mayring unterzogen. Zudem wurden einzelne Angaben quantifiziert und im Hinblick auf genderbezogene Unterschiede statistisch betrachtet.

Ergebnisse

Probandinnen beschrieben, dass Ärzt:innen ihnen bestimmte Eigenschaften (emotional, überempfindlich, ängstlich) und Verhaltensweisen (schildern unspezifische Symptome, übertreiben) zuschrieben. Sie seien „schwierige“ Patientinnen, deren Symptome emotional und damit psychisch bedingt seien. Auch fühlten sie sich häufiger als Männer nicht ernstgenommen. Ihre Wahrnehmungen würden in Frage gestellt, man zweifele ihre Glaubwürdigkeit an. Sie gaben zudem in ihren Fragebögen signifikant häufiger als Männer Symptome an, die von Ärzt:innen eher als unspezifisch und subjektiv eingeordnet werden.

Schlussfolgerungen

Genderbezogenes Auftreten/Verhalten von Ärzt:innen tritt oft bei Krankheiten mit „subjektiven“, „unspezifischen“ Symptomen auf. Emotionale Symptomenschilderungen führen dann dazu, dass die Wahrnehmung der Betroffenen in Frage gestellt und von einer psychischen Störung ausgegangen wird. In Zukunft sollte dieses Schubladen-Denken im Rahmen der Diagnosefindung bei ME/CFS von einer systemischen, den gesamten Organismus einbeziehenden Betrachtung möglicher pathophysiologischer Vorgänge abgelöst werden, bevor eine psychosomatische Diagnose gestellt wird. Zudem sollte bereits während des Medizinstudiums immer wieder auf die besondere Bedeutung der Geschlechtersensibilität im Hinblick auf die AP-Beziehung hingewiesen werden.
The Expansion of Genetic Testing in Cardiovascular Medicine: Preparing the Cardiology Community for the Changing Landscape
Authors: Reza Nosheen , Alford Raye L. , Belmont John W. , Marston Nicholas
Published: January 2024

Purpose of Review

Pathogenic DNA variants underlie many cardiovascular disease phenotypes. The most well-recognized of these include familial dyslipidemias, cardiomyopathies, arrhythmias, and aortopathies. The clinical presentations of monogenic forms of cardiovascular disease are often indistinguishable from those with complex genetic and non-genetic etiologies, making genetic testing an essential aid to precision diagnosis.

Recent Findings

Precision diagnosis enables efficient management, appropriate use of emerging targeted therapies, and follow-up of at-risk family members. Genetic testing for these conditions is widely available but under-utilized.

In this review, we summarize the potential benefits of genetic testing, highlighting the specific cardiovascular disease phenotypes in which genetic testing should be considered, and how clinicians can integrate guideline-directed genetic testing into their practice.
The Role of CCTA-derived Cardiac Structure and Function Analysis in the Prediction of Readmission in Nonischemic Heart Failure
Authors: Liu Chengjia , Lin Shuangxiang , Sheng Yangyang , Wang Xinghong , Sun Jianzhong , Wu Jiaxing , Yu Risheng
Published: January 2024

Cardiac function and structure significantly impact nonischemic heart failure (HF) patient outcomes. This study investigated 236 patients (107 nonischemic heart failure, 129 healthy) to assess the relationship between coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA)-derived parameters and clinical outcomes. Among the nonischemic heart failure patients, 37.3% experienced readmissions. In this group, specific CCTA measurements were identified as significant predictors of readmission: epicardial adipose tissue (CTEAT) at 54.49 cm3 (HR: 1.05; 95% CI: 1.03–1.07; P < 0.001), cardiac muscle mass to lumen volume (CTV/M) at 20% (HR: 0.59; 95% CI: 0.48–0.72; P < 0.001), peri-coronary adipose (CTPCAT) at -64.68 HU (HR: 1.1; 95% CI: 1.03–1.16; P = 0.002) for the right coronary artery, -81.07 HU (HR: 1.3; 95% CI: 1.1–1.53; P = 0.002) for the left anterior descending artery, and -73.42 HU (HR: 1.33; 95% CI: 1.18–1.51; P < 0.001) for the circumflex branch of the left coronary artery. In patients with nonischemic heart failure, increased CTEAT, CTPCAT, and CTV/M independently predicted rehospitalization.

