bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Divergent drivers of the spatial variation in greenhouse gas concentrations and fluxes along the Rhine River and the Mittelland Canal in Germany
Authors: Mwanake Ricky Mwangada , Imhof Hannes Klaus , Kiese Ralf
Published: April 2024

Lotic ecosystems are sources of greenhouse gases (GHGs) to the atmosphere, but their emissions are uncertain due to longitudinal GHG heterogeneities associated with point source pollution from anthropogenic activities. In this study, we quantified summer concentrations and fluxes of carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and dinitrogen (N2), as well as several water quality parameters along the Rhine River and the Mittelland Canal, two critical inland waterways in Germany. Our main objectives were to compare GHG concentrations and fluxes along the two ecosystems and to determine the main driving factors responsible for their longitudinal GHG heterogeneities. The results indicated that the two ecosystems were sources of GHG fluxes to the atmosphere, with the Mittelland Canal being a hotspot for CH4 and N2O fluxes. We also found significant longitudinal GHG flux discontinuities along the mainstems of both ecosystems, which were mainly driven by divergent drivers. Along the Mittelland Canal, peak CO2 and CH4 fluxes coincided with point pollution sources such as a joining river tributary or the presence of harbors, while harbors and in-situ biogeochemical processes such as methanogenesis and respiration mainly explained CH4 and CO2 hotspots along the Rhine River. In contrast to CO2 and CH4 fluxes, N2O longitudinal trends along the two lotic ecosystems were better predicted by in-situ parameters such as chlorophyll-a concentrations and N2 fluxes. Based on a positive relationship with N2 fluxes, we hypothesized that in-situ denitrification was driving N2O hotspots in the Canal, while a negative relationship with N2 in the Rhine River suggested that coupled biological N2 fixation and nitrification accounted for N2O hotspots. These findings stress the need to include N2 flux estimates in GHG studies, as it can potentially improve our understanding of whether nitrogen is fixed through N2 fixation or lost through denitrification.
Reassessing the Impact of China’s Belt and Road Initiative: A Mixed Methods Approach
Authors: Wong Mathew Y. H. , Downes James F.
Published: April 2024

This study reassesses the impact of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) by examining various economic linkages between China and other economies. An extensive review of the literature reveals that empirical studies in this field seldom account for the possibility that the BRI might itself be a product, rather than a cause, of connections between China and the world. Based on statistical analyses of data from 163 countries between 1999 and 2017 and mini-case studies on Italy and Hungary, this study finds that the scope and coverage of the BRI are determined by China’s pre-existing connections with other economies. The actual impact of the BRI on various economic outcomes, with the partial exception of Chinese investments flowing to formal participants, is limited when pre-BRI trends are accounted for. In addition, given the encompassing nature of the BRI framework, the concern that the BRI is autocracy-exporting or corruption-inducing appears to be exaggerated. The study thus calls for a more nuanced consideration of the actual impact of the BRI.
Benefits of air quality for human health resulting from climate change mitigation through dietary change and food loss prevention policy
Authors: Jansakoo Thanapat , Sekizawa Satoshi , Fujimori Shinichiro , Hasegawa Tomoko , Oshiro Ken
Published: April 2024

Food production, particularly cattle husbandry, contributes significantly to air pollution and its associated health hazards. However, making changes in dietary habits, such as reducing red meat consumption and minimizing food waste, can lead to substantial improvements in both air quality and human health. In this study, we explored the impact of dietary changes on future air quality and human wellbeing. We also assessed the influence of dietary transformation policies in the context of climate change mitigation, with the objective of understanding how policies can effectively complement each other. We used a chemical transport model and an integrated assessment model to determine changes in fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and ozone (O3) concentrations. Then, an exposure model was applied to estimate premature deaths as a consequence of air pollution. Our results showed that dietary changes could play a crucial role in mitigating air pollution, particularly in regions where agricultural activities emit significant quantities of ammonia. In the European Union, for example, dietary changes could lead to a reduction of 5.34% in PM2.5 by 2050. Similarly, in Asia, the models projected a reduction of 6.23% in PM2.5 by 2100. Ground surface O3 levels in Southeast Asia were projected to drop by as much as 12.93% by 2100. Our results further showed that dietary changes could lead to significant reductions in global mortality associated with PM2.5 and O3, with 187,500 and 131,110 avoided deaths per year expected by 2100. A combined approach that integrates dietary changes with climate change mitigation measures could lead to more comprehensive air quality improvements in specific regions. However, careful consideration is needed to address any potential adverse effects on O3 concentrations in some areas.
More than Psychometric Properties of the Fear of Covid-19 Scale. The Struggle of the Portuguese Police Officers
Authors: Sousa Bárbara , Correia-Santos Patrícia , Brooke Erika , Costa Patrício , Maia Ângela
Published: April 2024

