bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interval-valued bipolar complex fuzzy soft sets and their applications in decision making
Authors: Jaleel Abdul , Mahmood Tahir , Emam Walid , Yin Shi
Published: May 2024

In this manuscript we demonstrate interval-valued bipolar complex fuzzy set (IVBCFS) and then interval-valued bipolar complex fuzzy soft set (IVBCFSS), as a generalization of fuzzy set, interval-valued fuzzy set, bipolar fuzzy set, complex fuzzy set and soft set. We also initiate operational laws and basic results and properties for IVBCFS and IVBCFSS. Further explanation is given for the basic algebraic operations like complement, extended union, extended intersection, restricted union, and restricted intersection, AND product and OR product for IVBCFSS. Moreover, we demonstrate some fundamental aggregation operators like IVBCFS average aggregation, IVBCFS geometric and as well as their properties. To emphasize the usefulness and application of the system, we also develop the decision-making method and joint instances of the IVBCFSS (set-ups 1 and 2). In order to describe the effectiveness and influence of the approaching novel work, this study uses a comparative analysis of the new creating concept with prevailing ideas.
DLA-Net: dual lesion attention network for classification of pneumoconiosis using chest X-ray images
Authors: Alam Md. Shariful , Wang Dadong , Sowmya Arcot
Published: May 2024

Accurate and early detection of pneumoconiosis using chest X-rays (CXR) is important for preventing the progression of this incurable disease. It is also a challenging task due to large variations in appearance, size and location of lesions in the lung regions as well as inter-class similarity and intra-class variance. Compared to traditional methods, Convolutional Neural Networks-based methods have shown improved results; however, these methods are still not applicable in clinical practice due to limited performance. In some cases, limited computing resources make it impractical to develop a model using whole CXR images. To address this problem, the lung fields are divided into six zones, each zone is classified separately and the zone classification results are then aggregated into an image classification score, based on state-of-the-art. In this study, we propose a dual lesion attention network (DLA-Net) for the classification of pneumoconiosis that can extract features from affected regions in a lung. This network consists of two main components: feature extraction and feature refinement. Feature extraction uses the pre-trained Xception model as the backbone to extract semantic information. To emphasise the lesion regions and improve the feature representation capability, the feature refinement component uses a DLA module that consists of two sub modules: channel attention (CA) and spatial attention (SA). The CA module focuses on the most important channels in the feature maps extracted by the backbone model, and the SA module highlights the spatial details of the affected regions. Thus, both attention modules combine to extract discriminative and rich contextual features to improve classification performance on pneumoconiosis. Experimental results show that the proposed DLA-Net outperforms state-of-the-art methods for pneumoconiosis classification.
Racial and ethnic disparities post-hospitalization for COVID-19: barriers to access to care for survivors of COVID-19 acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Cañas Alicia , Wolf Allison , Mak Angela , Ruddy Jacob , El-Sadek Sal , Gomez Laura , Furfaro David , Fullilove Robert , Burkart Kristin M. , Zelnick Jennifer , O’Donnell Max R.
Published: May 2024

Racial and ethnic health disparities in the incidence and severity of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been observed globally and in the United States. Research has focused on transmission, hospitalization, and mortality among racial and ethnic minorities, but Long COVID-19 health disparities research is limited. This study retrospectively evaluated 195 adults who survived COVID-19 associated acute respiratory distress syndrome (C-ARDS) in New York City from March–April 2020. Among survivors, 54% met the criteria for Long COVID syndrome. Hispanic/Latinx patients, were more likely to be uninsured (p = 0.027) and were less frequently discharged to rehabilitation facilities (p < 0.001). A cross-sectional telephone survey and interview were conducted with a subset of survivors (n = 69). Among these, 11% reported a lack of follow-up primary care post-discharge and 38% had subsequent emergency room visits. Notably, 38% reported poor treatment within the health care system, with 67% attributing this to racial or ethnic bias. Thematic analysis of interviews identified four perceived challenges: decline in functional status, discrimination during hospitalization, healthcare system inequities, and non-healthcare-related structural barriers. Sources of resilience included survivorship, faith, and family support. This study highlights structural and healthcare-related barriers rooted in perceived racism and poverty as factors impacting post-COVID-19 care.
Antiseizure adverse drug reaction and associated factors among epileptic patients at Jimma Medical Center: a prospective observational study
Authors: Bayane Yadeta Babu , Jifar Wakuma Wakene , Berhanu Robera Demissie , Rikitu Dame Habtamu
Published: May 2024

