bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pyrene‐Appended Luminescent Probes for Selective Detection of Toxic Heavy Metals and Live Cell Applications
Authors: Srivastava Ankur , Mishra Gargi , Pathak Amit Kumar , Pandey Saurabh , Awasthi Chhama , Pandey Mrituanjay D. , Behera Kamalakanta
Published: January 2024

Heavy metal contamination has become a global environmental problem and currently drawn much attention from researchers in worldwide. High exposure to heavy metals can lead to problems like kidney, liver and brain damage, skin and lung cancer, etc. Rapid and sensitive detection of heavy metals is of immense importance in environmental monitoring. Over the past few decades, enormous efforts have been made to design various sensors to identify and monitor these harmful metal ions. In Comparison with other methods, fluorescence‐based chemosensors have received extensive attention because of the advantages of high sensitivity, low cost, real‐time monitoring, simple operation, etc. The pyrene derivatives are significant polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) with strong fluorescence. They are widely used as fluorescent probes in many applications due to their easy modification, high fluorescence quantum yield, and strong fluorescence emission in live cells, outstanding cell permeability, and very low cytotoxicity. The SDG 6: Clean water and sanitation alarm a strong strategy, and careful identification of the risk connected to environmental pollutants needs urgent attention in this situation. Therefore, we highlight different types of pyrene‐based fluorophores and the fluorescence mechanisms for the sensitive and selective detection methodology of Arsenic, Mercury, Cadmium, Lead, and Chromium heavy metals.
Ligand and Strain Synergistic Effect in NiFeP0.32 LDH for Triggering Efficient Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Chen Hao , Ma Yongbing , Han Yun , Mao Xin , Hu Yongbin , Zhao Xin , Dong Qinglong , Wen Bo , Du Aijun , Wang Xin , Lyu Xiao , Jia Yi
Published: January 2024

Developing efficient water‐splitting electrocatalysts to accelerate the slow oxygen evolution reaction (OER) kinetics is urgently desired for hydrogen production. Herein, ultralow phosphorus (P)‐doped NiFe LDH (NiFePx LDH) with mild compressive strain is synthesized as an efficient OER electrocatalyst. Remarkably, NiFePx LDH with the phosphorus mass ratio of 0.32 wt.% and compressive strain ratio of 2.53% (denoted as NiFeP0.32 LDH) exhibits extraordinary OER activity with an overpotential as low as 210 mV, which is superior to that of commercial IrO2 and other reported P‐based OER electrocatalysts. Both experimental performance and density function theory (DFT) calculation demonstrate that the doping of P atoms can generate covalent Fe─P coordination bonds and lattice distortion, thus resulting in the consequent depletion of electrons around the Fe active center and the downward shift of the d‐band center, which can lead to a weaker adsorption ability of *O intermediate to improve the catalytic performance of NiFeP0.32 LDH for OER. This work provides novel insights into the distinctive coordinated configuration of P in NiFePx LDH, which can result in superior catalytic performance for OER.
Tailored Polypyrrole Nanofibers as Ion‐to‐Electron Transduction Membranes for Wearable K+ Sensors
Authors: Yang Yaqiong , Lv Tian‐Run , Zhang Wen‐Hai , Zhang Jia‐Yue , Yin Ming‐Jie , An Quan‐Fu
Published: January 2024

Conductive polymers are recognized as ideal candidates for the development of noninvasive and wearable sensors for real‐time monitoring of potassium ions (K+) in sweat to ensure the health of life. However, the low ion‐to‐electron transduction efficiency and limited active surface area hamper the development of high‐performance sensors for low‐concentration K+ detection in the sweat. Herein, a wearable K+ sensor is developed by tailoring the nanostructure of polypyrrole (PPy), serving as an ion‐to‐electron transduction layer, for accurately and stably tracing the K+ fluctuation in human sweat. The PPy nanostructures can be tailored from nanospheres to nanofibers by controlling the supramolecular assembly process during PPy polymerization. Resultantly, the ion‐to‐electron transduction efficiency (17‐fold increase in conductivity) and active surface area (1.3‐fold enhancement) are significantly enhanced, accompanied by minimized water layer formation. The optimal PPy nanofibers‐based K+ sensor achieved a high sensitivity of 62 mV decade−1, good selectivity, and solid stability. After being integrated with a temperature sensor, the manufactured wearable sensor realized accurate monitoring of K+ fluctuation in the human sweat.
Archaeichnium haughtoni: a robust burrow lining from the Ediacaran–Cambrian transition of Namibia
Authors: Turk Katherine A. , Pulsipher Mikaela A. , Bergh Eugene , Laflamme Marc , Darroch Simon A. F.
Published: January 2024