Graphical Abstract
Effects of a stepwise, structured LDL-C lowering strategy in patients post-acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Omar Khader Aaram , van Trier Tinka , van der Brug Sander , Liem An-ho , Groenemeijer Bjorn E. , Schut Astrid , Jorstad Harald T. , Martens Fabrice M.A.C. , Alings Marco A.M.W.
Published: January 2024

Objective

Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) lowering constitutes a cornerstone of secondary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), yet a considerable number of patients do not achieve guideline-recommended LDL‑C targets. The 2016 European guidelines recommended titration of LDL‑C lowering medication in a set number of steps, starting with oral medication. We aimed to investigate the effects of this stepwise approach in post-acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients.

Methods

In a multicentre, prospective, non-randomised trial, we evaluated a three-step strategy aiming to reduce LDL‑C to ≤ 1.8 mmol/l in post-ACS patients with prior ASCVD and/or diabetes mellitus. Steps, undertaken every 4–6 weeks, included: 1) start high-intensity statin (HIST); 2) addition of ezetimibe; 3) addition of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9i). The primary outcome was the proportion of patients achieving LDL-C ≤ 1.8 mmol/l after Steps 1 and 2 (using oral medications alone). Secondary outcomes examined the prevalence of meeting the target throughout all steps (https://onderzoekmetmensen.nl/nl/trial/21157).

Results

Out of 999 patients, 84% (95% confidence intervals (CI): 81–86) achieved the LDL‑C target using only statin and/or ezetimibe. In an intention-to-treat analysis, the percentages of patients meeting the LDL‑C target after each step were 69% (95% CI: 67–72), 84% (95% CI: 81–86), and 87% (95% CI: 85–89), respectively. There were protocol deviations for 23, 38 and 23 patients at each respective step.

Conclusion

Through stepwise intensification of lipid-lowering therapy, 84% of very high-risk post-ACS patients achieved an LDL‑C target of ≤ 1.8 mmol/l with oral medications alone. Addition of PCSK9i further increased this rate to 87% (95% CI: 85–89).
Latent Profile Analysis of the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ) Subscales in a Naturalistic Sample of Patients with Past or Present Major Depression: A Replication and Extension Study
Authors: Lubbers Jelle , Spinhoven Philip , Cladder-Micus Mira B. , Spijker Jan , Speckens Anne E. M. , Geurts Dirk E. M.
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Mindfulness is a multifaceted concept which might be best captured by person-centered profiles rather than by variable-centered assessment of its subcomponents. Patients with different mindfulness profiles may vary in mental health status and might experience differential clinical outcomes of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). We therefore aimed to assess the relationship between mindfulness profiles and mental health in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and to examine whether mindfulness profiles are predictive for MBCT-induced changes in mental health.

Method

Latent profile analysis (LPA), a method used to identify hidden subgroups of individuals within a population, was performed on pre-MBCT subscale scores of the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire in patients with current or remitted MDD (n=754). Equality of means of pre-MBCT, post-MBCT, and residualized change scores of several mental health measures across the latent profiles was tested.

Results

LPA identified four distinct mindfulness profiles. Three profiles were similar to previously identified profiles in another MDD sample (“very low mindfulness,” “high mindfulness,” “non-judgmentally aware”) and one profile was similar to that identified in non-clinical populations (“judgmentally observing”). The “high mindfulness” subgroup scored best, the “very low mindfulness” worst, and the other subgroups intermediate on mental health in terms of depressive symptoms, worry, overall functional impairment, and self-compassion. Mindfulness profiles were not predictive of MBCT-induced changes in mental health.

Conclusions

Mindfulness profiles were differentially related to mental health, but were not predictive of treatment outcome. Future research would benefit from longitudinal assessment of latent mindfulness profiles to examine whether a patient’s profile changes after MBCT and whether hypothesized change in profile would be related to treatment outcome.

