bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cocoa Farmers’ Perceptions of Drought and Adaptive Strategies in the Ghana–Togo Transboundary Cocoa Belt
Authors: Attiogbé Afi Amen Christèle , Nehren Udo , Quansah Emmanuel , Bessah Enoch , Salack Seyni , Sogbedji Jean Mianikpo , Agodzo Sampson K.
Published: October 2024

This study investigated the perception of drought by cocoa farmers and explored the effectiveness of adaptive strategies (ASs) used in smallholding farms in the transboundary region between Ghana and Togo. Drought significantly threatens cocoa production in this region, affecting farmers’ livelihoods and cocoa supply chains. This study used a multistage sampling approach, which involved surveys with questionnaires administered to 330 cocoa farmers throughout the study area, along with on-site observations. Statistical analysis included binary logistic and Poisson regression models to explore the relationship between farmer socioeconomic characteristics and adaptation practices. The findings revealed that cocoa farmers in the region have a nuanced understanding of drought, attributed to changing climatic patterns and unsustainable land management practices such as deforestation. To mitigate its impacts, farmers employ a variety of ASs, including investment in farm management, soil management, and intercropping with crop diversification. Furthermore, socioeconomic factors, including age, formal education, household size, land tenure right, adaptation cost assessment, and an underestimation of self-efficacy, were shown to affect the choice in the AS. Among the ASs adopted, only farm management practices (weeding, pruning, fertilizer application, etc.) significantly improved the cocoa yield. This study contributes to understanding drought as a critical issue for cocoa farmers and the adaptation practices used by smallholder cocoa farmers. Given that among the strategies adopted, only farm management practices, also known as good agricultural practices (GAPs), significantly improves yield, this study recommends well-designed and innovative packages of sustainable farm management based on farm and owner characteristics. These include irrigation schemes, timely soil fertilizer monitoring and supply, and the provision of drought-resistant varieties along with technical itineraries. Additional interventions require drought emergency responses, with other factors such as education and financial support mechanisms expected to improve farmers’ timely decision-making to adapt and improve cocoa production resilience to drought episodes in international transboundary regions with complex governance structures.
Mobilizing Global Change Science for Effective Multi-Actor Governance in the Laguna San Rafael and Guayaneco Biosphere Reserve
Authors: Gale Trace , Adiego Andrés , Bourlon Fabien , Salazar Alexandra
Published: October 2024

The 1950s initiated transformative shifts in human interactions and societal behaviors, exacerbating global environmental challenges—notably, biodiversity loss. The post-2020 Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) addressed these challenges with ambitious plans to halt and reverse biodiversity losses. Supported by initiatives like UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere program, the GBF seeks to enhance sustainability through country-level strategies that will mainstream nature-positive policies and expand multi-actor conservation governance. This study supports the local-level implementation of the GBF through a roadmap for the initial phase of the knowledge-action network creation. Through a case study of the Laguna San Rafael and Guayaneco Biosphere Reserve (LSRGBR) in Chilean Patagonia, this research explores the potential for inexpensive, readily available methods to support local decision makers by increasing access to and the visibility of relevant sustainability research. The study analyzes two decades of global change (GC) research within LSRGBR zones to understand spatial trends and identify applied insights with the potential to inform governance and management strategies. Findings highlight where GC research has occurred, areas of GC research interest, how applied content has manifested, and how existing research can inform and support governance action plans. Ultimately, this research proposes an adaptable knowledge mobilization framework for the LSRGBR that can be applied to a variety of place-based needs and contexts to mobilize science for broader sustainability objectives and enhance the potential for multi-actor collaboration and governance.
The Role of Visual Performance in Fine Motor Skills
Authors: Granados-Delgado Pilar , Casares-López Miriam , Martino Francesco , Anera Rosario González , Castro-Torres José Juan
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study was to analyse the relationship between fine motor skills (FMSs) and visual performance. Thirty young participants with normal binocular vision performed five fine motor tasks: Purdue, Grooved, and O’Connor pegboards, a needle threading task, and a water pouring task, which were characterised by the time taken to complete the task, the number of pegs inserted, the error made in pouring the water, and the volume spilled. To evaluate visual performance, near visual acuity, near contrast sensitivity (CS), and disability glare were assessed. Fine motor skills and visual performance were assessed under monocular and binocular viewing conditions. An overall visual performance score (OVPS) and an overall fine motor skills score (OFMSS) were calculated. All visual functions measured binocularly were better than in monocular conditions, and all FMSs tasks were performed worse monocularly than binocularly (p < 0.001), except for the error made in the water pouring task (p = 0.024). There was a positive correlation between OVPS and OFMSS (rho = 0.329; p = 0.010). The regression model showed that the OFMSS can be predicted by age and CS at 21.3%. Individuals with normal binocular vision and better near visual function exhibit superior fine motor abilities. CS stands out as the visual function that has the greatest bearing on the performance of FMSs.
Companion Diagnostics (CDx) Based on Molecular Biology Techniques
Authors: Kang Su Lim , Kwon Ji Yean , Kim Sung Min
Published: October 2024