Following various assignments to Archaeocyatha, worm tubes, and finally incertae sedis, the enigmatic Ediacaran–Cambrian taxon Archaeichnium haughtoni has in recent years come to represent somewhat of a wastebasket taxon to which the indeterminate tapering tubular forms common across this interval are assigned. This ‘catch‐all’ status has been aided in part by both suboptimal specimen photography and the temporary loss of the holotype after its second redescription in 1978. Recent rediscovery of the A. haughtoni holotype in the collections of the Iziko South African Museum in Cape Town has enabled a much‐needed re‐assessment of this critical and cryptic taxon, with results suggesting that this material from the latest Ediacaran or earliest Cambrian of Namibia is among the earliest fossil record examples of marine worm burrow linings, and the oldest examples of linings robust enough to withstand exhumation and current transport. These traces indicate the emergence of this important animalian ecosystem engineering behaviour closer to the Ediacaran–Cambrian boundary than previously thought.
Prognostic factors for liver metastasis in patients with small intestinal stromal tumor: A retrospective analysis of surveillance, epidemiology, and end results
Authors: Liu Luojie , Zhang Rufa , Qiao Zhenguo , Ye Ye , Xia Kaijian , Feng Yunfu , Xu Xiaodan
Published: January 2024

Background

Liver metastasis (LIM) is the most common distant site of metastasis in small intestinal stromal tumors (SISTs). The aim of this study was to determine the risk and prognostic factors associated with LIM in patients with SISTs.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with gastrointestinal stromal tumors between 2010 and 2019 were selected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models, as well as a Cox regression model were used to explore the risk factors associated with the development and prognosis of LIM. Additionally, the overall survival (OS) of patients with LIM was analyzed using the Kaplan‐Meier method. Furthermore, a predictive nomogram was constructed, and the model's performance was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

A total of 1582 eligible patients with SISTs were included, among whom 146 (9.2%) were diagnosed with LIM. Poor tumor grade, absence of surgery, later T‐stage, and no chemotherapy were associated with an increased risk of developing LIM. The nomogram prediction model achieved an AUC of 0.810, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.773–0.846, indicating good performance, and the calibration curve showed excellent accuracy in predicting LIM. The OS rate of patients with LIM was significantly lower than that of patients without LIM (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Patients with SISTs who are at high risk of developing LIM deserve more attention during follow‐up, as LIM can significantly affect patient prognosis. The nomogram demonstrated good calibration and discrimination for predicting LIM.
Opening up the ‘black-box’: what strategies do community mental health workers use to address the social dimensions of mental health?
Authors: Jain Sumeet , Pillai Pooja , Mathias Kaaren
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Community-based workers promote mental health in communities. Recent literature has called for more attention to the ways they operate and the strategies used. For example, how do they translate biomedical concepts into frameworks that are acceptable and accessible to communities? How do micro-innovations lead to positive mental health outcomes, including social inclusion and recovery? The aim of this study was to examine the types of skills and strategies to address social dimensions of mental health used by community health workers (CHWs) working together with people with psychosocial disability (PPSD) in urban north India.

Methods

We interviewed CHWs (n = 46) about their registered PPSD who were randomly selected from 1000 people registered with a local non-profit community mental health provider. Notes taken during interviews were cross-checked with audio recordings and coded and analyzed thematically.

Results

CHWs displayed social, cultural, and psychological skills in forming trusting relationships and in-depth knowledge of the context of their client's lives and family dynamics. They used this information to analyze political, social, and economic factors influencing mental health for the client and their family members. The diverse range of analysis and intervention skills of community health workers built on contextual knowledge to implement micro-innovations in a be-spoke way, applying these to the local ecology of people with psychosocial disabilities (PPSD). These approaches contributed to addressing the social and structural determinants that shaped the mental health of PPSD.

Conclusion

Community health workers (CHWs) in this study addressed social aspects of mental health, individually, and by engaging with wider structural factors. The micro-innovations of CHWs are dependent on non-linear elements, including local knowledge, time, and relationships. Global mental health requires further attentive qualitative research to consider how these, and other factors shape the work of CHWs in different locales to inform locally appropriate mental health care.
Fabrication and characterization of aluminum foam reinforced with nanostructured γ-Al2O3 via friction stir process for enhanced mechanical performance
Authors: Papantoniou Ioannis G. , Manolakos Dimitrios E.
Published: January 2024

This study focuses on the fabrication and characterization of aluminum foam reinforced with nanostructured γ-Al2O3, utilizing AA5083 plates. The fabrication process involved the integration of TiH2 foaming agent particles and reinforcing nanoparticles via the friction stir process (FSP), resulting in the creation of precursor specimens. Subsequently, a separate foaming stage was conducted within a laboratory furnace. The integration of these particles was achieved through the machining of parallel grooves in a single aluminum plate. The initial phase of the experimental study focused on investigating the effect of varying amounts of the foaming agent. Large-scale foams were then produced, achieving a medium porosity of 70%. Electro-discharge machining was employed to prepare specimens for compression testing to analyze their stress–strain response. The results revealed a plateau stress of 27 MPa, a relative Young’s modulus of 4.44 × 10−3, and an energy absorption close to 17 MJ/m3 at 50% strain. Significantly enhanced plateau stress was observed in the manufactured reinforced aluminum foam compared to similar foams produced through conventional methods.
Weak Solutions of Mullins–Sekerka Flow as a Hilbert Space Gradient Flow
Authors: Hensel Sebastian , Stinson Kerrek
Published: January 2024