The Covid-19 pandemic conveyed consequences for people’s physical and mental health. During the worst pandemic scenarios, police officers were one of the most exposed populations. This situation brought these professionals unusual responsibilities, such as adjust work shifts and allocate police officers from operational and administrative services to the Covid-19 supervision teams and put them at an elevated risk of contracting the virus because they are also frontline workers too, and they often did not have personal protective equipment. Due to this, the main objective of this study was to analyze the psychometric properties of a Portuguese version of the Fear of Covid-19 among police officers, as well as to know how the fear of Covid-19 relates to the mental health during the worst wave of the Covid-19 pandemic in Portugal. Participants were 174 police officers aged between 23 and 58 years old (M = 40.81; SD = 6.83) who completed the Fear of Covid-19 Scale, the Operational Police Stress Questionnaire, and the Posttraumatic Disorder Checklist for DSM-5. Confirmatory factor analysis revealed a good adjustment fit for the two-factor model. Construct validity was supported, and the internal consistency was good for both periods of assessment. The model proved invariant for both groups (pre and during lockdown) at the measurement, scalar, and structural levels. Study findings suggest that the Portuguese Version of FCV-19S is a reliable measure to assess the fear of Covid-19 among police officers, including during the pandemic development.
Design of an improved layout for a steel processing facility using SLP and lean Manufacturing techniques
Authors: Salins Sampath Suranjan , Zaidi Syed Ali Raza , Deepak D , Sachidananda H K
Published: April 2024

Implementing lean manufacturing practices in the systematic layout planning (SLP) process for improving facility layouts in various industries is essential. This approach enhances material handling processes and effectively manages space utilization. An efficient plant employing systematic layout planning leads to improved resource utilization and facilitates the integration of lean manufacturing techniques such as value stream mapping, 5 S, Ohno’s 7 wastes, and cellular manufacturing. This research article presents a case study on a steel processing plant in Dubai with an area of 160 m × 160 m, where systematic layout planning and lean manufacturing techniques were applied. The factors considered included space and material flow optimization, incorporating layout alternatives based on systematic layout planning principles along with lean manufacturing techniques. The study revealed a 34% reduction in material flow and an efficient overall space utilization improvement of 26%. Additionally, cost analysis validation was conducted.
Alternating chemotherapy with VDC-IE as effective first-line treatment in a patient with SMARCA4-deficient undifferentiated tumor
Authors: Popov Petar , Steinbrecher Oskar , Scharrer Anke , Raderer Markus , Brodowicz Thomas , Preusser Matthias , Lamm Wolfgang
Published: April 2024

SMARCA4-deficient undifferentiated tumor (SMARCA4-UTs) is an extremely rare and aggressive entity where no consensus on systemic treatment exists to date. We report the case of a 43-year-old woman with thoracic SMARCA4-UT who presented with rapid progression of disease after surgical resection and achieved complete radiologic remission under VDC-IE chemotherapy (vincristine, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide [VDC], alternating with ifosfamide and etoposide [IE]). The detailed case report is followed by a brief discussion and overview of current literature.
Comparison of clinicopathological and prognostic features of breast cancer patients younger than 40 years and older than 65 years
Authors: Culha Yaşar , Davarci Sena Ece , Ünlü Beyza , Özaşkin Duygu , Demir Hacer , Baykara Meltem
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to compare the clinicopathological and prognostic features of women aged 40 years and younger and 65 years and older with breast cancer.

Methods

Between January 2011 and December 2021, 136 female cases aged 40 years and younger and 223 female cases aged 65 and over were identified among all cases (1395 cases) registered as breast cancer in the file archives of Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Oncology for the study. A Chi-square (× 2) test was used for categorical variables, and an independent sample t-test for continuous variables. Log-rank test and Kaplan–Meier plots were used for survival analysis. For the statistical evaluation, p < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

Both overall survival (p < 0.01) and breast cancer-specific survival (BCSS) (p = 0.01) were significantly worse in the older group. BCSS were significantly worse in the older group in Luminal B (HER2−) (p = 0.013) and HR− HER2+ (p = 0.015) subtypes detected. In multivariate Cox regression analysis, only the presence of metastases at diagnosis or follow-up (p < 0.001) and ECOG PS 2–3 status (p = 0.001) were associated with an increased risk of breast cancer-specific death.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, no study directly compares these two groups. In our study, similar to many studies, more aggressive tumor features were found in young patients, but unlike many studies, mortality was found to be significantly higher in older patients. The presence of metastasis and poor ECOG PS were found to be the most influential factors in breast cancer-specific death risk.
The Emergency Medical Team Operating System — a vision for field hospital data management in following the concepts of predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine
Authors: Gaebel Jan , Schreiber Erik , Neumuth Thomas
Published: April 2024

