bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fortress Europe vs. Open Borders
Authors: Englund Lena
Published: August 2024

The two nonfictional texts juxtaposed in this chapter; The Strange Death of Europe: Immigration, Identity, Islam (2018; originally published in 2017) by Douglas Murray, and Against Borders: The Case for Abolition (2022) by Gracie May Bradley and Luke de Noronha, address migration from a perspective of how borders should be managed and controlled, and what should be done about contemporary policies with regard to migration. The focus is primarily on Europe and Britain. The chapter examines statements made in both texts and connect them with statistics and scholarly research about migration. Murray’s book is critical of the way in which the migrant crisis in 2015 was dealt with, leading to increased numbers of people with migrant backgrounds in Europe, whereas Against Borders is critical of the ways in which attempts to control migration have been made, such as detention centres, deportation, and restrictions to citizenship. The nation-state itself is seen as at the core of these practices that impede movement. Both books offer relevant observations about the shortcomings of European migration politics, albeit from opposite ends.
Migrant Crisis
Authors: Englund Lena
Published: August 2024

This chapter on refugee and asylum seeker narratives includes both fiction and nonfiction. Examining the migrant condition in relation to concepts such as gratitude, empathy, and dignity emerge as central, since they not only highlight the personal experiences of migrants but also place them in a wider societal and political context. The material analysed includes the Refugee Tales series, Refugee Tales III (2019; edited by David Herd and Anna Pincus) in particular, which has seen the publication of four volumes to date with stories about the asylum seeker experience, told to for example authors, journalists, and academics, advocating for an end to indefinite detention in Britain. The second section focuses on Dina Nayeri’s memoir The Ungrateful Refugee: What Immigrants Never Tell You (2020). The personal narrative intersects with accounts of other asylum seekers in more recent times, and Nayeri offers criticism of current asylum politics in Europe throughout her book. The third section examines Exit West (2017) by Mohsin Hamid, a novel which embarks on a path of advocacy that is less direct, leaving the reader with the task of finding a sustainable solution.
Higher-order tails and RG flows due to scattering of gravitational radiation from binary inspirals
Authors: Edison Alex , Levi Michèle
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We establish and develop a novel methodology to treat higher-order non-linear effects of gravitational radiation that is scattered from binary inspirals, which employs modern scattering-amplitudes methods on the effective picture of the binary as a composite particle. We spell out our procedure to study such effects: assembling tree amplitudes via generalized-unitarity methods and employing the closed-time-path formalism to derive the causal effective actions, which encompass the full conservative and dissipative dynamics. We push through to a new state of the art for these higher-order effects, up to the third subleading tail effect, at order $$ {G}_N^5 $$

G
N
5

and the 5-loop level, which corresponds to the 8.5PN order. We formulate the consequent dissipated energy for these higher-order corrections, and carry out a renormalization analysis, where we uncover new subleading RG flow of the quadrupole coupling. For all higher-order tail effects we find perfect agreement with partial observable results in PN and self-force theories, where available.
The hiring of older workers: evidence from Germany
Authors: Busch Fabian , Fenge Robert , Ochsen Carsten
Published: August 2024

This article analyses how hiring older workers adjusts to demographic change in the labour force by using information from more than 500,000 firms in Germany. We find robust evidence that firms faced with an ageing labour market hire relatively more older workers. However, the pace of this adjustment is relatively slow, particularly when ageing happens outside the firm. The tendency to employ older people is more considerable in East Germany, where the demographic change moves forward faster. Furthermore, part-time working models support hiring older workers, but this effect becomes less important in larger firms and East Germany. Finally, while partial retirement regulations enhance flexibility within the firm, they, unfortunately, diminish the employment opportunities for older external job seekers.
The role of MRI in perianal fistulizing disease: diagnostic imaging and classification systems to monitor disease activity
Authors: Arkenbosch Jeanine H. C. , van Ruler Oddeke , de Vries Annemarie C. , van der Woude C. Janneke , Dwarkasing Roy S.
Published: August 2024

Perianal fistulizing disease, commonly associated with Crohn’s disease, poses significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to its complex anatomy and high recurrence rates. Radiological imaging plays a pivotal role in the accurate diagnosis, classification, and management of this condition. This article reviews the current radiological modalities employed in the evaluation of perianal fistulizing disease, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), endoanal ultrasound, and computed tomography (CT). MRI, recognized as the gold standard, offers superior soft tissue contrast and multiplanar capabilities, facilitating detailed assessment of fistula tracts and associated abscesses. CT, although less detailed than MRI, remains valuable in acute settings for detecting abscesses and guiding drainage procedures. This article discusses the advantages and limitations of each modality, highlights the importance of standardized imaging protocols, and underscores the need for interdisciplinary collaboration in the management of perianal fistulizing disease. Future directions include advancements in imaging techniques and the integration of artificial intelligence to enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes.
Continuous exposure to doxorubicin induces stem cell-like characteristics and plasticity in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells identified with the SORE6 reporter
Authors: Salinas-Jazmín Nohemí , Medina-Mondragón María Adriana , Jiménez-López Jeannie , Guerrero-Rodríguez Sandra Lucia , Cuautle-Rodríguez Patricia , Velasco-Velázquez Marco Antonio
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) account for recurrence and resistance to breast cancer drugs, rendering them a cause of mortality and therapeutic failure. In this study, we examined the effects of exposure to low concentrations of doxorubicin (Dox) on CSCs and non-CSCs from TNBC.