We propose a novel weak solution theory for the Mullins–Sekerka equation in dimensions $$d=2$$

d
=
2

and 3, primarily motivated from a gradient flow perspective. Previous existence results on weak solutions due to Luckhaus and Sturzenhecker (Calc. Var. PDE 3, 1995) or Röger (SIAM J. Math. Anal. 37, 2005) left open the inclusion of both a sharp energy dissipation principle and a weak formulation of the contact angle at the intersection of the interface and the domain boundary. To incorporate these, we introduce a functional framework encoding a weak solution concept for Mullins–Sekerka flow essentially relying only on (i) a single sharp energy dissipation inequality in the spirit of De Giorgi, and (ii) a weak formulation for an arbitrary fixed contact angle through a distributional representation of the first variation of the underlying capillary energy. Both ingredients are intrinsic to the interface of the evolving phase indicator and an explicit distributional PDE formulation with potentials can be derived from them. The existence of weak solutions is established via subsequential limit points of the naturally associated minimizing movements scheme. Smooth solutions are consistent with the classical Mullins–Sekerka flow, and even further, we expect our solution concept to be amenable, at least in principle, to the recently developed relative entropy approach for curvature driven interface evolution.
Optimal Boundary Control of the Isothermal Semilinear Euler Equation for Gas Dynamics on a Network
Authors: Bongarti Marcelo , Hintermüller Michael
Published: January 2024

The analysis and boundary optimal control of the nonlinear transport of gas on a network of pipelines is considered. The evolution of the gas distribution on a given pipe is modeled by an isothermal semilinear compressible Euler system in one space dimension. On the network, solutions satisfying (at nodes) the Kirchhoff flux continuity conditions are shown to exist in a neighborhood of an equilibrium state. The associated nonlinear optimization problem then aims at steering such dynamics to a given target distribution by means of suitable (network) boundary controls while keeping the distribution within given (state) constraints. The existence of local optimal controls is established and a corresponding Karush–Kuhn–Tucker (KKT) stationarity system with an almost surely non-singular Lagrange multiplier is derived.
Cognitive Functioning and Psychosocial Outcomes in Adults with Complex Congenital Heart Disease: A Cross-sectional Pilot Study
Authors: Verrall Charlotte E. , Tran Derek L. , Kasparian Nadine A. , Williams Tracey , Oxenham Vincent , Ayer Julian , Celermajer David S. , Cordina Rachael L.
Published: January 2024

Adults with complex congenital heart disease (CHD) are at risk for cognitive dysfunction. However, associations between cognitive dysfunction and psychosocial outcomes are poorly defined. Between June and November 2022, we prospectively recruited 39 adults with complex CHD who completed a computerized cognitive assessment (Cogstate) and validated psychosocial scales measuring psychological distress, health-related quality of life (HRQOL), and resilience. Participants had a mean age of 36.4 ± 11.2 years. Over half (62%) were women, most (79%) had complex biventricular CHD, and 21% had Fontan physiology. Prevalence of cognitive dysfunction was greatest in the domains of attention (29%), working memory (25%), and psychomotor speed (21%). Adjusting for age and sex, Pearson partial correlations between Cogstate z-scores and self-reported cognitive problems were small. Participants who lived in the most disadvantaged areas and those with a below-average annual household income had lower global cognitive z-scores (p = 0.02 and p = 0.03, respectively). Two-thirds (64%) reported elevated symptoms of depression, anxiety, and/or stress. Small correlations were observed between psychological distress and cognitive performance. Greater resilience was associated with lower psychological distress (r ≥ −0.5, p < 0.001) and higher HRQOL (r = 0.33, p = 0.02). Our findings demonstrate that adults with complex CHD have a high risk of cognitive dysfunction, though may not recognize or report their cognitive challenges. Lower socioeconomic status may be an indicator for those at risk of poorer cognitive functioning. Psychological distress is common though may not be a strong correlate of performance-based cognitive functioning. Formal cognitive evaluation in this patient population is essential. Optimizing resilience may be a protective strategy to minimize psychological distress and bolster HRQOL.
Diversity and ecological function of urease-producing bacteria in the cultivation environment of Gracilariopsis lemaneiformis
Authors: Pei Pengbing , Aslam Muhammad , Wang Hui , Ye Peilin , Li Tangcheng , Liang Honghao , Lin Qi , Chen Weizhou , Du Hong
Published: January 2024