Preregistration

This study was not preregistered.
Exploring the state of health of electric vehicle batteries at end of use; hierarchical waste flow analysis to determine the recycling and reuse potential
Authors: Fallah Narjes , Fitzpatrick Colin
Published: January 2024

With the increasing adoption of electric vehicles, their end-of-life management is a timely matter. This requires recognizing the upcoming volume of retired electric-vehicle-batteries to the waste stream. The projection is further useful if we have an estimation of the remaining value within them to categorize the recycling or repurposing potential to allow appropriate policy development and facility planning. This qualification assessment is neglected in the current literature. Neglecting the health status of retired batteries in estimating their residual value might end up over or underestimating their reuse and recycling potential. This study aims to provide a hierarchical battery waste estimation based on their health and age of disposal in Ireland. These two factors are the fundamental parameters in determining the feasibility of repurposing or recycling retired batteries. Identifying this information, we defined three reuse scenarios with different state-of-health limits. Results indicate almost 50%, 30%, and below 10% repurposing potential in the year 2050 when setting a repurposing threshold of above 80%, 85%, and 90%, respectively. The authors also highlight the effect of non-regional repurposing on the recycling potential.
Are authorities denying or supporting? Detecting stance of authorities towards rumors in Twitter
Authors: Haouari Fatima , Elsayed Tamer
Published: January 2024

Several studies examined the leverage of the stance in conversational threads or news articles as a signal for rumor verification. However, none of these studies leveraged the stance of trusted authorities. In this work, we define the task of detecting the stance of authorities towards rumors in Twitter, i.e., whether a tweet from an authority supports the rumor, denies it, or neither. We believe the task is useful to augment the sources of evidence exploited by existing rumor verification models. We construct and release the first Authority STance towards Rumors (AuSTR) dataset, where evidence is retrieved from authority timelines in Arabic Twitter. The collection comprises 811 (rumor tweet, authority tweet) pairs relevant to 292 unique rumors. Due to the relatively limited size of our dataset, we explore the adequacy of existing Arabic datasets of stance towards claims in training BERT-based models for our task, and the effect of augmenting AuSTR with those datasets. Our experiments show that, despite its limited size, a model trained solely on AuSTR with a class-balanced focus loss exhibits a comparable performance to the best studied combination of existing datasets augmented with AuSTR, achieving a performance of 0.84 macro-F1 and 0.78 F1 on debunking tweets. The results indicate that AuSTR can be sufficient for our task without the need for augmenting it with existing stance datasets. Finally, we conduct a thorough failure analysis to gain insights for the future directions on the task.
Complexity of patients with or without infectious disease consultation in tertiary-care hospitals in Germany
Authors: Meyer-Schwickerath C. , Weber C. , Hornuss D. , Rieg S. , Hitzenbichler F. , Hagel S. , Ankert J. , Hennigs A. , Glossmann J. , Jung N. ,   The German,   Clinical Study Group in Infectious Diseases (DESTINi)
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Patients seen by infectious disease (ID) specialists are more complex compared to patients treated by other subspecialities according to Tonelli et al. (2018). However, larger studies on the complexity of patients related to the involvement of ID consultation services are missing.

Methods

Data of patients being treated in 2015 and 2019 in four different German university hospitals was retrospectively collected. Data were collected from the hospitals’ software system and included whether the patients received an ID consultation as well as patient clinical complexity level (PCCL), case mix index (CMI) and length of stay (LOS) as a measurement for the patients’ complexity. Furthermore, a comparison of patients with distinct infectious diseases treated with or without an ID consultation was initiated.

Results

In total, 215.915 patients were included in the study, 3% (n = 6311) of those were seen by an ID consultant. Patients receiving ID consultations had a significantly (p < 0.05) higher PCCL (median 4 vs. 0), CMI (median 3,8 vs. 1,1) and deviation of the expected mean LOS (median 7 days vs. 0 days) than patients in the control group. No differences among hospitals or between years were observed. Comparing patients with distinct infectious diseases treated with or without an ID consultation, the differences were confirmed throughout the groups.