Methods

The effects of Dox were studied using the SORE6 reporter system. We examined the enrichment of the CSCs population, as well as the proliferation, and death of the reporter-positive fraction (GFP + cells) by flow cytometry. The resistant and stemness phenotypes were analyzed by viability and mammosphere formation assay, respectively. We identified differentially expressed and coregulated genes by RNA-seq analysis, and the correlation between gene expression and clinical outcome was evaluated by Kaplan-Mayer analysis using public databases.

Results

In MDAMB231 and Hs578t cells, we identified enriched subsets in the CSCs population after continuous exposure to low concentrations of Dox. Cells from these enriched cultures showed resistance to toxic concentrations of Dox and increased efficiency of mammosphere formation. In purified GFP + or GFP- cells, Dox increased the mammosphere-forming efficiency, promoted phenotypic switches in non-CSCs populations to a CSC-like state, reduced proliferation, and induced differential gene expression. We identified several biological processes and molecular functions that partially explain the development of doxorubicin-resistant cells and cellular plasticity. Among the genes that were regulated by Dox exposure, the expression of ITGB1, SNAI1, NOTCH4, STAT5B, RAPGEF3, LAMA2, and GNAI1 was significantly associated with poor survival, the stemness phenotype, and chemoresistance.

Conclusion

The generation of chemoresistant cells that have characteristics of CSCs, after exposure to low concentrations of Dox, involves the differential expression of genes that have a clinical impact.
Update on the role of S100B in traumatic brain injury in pediatric population: a meta-analysis
Authors: Morello Alberto , Schiavetti Irene , Lo Bue Enrico , Portonero Irene , Colonna Stefano , Gatto Andrea , Pavanello Marco , Lanotte Michele Maria , Garbossa Diego , Cofano Fabio
Published: August 2024

Objective

Cranial computed tomography (CT) scan is the most widely used tool to rule out intracranial lesions after pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, in pediatric population, the radiation exposure can lead to an increased risk of hematological and brain neoplasm. Defined in 2019 National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines as “troponins for the brain”, serum biomarkers measurements, particularly S100B, have progressively emerged as a supplementary tool in the management of TBI thanks to their capacity to predict intracranial post-traumatic lesions.

Methods

This systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA protocol (preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses). No chronological limits of study publications were included. Studies reporting data from children with TBI undergoing serum S100B measurement and computed tomography (CT) scans were included.

Results

Of 380 articles screened, 10 studies met the inclusion criteria. Patients admitted with mild-TBI in the Emergency Department (ED) were 1325 (80.25%). The overall pooled sensitivity and specificity were 98% (95% CI, 92–99%) and 45% (95% CI, 29–63%), respectively. The meta-analysis revealed a high negative predictive value (NVP) (99%; 95% CI, 94–100%) and a low positive predictive value (PPV) (41%; 95% CI, 16–79%). Area under the curve (AUC) was 76% (95% CI, 65–85%). The overall pooled negative predictive value (NPV) was 99% (95% CI, 99–100%).

Conclusions

The measurement of serum S100B in the diagnostic workflow of mTBI could help informed decision-making in the ED setting, potentially safely reducing the use of CT scan in the pediatric population. The high sensitivity and excellent negative predictive values look promising and seem to be close to the values found in adults. Despite this, it must be pointed out the high heterogeneity (> 90%) found among studies. In order for S100B to be regularly introduced in the pediatric workflow for TBI, it is important to conduct further studies to obtain cut-off levels based on pediatric reference intervals.
Simulating springtime extreme rainfall over Southern East Asia: unveiling the importance of synoptic-scale activities
Authors: Cao Dingrui , Tam Chi-Yung Francis , Xu Kang
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the influence of synoptic-scale activities on extreme precipitation during March–April–May (MAM) over Southern East Asia (SEA) using observational data and compares the results with the outputs from 20 Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 6 (CMIP6) historical runs. Observations show that SEA intense daily precipitation in MAM is linked to enhanced upper-level synoptic-scale waves; these disturbances are associated with significant anomalous temperature advection as well as moisture flux convergence, creating favorable conditions for extreme rainfall. Furthermore, it is found that a temperature advection index (TAI) can be utilized to characterize such synoptic-scale activities. Inspection of CMIP6 historical runs reveals that, among 20 models, 13 models perform well in accurately capturing the observed SEA rainfall pattern; such extreme events are also closely linked to TAI in the model environment. Overall, observed (simulated) results show that 78% (75%) of extreme events in the Yangtze River Basin–South Korea–south of Japan region can be attributed to positive TAI. Additionally, the related circulation anomalies such as the upper-level synoptic-scale wave feature, temperature advection, and moisture anomalies from these models closely resemble those observed during extreme precipitation days in SEA. Our findings suggest that TAI can effectively indicate both the frequency and intensity of extreme rainfall events in SEA, along with the associated synoptic-scale activities. Further study reveals a close lead-lag correlation between TAI and rainfall patterns over SEA. This correlation is characterized by eastward-propagating wave trains across the entire troposphere. Consequently, TAI not only acts as a benchmark for quantifying synoptic-scale extreme rainfall in SEA but also shows potential in predicting SEA rainfall linked to synoptic-scale disturbances.
Association between different diet quality scores and depression risk: the REGICOR population-based cohort study
Authors: Lugon Gabriela , Hernáez Álvaro , Jacka Felice N , Marrugat Jaume , Ramos Rafael , Garre-Olmo Josep , Elosua Roberto , Lassale Camille
Published: August 2024