Molecular profiling based on genomic mutations provides clinically important diagnostic and prognostic information. Companion diagnostic (CDx) testing, which is based on targeted drug therapy, is being applied to a variety of molecular diagnostic techniques (e.g., fluorescent in situ hybridization—FISH; polymerase chain reaction—PCR; and next-generation sequencing—NGS) to diagnose complex etiologies using a minimal number of specimens, replacing immunohistochemical analysis, which may show bias at certain stages. The safety and effectiveness of CDx testing using molecular diagnostic technology in precision medicine is an important factor in determining the treatment outcome and prognosis of patients. Meeting minimum safety and effectiveness performance standards is essential for CDx testing, and a thorough understanding of regulatory considerations is necessary to plan and design the optimal product. In this review, we focus on the diagnostic field of precision medicine and discuss the safety and effectiveness that each molecular diagnostic technology must meet according to CDx testing diversity.
Trophectoderm, Inner Cell Mass, and Expansion Status for Live Birth Prediction After Frozen Blastocyst Transfer: The Winner Is Trophectoderm
Authors: Bartolacci Alessandro , de Girolamo Sofia , Solano Narduche Lisett , Rabellotti Elisa , De Santis Lucia , Papaleo Enrico , Pagliardini Luca
Published: October 2024

Despite advancements in technologies such as time-lapse microscopy and artificial intelligence, the gold standard for embryo selection still relies on standard morphological assessment. Several studies have investigated the correlation between blastocyst characteristics (expansion status, inner cell mass, and trophectoderm) and clinical outcomes, reaching contradictory results. In consideration of these ambiguities in the literature, we performed a retrospective study of 1546 untested first-vitrified–warmed single day 5/6 blastocyst transfers. The purpose of our study is to evaluate three scenarios: (i) independent association between each morphological characteristic (expansion status, inner cell mass, and trophectoderm) and live birth; (ii) comparison between blastocysts with inner cell mass grade A and trophectoderm grade B and blastocysts with inner cell mass grade B and trophectoderm grade A; and (iii) comparison between poor-quality day 5 and top-quality day 6 blastocysts. After adjusting for principal confounders, we report that trophectoderm is more predictive of live births than inner cell mass and expansion status. We observed a trend in favor of top-quality day 6 blastocysts over poor-quality day 5 blastocysts. Moreover, on the same day of development and expansion status, blastocyst BA should be preferable to blastocyst AB.
The Mechanism and Inflammatory Markers Involved in the Potential Use of N-acetylcysteine in Chronic Pain Management
Authors: Singh Mona , Kim Alina , Young Amelie , Nguyen Deanna , Monroe Cynthia L. , Ding Tiffany , Gray Dennis , Venketaraman Vishwanath
Published: October 2024

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has established use as an antidote for acetaminophen overdose and treatment for pulmonary conditions and nephropathy. It plays a role in regulating oxidative stress and interacting with various cytokines including IL-1β, TNFα, IL-8, IL-6, IL-10, and NF-κB p65. The overexpression of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is believed to contribute to chronic pain states by inducing inflammation and accelerating disease progression, favoring pain persistence in neuropathic and musculoskeletal pain conditions. Through a comprehensive review, we aim to explore the mechanisms and inflammatory pathways through which NAC may manage neuropathic and musculoskeletal pain. Evidence suggests NAC can attenuate neuropathic and musculoskeletal pain through mechanisms such as inhibiting matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS), and enhancing glutamate transport. Additionally, NAC may synergize with opioids and other pain medications, potentially reducing opioid consumption and enhancing overall pain management. Further research is needed to fully elucidate its therapeutic potential and optimize its use in pain management. As an adjuvant therapy, NAC shows potential for chronic pain management, offering significant benefits for public health.
Fabrication and Tribology Properties of PTFE-Coated Cemented Carbide Under Dry Friction Conditions
Authors: Wang Shoujun , Song Wenlong , An Lei , Xia Zixiang , Zhang Shengdong
Published: October 2024

PTFE coatings were deposited on YT15 carbide substrates using spray technology. A series of examinations were conducted, including the use of surface and cross-section micrographs to analyze the structural integrity of the coatings. The surface roughness, the adhesion force between the PTFE coatings and the carbide substrate, and the micro-hardness of the coated carbide were also evaluated. Additionally, the friction and wear behaviors were assessed through dry sliding friction tests against WC/Co balls. The test results indicated that while the PTFE-coated carbide exhibited a rougher surface and reduced micro-hardness, it also demonstrated a significant reduction in surface friction and adhesive wear. These findings suggest that the PTFE coatings enhance the overall wear resistance of the carbides. The lower surface hardness and shear strength of the coatings influenced the friction performance, leading to specific wear failure mechanisms, such as abrasion wear, coating delamination, and flaking. Overall, the deposition of PTFE coatings on carbide substrates presents a promising strategy to enhance their friction and wear performance. This approach not only improves the durability of carbide materials but also offers potential applications in industries where reduced friction and wear are critical for performance.
End-to-End Intelligent Fault Diagnosis of Transmission Bearings in Electric Vehicles Based on CNN
Authors: Chen Yong , Li Guangxin , Li Anhe , He Bolin
Published: October 2024

