bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Digital and Traditional Executive Function Assessment Tools (EFATs) for Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review of Psychometric Properties
Authors: Teles Telesmagno Neves , de Souza Jonatha Berguer , de Almeida Rosa Maria Martins 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Objective:To examine the available data on executive function assessment tools (EFATs) for healthy adults with respect to the following: assessed constructs; reliability; validity; and other psychometric properties. This review also seeks to pinpoint the most employed EFATs in research, those adapted for the Brazilian population, and those suitable for online administration.Methods:This review adheres to the Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Searches were conducted across the PsycNet, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and VHS databasesand relevant grayliterature. The primary search descriptors were executive functions, neuropsychological assessment, executive function assessment, healthy adults, and psychometric properties. Risk-of-bias assessment was performed for all reviewed studies.Results:This review encompasses 29 studies. Thirteen studies introduced novel EFATs with promising psychometrics, whereas16 evaluated preexisting EFATs. Three studies adapted tools into Brazilian Portuguese. The most targeted constructs were inhibition, working memory, and cognitive flexibility. Additionally, processing speed, attentional control, verbal fluency, planning, episodic memory, and psychomotor abilities were also addressed. The most employed tools were the Stroop test, the digit span test, and the trail-making test. Most studies focused on digital tools, but only four had versions adapted to Brazilian Portuguese.Conclusion:The findings revealed that the currently available EFATs are strongly based on the theory that EFs are composed ofthree primary components. Notably, online tools have emerged as a significant area of interest in neuropsychological research, as numerous studies are delving into online EF batteries and serious games for EF assessment.Systematic review registration: This review was previously registered on the Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; CRD42023459513).
Research on tunable single- and dual-wavelength Nd:YLF lasers on 4F3/2→4I13/2 transition
Authors: Chu Chu , Wang Shang , Li Changli , Hu Zonghua , Du Zhenhua 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

A diode-pumped tunable continuous wave (CW) Nd:YLF laser on 4F3/2 →4I13/2 transition is demonstrated for the first time. Four (1314, 1321, 1364 and 1371) in π-polarization and three (1314, 1326 and 1371 nm) in σ-polarization single-wavelength lasers were realized in two directions with a trigonal prism, respectively. At an incident pump power of 20 W, a maximum tuning output power of 7.3 W at 1314 nm in σ-polarization was obtained with the slope efficiency of 39.4%. Additionally, three pairs (1314 & 1321 nm, 1364 & 1371 nm, 1321 & 1364 nm in π-polarization) and two pairs (1314 & 1326 nm, 1314 & 1371 nm in σ-polarization) of dual-wavelength lasers were achieved in two directions by rotating an intracavity Lyot filter (LF), respectively. Furthermore, the output power ratio of the dual-wavelength lasers could be adjusted with two intracavity LFs, and the total output power at 1314 and 1321 nm in π-polarization was up to 6.4 W with 1:1 output power ratio.
Chaos-Enhanced Manganese Electrolysis: Nodule Suppression and Improved Efficiency using Controllable Chaotic Electrical Signals
Authors: Yang Jie , Li Chunbiao , Zhang Qian , Wu Zhihao , Zhang Xin , Liu Peiqiao , Liu Zuohua , Tao Changyuan , Zheng Guocan , Yang Yong , Wei Hanke 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The control and industrial application of chaotic systems is a major obstacle limiting the diffusion of chaos theory. In this study, we proposed a new chaotic system, which possessed the amplitude control, multi-waveform output, and two-dimensional offset boosting functions. In addition, the application of chaotic circuits in manganese metal electrolysis system can replace conventional direct current (DC). It has been shown that the use of time-varying electricity facilitates the suppression of electrochemical oscillations, and inhibits the growth of spherical manganese nodules. An examination of current efficiency for different oscillations (period 1, period 2, chaos-a and chaos-b) and various current amplitudes has established that chaos-a electrical signals are most suitable for inhibiting the growth of manganese nodules. The Mn nodule area ratios can be reduced by 38% with a 5.83% increase in current efficiency, representing an energy consumption saving of 0.58 kWh/kg. This interdisciplinary approach holds promise for advancing the study of nonlinear dynamic behavior in electrochemical reaction processes and addressing critical challenges in various fields, such as energy dissipation, quality improvement of electrodeposited products, and regulation of by-product properties.