Background

Our aim was to determine the association between diet quality and depression incidence in the population-based REGICOR cohort study, Catalonia, Spain.

Methods

Prospective observational study using participants’ baseline (2003–2006), follow-up (2007–2013) and clinical records data. Five diet quality scores were derived from a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) at baseline: the relative Mediterranean Diet Score (rMED), the Modified Mediterranean Diet Score (ModMDS), a Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) score, a Healthful Plant-based Diet Index (HPDI) and the World Health Organization Healthy Diet Indicator (WHO-HDI). Participants using pharmacological antidepressant treatment were excluded as a proxy for presence of depression at baseline. At follow-up, the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) was applied to assess depressive symptoms (≥ 10 defining depressive disorder). A secondary outcome was depression diagnosis assessed through clinical records. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models were used.

Results

Main analysis included 3046 adults (50.3% women) with a mean age of 54.7 (SD = 11.6) years. After 6-years follow-up, 184 (6.04%) cases of depressive disorder were identified. There was 16% lower odds of depressive disorder per 1SD increase of rMED (OR = 0.84; 95%CI = 0.71–0.98). Secondary outcome analysis (n = 4789) identified 261 (5.45%) incident cases of clinical depression diagnosis over 12 years follow-up, and 19% lower risk of clinical depression was observed with the WHO-HDI (HR = 0.81; 95%CI = 0.70–0.93). Adjusting for BMI did not attenuate the findings.

Conclusions

A significant inverse association between diet quality and depression incidence was found in this population-based cohort study, independent of sociodemographic, health and lifestyle. Adherence to a healthy diet could be a complementary intervention for the prevention of depression.
What pupil size can and cannot tell about math anxiety
Authors: Blini Elvio , Anobile Giovanni , Arrighi Roberto
Published: August 2024

Math Anxiety (MA) consists of excessive fear and worry about math-related situations. It represents a major barrier to numerical competence and the pursuit of STEM careers. Yet, we currently do not dispose of many tools that can capture its multifaceted nature, e.g. moving beyond the exclusive reliance on self-reports and meta-cognition. Here we sought to probe Pupil Size (PS) as a viable tool in the study of MA by administering arithmetic problems to university students in the humanities (N = 70) with various levels of MA. We found that arithmetic competence and performance are indeed negatively associated with MA, and this is accurately tracked by PS. When performance is accounted for, MA does not further modulate PS (before, during, or after calculation). However, the latency of PS peak dilation can add a significant contribution to predicting MA scores, indicating that high MA may be accompanied by more prolonged cognitive effort. Results show that MA and mathematical competence may be too crystalized in young university students to be discernible. We therefore call for early educational interventions to tackle and mitigate this dysfunctional association early on.
Epigenetic profiling of prostate cancer reveals potential prognostic signatures
Authors: Bernatz Simon , Reddin Ian G. , Fenton Tim R. , Vogl Thomas J. , Wild Peter J. , Köllermann Jens , Mandel Philipp , Wenzel Mike , Hoeh Benedikt , Mahmoudi Scherwin , Koch Vitali , Grünewald Leon D. , Hammerstingl Renate , Döring Claudia , Harter Patrick N. , Weber Katharina J.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

While epigenetic profiling discovered biomarkers in several tumor entities, its application in prostate cancer is still limited. We explored DNA methylation-based deconvolution of benign and malignant prostate tissue for biomarker discovery and the potential of radiomics as a non-invasive surrogate.

Methods

We retrospectively included 30 patients (63 [58–79] years) with prostate cancer (PCa) who had a multiparametric MRI of the prostate before radical prostatectomy between 2014 and 2019. The control group comprised four patients with benign prostate tissue adjacent to the PCa lesions and four patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Tissue punches of all lesions were obtained. DNA methylation analysis and reference-free in silico deconvolution were conducted to retrieve Latent Methylation Components (LCMs). LCM-based clustering was analyzed for cellular composition and correlated with clinical disease parameters. Additionally, PCa and adjacent benign lesions were analyzed using radiomics to predict the epigenetic signatures non-invasively.