Environmental noise and transmission components can cause significant interference in vibration signals, rendering the extraction of bearing fault features challenging in service scenarios. Traditional fault diagnosis methods rely heavily on professional domain knowledge, prior models, and signal preprocessing methods. The accuracy of fault diagnosis depends on the quality of the fault-sensitive features extracted by vibration signal preprocessing methods. An improved convolutional neural network (CNN) end-to-end intelligent fault diagnosis model based on raw vibration data (RVDCNN) is proposed. The time-domain vibration signal of the transmission bearing is converted into a continuous two-dimensional numerical matrix, and a two-dimensional CNN model is constructed through network structure optimization. The original time-domain vibration signal numerical matrix of the bearing is trained and tested to extract and learn abstract fault features of different fault types, and then the fault classification of the bearing is achieved. To verify the generalizability of the RVDCNN intelligent fault diagnosis model, it is applied to the recognition of rolling bearings in the two-speed mechanical automatic transmission of electric vehicles, achieving recognition accuracy of 99.11% for seven types of bearings.
Approximation by Schurer Type λ-Bernstein–Bézier Basis Function Enhanced by Shifted Knots Properties
Authors: Alotaibi Abdullah
Published: October 2024

In this article, a novel Schurer form of λ-Bernstein operators augmented by Bézier basis functions is presented by utilizing the features of shifted knots. The shifted knots form of Bernstein operators and the Schurer form of the Bézier basis function are used in this article, then, new operators, the Schurer type λ-Bernstein shifted knots operators are constructed in terms of the Bézier basis function. First, the test functions are calculated and the central moments for these operators are obtained. Then, Korovkin’s type approximation properties are studied by the use of a modulus of continuity of orders one and two. Finally, the convergence theorems for these new operators are obtained by using Peetre’s K-functional and Lipschitz continuous functions. In the end, some direct approximation theorems are also obtained.
TVGeAN: Tensor Visibility Graph-Enhanced Attention Network for Versatile Multivariant Time Series Learning Tasks
Authors: Baz Mohammed
Published: October 2024

This paper introduces Tensor Visibility Graph-enhanced Attention Networks (TVGeAN), a novel graph autoencoder model specifically designed for MTS learning tasks. The underlying approach of TVGeAN is to combine the power of complex networks in representing time series as graphs with the strengths of Graph Neural Networks (GNNs) in learning from graph data. TVGeAN consists of two new main components: TVG which extend the capabilities of visibility graph algorithms in representing MTSs by converting them into weighted temporal graphs where both the nodes and the edges are tensors. Each node in the TVG represents the MTS observations at a particular time, while the weights of the edges are defined based on the visibility angle algorithm. The second main component of the proposed model is GeAN, a novel graph attention mechanism developed to seamlessly integrate the temporal interactions represented in the nodes and edges of the graphs into the core learning process. GeAN achieves this by using the outer product to quantify the pairwise interactions of nodes and edges at a fine-grained level and a bilinear model to effectively distil the knowledge interwoven in these representations. From an architectural point of view, TVGeAN builds on the autoencoder approach complemented by sparse and variational learning units. The sparse learning unit is used to promote inductive learning in TVGeAN, and the variational learning unit is used to endow TVGeAN with generative capabilities. The performance of the TVGeAN model is extensively evaluated against four widely cited MTS benchmarks for both supervised and unsupervised learning tasks. The results of these evaluations show the high performance of TVGeAN for various MTS learning tasks. In particular, TVGeAN can achieve an average root mean square error of 6.8 for the C-MPASS dataset (i.e., regression learning tasks) and a precision close to one for the SMD, MSL, and SMAP datasets (i.e., anomaly detection learning tasks), which are better results than most published works.
A Vector-Product Lie Algebra of a Reductive Homogeneous Space and Its Applications
Authors: Zhou Jian , Zhao Shiyin
Published: October 2024

A new vector-product Lie algebra is constructed for a reductive homogeneous space, which can lead to the presentation of two corresponding loop algebras. As a result, two integrable hierarchies of evolution equations are derived from a new form of zero-curvature equation. These hierarchies can be reduced to the heat equation, a special diffusion equation, a general linear Schrödinger equation, and a nonlinear Schrödinger-type equation. Notably, one of them exhibits a pseudo-Hamiltonian structure, which is derived from a new vector-product identity proposed in this paper.
Clinical Spectrum and Perspective in Bilateral Acute Retinal Necrosis: Systematic Review
Authors: Albano Valeria , Di Brina Mariantonietta , Pignataro Maria Grazia , Scotti Giacomo , Di Pardo Camilla , Petruzzella Giovanni , Salvelli Antonio , Dammacco Rosanna , Guerriero Silvana , Alessio Giovanni
Published: October 2024