Urease-producing bacteria (UPB) provide inorganic nitrogen for primary producers by hydrolyzing urea, and play an important role in marine nitrogen cycle. However, there is still an incomplete understanding of UPB and their ecological functions in the cultivation environment of the red macroalgae Gracilariopsis lemaneiformis. This study comprehensively analyzed the diversity of culturable UPB and explored their effects on urea uptake by G. lemaneiformis. A total of 34 isolates belonging to four main bacterial phyla i.e. (Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Actinobacteria) were identified through 16S rRNA sequencing and were screened for UPB by urea agar chromogenic medium assay and ureC gene cloning. Our data revealed that only 8 strains contained urease. All of these UPB exhibited different urease activities, which were determined by the Berthelot reaction colorimetry assay. Additionally, the UPB strain (G13) isolated from G. lemaneiformis with higher urease activity was selected for co-culture with G. lemaneiformis to explore its role in promoting or inhibiting nitrogen uptake by macroalgae. The results showed a significant increase in urea consumption in the culture medium and the total cellular nitrogen in G. lemaneiformis in the UPB-co culture group compared to the sterile group. This suggests that the selected UPB strain positively influences nitrogen uptake by G. lemaneiformis. Similarly, isotopic assays revealed that the δ15N content of G. lemaneiformis was significantly higher in the UPB-co culture than in the control group, where δ15N-urea was the only nitrogen source in the culture medium. This indicates that the UPB helped G. lemaneiformis to absorb more nitrogen from urea. Moreover, the highest content of δ15N was found in G. lemaneiformis with epiphytic bacteria compared to sterilized (i.e. control), showing that epiphytic bacteria, along with UPB, have a compound effect in helping G. lemaneiformis absorb more nitrogen from urea. Taken together, these results provide unique insight into the ecological role of UPB and suggest that urease from macroalgae environment-associated bacteria might be an important player in marine nitrogen cycling.
Discussion of hemodynamic optimization strategies and the canonical understanding of hemodynamics during biventricular mechanical support in cardiogenic shock: does the flow balance make the difference?
Authors: Patsalis Nikolaos , Kreutz Julian , Chatzis Giorgos , Fichera Carlo-Federico , Syntila Styliani , Choukeir Maryana , Griewing Sebastian , Schieffer Bernhard , Markus Birgit
Published: January 2024

Background

Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices may stabilize patients with severe cardiogenic shock (CS) following myocardial infarction (MI). However, the canonical understanding of hemodynamics related to the determination of the native cardiac output (CO) does not explain or support the understanding of combined left and right MCS. To ensure the most optimal therapy control, the current principles of hemodynamic measurements during biventricular support should be re-evaluated.

Methods

Here we report a protocol of hemodynamic optimization strategy during biventricular MCS (VA-ECMO and left ventricular Impella) in a case series of 10 consecutive patients with severe cardiogenic shock complicating myocardial infarction. During the protocol, the flow rates of both devices were switched in opposing directions (+ / − 0.7 l/min) for specified times. To address the limitations of existing hemodynamic measurement strategies during biventricular support, different measurement techniques (thermodilution, Fick principle, mixed venous oxygen saturation) were performed by pulmonary artery catheterization. Additionally, Doppler ultrasound was performed to determine the renal resistive index (RRI) as an indicator of renal perfusion.

Results

The comparison between condition 1 (ECMO flow > Impella flow) and condition 2 (Impella flow > VA-ECMO flow) revealed significant changes in hemodynamics. In detail, compared to condition 1, condition 2 results in a significant increase in cardiac output (3.86 ± 1.11 vs. 5.44 ± 1.13 l/min, p = 0.005) and cardiac index (2.04 ± 0.64 vs. 2.85 ± 0.69, p = 0.013), and mixed venous oxygen saturation (56.44 ± 6.97% vs. 62.02 ± 5.64% p = 0.049), whereas systemic vascular resistance decreased from 1618 ± 337 to 1086 ± 306 s*cm−5 (p = 0.002). Similarly, RRI decreased in condition 2 (0.662 ± 0.05 vs. 0.578 ± 0.06, p = 0.003).

Conclusions

To monitor and optimize MCS in CS, PA catheterization for hemodynamic measurement is applicable. Higher Impella flow is superior to higher VA-ECMO flow resulting in a more profound increase in CO with subsequent improvement of organ perfusion.

Graphical Abstract
Fluctuation–response relations for integrate-and-fire models with an absolute refractory period
Authors: Puttkammer Friedrich , Lindner Benjamin
Published: January 2024

We study the problem of relating the spontaneous fluctuations of a stochastic integrate-and-fire (IF) model to the response of the instantaneous firing rate to time-dependent stimulation if the IF model is endowed with a non-vanishing refractory period and a finite (stereotypical) spike shape. This seemingly harmless addition to the model is shown to complicate the analysis put forward by Lindner Phys. Rev. Lett. (2022), i.e., the incorporation of the reset into the model equation, the Rice-like averaging of the stochastic differential equation, and the application of the Furutsu–Novikov theorem. We derive a still exact (although more complicated) fluctuation–response relation (FRR) for an IF model with refractory state and a white Gaussian background noise. We also briefly discuss an approximation for the case of a colored Gaussian noise and conclude with a summary and outlook on open problems.
Risk of gastric adenoma and adenocarcinoma in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis in Japan: a nationwide multicenter study
Authors: Sasaki Kazuhito , Kawai Kazushige , Nozawa Hiroaki , Ishihara Soichiro , Ishida Hideyuki , Ishibashi Keiichiro , Mori Yoshiko , Shichijo Satoki , Tani Yasuhiro , Takeuchi Yoji , Chino Akiko , Takao Misato , Fujiyoshi Kenji , Matsubara Takaaki , Miyakura Yasuyuki , Taniguchi Fumitaka , Yamaguchi Tatsuro , Tanakaya Kohji , Tomita Naohiro , Ajioka Yoichi
Published: January 2024

Background

Patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) have an increased risk of developing gastric neoplasms. However, the clinical course of FAP with these gastric lesions has not yet been fully clarified. The present study aimed to clarify the changes in the incidence risk of developing gastric adenoma or gastric cancer during the lifespan of patients with FAP.

Methods

Four hundred forty-three patients with data regarding gastric adenoma and gastric cancer retrospectively registered in a nationwide Japanese multicenter study were enrolled. The cumulative incidences and hazard rates (HRs) of gastric neoplasms were evaluated.