In times where sudden-onset disasters (SODs) present challenges to global health systems, the integration of predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine (PPPM / 3PM) into emergency medical responses has manifested as a critical necessity. We introduce a modern electronic patient record system designed specifically for emergency medical teams (EMTs), which will serve as a novel approach in how digital healthcare management can be optimized in crisis situations. This research is based on the principle that advanced information technology (IT) systems are key to transforming humanitarian aid by offering predictive insights, preventive strategies, and personalized care in disaster scenarios. We aim to address the critical gaps in current emergency medical response strategies, particularly in the context of SODs. Building upon a collaborative effort with European emergency medical teams, we have developed a comprehensive and scalable electronic patient record system. It not only enhances patient management during emergencies but also enables predictive analytics to anticipate patient needs, preventive guidelines to reduce the impact of potential health threats, and personalized treatment plans for the individual needs of patients. Furthermore, our study examines the possibilities of adopting PPPM-oriented IT solutions in disaster relief. By integrating predictive models for patient triage, preventive measures to mitigate health risks, and personalized care protocols, potential improvements to patient health or work efficiency could be established. This system was evaluated with clinical experts and shall be used to establish digital solutions and new forms of assistance for humanitarian aid in the future. In conclusion, to really achieve PPPM-related efforts more investment will need to be put into research and development of electronic patient records as the foundation as well as into the clinical processes along all pathways of stakeholders in disaster medicine.
A novel reservoir classification method for sandstone reservoir evaluation using multi-scale digital rock method
Authors: Chen Ming , Gao Yongde , Wang Guanqun , Shao Haipeng , Chen Feifei , Long Wei
Published: April 2024

The formulation of an effective development plan, optimizing exploitation efficiency, relies heavily on accurate reservoir characterization. However, existing reservoir classification methodologies, which rely on macroscopic geological observations and well-logging data, have limitations in data availability and fail to capture micro-scale pore structure characteristics accurately. The emerging technology of digital rock, widely employed in the petroleum industry, also faces challenges in accurately capturing reservoir heterogeneity due to its single-scale nature and limited application for reservoir classification. To overcome these challenges, this study presents an innovative reservoir classification approach based on the multi-scale digital rock method. This approach integrates qualitative assessment of micro-CT images for particle contact relationships and pore types with quantitative evaluation of multi-scale characteristic parameters, obtained from micro-CT and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. The proposed classification method demonstrates excellent agreement with the prioritization of development and production data for offshore sandstone reservoirs. By establishing a robust evaluation methodology, this classification method facilitates exploration potential assessment and development strategy optimization within the field.
Dynamic livelihoods, gender and poverty in marine protected areas: Case study from Zanzibar, Tanzania
Authors: Pike Felicity , Lindström Lars , Ekstedt Josefin , Jiddawi Narriman S. , de la Torre-Castro Maricela
Published: April 2024

Livelihood initiatives are common within marine protected areas (MPAs) aiming for poverty alleviation or higher income opportunities. However, results can be mixed in reality, as well as change over time. Furthermore, who benefits is a key consideration, as results can vary based on inequalities, including gender. Here, the monetary outcomes of different livelihood strategies were investigated across three MPA regions in Zanzibar, Tanzania. Using a quantitative approach, the results show that livelihoods have shifted in a six-year period, with livelihood strategies differing in poverty incidence and income. Livelihood initiatives, namely seaweed farming and tourism, did not provide significantly higher monetary returns compared to long-standing livelihoods, such as fisheries. Seaweed farming showed income stability but a high poverty incidence predominantly within women-headed households. During the study period, men primarily remained in fisheries, whilst women shifted to small-scale businesses and fisheries, largely exiting seaweed farming. This underscores a need for adaptive, gender sensitive management within fast changing coastal contexts.
Fatigue and failure behaviour of friction welded steel joints under normal and shear stresses
Authors: Baumgartner Jörg , Uhlenberg Lorenz , Trommer Frank , Hesse Ann-Christin , Köhler Markus , Dilger Klaus
Published: April 2024

Rotary friction welding is a fast and efficient joining process with the possibility to join materials that are not weldable by conventional GMAW-processes. If done properly, the welds have a static and fatigue strength higher than the base material. However, in literature, there exists only sparse information on the design and assessment of these joints in terms of fatigue. The fatigue strength of two material combinations, S355-S355 and S355-1.4301, is investigated based on two specimen conditions, (1) with flash and (2) with flash mechanically removed. In the majority of tests, failure occurred outside the weld zone, in the base material. The derived endurable nominal stresses are compared to the design S-N curve of conventionally welded specimens and show a more than 50% higher fatigue strength.
Supervised Versus Unsupervised Exercise for the Improvement of Physical Function and Well-Being Outcomes in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Gómez-Redondo Paola , Valenzuela Pedro L. , Morales Javier S. , Ara Ignacio , Mañas Asier
Published: April 2024

Background

Unsupervised exercise intervention (UNSUP) appears to be a practical and beneficial strategy for older adults, although its feasibility and effectiveness compared to supervised exercise intervention (SUP) remains unknown. We aimed to compare the safety, attendance/adherence rates, and effectiveness of SUP versus UNSUP on physical function and well-being outcomes in older adults.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, and APA PsycINFO up to September 2022 for randomized controlled trials comparing SUP versus UNSUP in older adults (≥ 60 years). Safety and attendance/adherence rates were registered as indicators of feasibility, and meta-analyses were performed for physical function and well-being outcomes. Sub-analyses were performed for those studies that applied a similar intervention in both groups and for those studies where participants performed ≥ 66% of the sessions in the assigned condition.