A growing body of evidence suggests that adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the healthcare system. Fifteen to twenty-five percent of patients with epilepsy discontinued antiseizure drugs (ASDs) within 6 months of therapy owing to intolerable adverse drug reactions. In Ethiopia, the prevalence of antiseizure adverse drug reactions and associated factors was not extensively conducted in advanced settings like Jimma Medical Centers. Hence, the objective of this study is to assess patterns of adverse drug reactions and associated factors among ambulatory epileptic patients at tertiary hospitals in Ethiopia. A hospital-based prospective observational study was spanned for 1 year. Two hundred ninety patients were consecutively recruited into the study from all epileptic patients attending the ambulatory clinic. Relevant data were collected through patient interviews and medical chart reviews. The causality assessment was done by using the Naranjo Probability Scale. Epi-Data manager version 4.6.0.4 was used for data entry and statistical analysis was performed by Statistical Package for Social Science version 25.0 (SPSS). Stepwise backward logistic regression analysis was done to identify factors that increase the risk of antiseizure adverse drug reactions. The mean (± SD) age of the participants were 29.91(± 11.26) years. The overall prevalence of ADR was 33.8% (95% CI 29.2–39.9%). A total of 110 adverse drug reactions were identified among 98 patients with an average of 1.12 per patient. ADRs were frequently reported with phenobarbital (52.04%) and phenytoin (34.70%). The commonly identified adverse drug reactions were epigastric pain (27.55%) and central nervous system drowsiness (23.46%). Comorbidity (AOR = 5.91, 95% CI (2.14–16.32), seizure-free period of fewer than 2 years (AOR = 1.94, 95% CI (1.18–3.19), and polytherapy (AOR = 1.35, 95% CI (1.80–2.26) were significantly associated with adverse drug reactions. This trial had a comparatively high percentage of adverse medication reactions. Adverse medication reactions were more common in patients with polytherapy, comorbidities, and seizure-free durations less than two years. Therefore, medical practitioners should advise patients who exhibit these traits on how to reduce or avoid bad drug responses or provide comfort in the event of small incidents.
Lateralizing value and clinicoradiological features of asymmetric last clonic jerks in temporal and extratemporal epilepsy
Authors: Saridas Furkan , Mesut Gizem , Dinc Yasemin , Bican Demir Aylin , Bora Ibrahim
Published: May 2024

Seizure semiology and electroencephalograph (EEG) are very important for determining seizure type, hemisphere lateralization, or localization. Clinical symptoms of focal seizures, as well as findings at the onset or end of a focal to bilateral tonic–clonic seizure (FBTCS), are highly informative for lateralization. This study aimed to investigate the relationship of asymmetric last clonic jerk in patients with temporal or extratemporal lobe epilepsy with pathologies, localization, lateralization, or other semiological findings detected in neuroimaging or neuro psychometric tests and its positive predictive value for the detection of hemisphere lateralization based on seizure onset ictal EEG activation. 44 patients with asymmetric last clonic jerks (aLCJ) who were followed up in our VEM unit were randomized 1:1 with epilepsy patients without. In patients with ipsilateral automatism and contralateral posture or gustatory and olfactory hallucinations aLCJ was less or absent. In patients with unilateral tonic activity, aLCJ was more common. The positive predictive value of aLCJ for ictal EEG activation lateralization was 86.36%. In conclusion, asymmetric last clonic beat is valuable for lateralization of FBTCS and should be considered. Its presence strongly and reliably lateralizes to the side of seizure onset.
Antifungal susceptibility and virulence determinants profile of candida species isolated from patients with candidemia
Authors: Dawoud Amal M. , Saied Sara A. , Torayah Mohammad M. , Ramadan Amira E. , Elaskary Shymaa A.
Published: May 2024

Candida is the most prevalent fungal bloodstream infection (BSI) with a high mortality rate among hospitalized patients. Another concern facing physicians is rising global incidence of drug-resistant Candida. This study aimed to characterize the prevalence, antifungal susceptibility, biofilm formation, and virulence genes (HWP1, ALS1, SAP2) of different Candida spp. isolated from patients with candidemia. 52 isolates of Candida spp. were identified from blood cultures by chromogenic Candida agar and confirmed by the VITEK 2 system. Isolates were tested for antifungal susceptibility by disk diffusion and VITEK 2 system. Biofilm formation and investigated genes were detected by the Congo red method and conventional PCR, respectively. Candida spp. caused 2.3% of detected BSIs, of which 32.7% were caused by Candida albicans (C. albicans) and 67.3% by non-albicans Candida (NAC), with the predominance of C. tropicalis (25%), followed by C. parapsilosis (17.3%), and C. krusei (13.5%). The susceptibility rates to fluconazole, voriconazole, caspofungin, micafungin, amphotericin B, and flucytosine were 64.7%, 76.5%, 100.0%, 100%, 100.0%, and 100.0% in C. albicans, while 53.6%, 71.4%, 91.4%, 91.4%, 94.3%, and 94.3% in NAC, respectively. Biofilm production, HWP1, ALS1, and SAP2 were detected in 70.6%, 82.4%, 76.5%, and 52.9% of C. albicans and 74.3%, 85.7%, 80.0%, and 48.6% of NAC, respectively. There is remarkable shift to NAC BSIs and high azole resistance. Antifungal stewardship and analysis of risk factors associated with this shift are needed.
Green algae Ulva lactuca-derived biochar-sulfur improves the adsorption of methylene blue from water
Authors: Shoaib Amany G. M. , Van Huu-Tap , Tran Dinh-Trinh , El Sikaily Amany , Hassaan Mohamed A. , El Nemr Ahmed
Published: May 2024

The present investigation explores the efficacy of green algae Ulva lactuca biochar-sulfur (GABS) modified with H2SO4 and NaHCO3 in adsorbing methylene blue (MB) dye from aqueous solutions. The impact of solution pH, contact duration, GABS dosage, and initial MB dye concentration on the adsorption process are all methodically investigated in this work. To obtain a thorough understanding of the adsorption dynamics, the study makes use of several kinetic models, including pseudo-first order and pseudo-second order models, in addition to isotherm models like Langmuir, Freundlich, Tempkin, and Dubinin–Radushkevich. The findings of the study reveal that the adsorption capacity at equilibrium (qe) reaches 303.78 mg/g for a GABS dose of 0.5 g/L and an initial MB dye concentration of 200 mg/L. Notably, the Langmuir isotherm model consistently fits the experimental data across different GABS doses, suggesting homogeneous adsorption onto a monolayer surface. The potential of GABS as an efficient adsorbent for the extraction of MB dye from aqueous solutions is highlighted by this discovery. The study’s use of kinetic and isotherm models provides a robust framework for understanding the intricacies of MB adsorption onto GABS. By elucidating the impact of various variables on the adsorption process, the research contributes valuable insights that can inform the design of efficient wastewater treatment solutions. The comprehensive analysis presented in this study serves as a solid foundation for further research and development in the field of adsorption-based water treatment technologies.
Optimizing multi-spectral ore sorting incorporating wavelength selection utilizing neighborhood component analysis for effective arsenic mineral detection
Authors: Okada Natsuo , Nozaki Hiromasa , Nakamura Shinichiro , Manjate Elsa Pansilvania Andre , Gebretsadik Angesom , Ohtomo Yoko , Arima Takahiko , Kawamura Youhei
Published: May 2024