Bilateral acute retinal necrosis (BARN) represents a broad ophthalmological field of severe retinal pathologies associated with poor visual prognosis and blindness. The purpose of this review is to examine the clinical spectrum in detail over the past few years, exploring laboratory and instrumental diagnosis, and providing useful and up-to-date guidance in this field. A systematic review of this field has been performed through the PRISMA guidelines, searching in the PUBMED database. Serological laboratory tests on blood or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on aqueous humor or vitreous samples are crucial to identifying the underlying cause and choosing the timeliest strategic treatments. Often, the main cause remains herpesviruses, with Varicella zoster (VZV) predominating over the others. There are also other causes that one needs to be carefully aware of. Anatomical and functional recovery is unfavorable if they are not individuated in a quick time. Early diagnosis and timely treatment offer a better chance of visual improvement and the avoidance of complications. Complications worsen the visual prognosis over months and may require a surgical approach.
A Multivariate Phenotypical Approach of Sepsis and Septic Shock—A Comprehensive Narrative Literature Review
Authors: Tita Alina , Isac Sebastian , Isac Teodora , Martac Cristina , Teodorescu Geani-Danut , Jipa Lavinia , Cobilinschi Cristian , Pavel Bogdan , Tanasescu Maria Daniela , Mirea Liliana Elena , Droc Gabriela
Published: October 2024

Despite medical advances, sepsis and septic shock remain some of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, with a high inter-individual variability in prognosis, clinical manifestations and response to treatment. Evidence suggests that pulmonary sepsis is one of the most severe forms of sepsis, while liver dysfunction, left ventricular dysfunction, and coagulopathy impact the prognostic. Sepsis-related hypothermia and a hypoinflammatory state are related to a poor outcome. Given the heterogeneity of sepsis and recent technological progress amongst machine learning analysis techniques, a new, personalized approach to sepsis is being intensively studied. Despite the difficulties when tailoring a targeted approach, with the use of artificial intelligence-based pattern recognition, more and more publications are becoming available, highlighting novel factors that may intervene in the high heterogenicity of sepsis. This has led to the devise of a phenotypical approach in sepsis, further dividing patients based on host and trigger-related factors, clinical manifestations and progression towards organ deficiencies, dynamic prognosis algorithms, and patient trajectory in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Host and trigger-related factors refer to patients’ comorbidities, body mass index, age, temperature, immune response, type of bacteria and infection site. The progression to organ deficiencies refers to the individual particularities of sepsis-related multi-organ failure. Finally, the patient’s trajectory in the ICU points out the need for a better understanding of interindividual responses to various supportive therapies. This review aims to identify the main sources of variability in clustering septic patients in various clinical phenotypes as a useful clinical tool for a precision-based approach in sepsis and septic shock.
PSO-FDM (Particle Swarm Optimization-Finite Difference Method)-Based Simulation Model of Temperature and Velocity of Full-Scale Continuous Annealing Furnace
Authors: Liu Yang , Guo Qiang , Yuan Tieheng , Han Yingrui , Liu Chao , Sun Wenquan
Published: October 2024

Improving the accuracy of the temperature field prediction model for continuous annealing line strips and enhancing the model’s adaptability to full-size strips are key technical challenges in continuous annealing lines. This paper developed a continuous annealing temperature prediction model based on a variable step-size strategy for the heating section, even-heat section, slow-cooling section, and fast-cooling section of the continuous annealing line. To improve the prediction accuracy for different strip sizes, the PSO optimization algorithm was employed to determine the optimal heat transfer coefficient for each strip size. Additionally, due to the limited production of certain strip gauges, providing insufficient data for optimization, this study introduces a combined file approach to address gauge vacancies. The experimental results indicate that the optimized model with variable step size can control the absolute prediction error to less than 4 °C, improving prediction accuracy by 61.9% and prediction speed by 26.8% compared to the traditional equal-step prediction model. This study verified that the merger method is effective for addressing side gauge vacancies, while the proposed method is suitable for resolving middle gauge vacancies. The main technical contribution of this study is the establishment of a high-precision prediction model for continuous annealing temperature of variable step length strips, ensuring high temperature control accuracy for full-gauge strips when passing through the continuous annealing production line.
Food Webs and Feedbacks: The Untold Ecological Relevance of Antimicrobial Resistance as Seen in Harmful Algal Blooms
Authors: Banerji Aabir , Brinkman Nichole E. , Davis Benjamin , Franklin Alison , Jahne Michael , Keely Scott P.
Published: October 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has long been framed as an epidemiological and public health concern. Its impacts on the environment are unclear. Yet, the basis for AMR is altered cell physiology. Just as this affects how microbes interact with antimicrobials, it can also affect how they interact with their own species, other species, and their non-living environment. Moreover, if the microbes are globally notorious for causing landscape-level environmental issues, then these effects could alter biodiversity and ecosystem function on a grand scale. To investigate these possibilities, we compiled peer-reviewed literature from the past 20 years regarding AMR in toxic freshwater cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (HABs). We examined it for evidence of AMR affecting HAB frequency, severity, or persistence. Although no study within our scope was explicitly designed to address the question, multiple studies reported AMR-associated changes in HAB-forming cyanobacteria (and co-occurring microbes) that pertained directly to HAB timing, toxicity, and phase, as well as to the dynamics of HAB-afflicted aquatic food webs. These findings highlight the potential for AMR to have far-reaching environmental impacts (including the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem function) and bring into focus the importance of confronting complex interrelated issues such as AMR and HABs in concert, with interdisciplinary tools and perspectives.
New Occurrence of Nigrospora oryzae Causing Leaf Blight in Ginkgo biloba in China and Biocontrol Screening of Endophytic Bacteria
Authors: Tao Yuan , Yang Chun , Yu Sinong , Fu Fangfang , Dai Tingting
Published: October 2024