Results

Thirty-four studies were included (n = 2830). No serious adverse events were reported, with similar attendance rates (81%) for both SUP and UNSUP. Compared with UNSUP, SUP induced significant higher benefits on knee extension strength (standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.18, p = 0.002), sit-to-stand test (STS, SMD = 0.25, p = 0.050), timed-up-and-go test (TUG, SMD = 0.21, p = 0.035), usual gait speed (SMD = 0.29, p = 0.026), lean mass (mean difference = 1.05 kg, p < 0.001) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL, SMD = 0.21, p = 0.035), albeit only knee extension strength remained significant in sensitivity analyses. Sub-analyses revealed superior benefits of SUP on knee extension strength when only considering those studies that applied a similar intervention in both SUP and UNSUP groups. However, no significant benefits were found for the remaining outcomes. Beneficial effects of SUP over UNSUP were also observed for knee extension strength, STS, functional reach test, TUG, usual gait speed, lean mass, and HRQoL when separately analyzing those studies in which participants performed ≥ 66% of the sessions in the assigned condition.

Conclusions

Current evidence suggests that both SUP and UNSUP programs are safe and could exert benefits on physical function and HRQoL. However, despite being associated with similar attendance rates, SUP might offer some additional benefits, although further high-quality research (i.e., accounting for confounding factors such as presence of supervised sessions in UNSUP or vice versa, as well as equating the exercise dose) is necessary to confirm these findings.

PROSPERO Registration Number

CRD42022326420.
Plasma neurological biomarkers as a measure of neurotoxicity in pediatric dental general anesthesia: a prospective observational feasibility study
Authors: Chakithandy S. , Nazzal H. , Matoug-Elwerfelli M. , Narasimhan S. , Uddin S. , Prabhu K. S. , Zarif L. , Mumtaz N. , Sharma A. , Al-Khelaifi M.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Neurotoxicity concerns have been raised over general anesthesia and sedation medication use in children. Such concerns are largely based on animal studies, historical anesthetic agents, and assessment tools, thus warranting further investigations. Blood biomarkers in detecting neuronal inflammation and apoptosis are novel methods for detecting neuronal damage. Therefore, the aim of this feasibility study was to assess the usefulness of the levels of four plasma biomarkers in dental general anesthesia (DGA) as surrogate markers of neurotoxicity in children. The secondary aim was to compare changes in motor manipulative skills pre- and post-anesthetic exposure.

Methods

This single-center prospective observational study included 22 healthy children aged between 3 and 6 years old who underwent DGA. Subclinical neurotoxicity was measured with a panel of four plasma biomarkers: Caspase-3, neuron-specific enolase (NSE), neurofilament light chain, and S100B at three time points (1; at start, 2; end and 3; on recovery from DGA). The Skillings–Mack test was used to identify the difference in the biomarker levels at three time points. Motor manipulative score assessment, prior and two weeks after DGA was also performed.

Results

A total of 22 study participants (mean age = 5 ± 1 years) were included with a median DGA duration of 106 ± 28 min. A reduction in Caspase-3 levels was recorded, with pairwise comparison over three time points, reporting a statistical significance between time point 2 vs. 1 and time point 3 vs. 1. Although fluctuations in NSE levels were recorded, no significant changes were found following pairwise comparison analysis. Among other biomarkers, no significant changes over the three periods were recorded. Furthermore, no significant changes in manipulative motor scores were reported.

Conclusion

Caspase-3 reduced significantly in the short time frames during day-care DGA; this might be due to the relatively short anesthesia duration associated with dental treatment as compared with more extensive medical-related treatments. Therefore, further studies on Caspase-3 as a potential biomarker in pediatric DGA neurotoxicity are required to further ascertain results of this study.
Mechanism of cross-level settlements and void accumulation of wide and conventional sleepers in railway ballast
Authors: Nabochenko Olga , Sysyn Mykola , Krumnow Norman , Fischer Szabolcs
Published: April 2024