Results

LCMs identified two clusters with potential prognostic impact. Cluster one was associated with malignant prostate tissue (p < 0.001) and reduced immune-cell-related signatures (p = 0.004) of CD19 and CD4 cells. Cluster one comprised exclusively malignant prostate tissue enriched for significant prostate cancer and advanced tumor stages (p < 0.03 for both). No radiomics model could non-invasively predict the epigenetic clusters.

Conclusion

Epigenetic clusters were associated with prognostically and clinically relevant metrics in prostate cancer. Further, immune cell-related signatures differed significantly between prognostically favorable and unfavorable clusters. Further research is necessary to explore potential diagnostic and therapeutic implications.
A deep fusion model for stock market prediction with news headlines and time series data
Authors: Chen Pinyu , Boukouvalas Zois , Corizzo Roberto
Published: August 2024

Time series forecasting models are essential decision support tools in real-world domains. Stock market is a remarkably complex domain, due to its quickly evolving temporal nature, as well as the multiple factors having an impact on stock prices. To date, a number of machine learning-based approaches have been proposed in the literature to tackle stock trend prediction. However, they typically tend to analyze a single data source or modality, or consider multiple modalities in isolation and rely on simple combination strategies, with a potential reduction in their modeling power. In this paper, we propose a multimodal deep fusion model to predict stock trends, leveraging daily stock prices, technical indicators, and sentiment in daily news headlines published by media outlets. The proposed architecture leverages a BERT-based model branch fine-tuned on financial news and a long short-term memory (LSTM) branch that captures relevant temporal patterns in multivariate data, including stock prices and technical indicators. Our experiments on 12 different stock datasets with prices and news headlines demonstrate that our proposed model is more effective than popular baseline approaches, both in terms of accuracy and trading performance in a portfolio analysis simulation, highlighting the positive impact of multimodal deep learning for stock trend prediction.
Automatic docking with extended dynamic positioning
Authors: Larsen Stefan , Helgesen Håkon Hagen , Walmsness Jens Emil , Kufoalor Giorgio Kwame Minde , Johansen Tor Arne
Published: August 2024

This article presents an automatic docking method suitable for fully actuated surface vessels for the purposes of assisting operators of maritime vessels when docking in time-varying environmental conditions. Docking of ships is a particularly stressful task for human operators, with high demands for both speed and precision, especially under influence from environmental disturbances such as wind, waves and ocean currents. The need for automatic docking systems is increasing as unmanned maritime vessels become more advanced and integrated into global maritime transportation. To address this task, a comprehensive automatic docking algorithm was developed, with path following and velocity control using a modified dynamic positioning control system, which makes the method applicable in existing industrial control systems. In addition, the method includes capability analysis of the docking procedure and evaluates strategies for counteracting disturbances. Specifically, this method utilizes a modified dynamic positioning control system using position sensor data only, to control position, heading and velocity in different stages when docking automatically. The methods are proven in simulations and field experiments.
TACKoMesh – A randomised controlled trial comparing absorbable versus non-absorbable tack fixation in laparoscopic IPOM + repair of primary incisional hernia using post-operative pain and quality of life - Reliatack™ versus Protack™
Authors: Pilkington J. James , Pritchett James , Fullwood Catherine , Herring Annie , Wilkinson Fiona L. , Sheen Aali Jan
Published: August 2024

There is a clinical need to better understand and improve post-operative pain for patients undergoing laparoscopic repair of incisional hernia. The aim of this single-centre, double-blind, randomised controlled trial was to compare post-operative pain between absorbable and non-absorbable tack fixation in patients undergoing IPOM + repair. Patients with primary incisional hernia (size 3–10 cm), were randomised to either Reliatack™ (n = 27), an articulating-arm device deploying absorbable polymer tacks, or Protack™ (n = 36), a straight-arm device deploying permanent titanium tacks. The primary outcome was reported pain on activity using a visual analogue scale at post-operative day 30. Clinical and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were assessed pre-operatively (day 0), and at 1-, 6-, 30- and 365-days post-surgery. No significant differences in reported pain ‘on activity’ were found at any timepoint. Less reported pain ‘at rest’ was found on post-operative day-1 with absorbable tacks (p = 0.020). Significantly longer mesh-fixation time (p < 0.001) and the use of more knots for fascial closure (p = 0.006) and tacks for mesh-fixation (p = 0.001) were found for the absorbable tack group. There were no differences in other clinical and PROMs between groups. For the whole trial cohort (n = 63) several domains in the Short-Form-36 showed a reduction from baseline scores at day 30 that improved at day 365. At post-operative day 30, 75.0% of patients reported ‘a lot of pain’ since discharge. This study found no difference in reported pain when choosing absorbable or non-absorbable tack fixation. The utility of “early” post-operative pain assessment as a comparator following incisional hernia repair needs clarification.
High resistance to non-native plant invasion exhibited in a maritime alpine environment
Authors: Kirkpatrick Jamie B. , Alvarez María Alisa , Bridle Kerry , Barros Agustina
Published: August 2024