Arsenic contamination not only complicates mineral processing but also poses environmental and health risks. To address these challenges, this research investigates the feasibility of utilizing Hyperspectral imaging combined with machine learning techniques for the identification of arsenic-containing minerals in copper ore samples, with a focus on practical application in sorting and processing operations. Through experimentation with various copper sulfide ores, Neighborhood Component Analysis (NCA) was employed to select essential wavelength bands from Hyperspectral data, subsequently used as inputs for machine learning algorithms to identify arsenic concentrations. Results demonstrate that by selecting a subset of informative bands using NCA, accurate mineral identification can be achieved with a significantly reduced the size of dataset, enabling efficient processing and analysis. Comparison with other wavelength selection methods highlights the superiority of NCA in optimizing classification accuracy. Specifically, the identification accuracy showed 91.9% or more when utilizing 8 or more bands selected by NCA and was comparable to hyperspectral data analysis with 204 bands. The findings suggest potential for cost-effective implementation of multispectral cameras in mineral processing operations. Future research directions include refining machine learning algorithms, exploring broader applications across diverse ore types, and integrating hyperspectral imaging with emerging sensor technologies for enhanced mineral processing capabilities.
Unveiling the cognitive network organization through cognitive performance
Authors: Borne A. , Lemaitre C. , Bulteau C. , Baciu M. , Perrone-Bertolotti M.
Published: May 2024

The evaluation of cognitive functions interactions has become increasingly implemented in the cognition exploration. In the present study, we propose to examine the organization of the cognitive network in healthy participants through the analysis of behavioral performances in several cognitive domains. Specifically, we aim to explore cognitive interactions profiles, in terms of cognitive network, and as a function of participants’ handedness. To this end, we proposed several behavioral tasks evaluating language, memory, executive functions, and social cognition performances in 175 young healthy right-handed and left-handed participants and we analyzed cognitive scores, from a network perspective, using graph theory. Our results highlight the existence of intricate interactions between cognitive functions both within and beyond the same cognitive domain. Language functions are interrelated with executive functions and memory in healthy cognitive functioning and assume a central role in the cognitive network. Interestingly, for similar high performance, our findings unveiled differential organizations within the cognitive network between right-handed and left-handed participants, with variations observed both at a global and nodal level. This original integrative network approach to the study of cognition provides new insights into cognitive interactions and modulations. It allows a more global understanding and consideration of cognitive functioning, from which complex behaviors emerge.
The risk and protective factors on the mental health of healthcare workers during the lockdown period due to covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Liang Kaiwen , Yang Yahui , Chen Kaichao , Lv Furong , Du Lian
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to analyze the impact of the lockdown period due to COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health status of healthcare workers and identify the related risk factors of psychosomatic distress. We conducted an online questionnaire survey to investigate the general demographic characteristics, perceived stress level, adult attachment style (AAS), family cohesion and adaptability, social support, sleep state, emotional state, and physical health of healthcare workers during the lockdown period due to the pandemic in 2022. We compared the mental health status between doctors and nurses, and further analyzed the factors influencing sleep, emotions, physical symptoms, and severe psychosomatic distress separately. For factors that showed statistical significance in the univariate analysis, forward stepwise regression was used for logistic regression analysis to identify risk factors for the corresponding issues. A total of 622 healthcare workers participated in the survey. Among the participants, 121 (19.5%) reported sleep problems, 209 (33.6%) had negative emotional states, and 147 (23.6%) reported physical health problems. There were 48 (7.7%) healthcare workers with severe psychosomatic distress. Compared to the group of nurses, the group of doctors exhibit a higher prevalence of emotional issues, physical health problems and psychosomatic distress. Perceived stress was identified as a risk factor for sleep disturbance, while living with others during quarantine and family adaptability were identified as protective factors. Higher educational background and perceived stress were identified as risk factors for negative emotion, while subjective support was identified as a protective factor. Perceived stress and coming from a rural area were also identified as risk factors for physical health. Overall, for the comparison between the no psychosomatic distress and severe psychosomatic distress groups, perceived stress was identified as a risk factor for severe psychosomatic distress, while subjective support was identified as a protective factor. Healthcare workers’ potential mental and physical health problems are related to their educational background, family cohesion and adaptability, perceived stress and social support. This makes it clearer on how to deal with and prevent adverse consequences when facing stressful situations.
Previously reported CCDC26 risk variant and novel germline variants in GALNT13, AR, and MYO10 associated with familial glioma in Finland
Authors: Nurminen Riikka , Afyounian Ebrahim , Paunu Niina , Katainen Riku , Isomäki Mari , Nurminen Anssi , Scaravilli Mauro , Tolppanen Jenni , Fey Vidal , Kivinen Anni , Helén Pauli , Välimäki Niko , Kesseli Juha , Aaltonen Lauri A. , Haapasalo Hannu , Nykter Matti , Rautajoki Kirsi J.
Published: May 2024