Conclusion

Patients receiving ID consultations are highly complex, frequently need further treatment after discharge and have a high economic impact. Thus, ID specialists should be clinically trained in a broad spectrum of diseases and treating these complex patients should be sufficiently remunerated.
Pharmacological Treatment of GHB Withdrawal Syndrome
Authors: Karila Laurent , Angerville Bernard , Benyamina Amine , Billieux Joël
Published: January 2024

Purpose of Review

Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is an illicit drug used for many reasons: during music festivals or parties, for self-management of sleep and anxiety, or in combination with other drugs to facilitate chemsex. Most people who use GHB do so occasionally, without harm. However, a minority of users experience dependence or withdrawal symptoms. GHB withdrawal syndrome often has a specific course, with rapid onset and swift progression of severe complications. In this narrative review, we aimed to summarize recent evidence related to the pharmacological treatment of GHB withdrawal syndrome.

Recent Findings

The management of GHB withdrawal syndrome is challenging due to the lack of specific evaluation tools and pharmacological treatment guidelines. From current findings, two pharmacological regimens could be considered for inpatients and outpatients with GHB dependence during detoxification: benzodiazepines and pharmaceutical GHB.

Few detoxification protocols for GHB or its analogs have been reported in the literature. The main available evidence is based on case studies and uncontrolled open-label studies, which support the efficacy of pharmacological interventions, notably high-dose benzodiazepines and titration and tapering with pharmaceutical GHB, for the management of GHB withdrawal. Barbiturates such as phenobarbital and baclofen might also represent new therapeutic options. Future research should examine these pharmacological interventions with large-scale randomized trials, withdrawal scales, or validated treatment protocols.
Catenaries in Riemannian surfaces
Authors: da Silva Luiz C. B. , López Rafael
Published: January 2024

The concept of catenary has been recently extended to the sphere and the hyperbolic plane by the second author (López, arXiv:2208.13694). In this work, we define catenaries on any Riemannian surface. A catenary on a surface is a critical point of the potential functional, where we calculate the potential with the intrinsic distance to a fixed reference geodesic. Adopting semi-geodesic coordinates around the reference geodesic, we characterize catenaries using their curvature. Finally, after revisiting the space-form catenaries, we consider surfaces of revolution (where a Clairaut relation is established), ruled surfaces, and the Grušin plane.
Dimensionless quantities in discrete element method: powder model parameterization for additive manufacturing
Authors: Girnth Simon , Heitkamp Tim , Wacker Christian , Waldt Nils , Klawitter Günter , Dröder Klaus
Published: January 2024

Powder bed-based additive manufacturing processes offer an extended freedom in design and enable the processing of metals, ceramics, and polymers with a high level of relative density. The latter is a prevalent measure of process and component quality, which depends on various input variables. A key point in this context is the condition of powder beds. To enhance comprehension of their particle-level formation and facilitate process optimization, simulations based on the Discrete Element Method are increasingly employed in research. To generate qualitatively as well as quantitatively reliable simulation results, an adaptation of the contact model parameterization is necessary. However, current adaptation methods often require the implementation of models that significantly increase computational effort, therefore limiting their applicability. To counteract this obstacle, a sophisticated formula-based adaptation and evaluation method is presented in this research. Additionally, the developed method enables accelerated parameter determination with limited experimental effort. Thus, it represents an integrative component, which supports further research efforts based on the Discrete Element Method by significantly reducing the parameterization effort. The universal nature of deducting this method also allows its adaptation to similar parameterization problems and its implementation in other fields of research.
Red light mediates the exocytosis of vasodilatory vesicles from cultured endothelial cells: a cellular, and ex vivo murine model
Authors: Weihrauch Dorothee , Keszler Agnes , Broeckel Grant , Aranda Eva , Lindemer Brian , Lohr Nicole L.
Published: January 2024