Most alpine ecosystems are subject to non-native species invasion as climate warms and human disturbance increases. Therefore, it is important to identify the main barriers and facilitators of alpine plant invasions. While there is much research in continental alpine areas, there is limited research in maritime environments, which have distinctive biological, edaphic and geomorphologic features due to the scarcity of snow in winter. Here, we examine the contribution of anthropogenic and biotic factors on non-native plant invasions in the alpine areas of lutruwita (Tasmania), Australia. Specifically, we test whether disturbances associated with roads and livestock grazing facilitate non-native plant invasion and if biotic resistance from native plants and wild grazing animals inhibits such invasion. We used floristic data from: a statewide database; data from long-term grazing exclosures, and data from paired quadrats on roadsides and natural vegetation. Our results showed that non-native plants were associated with roadside disturbance and livestock grazing, with the latter having a legacy effect of 50 years. The persistent effect of stock grazing was evident in the exclusion experiment monitored over 30 years, where non-native plants occurred sporadically in time and space. In contrast, we found that the presence of wild grazing mammals, complete vegetation cover and high native richness, restricted non-native plants, emphasizing the importance of biotic resistance in controlling non-native plant invasions. These results indicate that livestock removal and road closure could be effective in reversing non-native plant invasion in this and other areas with wild vertebrate herbivores and high plant cover.
Bacterial cellulose with CHAPK-mediated specific antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Blanco Francisco G. , Campano Cristina , Rivero-Buceta Virginia , Hernández-Arriaga Ana M. , Prieto M. Auxiliadora
Published: August 2024

Wound healing represents a complex biological process often hampered by bacterial infections, in particular those caused by Staphylococcus aureus, which is already multiresistant to many antibiotics. In this sense, enzybiotics have additional advantages over conventional antibiotics, since they provide pathogen specificity and do not contribute to antibiotic resistance. However, their soluble administration at the wound site would result in enzyme leakage. On the other hand, bacterial cellulose (BC) pellicles present a very promising dressing and scaffold, given its high purity, water retention capacity, and barrier effect in the wound against possible contaminants. In this study, we present a novel approach that incorporates the enzybiotic CHAPK into BC to develop functionalized membranes that exhibit targeted and controlled antimicrobial activity against S. aureus. The kinetic tests revealed a continuous loading of the enzybiotic into BC until it reaches a maximum and a two-stage release process, characterized by an initial fast release followed by a sustained release. Attenuated total Reflection Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM) confirmed the incorporation and the preferential surface localization of CHAPK within the BC membranes. Finally, the BC/CHAPK materials demonstrated the sustained reduction of up to 4 logarithmic units in the viability of S. aureus. Overall, the biomaterials developed here exhibit promising antimicrobial efficacy against S. aureus, offering a potential strategy for wound management and skin infection control while maintaining unharmed the commensal skin microbiota, which impairment could compromise the integrity of the skin barrier function.
Interrelations Among Achievement Goals and Achievement Emotions: A Meta-Analytic Examination
Authors: Bross Tanja , Nett Ulrike Elisabeth , Daumiller Martin
Published: August 2024

Both achievement goals and achievement emotions have empirically been found to be important within educational contexts. This meta-analysis examined the interrelations among six achievement goals and fifteen achievement emotions and various moderators by analyzing 2,644 effect sizes from 355 studies with 155,208 participants. The findings revealed interrelations among achievement goals and achievement emotions that mainly corroborate theoretical assumptions. Mastery and performance goals showed associations with activity and outcome emotions. The results for work-avoidance goals confirmed the assumption that engaging in work avoidance is particularly related to negative activity emotions. Relational goals are positively linked to positive affect and enjoyment. Facets of mastery goals were identified as relevant moderators of the interrelations among achievement goals and emotions, in contrast to population. The results highlight the relevance of considering the interplay among achievement goals and achievement emotions at a specific level, as opposed to considering only the affective level, as well as differentiating between activity and outcome emotions to better understand their relationships with achievement goals.
Traceability and dispersion of highly toxic soluble phases from historical mine tailings: insights from Pb isotope systematics
Authors: Del Rio-Salas Rafael , Moreno-Rodríguez Verónica , Loredo-Portales René , Salgado-Souto Sergio Adrián , Valencia-Moreno Martín , Ochoa-Landín Lucas , Romo-Morales Diana
Published: August 2024