Predisposing factors underlying familial aggregation of non-syndromic gliomas are still to be uncovered. Whole-exome sequencing was performed in four Finnish families with brain tumors to identify rare predisposing variants. A total of 417 detected exome variants and 102 previously reported glioma-related variants were further genotyped in 19 Finnish families with brain tumors using targeted sequencing. Rare damaging variants in GALNT13, MYO10 and AR were identified. Two families carried either c.553C>T (R185C) or c.1214T>A (L405Q) on GALNT13. Variant c.553C>T is located on the substrate-binding site of GALNT13. AR c.2180G>T (R727L), which is located on a ligand-binding domain of AR, was detected in two families, one of which also carried a GALNT13 variant. MYO10 c.4448A>G (N1483S) was detected in two families and c.1511C>T (A504V) variant was detected in one family. Both variants are located on functional domains related to MYO10 activity in filopodia formation. In addition, affected cases in six families carried a known glioma risk variant rs55705857 in CCDC26 and low-risk glioma variants. These novel findings indicate polygenic inheritance of familial glioma in Finland and increase our understanding of the genetic contribution to familial glioma susceptibility.
Glycine by enteral route does not improve major clinical outcomes in severe COVID-19: a randomized clinical pilot trial
Authors: Vargas Mario H. , Chávez Jaime , Del-Razo-Rodríguez Rosangela , Muñoz-Perea Carolina , Romo-Domínguez Karina Julieta , Báez-Saldaña Renata , Rumbo-Nava Uriel , Guerrero-Zúñiga Selene
Published: May 2024

There is a worrying scarcity of drug options for patients with severe COVID-19. Glycine possesses anti-inflammatory, cytoprotective, endothelium-protective, and platelet-antiaggregant properties, so its use in these patients seems promising. In this open label, controlled clinical trial, inpatients with severe COVID-19 requiring mechanical ventilation randomly received usual care (control group) or usual care plus 0.5 g/kg/day glycine by the enteral route (experimental group). Major outcomes included mortality, time to weaning from mechanical ventilation, total time on mechanical ventilation, and time from study recruitment to death. Secondary outcomes included laboratory tests and serum cytokines. Patients from experimental (n = 33) and control groups (n = 23) did not differ in basal characteristics. There were no differences in mortality (glycine group, 63.6% vs control group, 52.2%, p = 0.60) nor in any other major outcome. Glycine intake was associated with lower fibrinogen levels, either evaluated per week of follow-up (p < 0.05 at weeks 1, 2, and 4) or as weighted mean during the whole hospitalization (608.7 ± 17.7 mg/dl vs control 712.2 ± 25.0 mg/dl, p = 0.001), but did not modify any other laboratory test or cytokine concentration. In summary, in severe COVID-19 glycine was unable to modify major clinical outcomes, serum cytokines or most laboratory tests, but was associated with lower serum fibrinogen concentration.

Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04443673, 23/06/2020.
Microbial preference for chlorate over perchlorate under simulated shallow subsurface Mars-like conditions
Authors: Fischer Florian Carlo , Schulze-Makuch Dirk , Heinz Jacob
Published: May 2024

The Martian surface and shallow subsurface lacks stable liquid water, yet hygroscopic salts in the regolith may enable the transient formation of liquid brines. This study investigated the combined impact of water scarcity, UV exposure, and regolith depth on microbial survival under Mars-like environmental conditions. Both vegetative cells of Debaryomyces hansenii and Planococcus halocryophilus, alongside with spores of Aspergillus niger, were exposed to an experimental chamber simulating Martian environmental conditions (constant temperatures of about − 11 °C, low pressure of approximately 6 mbar, a CO2 atmosphere, and 2 h of daily UV irradiation). We evaluated colony-forming units (CFU) and water content at three different regolith depths before and after exposure periods of 3 and 7 days, respectively. Each organism was tested under three conditions: one without the addition of salts to the regolith, one containing sodium chlorate, and one with sodium perchlorate. Our results reveal that the residual water content after the exposure experiments increased with regolith depth, along with the organism survival rates in chlorate-containing and salt-free samples. The survival rates of the three organisms in perchlorate-containing regolith were consistently lower for all organisms and depths compared to chlorate, with the most significant difference being observed at a depth of 10–12 cm, which corresponds to the depth with the highest residual water content. The postulated reason for this is an increase in the salt concentration at this depth due to the freezing of water, showing that for these organisms, perchlorate brines are more toxic than chlorate brines under the experimental conditions. This underscores the significance of chlorate salts when considering the habitability of Martian environments.
Derivation and validation of a nomogram incorporating modifiable lifestyle factors to predict development of colorectal adenomas after negative index colonoscopy
Authors: Yu Mingqian , Ouyang Yiben , Yuan Zhen , Wang Shuyuan , Pang Wenwen , Yan Suying , Liu Xinyu , Wang Wanting , Yi Ben , Han Qiurong , Yao Yao , Liu Yanfei , Song Jiachun , Chu Tianhao , Feng Zhiqiang , Zhang Qinghuai , Zhang Xipeng , Zhang Chunze
Published: May 2024