Results

The cumulative incidence rates in 50-year-old patients with FAP were 22.8% for gastric adenoma and 7.6% for gastric cancer, respectively. No significant association was found between gastric neoplasms and the colonic phenotype. The peak age for the HR of gastric adenoma was 65 years, with the highest HR (0.043). Regarding the incidence of gastric cancer, the HR increased moderately up to the age of 40 years, but the increase accelerated from the age of 50 years (HR = 0.0067).

Conclusion

Careful surveillance of the upper gastrointestinal tract in elderly patients with FAP, such as shortening the interval of follow-up according to age, may be helpful for early diagnosis of gastric cancer.
Functional AGXT2 SNP rs180749 variant and depressive symptoms: Baseline data from the Aidai Cohort Study in Japan
Authors: Kumon Hiroshi , Miyake Yoshihiro , Yoshino Yuta , Iga Jun-ichi , Tanaka Keiko , Senba Hidenori , Kimura Eizen , Higaki Takashi , Matsuura Bunzo , Kawamoto Ryuichi , Ueno Shu-ichi
Published: January 2024

No study has shown the relationship between alanine-glyoxylate aminotransferase 2 (AGXT2) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and depressive symptoms. The present case–control study examined this relationship in Japanese adults. Cases and control participants were selected from those who participated in the baseline survey of the Aidai Cohort Study, which is an ongoing cohort study. Cases comprised 280 participants with depressive symptoms based on a Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) score ≥ 16. Control participants comprised 2034 participants without depressive symptoms based on the CES-D who had not been diagnosed by a physician as having depression or who had not been currently taking medication for depression. Adjustment was made for age, sex, smoking status, alcohol consumption, leisure time physical activity, education, body mass index, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetes mellitus. Compared with the GG genotype of rs180749, both the GA and AA genotypes were significantly positively associated with the risk of depressive symptoms assessed by the CES-D: the adjusted odds ratios for the GA and AA genotypes were 2.83 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.23–8.24) and 3.10 (95% CI 1.37–8.92), respectively. The TGC haplotype of rs37370, rs180749, and rs16899974 was significantly inversely related to depressive symptoms (crude OR 0.67; 95% CI 0.49–0.90), whereas the TAC haplotype was significantly positively associated with depressive symptoms (crude OR 1.24; 95% CI 1.01–1.52). This is the first study to show significant associations between AGXT2 SNP rs180749, the TGC haplotype, and the TAC haplotype and depressive symptoms.
Infiltration and recharge dynamics in the Nubian Sandstone Aquifer System of northern Chad
Authors: Vogt Marie-Louise A. , Zwahlen François , Pera Sebastián , Mahamat Hamza Brahim , Hunkeler Daniel , Brunner Philip
Published: January 2024

The Nubian Sandstone Aquifer System (NSAS) is one of the world’s largest fossil groundwater resources. In northern Chad, notably in the areas of the Tibesti and Ennedi mountains, precipitation occurs seasonally with rates up to 150 mm year–1. This precipitation could lead to diffuse recharge, as well as concentrated recharge along the episodically flooded wadis. Although it is clear that infiltration occurs under flooded areas, it is unknown if and to what extent the infiltration can recharge groundwater. This study combines remote sensing data on precipitation, evapotranspiration, and the temporal and spatial dynamics of the flooded areas with chemical and stable isotopic data from groundwater and surface water sampled between 2013 and 2016. The combination of these data shows that (1) the only area where diffuse recharge occurs is in the southern area of the Ennedi mountains, where concentrated recharge through the wadis occurs concurrently during the month of August, and (2) southeast of the Tibesti and north of the Ennedi mountains, only concentrated recharge occurs. The length of the flooded areas and thus the spatial extent of concentrated recharge varies significantly from year to year and can last up to 3 months. The study has shown that modern recharge does occur in northern Chad, but to a very limited extent, both in space and time. This means that achieving sustainable management of this renewable resource can only be considered through rigorous quantitative assessments. Furthermore, these findings have important implications for future studies on the regional dynamics of the NSAS.
Feasibility study to identify machine learning predictors for a Virtual Environment Grocery Store
Authors: Parsons Thomas D. , McMahan Timothy , Asbee Justin
Published: January 2024

Virtual reality-based assessment and training platforms proffer the potential for higher-dimensional stimulus presentations (dynamic; three dimensional) than those found with many low-dimensional stimulus presentations (static; two-dimensional) found in pen-and-paper measures of cognition. Studies have investigated the psychometric validity and reliability of a virtual reality-based multiple errands task called the Virtual Environment Grocery Store (VEGS). While advances in virtual reality-based assessments provide potential for increasing evaluation of cognitive processes, less has been done to develop these simulations into adaptive virtual environments for improved cognitive assessment. Adaptive assessments offer the potential for dynamically adjusting the difficulty level of tasks specific to the user’s knowledge or ability. Former iterations of the VEGS did not adapt to user performance. Therefore, this study aimed to develop performance classifiers from participants (N = 75) using three classification techniques: Support Vector Machines (SVM), Naive Bayes (NB), and k-Nearest Neighbors (kNN). Participants were categorized as either high performing or low performing based upon the number items they were able to successfully find and add to their grocery cart. The predictors utilized for the classification focused on the times to complete tasks in the virtual environment. Results revealed that the SVM (88% correct classification) classifier was the most robust classifier for identifying cognitive performance followed closely by kNN (86.7%); however, NB tended to perform poorly (76%). Results suggest that participants’ task completion times in conjunction with SVM or kNN can be used to adjust the difficult level to best suit the user in the environment.
AOTMiT reimbursement recommendations compared to other HTA agencies
Authors: Mela Aneta , Lis Dorota , Rdzanek Elżbieta , Jaroszyński Janusz , Furtak-Niczyporuk Marzena , Drop Bartłomiej , Blicharski Tomasz , Niewada Maciej
Published: January 2024