Dispersion of potentially toxic elements associated with efflorescent crusts and mine tailings materials from historical mine sites threaten the environment and human health. Limited research has been done on traceability from historical mining sites in arid and semi-arid regions. Pb isotope systematics was applied to decipher the importance of identifying the mixing of lead sources involved in forming efflorescent salts and the repercussions on traceability. This research assessed mine waste (sulfide-rich and oxide-rich tailings material and efflorescent salts) and street dust from surrounding settlements at a historical mining site in northwestern Mexico, focusing on Pb isotope composition. The isotope data of tailings materials defined a trending line (R2 = 0.9); the sulfide-rich tailings materials and respective efflorescent salts yielded less radiogenic Pb composition, whereas the oxide-rich tailings and respective efflorescent salts yielded relatively more radiogenic compositions, similar to the geogenic component. The isotope composition of street dust suggests the dispersion of tailings materials into the surroundings. This investigation found that the variability of Pb isotope composition in tailings materials because of the geochemical heterogeneity, ranging from less radiogenic to more radiogenic, can add complexity during environmental assessments because the composition of oxidized materials and efflorescent salts can mask the geogenic component, potentially underestimating the influence on the environmental media.
Impact of sediment mobilization on trace elements release in Galician Rías (NW Iberian Peninsula): insights into aquaculture
Authors: Rubio Belén , López-Pérez Ángel Enrique , León Iván
Published: August 2024

In the latest years, the concentration levels of certain metals and metalloids in the sediments of the Galician Rías have shown an increasing trend (e.g., As, Zn, Cu, Pb, Hg). These areas are also characterized by their richness in nutrients and their great aquaculture or mariculture activity, with the presence of more than 3500 mussel rafts in the Rías Baixas. The inner areas of the Galician Rías are subjected to activities that resuspend the sediment such as high levels of maritime traffic and dredging or cleaning operations. It is likely that a transfer of these elements to the water column happens during the resuspension of sediments caused by natural events or anthropogenic activities. In this study, selected samples of surface sediments of the Ría de Pontevedra (NW Spain) were subjected to a procedure of aerobic oxidation to determine the concentration of some elements (Fe, Mn, Cu, Cr, Pb, Hg, and Zn) released from the sediment to the aqueous phase. The experiment was carried out within 5 days. Measurements of pH and total concentration were taken both in water and sediment samples. Furthermore, speciation of trace elements was carried out in the sediment samples. Trace element concentrations were lower in the sediments during aerobic oxidation, being released to the aqueous phase. From an environmental point of view, Cu was the only trace element released in quantities that may be toxic for the organisms in the area. This problem of sediment oxidation related to dredging activities or natural storm conditions should be considered in environmental impact studies and transferred to stakeholders.
Long-term agricultural reuse of treated wastewater and sewage sludge: developing a Time to Critical Content Index for metal species
Authors: Merdy Patricia , Cherfouh Rabia , Lucas Yves
Published: August 2024

This study evaluates the sustainability of spreading wastewater or sewage sludge on agricultural land, balancing benefits with contamination risks. Conventional ecological risk indices often fail to address the long-term accumulation of metals in soils. We investigate the feasibility of spreading based on current knowledge of potentially contaminating metals and their behavior in soil. We analyzed the speciation of metals (Ag, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Ti, Zn) through sequential extraction in sludge, treated wastewater, and soils after 14 years of application of sewage sludge and treated wastewater issued from an Algerian wastewater treatment plant. We introduce a Time to Critical Content Index (TCCI) that calculates the time required to reach critical levels of potentially mobile metals, considering total metal content and speciation. The TCCI takes into account product knowledge, soil characteristics, metal behavior, ecological/toxicological thresholds, and regulations. Applied to our case study, the TCCI indicates that spreading sewage sludge can continue despite metal contents exceeding regulatory ceiling values. The index serves as a precautionary measure, adaptable to evolving knowledge, providing a comprehensive framework for sustainable agricultural practices.

Graphical Abstract
Enhancing solar still performance with hybrid nanofluid: a comprehensive assessment of energy, exergy, economics, and environmental impact using a novel fractional model
Authors: El-Gazar E. F. , Yousef Mohamed S. , Elshaer Abdelrahman M. , Khattab Mahmoud A. , Mouneer T. A. , Hawwash A. A.
Published: August 2024

In the present study, the thermal performance of a modified solar still (MSS) system coupled with hybrid nanofluid (HNF) of titanium oxide (TiO2) and silicon oxide (SiO2) has been investigated theoretically based on energetic, exergetic, economic, and enviroeconomic assessment. The model of the MSS has been introduced using a new numerical technique of the Atangana-Baleanu fractional derivative. The fractional model of the MSS system is presented under various weather circumstances (winter and summer seasons) in Egypt to show the impact of HNF on the MSS output: temperatures, freshwater productivity, exergy, and energy efficiencies. The outcomes of the fractional model are contrasted to those derived from actual experimental data collected under varying climatic conditions in Upper Egypt. Numerical findings demonstrate specific consistency between the experimental results and the proposed model of the solar still (SS), with a percentage of error of 4.65% in freshwater productivity. Moreover, using hybrid nano enhances daily productivity in the summertime by 27.2% and in the wintertime by 21.7%, increasing efficiencies. Additionally, a comparative economic and environmental assessment has been investigated for all the proposed desalination systems without and with HNF. The findings found that the cost per liter of MSS was 44% lower than that of the conventional solar still (CSS) during the summer season. Using exergy and energy approaches, MSS reduced CO2 by 22% and 29.6% more during the winter.
Non-Representational Models and Objectual Understanding
Authors: Pincock Christopher , Poznic Michael
Published: August 2024