Ginkgo biloba is a multifunctional composite tree species that has important ornamental, economic, medicinal, and scientific research value. In October 2023, the foliage of G. biloba on the campus of Nanjing Forestry University exhibited leaf blight. Black-brown necrotic spots were observed on a large number of leaves, with a disease incidence of 86%. After isolating a fungus from symptomatic leaves, pathogenicity was tested to satisfy Koch’s postulates. Using morphological features and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses of an internal transcribed spacer (ITS), elongation factor 1-alpha (EF1-α), and beta-tubulin (β-tub), the isolates YKB1-1 and YKB1-2 were identified as Nigrospora oryzae. N. oryzae was previously reported as an endophyte of G. biloba. However, this study shows it to be pathogenic to G. biloba, causing leaf spots. Two endophytic bacteria were isolated from asymptomatic leaves of diseased G. biloba trees, and their molecular identification was performed using 16S ribosomal DNA (16S rDNA). GBB1-2 was identified as Bacillus altitudinis, while GBB1-5 was identified as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. The screening and verification of endophytic bacteria provide a new strategy for the control of N. oryzae.
BiP Proteins from Symbiodiniaceae: A “Shocking” Story
Authors: Morales-Ruiz Estefanía , Islas-Flores Tania , Villanueva Marco A.
Published: October 2024

More than four decades ago, the discovery of a companion protein of immunoglobulins in myeloma cells and soon after, of their ability to associate with heavy chains, made the term immunoglobulin binding protein (BiP) emerge, prompting a tremendous amount of effort to understand their versatile cellular functions. BiPs belong to the heat shock protein (Hsp) 70 family and are crucial for protein folding and cellular stress responses. While extensively studied in model organisms such as Chlamydomonas, their roles in dinoflagellates, especially in photosynthetic Symbiodiniaceae, remain largely underexplored. Given the importance of Symbiodiniaceae-cnidarian symbiosis, critical for the sustaining of coral reef ecosystems, understanding the contribution of Hsps to stress resilience is essential; however, most studies have focused on Hsps in general but none on BiPs. Moreover, despite the critical role of light in the physiology of these organisms, research on light effects on BiPs from Symbiodiniaceae has also been limited. This review synthesizes the current knowledge from the literature and sequence data, which reveals a high degree of BiP conservation at the gene, protein, and structural levels in Symbiodiniaceae and other dinoflagellates. Additionally, we show the existence of a potential link between circadian clocks and BiP regulation, which would add another level of regulatory complexity. The evolutionary relationship among dinoflagellates overall suggests conserved functions and regulatory mechanisms, albeit expecting confirmation by experimental validation. Finally, our analysis also highlights the significant knowledge gap and underscores the need for further studies focusing on gene and protein regulation, promoter architecture, and structural conservation of Symbiodiniaceae and dinoglagellate BiPs in general. These will deepen our understanding of the role of BiPs in the Symbiodiniaceae-cnidarian interactions and dinoflagellate physiology.
Iron and Nitrogen-Doped Wheat Straw Hierarchical Porous Carbon Materials for Supercapacitors
Authors: Sun Xiaoshuai , Chen Xiangyu , Ma Jiahua , Zhao Chuanshan , Li Jiehua , Li Hui
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we prepared a new type of iron and nitrogen co-doped porous carbon material (WSC-Fe/N) using a carbonization–activation process with wheat straw as a precursor and FeCl3 and NH4Cl as co-doping agents and analyzed the electrochemical properties of the resulting electrode material. Through precise control of the doping elements and carbonization temperature (900 °C), the resulting WSC-Fe/N-900 material exhibits abundant micropores, uniform mesopores, a significant specific surface area (2576.6 m2 g−1), an optimal level of iron doping (1.7 wt.%), and excellent graphitization. These characteristics were confirmed through X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy. Additionally, the WSC-Fe/N-900 electrode demonstrated a specific capacitance of 400.5 F g−1 at a current density of 0.5 A g−1, maintaining a high capacitance of 308 F g−1 even at 10 A g−1. The solid-state symmetric supercapacitor in an aqueous electrolyte achieved an energy density of 9.2 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 250 W kg−1 and maintained an energy density of 6.5 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 5000 W kg−1, demonstrating remarkable synergistic energy–power output characteristics. In terms of structural properties, the porous characteristics of WSC-Fe/N-900 not only enhance the specific surface area of the electrode but also improve the diffusion capability of electrolyte ions within the electrode, thereby enhancing capacitance performance. The reliability of the electrode material demonstrated good performance in long-term cycling tests, maintaining a capacitance retention rate of 93% after 10,000 charge–discharge cycles, indicating excellent electrochemical stability. Furthermore, over time, the aging effect of the WSC-Fe/N-900 electrode material is minimal, maintaining high electrochemical performance even after prolonged use, suggesting that this material is suitable for long-term energy storage applications. This study introduces a novel strategy for producing porous carbon materials for supercapacitors, advancing the development of economically efficient and environmentally friendly energy storage solutions.
Accelerated Wound Healing of Tetrahedral-Framework Nucleic Acid Nanozymes with High Penetration and Antioxidant Capacity
Authors: Lin Shiyu , Liu Qian , Xie Yu , Zhang Qi
Published: October 2024