Our objective was to compare AOTMiT (Polish: Agencja Oceny Technologii Medycznych i Taryfikacji) recommendations to other HTA (Health Technology Assessment) agencies for newly registered drugs and new registration indications issued by the European Medicines Agency between 2014 and 2019. The study aims to assess the consistency and justifications of AOTMiT recommendations compared to that of other HTA agencies in 11 countries. A total of 2496 reimbursement recommendations published by 12 HTA agencies for 464 medicinal products and 525 indications were analyzed. Our analysis confirmed that the Polish AOTMiT agency seems to bear the closest resemblance to the corresponding HTA agencies from Canada (CADTH) and New Zealand (PHARMAC), when it comes to the outcome of HTA recommendations (positive or negative). Poland had a general scheme for justifying recommendations, similar to that of Ireland—four aspects (i.e., clinical efficacy, safety profile, cost-effectiveness, and impact on the payer’s budget) are important for Poland when formulating the final decision. Compared to other countries, Poland shows a noticeably different pattern of justifying reimbursement recommendations, as revealed primarily in terms of budget impact and somewhat less so for cost-effectiveness rationales.
Metal-based nanoparticles in antibacterial application in biomedical field: Current development and potential mechanisms
Authors: Jiang Hao , Li Lingzhi , Li Zhong , Chu Xiang
Published: January 2024

The rise in drug resistance in pathogenic bacteria greatly endangers public health in the post-antibiotic era, and drug-resistant bacteria currently pose a great challenge not only to the community but also to clinical procedures, including surgery, stent implantation, organ transplantation, and other medical procedures involving any open wound and compromised human immunity. Biofilm-associated drug failure, as well as rapid resistance to last-resort antibiotics, necessitates the search for novel treatments against bacterial infection. In recent years, the flourishing development of nanotechnology has provided new insights for exploiting promising alternative therapeutics for drug-resistant bacteria. Metallic agents have been applied in antibacterial usage for several centuries, and the functional modification of metal-based biomaterials using nanotechnology has now attracted great interest in the antibacterial field, not only for their intrinsic antibacterial nature but also for their ready on-demand functionalization and enhanced interaction with bacteria, rendering them with good potential in further translation. However, the possible toxicity of MNPs to the host cells and tissue still hinders its application, and current knowledge on their interaction with cellular pathways is not enough. This review will focus on recent advances in developing metallic nanoparticles (MNPs), including silver, gold, copper, and other metallic nanoparticles, for antibacterial applications, and their potential mechanisms of interaction with pathogenic bacteria as well as hosts.
Connectivity Maintenance through Unlabeled Spanning Tree Matching
Authors: Hamaoui Moshe
Published: January 2024

A key function of mobile networks is the ability to dynamically reshape itself to any desired geometry. Lacking absolute position awareness, agents often rely on distance-limited inter-agent spatial measurements to maintain state awareness. Methods of formation control must therefore ensure a minimal level of persistent pairwise measurement feedback throughout transition, giving rise to the classic connectivity maintenance problem. To address this problem, we propose a method of structure-preserving assignment, matching agents to desired positions such that persistent global connectivity is naturally and automatically satisfied under smooth transition. Compared to other approaches, this complementary technique reduces reliance on aggressive or costly mid-flight formation control protocols. The technique is shown to scale and even improve with network size.
Enactive psychiatry and social integration: beyond dyadic interactions
Authors: Dengsø Mads J.
Published: January 2024

Enactive approaches to psychiatry have recently argued for an understanding of psychiatric conditions based within relational interactions between individuals and their environments. A central motivation for these enactive approaches is the goal of social integration: the integration of a naturalistic approach to psychiatric conditions with their broader sociocultural dimensions. One possible issue, however, is whether appeals to the autonomy and authenticity of relationally constituted enactive individuals can provide a means of adjudicating between harmful and beneficial social constraints upon individual behaviour. This paper seeks to provide enactive approaches to psychiatry with a possible means of evaluating normative influences of social contexts beyond direct interactions with relationally constituted individuals. Some of the most significant influences of the sociocultural dimension of psychiatric conditions consist not in direct interaction with individuals, but in setting the terms for interactions and interactants alike. Insofar as some social influences precede and predefine dyadic relations between individuals and their social context, these cannot be accounted for as features of interactions, but must be assessed as independent structures of the sociocultural dimension. I will provide one potential means for enactive models to assess social norms using Canguilhem’s distinction between health and pathology. I will argue that Canguilhem’s conceptualization of health in terms of adaptive normative structure provides a potential tool for social integration which strongly complements enactive approaches to psychiatry.
Impact of a nanofiltration system on microplastic contamination in Geneva groundwater (Switzerland)
Authors: Negrete Velasco Angel , Ellero Alicia , Ramseier Gentile Stéphan , Zimmermann Stéphane , Ramaciotti Pascal , Stoll Serge
Published: January 2024