Temperature and Flow Velocity Dependency of Biological Screen- Slot Clogging in Injection Wells
Authors: Okihara Shun , Sakata Yoshitaka , Nagano Katsunori , Sato Hideki 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Biological clogging in injection wells for Groundwater Heat Pump (GWHP) systems presents a significant operational challenge. The initial stage of clogging involves bacterial fouling attaching to the screen slots of well pipes. However, the relationship between fouling and horizontal groundwater flow through the slots has not been thoroughly investigated. This study conducted a tank experiment by inserting two slotted steel plates into an acrylic tank. Untreated groundwater from the bottom was supplied and groundwater with adjusted temperature and dissolved oxygen from the top were introduced. The mass increase of iron-oxidation biofouling on the slotted steel plates was measured under varying conditions of injection water temperature and flow velocity through the slots. Results showed that higher flow rates and elevated injection water temperatures increased biofouling mass. Specifically, the mass increased by up to 1.6 times due to differences in flow rate and by up to 2.7 times due to differences in injection temperature. These results indicate that iron-oxidizing bacteria are activated by rising injection temperatures, as corroborated by previous studies, and that faster flow rates provide a greater supply of substrates in the groundwater. Finally, the relationship between biofouling mass and injection temperatures was analyzed using an Arrhenius plot. This analysis yielded apparent activation energy values of 62.6 kJ/mol at a flow rate of 1 m/d and 54.5 kJ/mol at a flow rate of 0.1 m/d, with respective determination coefficients of 0.94 and 0.95.
Visualization of Multi-hazard Interactions in Bangladesh Through Analyzing Natural, Anthropogenic, and Technological Hazards
Authors: Easha Rukaiya Islam , Mitu Momtahina , Haque Hafiz Ashraful 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Bangladesh is a country that faces multiple hazards throughout the year. Those hazards can interact with each other and create complex impacts on the population, infrastructure, and environment. Though there are many discussions about independent hazards around the globe, dependence or interaction among hazards is a new concept worldwide. The purpose of this study is to make an easy comprehension of the interactions among the multiple hazards occurring in Bangladesh. This is accomplished by suggesting the distinctions between single-hazard, multi-layer single-hazard, and multi-hazard approaches which incorporate these types of interactions. This implication means that if the interactions among significant natural and man-made hazards are ignored this may pervert the purpose of management, make people more vulnerable to other hazards that are relevant to a certain location, or result in an underestimation of the risk of disaster. According to the relevant elements of a multi-hazard scenario in Bangladesh, definitions and examples of three categories—natural hazards, anthropogenic processes, and technological hazards/disasters—are provided in this paper. Based on the available literature, three categories of interaction relationships (triggering relationship, increased probability relationship, and catalysis/impedance relationship) are outlined here in detail. We tried to evaluate the interactions among the previous hazards occurring in Bangladesh by analyzing case studies using hazard interaction matrices to visualize those interactions. Furthermore, this study performs the spatial overlap and temporal likelihood analysis of past hazards in Bangladesh through the application of Overlap Likelihood Factors (OLF). The findings demonstrate that flooding possesses the highest total overall likelihood factor (OLF) among triggered natural hazards, establishing it as the most prevalent secondary hazard resulting from primary hazards, along with landslides, riverbank erosion, soil salination, and other hazards. Similarly, fire exhibits the highest Total Overlap-Likelihood Factor (OLFT) among technological hazards, establishing it as the most prevalent secondary hazard. the other hazards like hazardous materials, pollution, industrial explosions, and so on have respectively lower OLFTvalues than fire meaning fewer interacting hazards in Bangladesh. This paper concludes by describing why understanding multi-hazard interactions is needed to contribute to the existing knowledge and practice of multi-hazard risk management in Bangladesh.
Deep learning reveals shifting precipitation patterns on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (1980-2020) linked to Southwest Asian monsoon
Authors: wang Junbang 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

High precision precipitation estimation with high temporal and spatial resolution is essential for depicting the hydrological process in ecological and environmental researches. Various spatial interpolation algorithms were developed but large uncertainties were found for the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (QTP), where meteorological stations are sparsely located over its complex topography. This study developed an Attention-Gated Convolutional Neural Network (A-GCN) algorithm to produce more accurate precipitation spatial interpolation. The spatiotemporal changes were explored in the A-GCN-based precipitation in 1980 to 2020 and its underlying mechanism was analyzed in the view of Asia monsoon. The results showed the A-GCN algorithm, through local connectivity and local region weight sharing in convolutional neural networks, enable better focus on local region features, providing good performance by the comparing with independent observations or the available precipitation datasets. The spatial transition was found in the precipitation interannual trend from a decreasing north and increasing south to an increasing north and decreasing south around the year 2000. The transition could be attributed to the dipole precipitation pattern on a global scale and teleconnection with the Southwest Asia Monsoon enhancing in the early period then weakening since 2005. This study provides a state-of-the-art methodological framework for the spatial interpolation for geographic variable for regions with sparse observations. And precipitation changes would profoundly influence ecological and environment and should be paid more attentions.