The wound repair process usually leads to a non-functioning mass of fibrotic tissue because of the oxidative imbalance of deep tissue layers. However, how to improve the penetration of active ingredients into deeper layers and regulate oxidative imbalances to create a regenerative microenvironment still remains a challenge. In this study, we designed a novel tetrahedral-framework nucleic acid (tFNA) nanozyme that could penetrate the skin/mucosa barrier as deep as 450 μm within 24 h. We also demonstrated the protective role of tFNAs on the mitochondrial structural and functional integrity and inhibition of reactive oxygen species production to repair oxidative imbalances through ERK1/2-Nrf2-HO-1 during repair processes. It was found that the proliferative state and the migration ability of postburn cells in vitro were accelerated, and the early closure of wounds in vivo was significantly promoted. This study therefore provides a promising strategy to efficiently regulate the oxidative imbalances in the deep layers of the skin during wound healing.
A Comparative Study of Neutron Shielding Performance in Al-Based Composites Reinforced with Various Boron-Containing Particles for Radiotherapy: A Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: Yang Shiyan , Yao Yupeng , Wang Hanlong , Huang Hai
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to assess and compare the shielding performance of boron-containing materials for neutrons generated in proton therapy and used in boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT). Five composites, including AlB2, Al-B4C, Al-TiB2, Al-BN, and Al-TiB2-BN, were selected as shielding materials, with concrete used as a benchmark. The mass fraction of boron compounds in these materials ranged from 10% to 50%. The Monte Carlo toolkit Geant4 was employed to calculate shielding parameters, including neutron ambient dose equivalent, dose values, and macroscopic cross-section. Results indicated that, compared to concrete, these boron-containing materials more effectively absorb thermal neutrons. When the boron compound exceeds 30 wt.%, these materials exhibit better shielding performance than concrete of the same thickness for neutrons generated by protons. For a given material, its shielding capability increases with boron content. Among the five materials when the material thickness and boron compound content are the same, the shielding performance for neutrons generated by protons, from best to worst, is as follows: Al-TiB2, Al-B4C, AlB2, Al-TiB2-BN, and Al-BN. For BNCT, the shielding performance from best to worst is in the following order: Al-B4C, AlB2, Al-TiB2, Al-TiB2-BN, and Al-BN. The results of this study provide references and guidelines for the selection and optimization of neutron shielding materials in proton therapy and BNCT facilities.
Advanced Security Framework for 6G Networks: Integrating Deep Learning and Physical Layer Security
Authors: Mahmoud Haitham , Ismail Tawfik , Baiyekusi Tobi , Idrissi Moad
Published: October 2024

This paper presents an advanced framework for securing 6G communication by integrating deep learning and physical layer security (PLS). The proposed model incorporates multi-stage detection mechanisms to enhance security against various attacks on the 6G air interface. Deep neural networks and a hybrid model are employed for sequential learning to improve classification accuracy and handle complex data patterns. Additionally, spoofing, jamming, and eavesdropping attacks are simulated to refine detection mechanisms. An anomaly detection system is developed to identify unusual signal patterns indicating potential attacks. The results demonstrate that machine learning (ML) and hybrid models outperform conventional approaches, showing improvements of up to 85% in bit error rate (BER) and 24% in accuracy, especially under attack conditions. This research contributes to the advancement of secure 6G communication systems, offering details on effective defence mechanisms against physical layer attacks.
Knowing, Being and Becoming a Person-Centred Nurse Leader: Findings from a Transformative Professional Development Programme
Authors: Cable Clare , McCance Tanya , McCormack Brendan
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives Leadership is central to the development of effective workplace cultures and as such should be viewed as a practice that is relational, exercised through a process of mutual and reciprocal influence. Person-centred leadership is an approach to leadership that supports a way of being that is authentic, prioritising values lived out in action. However, there is an increasing recognition that leadership development has not been impactful in relation to workplace culture. This paper reports on the ongoing evaluation of an innovative development programme (Queen’s Nurse Development Programme), the overall aim of which was to illuminate the participants’ experiences of engaging in transformative learning and development and identify the technical and transformative outcomes arising. The programme focused on developing leadership capacity for societal change and maximising the health impact of community nursing leaders. Methods The methodological framework for evaluation was underpinned by a Collaborative Critical Creative Inquiry. Twenty community nurses were selected to undertake the programme during 2020. The collection and analysis of data was consistent with the Collaborative Critical Creative Inquiry and was conducted as a one-day workshop, with participants engaged in a cycle of creative hermeneutic analysis. Results A total of seven themes were identified, including: sense of belonging; personal growth; developing new skills; finding voice; importance of self-care; and creating a safe place. This illuminated how the transformative learning and development processes within this programme were experienced and how these enabled participants to explore how they influence their practice and workplace. It is the journey with self that generates a sense of belonging and enables personal growth and the ability to care for self and others. Conclusions The key learning from this innovative development programme is the importance of focusing on the attributes of practitioners and the key building blocks for knowing, being, and becoming a person-centred practitioner.
Plasmon Response in Individual Conical Silicon Nanowires with Different Lengths
Authors: Rafique Rizwan , La Magna Antonino , Mio Antonio Massimiliano , Patanè Salvatore , Adam Jost , Puglisi Rosaria Anna
Published: October 2024