The cross-level and twist irregularities are the most dangerous irregularity types that could cause wheel unloading with the risk of derailments and additional maintenance expenses. However, the mechanism of the irregularities initiation and development is unclear. The motivation of the present study was the previous experimental studies on the application of wide sleepers in the ballasted track. The long-term track geometry measurements with wide sleepers show an enormous reduction of the vertical longitudinal irregularities compared to the conventional track. However, wide sleepers had higher twist and cross-section level irregularities. The present paper aims to explain the phenomenon by discrete element method (DEM) modeling the development process of sleeper inhomogeneous support at cross-level depending on the sleeper form. The DEM simulations show that the maximal settlement intensity is up to 3.5 times lower for a wide sleeper in comparison with the conventional one. Nevertheless, the cross-level differential settlements are almost the same for both sleepers. The particle loading distribution after all loading cycles is concentrated on the smaller area, up to the half sleeper length, with fully unloaded zones under sleeper ends. Ballast flow limitation under the central part of the sleeper could improve the resilience of wide sleepers to the development of cross-level irregularities. The mechanism of initiation of the cross-level irregularity is proposed, which assumes the loss of sleeper support under sleeper ends. The further growth of inhomogeneous settlements along the sleeper is assumed as a result of the interaction of two processes: ballast flow due to dynamic impact during void closing and on the other side high pressure due to the concentration of the pressure under the middle part of the sleeper. The DEM simulation results support the assumption of the mechanism and agree with the experimental studies.
A large-scale multi-attribute group decision-making method with R-numbers and its application to hydrogen fuel cell logistics path selection
Authors: Cheng Rui , Fan Jianping , Wu Meiqin , Seiti Hamidreza
Published: April 2024

The large-scale multi-attribute group decision-making (LSMAGDM) problem has become a hot research topic in the field of decision science. An R-numbers large-scale multi-attribute group decision-making (R-LSMAGDM) model is proposed to be constructed in this paper based on the advantages of R-numbers in capturing risks. First, the most commonly used clustering method, k-means, is introduced to determine the sub-groups. Then, a new sub-group weighting determination model is constructed by considering sub-group size and sub-group entropy. Next, we also build an optimized consensus-reaching model by improving the calculation method of the mean value. Then, the R-numbers weighted Hamy mean (RNWHM) operator is proposed to aggregate the sub-group information. In addition, the logarithmic percentage change-driven objective weighting (LOPCOW) method and the compromise ranking of alternatives from distance to ideal solution (CRADIS) method are used for attribute weighting calculation and alternative ranking, respectively. Finally, the effectiveness of the model is verified by an application example of hydrogen fuel cell logistics path selection.
The Anticipatory, Short-Term, and Long-Term Effects of Parental Separation and Parental Death on Adolescent Delinquency
Authors: Kroese Janique , Bernasco Wim , Liefbroer Aart C. , Rouwendal Jan
Published: April 2024

Studies investigating the role of single-parent families in adolescent delinquency have seldom differentiated between types of single-parent families. Furthermore, they have typically assumed that parental disruption is a discrete event marking an abrupt change between dual-parenthood and single-parenthood. Using Dutch longitudinal population register data, we estimated fixed-effects panel models to assess (1) whether the event of parental disruption, either by parental separation or by parental death, increases subsequent adolescent delinquency and (2) whether parental disruption, either by parental separation or by parental death, has anticipatory, immediate, or delayed effects on adolescent delinquency. Our results showed that both parental separation and parental death seem to boost adolescent delinquency, and we found no difference between these types of single-parent families. However, when distinguishing between anticipatory, short-term, and long-term effects, we found a short-term increase in adolescent delinquency after a parental separation and an anticipatory reduction in adolescent delinquency before a parental death. Future research should pay more attention to diversity in the composition of single-parent families, as well as to the anticipatory, short-term, and long-term consequences.
How Do We Flip Our Language Classroom? Reassessing the Flipped Method
Authors: Gondra Ager , Aguiló-Mora Francisca
Published: April 2024

This study has a twofold purpose. First, from an action research approach, the study re-visits how the flipped method is implemented in a Spanish Second Language program at a United States university, and contributes to the literature on the potential benefits and challenges when adopting the flipped method in Second Language programs. Through the analysis of data obtained from a questionnaire, which consists of an agreement-based survey and open-ended questions, we report on how participants and co-researchers—261 Spanish language students and 11 teachers—are affected by the outcomes of this pedagogical implementation. Participants report three benefits and three areas for improvement. Second, based on students and teachers’ experiences, we conclude with a re-assessment of the method and a set of recommendations for language educators interested in integrating the flipped method in their teaching. This study contributes to the ongoing debate about the effects of a flipped classroom in language learning, and proposes a reevaluation of the most common applications of the flipped method.
Enhancing the Phytoextraction of Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn by Portulaca oleracea in a Heavily Contaminated Soil Using Low Molecular Weight Organic Substances: Is Phytoremediation Viable?
Authors: Thalassinos Georgios , Levizou Efi , Rinklebe Jörg , Shaheen Sabry M. , Vasileios Antoniadis
Published: April 2024