We have previously established that 670 nm energy induces relaxation of blood vessels via an endothelium derived S-nitrosothiol (RSNO) suggested to be embedded in vesicles. Here, we confirm that red light facilitates the exocytosis of this vasodilator from cultured endothelial cells and increases ex vivo blood vessel diameter. Ex vivo pressurized and pre-constricted facial arteries from C57Bl6/J mice relaxed 14.7% of maximum diameter when immersed in the medium removed from red-light exposed Bovine Aortic Endothelial Cells. In parallel experiments, 0.49 nM RSNO equivalent species was measured in the medium over the irradiated cells vs dark control. Electron microscopy of light exposed endothelium revealed significant increases in the size of the Multi Vesicular Body (MVB), a regulator of exosome trafficking, while RSNO accumulated in the MVBs as detected with immunogold labeling electron microscopy (1.8-fold of control). Moreover, red light enhanced the presence of F-actin related stress fibers (necessary for exocytosis), and the endothelial specific marker VE-cadherin levels suggesting an endothelial origin of the extracellular vesicles. Flow cytometry coupled with DAF staining, an indirect sensor of nitric oxide (NO), indicated significant amounts of NO within the extracellular vesicles (1.4-fold increase relative to dark control). Therefore, we further define the mechanism on the 670 nm light mediated traffic of endothelial vasodilatory vesicles and plan to leverage this insight into the delivery of red-light therapies.

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Ecological features of trace elements tolerant microbes isolated from sewage sludge of urban wastewater treatment plant
Authors: Perelomov L. , Rajput V. D. , Gertsen M. , Sizova O. , Perelomova I. , Kozmenko S. , Minkina T. , Atroshchenko Y.
Published: January 2024

Worldwide wastewater treatment plants generate enormous amounts of sewage sludge, and their further disposal depends on the treatment technologies applied and spontaneously occurring microbiological processes. From different ages urban sewage sludge, 12 strains of bacteria with simultaneous tolerance to two or more trace elements: Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb at concentration of 3-5 mmol were isolated and identified by PCR of target genes and Sanger sequencing methods. The isloated metal(loids) tolerant strains belong to the species, i.e., Serratia fonticola, Rhodococcus qingshengii, Pseudomonas fragi, Pseudomonas extremaustralis, Pseudomonas cedrina, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Serratia liquefaciens and Citrobacter freundii. The ecological features of the isolated strains were studied. The optimal growth temperatures for most strains was 15–30°C at pH range of 5–9, although some strains grew at 7°C (Pseudomonas fragi SS0-4, Serratia fonticola SS0-9 and Serratia fonticola SS12-11). Satisfactory growth of two strains (Serratia fonticola SS0-1and Citrobacter freundii SS60-12) was noted in an acidic medium at pH 4. Most of the strains grew in the NaCl concentration range of 1–5%. The isolated bacteria resistant to high concentrations of trace elements can be used for the effective mineralization of sewage sludge and for the decontamination of wastewater.
Computational fluid dynamic simulation of packed bed drying process: impact of particle properties, drying conditions, and lateral edge heating modes on drying kinetics
Authors: Tran Thi Thu Hang , Le Kieu Hiep
Published: January 2024

In this work, a two-dimensional computational fluid dynamic (CFD) model is developed to describe the drying process of a packed bed made of spherical particles. The volumetrical evaporation rate inside the bed is computed from the pressure difference between the particle surface and the airflow. By using the thermal equilibrium assumption, the heat conservation equation is derived. The CFD model is solved in the COMSOL Multiphysics environment. The obtained results indicate remarkable maldistributions of temperature and moisture content. These maldistributions can be explained by the impact of lateral edges on thermo-hydraulic behavior. Additionally, the impact of particle diameter, air velocity, and bed width on the spatial-temporal moisture content and temperature distribution is investigated. It shows that the CFD model can be simplified to the receding front drying model for a bed made of small particles. Furthermore, by changing the thermal boundary conditions at the lateral edges, the influence of the heating mode at the lateral edges on the drying behavior is explored. The results indicate that contact heating at the bed wall can help to accelerate the drying process significantly.
Fast elimination of emerging contaminates in complicated water environment medium over the resource conversion product of chicken manure biochar triggered by peroxymonosulfate
Authors: Sun Yingtao , Gu Yuting , Li Meiyi , Wang Hongqiang , Hu Chun , Lyu Lai
Published: January 2024