Silicon nanowires (SiNWs) are extensively studied in the scientific community due to their remarkable electrical and optical properties. In our previous studies, we have demonstrated that cylindrical−shaped SiNWs sustain longitudinal plasmon resonances (LPRs) and transverse plasmon resonances (TPRs). In this work, we will present the results of our investigation on conical SiNWs with different lengths and demonstrate that the NW size plays a role on the spectral response. We selected two groups of SiNWs with approximately 300 nm and 750 nm in length with different lengths and diameters. We investigated the optical properties of the SiNWs at a high energy and spatial resolution by using transmission electron microscopy and in situ electron energy loss spectroscopy. In the UV region of the spectrum investigated here, the experimental evidence suggests the presence of LPRs and a clear presence of TPRs. We found that, as the NW length increases, the LPR fundamental mode shifts towards higher energies, while the diameter seems to affect the TPR, shifting it to lower energy levels when the diameter increases. These SiNWs can play a role in the development of low−dimensional devices for applications in nano−electronics and nano−photonics.
Deciphering the Coarse-Grained Model of Ionic Liquid by Tunning the Interaction Level and Bead Types of Martini 3 Force Field
Authors: Konar Sukanya , Elahi Arash , Chaudhuri Santanu
Published: October 2024

In recent years, ionic liquids (ILs) have served as potential solvents to dissolve organic, inorganic, and polymer materials. A copolymer (for example, Pluronic) can undergo self-organization by forming a micelle-like structure in pure IL medium, and its assembly depends upon the composition of IL. To evaluate the role of ILs, accurate coarse-grained (CG) modeling of IL is needed. Here, we modeled 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium dicyanamide ([EMIM][DCA]) ionic liquid (IL) using a CG framework. We optimized CG parameters for the [DCA]− anion by tuning the non-bonded parameters and selecting different kinds of beads. The molecular density (ρ) and radial distribution function (RDF) of our CG model reveal a good agreement with the all-atom (AA) simulation data. We further validated our model by choosing another imidazolium-based cation. Our modified CG model for the anion shows compatibility with the cation and the obtained density matches well with the experimental data. The strategies for developing the CG model will provide a guideline for accurate modeling of new types of ILs. Our CG model will be useful in studying the micellization of non-ionic Pluronic in the [EMIM][DCA] IL medium.
Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticle: A Comprehensive Review on Synthesis, Applications and Toxicity
Authors: Chandoliya Rakhi , Sharma Shivika , Sharma Vikas , Joshi Rohit , Sivanesan Iyyakkannu
Published: October 2024

Nanotechnology has garnered significant interest worldwide due to its wide-ranging applications across various industries. Titanium dioxide nanoparticles are one type of nanoparticle that is commonly utilised in everyday use and can be synthesized by different techniques using physical, chemical and biological extracts. Green synthesis is an economical, environmentally benign and non-toxic method of synthesising nanoparticles. Titanium dioxide nanoparticles have a positive impact on plant physiology, particularly in response to biotic and abiotic stresses, depending on various factors like size, concentration, exposure of the nanoparticles and other variables. Further, titanium dioxide nanoparticles have many applications, such as being used as nano-fertilizers, adsorption of heavy metal from industrial wastewater and antimicrobial activity, as discussed in this review paper. Previous studies investigated whether titanium dioxide nanoparticles also induce genotoxicity may be due to mishandling procedure, exposure time, size, concentration and other variables. This is still contradictory and requires more research. The present review is a pragmatic approach to summarize the synthesis, application, nanotoxicity, genotoxicity and eco-friendly method of nanoparticle synthesis and disposable.
Energy Efficiency of Plasma Jets: Electrical Modeling Based on Experimental Results
Authors: Hani Achraf , Saber Karim , Abahazem Alyen , Merbahi Nofel
Published: October 2024