Phytoremediation can be accelerated if contaminated soils are amended with releasing agents. We tested four such materials, citric acid (CA), EDTA, oxalic acid (OA), and tartaric acid (TA) at two doses, 20 and 40 mmol kg−1, amended in a pot experiment to a heavily contaminated soil cultivated with purslane (Portulaca oleracea). We found that Cd extracted with DTPA remained unchanged in all treatments compared to the control except for the treatment of added EDTA at 40 mmol kg−1 (“EDTA-40”). Similar was the case with Cu, Pb, and Zn. As a consequence, Cd in the aboveground plant material increased significantly from 1.21 (control) to 3.84 at EDTA-40 and 3.55 at EDTA-20 (mg kg−1). Similar was the case with all other metals, with Pb exhibiting an impressive fivefold increase to 280.35 mg kg−1 at EDTA-40 from the control. We conclude that EDTA was the most successful releasing agent among those tested, especially for Pb and Zn. However, we come to the conclusion that, based on calculations of the required time to meaningfully reduce soil metals contents, phytoremediation is not a practical option for extremely metal-elevated soils. These findings should be verified under field conditions.
Metagenomic analysis of the effects of salinity on microbial community and functional gene diversity in glacial meltwater estuary, Ny-Alesund, Arctic
Authors: Yang Fan , Li Qinxin , Yin Xiaofei
Published: April 2024

Due to the inflow of meltwater from the Midre Lovénbreen glacier upstream of Kongsfjorden, the nutrient concentration of Kongsfjorden change from the estuary to the interior of the fjord. Our objective was to explore the changes in bacterial community structure and metabolism-related genes from the estuary to fjord by metagenomic analysis. Our data indicate that glacial meltwater input has altered the physicochemical properties of the fjords, with a significant effect, in particular, on fjords salinity, thus altering the relative abundance of some specific bacterial groups. In addition, we suggest that the salinity of a fjord is an important factor affecting the abundance of genes associated with the nitrogen and sulfur cycles in the fjord. Changes in salinity may affect the relative abundance of microbial populations that carry metabolic genes, thus affecting the relative abundance of genes associated with the nitrogen and sulfur cycles.
Roles of iron and manganese in bimetallic biochar composites for efficient persulfate activation and atrazine removal
Authors: Liang Yuan , Tao Ran , Zhao Ben , Meng Zeda , Cheng Yuanyuan , Yang Fan , Lei Huihui , Kong Lingzhao
Published: April 2024

As for Atrazine (C8H14ClN5) degradation in soil, iron (Fe)-manganese (Mn) bimetallic biochar composites were proved to be more efficient for persulfate (PS) activation than monometallic ones. The atrazine removal rates of Fe/Mn loaded biochar + PS systems were 2.17–2.89 times higher than Fe/Mn loaded biochar alone. Compared with monometallic biochar, the higher atrazine removal rates by bimetallic biochar (77.2–96.7%) were mainly attributed to the synergy degradation and adsorption due to the larger amounts of metal oxides on the biochar surface. Atrazine degradation in Fe-rich biochar systems was mainly attributed to free radicals (i.e., $${\text{SO}}_{4}^{ \cdot - }$$

SO

4

·
-

and ·OH) through oxidative routes, whereas surface-bound radicals, 1O2, and free radicals were responsible for the degradation of atrazine in Mn-rich biochar systems. Furthermore, with a higher ratio of Fe(II) and Mn(III) formed in Fe-rich bimetallic biochar, the valence state exchange between Fe and Mn contributed significantly to the more effective activation of PS and the generation of more free radicals. The pathways of atrazine degradation in the Fe-rich bimetallic biochar systems involved alkyl hydroxylation, alkyl oxidation, dealkylation, and dechlorohydroxylation. The results indicated that bimetallic biochar composites with more Fe and less Mn are more effective for the PS-based degradation of atrazine, which guides the ration design of easily available carbon materials targeted for the efficient remediation of various organic-polluted soil.

Graphical Abstract
Rapidly solidified Al-Cu-Co quasicrystalline alloy: microstructure and catalytic properties
Authors: Zięba Amelia , Stan-Głowińska Katarzyna , Duraczyńska Dorota , Lityńska-Dobrzyńska Lidia
Published: April 2024

This study presents the characterisation and evaluation of the catalytic potential of an alloy with a composition referring to the quasicrystal from the Al-Cu-Co system. The material was synthesised through a melt-spinning process, providing rapid solidification conditions and a favourable material form of thin ribbons. Microstructural and chemical analyses were performed using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy methods. The obtained results confirmed the presence of a major phase which was a decagonal quasicrystal in the form of globular grains and additional crystalline phases occurring along the grain boundaries. The catalytic potential of the materials was explored using phenylacetylene hydrogenation. The catalyst, obtained by pulverising the ribbons, demonstrated catalytic activity with over 40% phenylacetylene conversion and selectivity exceeding 60% for styrene production under mild reaction conditions. The recovered catalyst displayed a stable phase composition, as confirmed by X-ray diffraction, and unchanged morphology, indicating the possibility of catalyst reuse for subsequent reaction cycles. The presented results provide insight into the experimental verification of the catalytic properties of the developed environmentally friendly catalysts.
Urbanization impact on groundwater quality of selected rural and urban areas in Ondo State, Nigeria using Water Quality Index
Authors: Ojo Joy Toluwani , Ojo Ochuko Mary , Olabanji Taiwo Oreoluwa , Aluko Rebecca Taiwo
Published: April 2024