This retrospective cohort study aimed to identify baseline patient characteristics involving modifiable lifestyle factors that are associated with the development of colorectal adenomas, and establish and validate a nomogram for risk predictions among high-risk populations with negative index colonoscopy. A total of 83,076 participants who underwent an index colonoscopy at the Tianjin Union Medical Center between 2004 and 2019 were collected. According to meticulous inclusion and exclusion criteria, 249 subjects were enrolled and categorized into the primary and validation cohorts. Based on the primary cohort, we utilized the LASSO-Cox regression and the univariate/multivariate Cox proportional hazards (Cox-PH) regression parallelly to select variables, and incorporated selected variables into two nomogram models established using the multivariate Cox-PH regression. Comparison of the Akaike information criterion and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the two models demonstrated that the nomogram model constituted by four covariates retained by the LASSO-Cox regression, including baseline age, body mass index, physical activity and family history of colorectal cancer (CRC) in first-degree relatives, performed better at predicting adenoma-free survival probabilities. Further validation including the concordance index, calibration plots, decision curve analysis and Kaplan–Meier survival curves also revealed good predictive accuracy, discriminating ability, clinical utility and risk stratification capacity of the nomogram model. Our nomogram will assist high-risk individuals with negative index colonoscopy to prevent colorectal adenoma occurrence and CRC morbidity with improved cost-effectiveness.
Predicting exacerbation of renal function by DNA methylation clock and DNA damage of urinary shedding cells: a pilot study
Authors: Hishikawa Akihito , Nishimura Erina Sugita , Yoshimoto Norifumi , Nakamichi Ran , Hama Eriko Yoshida , Ito Wataru , Maruki Tomomi , Nagashima Kengo , Shimizu-Hirota Ryoko , Takaishi Hiromasa , Itoh Hiroshi , Hayashi Kaori
Published: May 2024

Recent reports have shown the feasibility of measuring biological age from DNA methylation levels in blood cells from specific regions identified by machine learning, collectively known as the epigenetic clock or DNA methylation clock. While extensive research has explored the association of the DNA methylation clock with cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease, its relationship with kidney diseases remains largely unexplored. In particular, it is unclear whether the DNA methylation clock could serve as a predictor of worsening kidney function. In this pilot study involving 20 subjects, we investigated the association between the DNA methylation clock and subsequent deterioration of renal function. Additionally, we noninvasively evaluated DNA damage in urinary shedding cells using a previously reported method to examine the correlation with the DNA methylation clock and worsening kidney function. Our findings revealed that patients with an accelerated DNA methylation clock exhibited increased DNA damage in urinary shedding cells, along with a higher rate of eGFR decline. Moreover, in cases of advanced CKD (G4-5), the DNA damage in urinary shedding cells was significantly increased, highlighting the interplay between elevated DNA damage and eGFR decline. This study suggests the potential role of the DNA methylation clock and urinary DNA damage as predictive markers for the progression of chronic kidney disease.
Modelling the mechanical properties of concrete produced with polycarbonate waste ash by machine learning
Authors: Sathvik S. , Kumar Rakesh , Ulloa Nestor , Shakor Pshtiwan , Ujwal M. S. , Onyelowe Kennedy , Kumar G. Shiva , Christo Mary Subaja
Published: May 2024

India’s cement industry is the second largest in the world, generating 6.9% of the global cement output. Polycarbonate waste ash is a major problem in India and around the globe. Approximately 370,000 tons of scientific waste are generated annually from fitness care facilities in India. Polycarbonate waste helps reduce the environmental burden associated with disposal and decreases the need for new raw materials. The primary variable in this study is the quantity of polycarbonate waste ash (5, 10, 15, 20 and 25% of the weight of cement), partial replacement of cement, water-cement ratio and aggregates. The mechanical properties, such as compressive strength, split tensile strength and flexural test results, of the mixtures with the polycarbonate waste ash were superior at 7, 14 and 28 days compared to those of the control mix. The water absorption rate is less than that of standard concrete. Compared with those of conventional concrete, polycarbonate waste concrete mixtures undergo minimal weight loss under acid curing conditions. Polycarbonate waste is utilized in the construction industry to reduce pollution and improve the economy. This study further simulated the strength characteristics of concrete made with waste polycarbonate ash using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression and decision trees. Cement, polycarbonate waste, slump, water absorption, and the ratio of water to cement were the main components that were considered input variables. The suggested decision tree model was successful with unparalleled predictive accuracy across important metrics. Its outstanding predictive ability for split tensile strength (R2 = 0.879403), flexural strength (R2 = 0.91197), and compressive strength (R2 = 0.853683) confirmed that this method was the preferred choice for these strength predictions.
Functional and mechanistic studies of a phytogenic formulation, Shrimp Best, in growth performance and vibriosis in whiteleg shrimp
Authors: Lee Yi-San , Umam Khotibul , Kuo Tien-Fen , Yang Yu-Liang , Feng Ching-Shan , Yang Wen-Chin
Published: May 2024

Climate change and disease threaten shrimp farming. Here, we studied the beneficial properties of a phytogenic formulation, Shrimp Best (SB), in whiteleg shrimp. Functional studies showed that SB dose-dependently increased shrimp body weight and decreased feed conversion ratio. We found that SB protected against Vibrio parahaemolyticus as evidenced by survival rate, bacterial load, and hepatopancreatic pathology in shrimp. Finally, we explored the likely mechanism by which SB affects growth performance and vibriosis in shrimp. The 16S rRNA sequencing data showed that SB increased 6 probiotic genera and decreased 6 genera of pathogenic bacteria in shrimp. Among these, SB increased the proportion of Lactobacillus johnsonii and decreased that of V. parahaemolyticus in shrimp guts. To dissect the relationship among SB, Lactobacillus and Vibrio, we investigated the in vitro regulation of Lactobacillus and Vibrio by SB. SB at ≥ 0.25 μg/mL promoted L. johnsonii growth. Additionally, L. johnsonii and its supernatant could inhibit V. parahaemolyticus. Furthermore, SB could up-regulate five anti-Vibrio metabolites of L. johnsonii, which caused bacterial membrane destruction. In parallel, we identified 3 fatty acids as active compounds from SB. Overall, this work demonstrated that SB improved growth performance and vibriosis protection in shrimp via the regulation of gut microbiota.
Optimization of machine tool settings for Spirac hypoid gears by controlling symmetry of contact paths
Authors: Xuan Jiamin , Li Haitao , Zhang Wei
Published: May 2024