This paper argues that investigations into how to best make something often provide researchers with an objectual understanding of their target phenomena. This argument starts with an extended investigation into the non-representational uses of models. In particular, we identify a special sort of “design model” whose aim is to guide the production of phenomena. Clarifying how these design models are evaluated shows that they are evaluated in different ways than representational models. Once the character of design models has been fixed, we argue that grasping design models can provide objectual understanding of phenomena. This argument proceeds through a critical engagement with Dellsén’s (2020) position that a grasp of a good representational model of dependencies provides objectual understanding of a phenomenon. We agree with Dellsén that this is one way to achieve understanding, but maintain that grasping a good design model is another way to achieve understanding. The paper concludes by considering some important objections to our proposal and also by noting some of the broader questions about understanding and knowledge in both science and engineering.
The Neurocorrective Offer and Manipulative Pressure
Authors: Holmen Sebastian Jon , Dore-Horgan Emma
Published: August 2024

An important question regarding the use of neurointerventions in criminal justice systems relates to the ethics of offering neurointerventions in exchange for a sentence reduction or as a condition of parole – what has been termed the neurocorrective offer. In this paper, we suggest that neurocorrective offers may sometimes involve manipulative pressure. That is, in some cases these offers will involve a pressure to comply with the manipulators’ (i.e., the state’s) bidding that does not rise to the level of coercion, but which cannot be considered an instance of persuasion. We then suggest that offenders may fall victim to this pressure due to general facts about human psychology and their situational vulnerability. We end the paper by identifying three reasons for thinking it prima facie morally wrong for the state to make neurocorrective offers involving manipulative pressure even if such offers do not undermine offenders’ consent to the offer. Specifically, we suggest that such offers are plausibly pro tanto harmful to some offenders and that they sometimes disrespect their autonomy and rationality.
Cyrene as solvent for metal nanoparticle synthesis
Authors: Hernández-Pagán Emil , Yazdanshenas Ashkan , Boski Devin J. , Bi Jiaying , Lacey Hannah R. , Piza Oscar J. Moreno , Sierra Christian C. Sanchez
Published: August 2024

Enormous advances have been made in the synthesis of metal nanoparticles (NPs) affording a high degree of control over their size, shape, and composition. In recent years, a growing effort has been dedicated to incorporating principles of green chemistry in different aspects of NPs, ranging from reagents/solvents to their fate in the environment. In this report, we focus on the use of Cyrene (dihydrolevoglucosenone) as an alternative green solvent for the synthesis of metal NPs. We begin with the synthesis of Ag NPs, given their prominence in the literature. Through control reactions, we show that Cyrene has a dual role of solvent and reducing agent. Additionally, the conversion yield for the Ag NPs synthesis was studied with respect to temperature and the Ag precursor. We then expand on the synthetic methodology to access Pd, Pt, and Bi NPs. The functionality of the synthesized NPs is assessed by employing them as electrocatalysts for furfural reduction and the hydrogen evolution reaction. We envision the use of Cyrene as a green solvent can be extended toward the synthesis of NPs of other metals and classes of materials.

Graphical Abstract
Vitamin D in pituitary driven osteopathies
Authors: Chiloiro Sabrina , Costanza Flavia , Riccardi Elena , Giampietro Antonella , De Marinis Laura , Bianchi Antonio , Pontecorvi Alfredo , Giustina Andrea
Published: August 2024

The evidence that pituitary hormones may bypass peripheral endocrine glands to exert remarkable effects on the skeleton is gaining ground. Both hormonal excess and deficit may determine impairment in bone structure, and they commonly result in bone loss in patients affected by pituitary and neuroendocrine disorders. Vertebral fractures are the most common skeletal alterations and may occur independently of bone mass. Use of vitamin D (VD) supplementation is still debated in this setting. This review will focus on the interactions between different metabolites of VD and pituitary hormones, and the effects of VD supplementation on bone metabolism in patients with pituitary diseases.
Elevated Interleukin-6 Is Associated with Successful Weight Loss 3 Months Postlaparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
Authors: Bracha Marietta , Jaroch Alina , Falkowski Adrian , Zwierko Beata , Szwed Magdalena , Michalik Maciej , Borkowska Alina , Szwed Krzysztof , Kozakiewicz Mariusz
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Bariatric surgery poses an ever-increasing importance in the effective and long-lasting treatment of obesity, a condition strongly associated with inflammation and increased risk of other diseases and health problems. In obesity-related inflammation, maintaining a balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines is crucial. In this study, we examined early effects of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) on inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in obese patients, and assessed their effect on postoperative weight loss.