Groundwater is the primary source of water in Ondo state, Nigeria, the study area for the research. However, there has been a rising concern in recent times with regard to the contamination of this important water source as a result of urbanization. This study quantified 13 physicochemical parameters (Turbidity, Conductivity, pH, Mg2+ Hardness, Ca2+ Hardness, Total hardness, Alkalinity, Chloride, Nitrate, Sulphate, Phosphate, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and Total Suspended Solids (TSS)) in ten groundwater samples collected from dug wells in urban and rural study areas and compared them with the WHO drinking water standards. The comparison reveals that 30.8% of the parameters had levels above the World Health Organisation (WHO) standard limits in the study areas, while 69.2% were within the recommended limits. Water Quality Index (WQI) computations were also carried out which revealed that 60% of samples from the urban study area were of good quality and 40% were poor, while in the rural, 80% of the samples were good and the remaining 20% were poor. Based on the statistical and WQI results, groundwater in the urban study area is generally of lower quality than that of the rural. Possible factors influencing this include surface sealing, seepage of domestic and industrial effluents into aquifers and over-exploitation of groundwater, which characterize urbanized areas. The study thus recommends regular monitoring of groundwater quality, integration of effective systems for safe sewage disposal and strategic city planning of urbanized zones to maximize runoffs for groundwater recharge to improve groundwater quality.
Sociocultural determinants of psychological distress and coping among South Asian individuals with chronic illness
Authors: Younas Ahtisham , Zeb Hussan , Arif Ijaz , Khan Aimal , Ali Arshad , Ali Akhtar , Aziz Faisal
Published: April 2024

Sociocultural determinants affect the physical and mental well-being and coping of individuals with chronic illnesses. However, no studies have examined the relationship of sociocultural determinants with psychological distress and coping. The purpose of this study was to determine the levels of psychological distress and coping among individuals with chronic illness and identify sociocultural determinants affecting distress and coping. A cross-sectional design was used. Data were collected from a convenience sample of 384 individuals admitted to inpatient settings and attending outpatient clinics at two tertiary care hospitals. The validated Urdu-translated version of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Brief COPE scales were used for data collection. The mean HADS-Depression score was (11.38 ± 2.53), and the HADS-Anxiety score was 13.42 ± 2.34), indicating high levels of depression and anxiety. The most commonly used coping strategies were problem-focused coping (15.95 ± 4.95), followed by emotion-focused coping (15.01 ± 2.33), and avoidance coping (13.89 ± 4.77). Higher levels of psychological distress in individuals with chronic illnesses underscore the importance of implementing community-based support approaches. Varied use of coping strategies was influenced by the type of chronic illness, living conditions, educational level, years of living with a chronic illness, family dynamics, and available support systems.
Two in one: contradictory Christology without gluts?
Authors: d’Agostini Franca
Published: April 2024

The central thesis of JC Beall’s paraconsistent Christology is that Christ, being human and divine, is a contradictory being, and a rational Christology can accept it, since logic nowadays does not exclude the possibility of true contradictions. In this paper, I move from Beall’s theory and I present an alternative view. I quote seven statements of the so-called ‘Athanasian Creed’ which synthesizes the results of conciliar Christology. The aim of the Creed is to combat monophysitism by stressing the duplicity and unity of Christ: two (incompatible) natures inseparably joined in only one person. I note that the two-in-one principle, so intended, may be seen as an ancestor of what has been called ‘conjunctive paraconsistency’, whereby there could be true contradictions but contradictories cannot be separately true. I specifically oppose this view to Beall’s idea of Christ’s human divinity (or divine humanity) as a glut, showing that in the conjunctive account, true contradictions do not require any overlapping or joint ascription of truth and falsity.
Equivariant neural network force fields for magnetic materials
Authors: Yuan Zilong , Xu Zhiming , Li He , Cheng Xinle , Tao Honggeng , Tang Zechen , Zhou Zhiyuan , Duan Wenhui , Xu Yong
Published: April 2024

Neural network force fields have significantly advanced ab initio atomistic simulations across diverse fields. However, their application in the realm of magnetic materials is still in its early stage due to challenges posed by the subtle magnetic energy landscape and the difficulty of obtaining training data. Here we introduce a data-efficient neural network architecture to represent density functional theory total energy, atomic forces, and magnetic forces as functions of atomic and magnetic structures. Our approach incorporates the principle of equivariance under the three-dimensional Euclidean group into the neural network model. Through systematic experiments on various systems, including monolayer magnets, curved nanotube magnets, and moiré-twisted bilayer magnets of CrI3, we showcase the method’s high efficiency and accuracy, as well as exceptional generalization ability. The work creates opportunities for exploring magnetic phenomena in large-scale materials systems.
Machine learning for persistent free radicals in biochar: dual prediction of contents and types using regression and classification models
Authors: Latif Junaid , Chen Na , Saleem Azka , Li Kai , Qin Jianjun , Yang Huiqiang , Jia Hanzhong
Published: April 2024