Microplastics (MPs) have been observed in the oceans, fresh waters, karstic water and remote water bodies. However, little is known on groundwater contamination, which is a natural resource of utmost importance for millions of people and is often perceived as a reliable source of water. Moreover, nanofiltration is perceived as a reliable technology to remove contaminants from water. In this study, large sample volumes of a silty-sandy gravel aquifer and the corresponding nanofiltered water were analysed for the presence of MPs (> 20 µm) using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) microscopy. Concentration in ground water was 8 ± 7 MPs/m3 and increased to 36 ± 11 MPs/m3 in nanofiltered water. All MPs had a maximum Ferret diameter lower than 500 µm. Size distribution of MPs was towards the small size class (20–50 µm). In groundwater, 33% of MPs were detected in the smallest size class (20–50 µm) and 67% in the 50–100-µm-size class. In comparison, around 52% of MPs in nanofiltered water were observed in the 20–50 µm size class. Moreover, 33% of the MPs observed in nanofiltered water were in the 50–100 µm size class and 15% in the 100–500-µm-size class. From a chemical point of view, different plastic polymers were identified in groundwater and in nanofiltered water, such as polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), ethylene (vinyl acetate) copolymer (EVA), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and other polymer materials (such as polystyrene-based copolymers, vinyl-based copolymers). Fibres were observed in all samples, but only a small number of fibres (near 1%) were identified as PP synthetic fibres in nanofiltered water. Furthermore, no clear difference of fibre concentrations was observed between groundwater (232 ± 127 fibres/m3) and nanofiltered water (247 ± 118 fibres/m3). Groundwater had extremely low levels of microplastics, and although the nanofiltration effectively removes suspended particulate matter, it slightly contaminates the filtered water with MPs.
Real-time prediction of tunnel face conditions using XGBoost Random Forest algorithm
Authors: Wu Lei-jie , Li Xu , Yuan Ji-dong , Wang Shuang-jing
Published: January 2024

Real-time perception of rock conditions based on continuously collected data to meet the requirements of continuous Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) construction presents a critical challenge that warrants increased attention. To achieve this goal, this paper establishes real-time prediction models for fractured and weak rock mass by comparing 6 different algorithms using real-time data collected by the TBM. The models are optimized in terms of selecting metric, selecting input features, and processing imbalanced data. The results demonstrate the following points. (1) The Youden’s index and area under the ROC curve (AUC) are the most appropriate performance metrics, and the XGBoost Random Forest (XGBRF) algorithm exhibits superior prediction and generalization performance. (2) The duration of the TBM loading phase is short, usually within a few minutes after the disc cutter contacts the tunnel face. A model based on the features during the loading phase has a miss rate of 21.8%, indicating that it can meet the early warning needs of TBM construction well. As the TBM continues to operate, the inclusion of features calculated from subsequent data collection can continuously correct the results of the real-time prediction model, ultimately reducing the miss rate to 16.1%. (3) Resampling the imbalanced data set can effectively improve the prediction by the model, while the XGBRF algorithm has certain advantages in dealing with the imbalanced data issue. When the model gives an alarm, the TBM operator and on-site engineer can be reminded and take some necessary measures for avoiding potential tunnel collapse. The real-time predication model can be a useful tool to increase the safety of TBM excavation.
The impact of meaning in life on preservice teachers’ innovative behavior: the chain mediating effects of career calling and learning engagement
Authors: Huang Weiwei , Zhang Shuyue
Published: January 2024

The cultivation of innovation ability among preservice teachers is crucial for the modernization of Chinese education, and the neglect of nonintellectual factors constitutes a key determinant of the inadequate training outcomes. Based on the self-determination theory, this study constructs a theoretical model with meaning in life as the independent variable, innovative behavior as the dependent variable, and career calling and learning engagement as the mediating variables to explore ways to stimulate innovative behavior. We used four scales of meaning in life, innovative behavior, career calling and learning engagement to investigate preservice teachers, and collected 2516 valid data. The results show that the meaning in life has a positive predictive effect on innovative behavior. The effect of meaning in life on innovative behavior can be mediated by career calling and learning engagement independently as well as through the chain mediation of ‘career calling → learning engagement’. The findings indicate that the innovative behavior of preservice teachers is not only affected by the meaning in life, but also closely related to their career calling and learning engagement. To better cultivate the innovation ability of preservice teachers, educational policymakers and administrators should focus on fostering their meaning in life, enhancing their career calling, and promoting learning engagement.
Sequestration of chromium by Ananas comosus extract–coated nanotubes: synthesis, characterization, optimization, thermodynamics, kinetics, and antioxidant activities
Authors: Amaku James Friday , Taziwa Raymond
Published: January 2024