A novel optimization method to control the symmetry of contact paths on the concave and convex tooth surfaces of the gear then improves the meshing quality was proposed. By modifying the angular setting of the head cutter when cutting the pinion, the direction angles of the two contact paths are equated to estimate their symmetry. The relation between the direction angles is formulated precisely, the influence of the angular setting on the contact paths is investigated, and the equations for obtaining the values of the machine tool settings are derived. The proposed method is applied to a numerical example of a Spirac hypoid gear pair, and the results reveal that the contact paths on the concave and convex tooth surfaces are approximately symmetrical and the transmission errors of both sides are comparable.
Belief inference for hierarchical hidden states in spatial navigation
Authors: Katayama Risa , Shiraki Ryo , Ishii Shin , Yoshida Wako
Published: May 2024

Uncertainty abounds in the real world, and in environments with multiple layers of unobservable hidden states, decision-making requires resolving uncertainties based on mutual inference. Focusing on a spatial navigation problem, we develop a Tiger maze task that involved simultaneously inferring the local hidden state and the global hidden state from probabilistically uncertain observation. We adopt a Bayesian computational approach by proposing a hierarchical inference model. Applying this to human task behaviour, alongside functional magnetic resonance brain imaging, allows us to separate the neural correlates associated with reinforcement and reassessment of belief in hidden states. The imaging results also suggest that different layers of uncertainty differentially involve the basal ganglia and dorsomedial prefrontal cortex, and that the regions responsible are organised along the rostral axis of these areas according to the type of inference and the level of abstraction of the hidden state, i.e. higher-order state inference involves more anterior parts.
Valorization of cocoa pod side streams improves nutritional and sustainability aspects of chocolate
Authors: Mishra Kim , Green Ashley , Burkard Johannes , Gubler Irina , Borradori Roberta , Kohler Lucas , Meuli Johannes , Krähenmann Ursina , Bergfreund Jotam , Siegrist Armin , Schnyder Maria , Mathys Alexander , Fischer Peter , Windhab Erich J.
Published: May 2024

Chocolate production faces nutritional, environmental and socio-economic challenges present in the conventional cocoa value chain. Here we developed an approach that addresses these challenges by repurposing the often-discarded pectin-rich cocoa pod endocarp and converting it into a gel. This is done using cocoa pulp juice concentrate to replace traditional sugar from sugar beets. Although swelling of fibres, proteins and starches can limit gel incorporation, our proposed chocolate formulation contains up to 20 wt% gel. It also has comparable sweet taste as traditional chocolate while offering improved nutritional value with higher fibre and reduced saturated fatty acid content. A cradle-to-factory life cycle assessment shows that large-scale production of this chocolate could reduce land use and global warming potential compared with average European dark chocolate production. The process also provides opportunities for diversification of farmers’ income and technology transfer, offering potential socio-economic benefits for cocoa-producing regions.
N-type molecular doping of a semicrystalline conjugated polymer through cation exchange
Authors: Yamashita Yu , Kohno Shinya , Longhi Elena , Jhulki Samik , Kumagai Shohei , Barlow Stephen , Marder Seth R. , Takeya Jun , Watanabe Shun
Published: May 2024

Control of electrical doping is indispensable in any semiconductor device, and both efficient hole and electron doping are required for many devices. In organic semiconductors, however, electron doping has been essentially more problematic compared to hole doping because in general organic semiconductors have low electron affinities and require dopants with low ionization potentials that are often air-sensitive. Here, we adapt an efficient molecular doping method, so-called ion-exchange doping, to dope electrons in a polymeric semiconductor. We initially reduce the polymeric semiconductor using one electron transfer from molecular dopants, and then the ionized dopants in the resulting air-unstable films are replaced with secondary ions via cation exchange. Improved ambient stability and crystallinity of the doped polymeric semiconductors are achieved when a specific bulky molecular cation was chosen as the secondary ion, compared to conventional methods. The presented strategy can overcome the trade-off relationship between reducing capability and ambient stability in molecular dopants, and a wider selection of dopant ions will help to realize ambient-stable electron conductors.
Tuning spin dynamics of binuclear Dy complexes using different nitroxide biradical derivatives
Authors: Song Hongwei , Jin Chaoyi , Wang Xiaotong , Xie Junfang , Ma Yue , Tang Jinkui , Li Licun
Published: May 2024

Two nitronyl/imino nitroxide biradical Dy–Zn complexes exhibit different magnetic relaxation behaviors due to the effect of the distinct nitroxide biradical derivatives.
Solvation structure regulation for an ether/ether biphasic electrolyte to balance cathodic and anodic reactions in metal-based batteries
Authors: Han Qing , Jiao Shilong , Liu Xiao , Bian Tengfei , Zhao Yong
Published: May 2024