This paper focuses on the determination of and improvement in the energy efficiency of plasma jets. To achieve this goal, an equivalent electrical model of a discharge reactor was developed, incorporating variable electrical parameters. The evolution of these parameters was determined by a mathematical identification method based on the recursive least squares algorithm (RLSA). The good agreement between the measured currents and those calculated using our electrical circuit, as well as the significant shapes of the estimated parameters, confirmed the accuracy of the parameter estimation method. This allowed us to use these parameters to determine the energy delivered to the reactor and that used during the discharge. This made our reactor controllable at the energy level. Thus, the ratio between these two energies allowed us to calculate the energy efficiency of plasma jets at each discharge instant. We also studied the effect of the applied voltage on efficiency. We found that efficiency was increased from 75% to 90% by increasing the voltage from 6 kV to 8 kV. All the results found in this work were interpreted and compared with the discharge behavior. This proposed model will help us to choose the right operating conditions to reach the maximum efficiency.
Property Changes of Low-Permeability Oil Reservoirs Under Long-Term Water Flooding
Authors: Lin Lili , Xu Chongjun , Lyu Haifeng , Chen Yuping , Cong Shuping , Yang Xingxing , Bu Wengang
Published: October 2024

The property changes of low-permeability oil reservoirs after long-term water flooding remain insufficiently understood. This study conducted water flooding experiments on three real core samples and employed scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to analyze how the changes in mineral and pore structure relate to permeability changes before and after water flooding. The results showed that the core permeability decreased significantly after water flooding, with a decrease rate of 69.7%, 19.6%, and 34.4% for the three cores. The well test results of the block also indicate that the reservoir permeability decreases after long-term water injection, with an average decrease of over 60%. The clay mineral content decreased notably, with the largest decrease of 8.6 percentage points in kaolinite and minor decreases in chlorite and illite. SEM results also indicated erosion and damage to the clay mineral structure by the water flow, and kaolinite has a high degree of dissolution. The NMR results showed that after water flooding, the pore size curve shifted to the left, the relaxation time decreased, the number of small pores in the cores increased, and the number of large pores decreased. The median pore radius decreased by 3.4% to 21.53%.
A Trans-Theoretical Systematization of Clinical Interventions Based on Dynamical Systems Research (DSR)
Authors: de Felice Giulio , Pincus David
Published: October 2024

The scientific literature focused on the categorization of therapists’ interventions in clinical sessions, and their effects on patients, is not very extensive and often autoreferential. The most relevant findings clearly show the eclecticism of clinicians, grounding only 10–14% of their interventions on the specific theoretical approach to which they belong. Despite that, a trans-theoretical systematization of clinical interventions is lacking. The present work aims to verify the feasibility of a trans-theoretical categorization of clinical interventions based on Dynamical Systems Research in psychotherapy (DSR). For this purpose, the authors present the results of three literature reviews. The first sections of this paper present the literature on the historical development of clinical interventions within the psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral approaches. In the fourth section, the review of the DSR literature in psychotherapy and the systematization of clinical interventions according to such a unifying framework are introduced. Clinical interventions can be aimed at increasing the patient’s stability and flexibility, with the final objective of promoting H-L Synchronization and S-F Oscillations. The connections between the DSR-based categorization and the literature pertaining to the psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral approaches are highlighted. Finally, in the conclusions, the limitations and potential developments of this scientific area are discussed.
Multinodular Vacuolating Neuronal Tumors: Symptomatic Presentation Versus Incidental Finding: Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Balodis Arturs , Strautmane Sintija , Mežvinska Paula , Pavlovičs Sergejs
Published: October 2024

Background: Multinodular Vacuolating Neuronal Tumors (MVNTs) are mixed glial–neuronal brain lesions classified as World Health Organization (WHO) CNS grade 1 tumors, often associated with long-term epilepsy. First described by Huse et al. in 2013 and included in the WHO CNS classification in 2016, MVNTs present a range of clinical manifestations, from symptomatic to asymptomatic. They typically affect young to middle-aged adults and exhibit diverse presentations. Radiologically, MVNTs are usually supratentorial, frequently located in the temporal lobe but also observed in the frontal and parietal lobes. MRI is essential for diagnosis, revealing multiple coalescing subcortical or cortical nodules with hyperintense signals on T2-weighted/FLAIR sequences, often without peripheral edema or mass effects. Case Reports: This paper presents two cases: one symptomatic MVNT with significant clinical manifestations, and the other documenting an incidental finding of MVNT in an asymptomatic patient. One case shows typical temporal lobe localization, while the other highlights a rare frontal lobe localization, with clear radiological findings on T2/FLAIR sequences. Conclusions: These cases illustrate the varied clinical presentations of MVNTs and emphasize MRI’s critical role in diagnosis and management. Asymptomatic cases often require conservative management, stressing the avoidance of unnecessary invasive procedures and the importance of regular monitoring.