Analyzing Key Factors Influencing Viral Marketing Success in Small and Medium Enterprises: A Case Study of Industrial Parks in Nazarabad and Eshtehard, Tehran
Authors: Ramyar Fatemeh 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

With the advent of the Internet, a significant revolution has emerged in the field of marketing. Particularly in the fast-paced environment of modern life, companies provide their needs by spreading their products through the Internet. Unfortunately, in many cases in Iran, imported products, ranging from goods and services to marketing techniques, are not localized and as a result, they are used regardless of the prevailing conditions of the environment or the local market. Viral Marketing is one such technique, representing a modern form of word-of-mouth marketing. This method is not a standalone strategy, but part of a company’s overall marketing effort. The primary purpose of viral marketing is to create brand awareness and enhance product recognition. In order to achieve this, viral marketing techniques are employed to stimulate word-of-mouth promotion across social networks. Given the extensive reach of viral marketing, identifying the success factors behind its use becomes crucial. In this study, the internal and external factors contributing to the success of viral marketing have been analyzed, with a focus on small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The statistical population for this research consists of two groups: managers and sales experts in small and medium enterprises from the industrial parks of Eshtehard and Nazarabad in Tehran province. The sample size includes 30 individuals from each group, making a total of 60 people. The research utilized ratio tests, Friedman tests, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) to assess the data. The results of the study highlighted that internal factors such as management features, human resources, marketing, customer communication, and brand, as well as external factors including technological, economic, and environmental considerations, significantly affect the success of viral marketing.
ZNO as nanoparticle blended with ternary blend of Cotton Seed, Neem Oil, and Orange Peel Oil Biodiesel for emission reduction of CI Engine
Authors: Naik G. G. , Dharmadhikari H. M. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Utilizing renewable energy sources is essential for achieving a cleaner environment. However, the commercialization of biodiesel has lagged other alternative energy sources due to challenges related to its efficiency and yield. This study investigates performance, emissions of biodiesel produced from ternary blend of Neem, cottonseed, and orange peel oil, with the help of Zink Oxide (ZNO) nanoparticle. Fuels were prepared in ratios of B10 and B20, with ZNO added in two concentrations: 30 ppm and 50 ppm. Tests were conducted using a on CI engine attached to exhaust gas analyser. Parameters like such as BTE, BSFC and emissions like NOx, HC, CO2, and CO were evaluated. The results showed that BTE More for B10ZN50, NOx Less for B20ZN30and B20ZN30, there is slight increase in HC for B20ZN30 additive provided the most effective performance, with lower specific fuel consumption and reduced emissions compared to other blends. 56.25% reduction in CO for B10ZN30. NOx reduced by 31.43% for B10ZN30 and B20ZN50 at lower load. At 50% load NOx reduced almost for every blend as compared with diesel, maximum reduction of 14% observed for B10ZN50, at full load NOx reduction of 8.15% observed for B20ZN30. However, HC emission increased for every blend compared to diesel. It is concluded that B20ZN30 is optimum blend for NOx reduction.
Clarification of material removal mechanism in fast ED-milling - part II: Numerical simulation
Authors: Wang Jian , Ma Jie-Yu , Lu Yi-Fan , Zhang Ya-Ou , Zhao Wan-Sheng 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

To investigate the underlying mechanisms behind the observed phenomena presented in the Part I paper, by considering the observation results and actual processing conditions of fast ED-milling, this study develops a novel thermal-fluid coupling model to numerically simulate the evolution process of the molten material under the influence of a flow field. Throughout an in-depth investigation into the material removal process, as well as the velocity and pressure distribution within the discharge gap, it has been found that in fast ED-milling, the molten material expelled from the molten pool accounts for 58.6% of the total volume. The molten material is primarily removed by the high-pressure flushing fluid during pulse interval, with the driving force behind material removal arising from the hydrodynamic force and the large pressure difference between the electrode centre and discharge locations. Furthermore, to investigate the effects of the flow field on machining stability during a consecutive-pulse discharge process, a particle tracing model was established to simulate the debris evacuation process. The simulation results show that inner flushing can markedly reduce the amount of residual debris within the discharge gap, which is a fundamental reason for the high stability of fast ED-milling. Another interesting finding is that the effective internal flushing pressure for high-speed electrical discharge milling is approximately 0.21 MPa, and flushing pressures exceeding it can not lead to a significant improvement in debris evacuation.