An ether/ether biphasic liquid electrolyte is constructed via the difference in solvation abilities of ethylene glycol dibutyl ether (EGDE) and tetraglyme (G4) for lithium salt to prevent the shuttle effect of redox mediators (RMs).
Enhancing the structural and optoelectronic properties of double ETL nickel-doped CsPbIBr2 perovskite solar cells
Authors: Khan M. I. , Mujtaba Ali , Dahshan A. , Khan Shahbaz Ahmed , Boota Muhammad , Laref A. , Elqahtani Zainab Mufarreh , Alwadai Norah
Published: May 2024

Enhanced efficiency through Ni doping and double ETL of Ni-CsPbIBr2: increased grain size, reduced energy bandgap, and elevated efficiency from 12.26% to 12.96%.
Planar tetracoordinate beryllium compounds with a partially covalent Be–Ng bond
Authors: Vásquez-Espinal Alejandro , Pino-Rios Ricardo
Published: May 2024

The ability of the BeH3+ ion to bind noble gases (Ngs) has been explored at the CCSD(T) level. Results show thermodynamic and kinetic stability allowing to be detected at low temperatures and a partially covalent chemical bonding nature for Be–Ng.
Simulating transient X-ray photoelectron spectra of Fe(CO)5 and its photodissociation products with multireference algebraic diagrammatic construction theory
Authors: Gaba Nicholas P. , de Moura Carlos E. V. , Majumder Rajat , Sokolov Alexander Yu.
Published: May 2024

Accurate simulations of transient X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS) provide unique opportunities to bridge the gap between theory and experiment in understanding the photoactivated dynamics in molecules and materials.
Polyvalent interaction and confinement to suppress polysulfide dissolution and improve electrocatalysis
Authors: H. J. Bharathkumar , Shivankar Bhavana R. , Krishnamurty Sailaja , Chen Dehong , Caruso Rachel A. , Krishnamoorthy Kothandam
Published: May 2024

Sulfide and lithium ions of polysulfides interact with nickel cations and pyrrolic nitrogens of nickel phthalocyanine cross-linked polypyrrole, respectively, suppressing the polysulfide shuttle effect while electrocatalysing the polysulfide conversion.
Precursor molecules for 1,2-diamidobenzene containing cobalt(ii), nickel(ii) and zinc(ii) complexes – synthesis and magnetic properties
Authors: Hunger David , Suhr Simon , Bayer Valentin , Albold Uta , Frey Wolfgang , Sarkar Biprajit , van Slageren Joris
Published: May 2024

Precursor molecules are presented that are essential building blocks for generating metal–organic architectures based magnetic materials.
Alkyl backbone variations in common β-diketiminate ligands and applications to N-heterocyclic silylene chemistry
Authors: Bourne Connor , Dong Huanhuan , McKain Katharine , Mayer Lena C. , McKay Aidan P. , Cordes David B. , Slawin Alexandra M. Z. , Stasch Andreas
Published: May 2024

Syntheses of β-diketimines, alkali–metal complexes, and N-heterocyclic silylene derivatives are presented and the impact of ligand backbone modifications are discussed.
Assessing the aging and environmental implications of polyethylene mulch films in agricultural land
Authors: Zhang Chao , Liu Xingyu , Zhang Li , Chen Qindong , Xu Qiyong
Published: May 2024

Polyethylene mulch films (MFs) are widely employed in agricultural land to enhance crop yield and quality, but the MF residue causes significant environmental concerns.
Development of hydrogen bonding stabilized conjugated carbonaceous polyaryl organic solvent nanofiltration membranes for molecular sieving
Authors: Baig Umair , Waheed Abdul
Published: May 2024

This study focuses on a green approach used for the fabrication of a thin film composite organic solvent nanofiltration membrane using aqueous solutions of a pyrrole monomer and iron chloride.
Visible light excited and temperature-responsive phosphorescent system in a phase-changing matrix
Authors: Hu Yingying , Baryshnikov Glib V. , Shan Xueru , Zhang Weiyi , Zhao Sheng-yin , Zhu Liangliang , Wu Hongwei
Published: May 2024

D–A-type tetrakis(arylthio)benzene derivatives exhibited visible-light excited phosphorescence, mechanical-stimuli responsive phosphorescence in solid and temperature-induced phosphorescence changes in the phase-changing doping state.
New melphalan derivatives for the treatment of retinoblastoma in combination with thermotherapy
Authors: Zebret Soumaila , Hadiji Mouna , Romano-deGea Jan , Bornet Aurélien , Ortiz Daniel , Fadaei-Tirani Farzaneh , Stathopoulos Christina , Nowak-Sliwinska Patrycja , Munier Francis L. , Dyson Paul J.
Published: May 2024

Melphalan, a drug in retinoblastoma treatment, was not designed for combination with focal therapy, but is more active when combined with heat. Incorporating perfluorous chains to the drug rsulted in thermoresponsive and increased cytotoxicity.
Blue phosphorene on Au(111): theoretical, spectroscopic and diffraction analysis reveal the role of single Au adatoms
Authors: Del Puppo Simone , Biasin Pietro , Sala Alessandro , Mantegazza Paola , Pasqua Ivan , Ghidorsi Elena , Caporali Maria , Resta Andrea , Coati Alessandro , Genuzio Francesca , Menteş T. Onur , Locatelli Andrea , Comelli Giovanni , Africh Cristina , Vesselli Erik , Peressi Maria , Verdini Alberto
Published: May 2024