An innovative strategy for synthesizing novel dual-reaction-center (DRC) catalysts from chicken manure (CM) biochar to purify wastewater that contained emerging contaminants (ECs) is proposed to synchronously address the release of ECs and improper disposal of livestock manure. A series of characterization techniques reveal the formation of a special C-O-Ca bond bridge (cation-π) structure on resourcelized CM nanosheets (RCM NSs). RCM NSs exhibit distinct selectivity and anti-interference capability for various ECs removal in complex matrices, and the water purification system remains stable after 1735 hours (equivalent to 3470 cycles) of operation. Density Functional Tomography (DFT) calculations reveal that trace of peroxymonosulfate as an inducer initiates the continuous donation of electrons from electron-rich ECs and the C-O-Ca bond bridges provide a favorable pathway for electron transfer, which facilitates the electron capture effect of dissolved oxygen in the system. This study provides a novel strategy to convert livestock manure into DRC-catalysts for developing energy-saving and high-efficiency environmental remediation technologies.

Graphical Abstract
Microplastic pollution as an environmental risk exacerbating the greenhouse effect and climate change: a review
Authors: Li Kui , Du Linsen , Qin Chanyuan , Bolan Nanthi , Wang Hailong , Wang Hua
Published: January 2024

Microplastics are polymer-based materials with carbon as their main framework. During degradation, they release greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane. Additionally, environmental microplastics can enter plant tissues, triggering oxidative stress in plant cells, adversely affecting photosynthesis, metabolism, gene expression, and other growth parameters. This reduction in plant efficiency in sequestering and utilizing atmospheric carbon dioxide indirectly impacts global carbon cycling, exacerbating the global greenhouse effect. Furthermore, environmental microplastics significantly alter soil structure and the composition of microbial communities, affecting the emissions of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, thus indirectly promoting greenhouse gas emissions. Increasing research suggests a mutual reinforcement between microplastic pollution and global climate warming, where microplastic pollution exacerbates global climate warming, and the rise in global average temperature leads to the resuspension of microplastics in sediments, intensifying microplastic pollution in the environment. This article primarily focuses on the impacts of environmental microplastic pollution on different ecosystems and the relationship between microplastic pollution and global climate warming. It summarizes the effects of microplastic pollution on greenhouse gas emissions in marine, terrestrial, and atmospheric ecosystems, as well as the mechanisms by which microplastics and climate change affect ecosystem services. By delving into the intricate connection between microplastic pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, this paper aims to raise awareness of the climate change caused by microplastic pollution and calls for further research on the impacts of microplastics on ecosystems and global climate change, with the ultimate goal of protecting ecosystems and human health.

Graphical Abstract
Unveiling global research trends in construction productivity: a scientometric analysis of twenty-first century research
Authors: Van Tam Nguyen
Published: January 2024

Construction productivity research has exploded in the twenty-first century, captivating scholars worldwide. To navigate this burgeoning field, this study utilizes a scientometric analysis approach to identify and evaluate 710 academic articles, examining geographical publication patterns, author contributions, leading journals, keyword co-occurrences, and key findings from previous studies. The results reveal that the United States, Canada, and Australia are the top contributors in terms of publication output. The Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, Automation in Construction, and Construction Management & Economics emerged as leading journals. Keyword analysis finds “productivity,” “construction industry,” and “project management” to be the most prevalent. Notably, research relies on empirical methods like questionnaires and utilizes popular measures such as relative importance index, factor analysis, and regression analysis. Additionally, smart construction and sustainable cities appear as promising paradigms for achieving sustainable productivity. Furthermore, prior studies advocate for workforce upskilling, enhanced motivation, work environment improvements, strengthened site management, and embraced technological advancements to boost construction productivity. This paper enriches the existing body of knowledge by mapping the global research landscape on construction productivity, uncovering emerging trends, identifying influential contributors, and highlighting promising areas for future research. In practical terms, it provides construction practitioners with valuable insights into emerging technologies and promising management approaches that can enhance productivity and optimize construction processes.