Materials and Methods

This prospective cohort study was conducted from September 2022 till June 2023. Fifty obese adults were enrolled for LSG. All patients underwent assessments of body measurements, as well as levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10), and TNF-alpha at baseline and 3 months postsurgery. We developed a decision tree model to predict the success of weight loss.

Results

At 3 months postsurgery, patients lost 18.9 ± 6.9 kg of excess body weight. A significant decrease was observed for IL-10 (p < 0.0001), simultaneously with a significant increase in IL-6 (p < 0.0001). We found that high IL-6 (> 1.169 pg/mL) levels could contribute to an effective weight loss among patients with a baseline BMI less than 47.46 kg/m2.

Conclusion

Study revealed that 3 months after bariatric surgery, inflammation persists, and its markers significantly influence postoperative weight loss, as indicated by BMI range. Distinct behaviors of IL-10 and IL-6 in relation to obesity underline the necessity of considering individual cytokine profiles when evaluating bariatric surgery outcomes.

Graphical Abstract
Computational fluid dynamics of hot and cold air flow inside short and long mixing tees
Authors: Singh Rajwinder , Singh Jashanpreet , Mehta Jaswinder Singh
Published: August 2024

In this paper, the numerical simulation was done for a cylindrical tee by establishing a steady-state simulation to examine the mixing performance. The temperature of the fluid at the hot inlet was chosen as 36 °C and 19 °C for the cold inlet. The numerical simulation was done for a short tee of 192 mm and a long mixing tee of 262 mm at a variety of momentum ratios. The geometry was meshed in FLUENT before solving the domain. For the meshing, the faces were initially named hot inlet, cold inlet, outlet, and walls. The triangular method was chosen to generate a mesh for the flow domain. The size of the cell in meshing was taken as 0.1 m. In this work, the SST k–ω models were selected to perform the computations. The analytical values of temperature were used to validate the numerical results. Results show that the thermal mixing was done effectively using the CFD ANSYS software package. Results show that the size of the mixing area is the same hence there is not much of a difference between the long tee and the short tee in that particular sector. The thermal mixing was found better when the velocity at the vertical inlet (y-axis) becomes greater and the average temperature is lower. Also, the increase in the pipe's length causes the average temperature to drop since the fluid mixes better the farther along it travels, while also slightly increasing the velocity.
On Ramanujan expansions and primes in arithmetic progressions
Authors: Laporta Maurizio
Published: August 2024

A celebrated theorem of Delange gives a sufficient condition for an arithmetic function to be the sum of the associated Ramanujan expansion with the coefficients provided by a previous result of Wintner. By applying the Delange theorem to the correlation of the von Mangoldt function with its incomplete form, we deduce an inequality involving the counting function of the prime numbers in arithmetic progressions. A remarkable aspect is that such an inequality is equivalent to the famous conjectural formula by Hardy and Littlewood for the twin primes.
Merger reasons and their impact: Evidence from the credit union industry
Authors: Kozlowski Steven E. , Hassan M. Kabir , Pérez-Amuedo José Antonio , Puleo Michael R.
Published: August 2024

Using a unique dataset that includes each merger’s stated motivation, we explore the impact of credit union mergers of varying motivation and institutional size difference. We show that mergers motivated by financial distress lead to significantly more positive changes in earnings and capital ratios compared to mergers aimed at providing expanded services. We also document that target institution members reap most of the benefits in terms of abnormal savings and loan rate changes, although acquirers also benefit on average in distress driven mergers. Overall, our findings are consistent with the efficient management hypothesis and suggest acquirers subsequently utilize the assets of underperforming institutions more efficiently.
Critical success factors of users’ continuous intention of adopting cryptocurrency exchanges: LAS-VICT principle
Authors: Au Cheuk Hang , Ho Kevin K. W. , Law Kris. M. Y. , Chiu Dickson K. W.
Published: August 2024

The proliferation of cryptocurrencies has contributed to the emergence of different cryptocurrency exchanges (crypto-exchanges). While these services may be regarded as FinTech, involving cryptocurrency as the major transaction currency has made these services potentially distinctive from other fiat-based FinTech services. Thus, the critical success factors of crypto-exchanges may not be identical to those of other fiat-based FinTech services. Grounded on theories related to FinTech and service varieties, we developed a survey and explored the role of different factors on users’ continuous intention of adopting the crypto-exchanges. Our results suggested that when users perceive specific crypto-exchange characteristics, they are more likely to adopt the exchange continuously. Combining previous literature, we name this set of factors “LAS-VICT principle”, including low user-burden, asset-light, scalability, variety, innovativeness, scalability, and transparency. However, users’ emphasis on factors may differ based on their cryptocurrency experience. Based on our findings, we provided some theoretical and practical implications.