A better-performing comparison protocol between experimental methods and numerical calculations is implemented to identify the presence of embedded foreign atoms in phosphorus-based 2D materials and understand their incorporation mechanism.
Deep-learning-assisted photovoltaic performance prediction of sensitizers in dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Zhang Yujin , Fu Haoqing , Zhang Meina , Yang Qingbo , Hu Wei
Published: May 2024

A deep learning model is established to predict the photovoltaic performance of sensitizers in dye-sensitized solar cells.
Molecular engineering of the core part of D–π–A–π–D based small acceptor molecules for efficient organic solar cells: a DFT approach
Authors: Bora Smiti Rani , Kalita Dhruba Jyoti
Published: May 2024

In this study, we have designed five new conjugated acceptors of donor–π–acceptor–π–donor (D–π–A–π–D) type, utilizing quinacridone as the donor and thiophene as the π-bridging component and incorporating five distinct central acceptor units.
Metal-free iodination of arylaldehydes for total synthesis of aristogins A–F and hernandial
Authors: Wu Fufang , Tang Chunmei , Li Xuejian , Li Nan , Liu Miao , Li Danqin , Dai Rongrong , Shen Xiaobao , Zhai Hongbin
Published: May 2024

An efficient method utilizing I(iii) as the initiator has been developed for monoiodination of arylaldehydes. Seven natural products, namely aristogins A–F and hernandial, were synthesized through this iodination followed by Ullmann-type coupling.
Enhancing the thermoelectric performance of GeTe through Sb doping and nanocompositing with SiC for reduced thermal conductivity
Authors: Hu Xiaoquan , Zhang Yu , Jiang Yuanxin , Li Chubin , Yang Qishuo , Wang Xiaoqiang , Zhang Jiye , Li Shuankui , Guo Kai
Published: May 2024

A combined strategy of aliovalent doping and compositing engineering was conducted in GeTe to minimize the thermal conductivity for boosting thermoelectric properties, with a zTmax of 1.82 achieved for Ge0.92Sb0.08Te + 0.2 wt% SiC at 800 K.
Synthesis of structurally diverse pyrazolo[1,2-a]pyrazolones based on the selective C–H bond alkenylation–annulation of 1-arylpyrazolidinones with allenyl acetates
Authors: Xin Yongdi , Zhou Qianting , Li Bin , Cheng Biao , Zhang Xinying , Fan Xuesen
Published: May 2024

Presented herein is a concise synthesis of diverse pyrazolo[1,2-a]pyrazolones based on condition-controlled divergent reactions of 1-arylpyrazolidinones with allenyl acetates.
An environmentally sustainable approach for the utilization of Erigeron bonariensis as a green inhibitor against weathering steel corrosion in acidic media
Authors: Malik Bhawna , Kaur Manvinder , Singh Kishanpal , Kaur Jasdeep , Saxena Akhil , Sohal Harvinder Singh , Husain Fohad Mabood , Arshad Mohammed , Adil Mohd
Published: May 2024

In the realm of corrosion mitigation, the search for sustainable and ecologically accountable inhibitors attracts significant interest from the environmental point of view.
Study of the response behavior of a CdS–SnO2 thick film for high selectivity towards propanol gas
Authors: Vishwakarma Ankit Kumar , Sharma Ajaya Kumar , Yadava Lallan
Published: May 2024

In the present paper we report structural and sensing properties of undoped and CdS-doped SnO2 thick film sensor for detection of propanol gas at operating temperature 200 °C.
Rapid quantitative analysis of petroleum coke properties by laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy combined with random forest based on a variable selection strategy
Authors: Hu Shunfan , Ding Jianming , Dong Yan , Zhang Tianlong , Tang Hongsheng , Li Hua
Published: May 2024

Rapid quantitative analysis of petroleum coke properties by laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy combined with random forest based on a variable selection strategy.
Correction: Innovative wound management: creating dynamic Alg-Mg/SF hydrogels for controlled Mg2+ release in wound healing
Authors: Dai Chaolun , Wu Bingxin , Chen Min , Gao Yisheng , Zhang Miao , Li Wanhua , Li Guicai , Xiao Qinzhi , Zhao Yahong , Yang Yumin
Published: May 2024

Correction for ‘Innovative wound management: creating dynamic Alg-Mg/SF hydrogels for controlled Mg2+ release in wound healing’ by Chaolun Dai et al., RSC Adv., 2024, 14, 10874–10883, https://doi.org/10.1039/D4RA00793J.
Nanocellulose-based hydrogels as versatile materials with interesting functional properties for tissue engineering applications
Authors: Tamo Arnaud Kamdem
Published: May 2024

Tissue engineering has emerged as a remarkable field aiming to repair or replace damaged tissues through the use of biomimetic constructs.
H2O2/acid self-supplying double-layer electrospun nanofibers based on ZnO2 and Fe3O4 nanoparticles for efficient catalytic therapy of wound infection
Authors: Yuwen Lihui , Lu Pei , Zhang Qi , Yang Kaili , Yin Zhaowei , Liang Bin , Wang Lianhui
Published: May 2024

Multifunctional electrospun nanofibers with double-layer structures and H2O2/H+ self-supplying properties are prepared and demonstrated as “plug-and-play” antibacterial dressings for efficient treatment of drug-resistant bacterial infections.
Recent advances in stimuli-responsive controlled release systems for neuromodulation
Authors: Shi Jielin , Tan Chao , Ge Xiaoqian , Qin Zhenpeng , Xiong Hejian
Published: May 2024

Stimuli-responsive controlled release systems are emerging as powerful tools for precise neuromodulation. This review summarizes the recent progress in different release mechanisms and provides insights into future research direction.