Quantitative evaluation of zinc phthalocyanine photosensitized production by singlet oxygen probe
Authors: Feng Hailong , Li Yongliang , Li Jiahang , Wang Ning , Shangguan Jiawei 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

With the widespread application and development of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in cancer treatment, how to accurately quantify photodynamic dose for real-time adjustment and optimization of dose has become a hot topic in PDT research. This study utilized singlet oxygen probes to investigate the photophysical process of zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc) generating singlet oxygen (1O2) under light excitation conditions. We analyzed the absorbance changes of the mixed solution of ZnPc and 1,3-diphenylisobenzofuran (DPBF) over time under varying light fluence rates. The experimental results indicated that after 90 s irradiations at light fluence rates of 40 mW/cm², 30 mW/cm², 20 mW/cm², and 10 mW/cm², the consumptions of DPBF were 77.5%, 62.7%, 50.2%, and 32.4%, respectively. The total productions of 1O2 were calculated to be 1375.8 μM, 882.5 μM, 631.7 μM, and 364.1 μM, respectively. This successfully linked the concentration changes of the singlet oxygen probe with the total production of singlet oxygen, enhancing the accuracy of photodynamic dose research.
Comprehensive Analysis of Serum Metabolites and Whole Blood Cell Transcriptome reveals the Dysregulated Metabolic Pathways in Metabolically Healthy Obesity.
Authors: Mir Fayaz , Ullah Ehsan , Iskandarani Ahmad , Mall Raghvendra , Cyprian Farhan , Shraim Mutasem , Alkasem Meis , Halabi Hamza Al , Taheri Shahrad , Abou-Samra Abdul-Badi 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Obesity stands as a formidable public health challenge, contributing to a spectrum of diseases, including cardiovascular disorders, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Individuals with obesity classified as “metabolically healthy” have susceptibility to various diseases later in life. These diseases often linked to dysregulated metabolic pathways. Our objective was to explore potential associations between serum metabolites and features of metabolic diseases in metabolically healthy subjects with obesity.
Methods
We analyzed a dataset of 40 subjects with obesity only (OBO, n = 20) versus age-matched lean healthy controls (LHC, n = 20). We measured 711 serum metabolites and whole blood transcriptomes. Pathway enrichment analysis was employed to uncover meaningful insights into the association between metabolite concentrations and the observed phenotypic changes. Finally, Transcriptome profiling and subsequent gene set enrichment was done to identify the differentially enriched pathways between the LHC to OBO subjects.
Results
A total of 116 metabolites, mostly lipids, were significantly different (p < 0.05) between the 2 groups. Notably the metabolites demonstrated a distinct metabolic signature differentiating OBO from LHC group. The differentially expressed metabolites include lipids, amino acids, nucleotides, peptides, partially characterized molecules, cofactors/vitamins, carbohydrates, xenobiotics, and energy-related metabolites. Pathway enrichment scores indicated that out of 26 metabolic pathways,14 pathways were differentially activated between the 2 groups. Among these, 5 major metabolic pathways significantly enriched and had maximum difference in mean activity between the two groups were aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, phosphonate and phosphinate metabolism, pyrimidine metabolism, glutathione metabolism and lysine degradation.
Conclusions
Our results indicate that obesity is characterized by a distinctive metabolomic signature emphasizing the perturbed pathways involving amino acids and lipid metabolism.
In-depth mapping of primary care physicians’ practices in four health districts in Benin: a mixed methods study
Authors: Bello Kéfilath , De Lepeleire Jan , Agossou Christian , Zannou Djimon Marcel , Criel Bart 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
In Benin, the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) is increasing. This phenomenon challenges the current prevailing policy of task shifting from physicians to nurses adopted in Benin’s primary care system and raises a few questions. To date, information on PCPs and their practices remains scarce. This study aims to describe current PCP practices and propose a typology of these practices.
Methods
A fully mixed sequential equal-status design was used. Quantitative data were gathered from 155 PCPs through a survey, whereas qualitative data were obtained from in-depth interviews with 21 PCPs, 3 representatives of health authorities, and a review of policy documents.
Results
In our study, four types of PCPs were distinguished: first, private general practitioners (62.6%); second, public general practitioners (3.4%); third, Médecins généralistes communautaires (MGCs) (5.2%); and fourth, specialists working in primary care (28.4%). A comprehensive description of PCP practices is presented across four dimensions: professional identity, governance arrangements, roles and activities, and outputs and outcomes. Notably, only MGCs underwent structured professional identity-building. Most other PCPs perceive primary care as temporary, with low job satisfaction stemming from limited resources and inadequate incomes. Despite strong intrinsic motivation, governance challenges—such as the absence of a coherent national policy on PCPs’ practices, along with limited support to PCPs—significantly hinder their potential, leading to issues such as an excessive focus on curative care, urban concentration, and high costs.
Conclusions
This study is the first to provide a complete and in-depth description of PCP practices in Benin, confirming their growing presence and classifying their practices. It also highlights critical issues affecting these practices, emphasizing the need for stronger governance arrangements to improve primary care outcomes. The findings underscore the importance of developing an evidence-based policy framework to guide and support PCP practices in Benin.