Herein, a superior adsorbent was fabricated via immobilizing Ananas comosus juice extract on nanotubes (MWPJ) for the removal of chromium (VI) from simulated wastewater. The batch adsorption technique was used to establish the influence of solution pH, adsorbent dosage, solution temperature, initial Cr(VI) concentration, and contact time on the adsorption of chromium (VI). To comprehend the surface properties and to confirm chromium (VI) adsorption onto MWPJ and MWCNTs, TGA, SEM, and FTIR analyses were performed for MWPJ and MWCNTs before and after the adsorption process. These spectroscopic techniques revealed the temperature and surface characteristics responsible for the effectiveness of MWPJ. MWPJ and MWCNTs demonstrated optimum removal potential at solution pH 2, 0.05 g adsorbent dosage, and 180 min contact time. The MWPJ and MWCNTs had a maximum adsorption potential of 44.87 and 33.38 mg g−1 at 25 °C respectively. The reaction rate kinetics data for MWPJ and MWCNTs fitted well with Elovich and the pseudo-first-order kinetic model, respectively, while the saturated equilibrium data were best described by Freundlich isotherm. The thermodynamics analysis revealed that the uptake of Cr(VI) onto MWPJ and MWCNTs was a spontaneous and exothermic process. After five adsorption–desorption cycles of MWPJ, about 80% removal efficiency of Cr(VI) ions was sustained. Hence, MWPJ has demonstrated a superior capacity for practical applications in environmental remediation practice.
Atomically Substitutional Engineering of Transition Metal Dichalcogenide Layers for Enhancing Tailored Properties and Superior Applications
Authors: Liu Zhaosu , Tee Si Yin , Guan Guijian , Han Ming-Yong
Published: January 2024

Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) are a promising class of layered materials in the post-graphene era, with extensive research attention due to their diverse alternative elements and fascinating semiconductor behavior. Binary MX2 layers with different metal and/or chalcogen elements have similar structural parameters but varied optoelectronic properties, providing opportunities for atomically substitutional engineering via partial alteration of metal or/and chalcogenide atoms to produce ternary or quaternary TMDs. The resulting multinary TMD layers still maintain structural integrity and homogeneity while achieving tunable (opto)electronic properties across a full range of composition with arbitrary ratios of introduced metal or chalcogen to original counterparts (0–100%). Atomic substitution in TMD layers offers new adjustable degrees of freedom for tailoring crystal phase, band alignment/structure, carrier density, and surface reactive activity, enabling novel and promising applications. This review comprehensively elaborates on atomically substitutional engineering in TMD layers, including theoretical foundations, synthetic strategies, tailored properties, and superior applications. The emerging type of ternary TMDs, Janus TMDs, is presented specifically to highlight their typical compounds, fabrication methods, and potential applications. Finally, opportunities and challenges for further development of multinary TMDs are envisioned to expedite the evolution of this pivotal field.
Development of an Integrated Process Flowsheet to Recover Valuable Metals from Waste Cathode Ray Tubes and Printed Circuit Boards
Authors: Tsebe Sello P. , Steenkamp Joalet D.
Published: January 2024

Electrical and electronic waste is considered a valuable stream of secondary metal resources because it contains metals such as copper, silver and gold. However, it is also classified as hazardous waste as it contains toxic heavy metals such as lead and cadmium. If electronic waste is not managed properly, the toxic metals may pose serious risks to the environment and human health, especially complex fractions such as printed circuit boards (PCBs) and cathode ray tubes (CRTs). The current study investigated a new process for the thermal treatment of CRTs and PCBs in an integrated flowsheet for metal recovery. Smelting tests were conducted to demonstrate that oxidative smelting of PCB concentrate and recycled CRT slag can produce a crude copper alloy with a grade of more than 95%. Another set of smelting tests was conducted to demonstrate that reductive smelting of CRT funnel glass and recycled PCB fume can produce a crude lead alloy with a grade of more than 95%. The investigations were undertaken in a pilot-scale top blown rotary converter (TBRC). The PCBs were smelted under mildly oxidising conditions at temperatures up to 1350 °C. The CRTs were smelted under mildly reducing conditions at temperatures up to 1250 °C. The study demonstrated that it is technically feasible to produce crude alloys of copper and lead from electronic waste, using an integrated process flowsheet.

Graphical Abstract
New data on the shell anatomy of Selenemys lusitanica, the oldest known pleurosternid turtle in Europe
Authors: Pérez-García Adán , Camilo Bruno , Ortega Francisco
Published: January 2024

One of the most diverse turtle lineages in the Upper Jurassic and Lower Cretaceous record of Europe is that of the stem turtles Pleurosternidae (Paracryptodira), also distributed in North America. The oldest European representative of this lineage is the Portuguese Selenemys lusitanica, known from upper Kimmeridgian to lower Tithonian levels (Late Jurassic). The information on the shell of this taxon is so far very limited, being exclusively restricted to that provided in the publication in which the taxon was defined. New specimens from several upper Kimmeridgian to Tithonian localities in the Consolação Sub-basin of the Portuguese Lusitanian Basin, both from the Leiria District and the Lisbon District, are studied here. They include the most complete shell of the species found so far, as well as several isolated plates that allow us to improve knowledge about it. Thus, new information about the shell anatomy of Selenemys lusitanica is provided, but also about its intraspecific variability.