Persistent free radicals (PFRs) are emerging substances with diverse impacts in biochar applications, necessitating accurate prediction of their content and types prior to their optimal use and minimal adverse effects. This prediction task is challenging due to the nonlinearity and intricate variable relationships of biochar. Herein, we employed data-driven techniques to compile a dataset from peer-reviewed publications, aiming to systematically predict the PFRs by developing supervised machine learning models. Notably, extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) model exhibited the best predictive performance for both regression and classification tasks in predicting the PFRs, achieving a test R2 value of 0.95 for PFR content prediction, along with an Area Under the Receiver Operating Curve (AUROC) of 0.92 for PFR type prediction, respectively. Based on XGBoost model, a graphical user interface (GUI) was developed to access PFRs predictions. Analysis of feature importance revealed that the biochar properties, such as metal/non-metal doping, pyrolysis temperature, carbon content, and specific surface area were identified as the four most significant factors influencing PFRs contents. Regarding the types of PFRs in biochar, specific surface area, pyrolysis temperature, carbon content, and feedstock were top-ranked influencing factors. These findings provide valuable guidance for accurately predicting both the contents and types of PFRs in biochar, and also hold significant potential for highly efficient utilization of biochar across various applications.

Graphical Abstract
Multi-criteria decision making tool for sustainable concrete production using waste polyethylene terephthalate bottle cap aggregates
Authors: Gayake Sudhir Bhaskarrao , Desai Atul K.
Published: April 2024

The widespread use of concrete has raised concerns about the consumption of its raw materials. To address this issue, researchers are actively exploring alternative waste materials to reduce the environmental impact of the construction industry. With this objective current study aims to investigate potential use of waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle cap aggregates on the characteristics of concrete, both in its fresh and hardened states. Three variations of modified waste PET aggregates (PETA): full (F), half (H), and quarter (Q), with the aim of evaluating their suitability as replacements for conventional coarse aggregates (CCA) was examined. The research assesses the effects of different PETA proportions (3%, 5%, and 8%) on concrete workability, compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, and flexural strength. The findings reveal that PETA-F and PETA-H adversely affect workability, primarily due to their larger surface area and difficulty in achieving homogeneous blending with other ingredients. In contrast, PETA-Q exhibits superior workability. The use of PETA-Q results in reduced compressive strength due to its smaller size and limited load-bearing capacity. Notably, PETA-H demonstrates improved compressive strength after 28 days. Interestingly, PETA-Q shows enhancements in splitting tensile and flexural strength, making it the top-performing alternative for fresh and hardened concrete properties. Overall, this research indicates that PETA-Q is most suitable for sustainable concrete production. Furthermore, the application of a multi-criteria decision-making tool validates our findings and determines that a 5% replacement of CCA with PETA is optimal, as higher replacements result in strength reduction. The utilization of PETA not only minimizes CCA consumption but also contributes to the development of eco-friendly, sustainable concrete. This study underscores the potential of environmentally conscious concrete and encourages the adoption of sustainable solutions for plastic waste management.
A multiproxy analysis of modern environmental change within a cypress swamp forest, Collier County, FL
Authors: Swick Kathryn , Johanson Erik N. , Comas Xavier
Published: April 2024

The Florida Everglades are a vast subtropical wetland that historically spanned over 1,000,000 hectares, but much of the Everglades has changed in the last 100 years due to anthropogenic activity. Collier County, situated in southwest FL and bordering the Gulf of Mexico, was subject to alteration in the form of logging, road building, and canal digging. These actions disrupted the natural sheet flow of water and had large environmental impacts on the region, impacts which are slowly being addressed by Everglades restoration efforts. The aim of this work was to observe environmental change at a cypress swamp forest in Collier County within the Big Cypress National Preserve. Using sediment core data including charcoal analysis, loss on ignition, and peat humification, as well as remote sensing techniques, this project uses a novel approach to assess local environmental conditions in the modern era for the region. While this analysis was based on a single core located at the study site, additional ground-penetrating radar profiles at the study site showed a consistent, laterally continuous distribution of subsurface interfaces, therefore suggesting that the core is representative of the conditions at this specific location. Historical records and contemporary data are used to evaluate environmental change over time, and satellite imagery is used to quantify vegetation health. Environmental change related to anthropogenic activity is noted, and evidence of progress from restoration efforts is observed from the last two decades in our study’s data.
Learning for Environmental Governance
Authors: Gerlak Andrea K. , Heikkila Tanya
Published: April 2024

Learning is critical for our capacity to govern the environment and adapt proactively to complex and emerging environmental issues. Yet, underlying barriers can challenge our capacity for learning in environmental governance. As a result, we often fail to adequately understand pressing environmental problems or produce innovative and effective solutions. This Element synthesizes insights from extensive academic and applied research on learning around the world to inform both research and practice. We distill the social and structural features of governance to help researchers and practitioners better understand, diagnose, and support learning and more adaptive responses to environmental problems.