bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Resources recovery from domestic wastewater by a combined process: anaerobic digestion and membrane photobioreactor
Authors: Ferrera Elvira , Ruigómez Ignacio , Vela-Bastos Carolina , Ferreira Alice , Gouveia Luisa , Vera Luisa 
Published: July 2024

AbstractAnaerobic and membrane technologies are a promising combination to decrease the energy consumption associated with wastewater treatment, allowing the recovery of resources: organic matter as biomethane, nutrient assimilation by microalgae and reclaimed water. In this study, domestic wastewater was treated using a combination of an upflow anaerobic sludge blanket sludge reactor (UASB) and a membrane photobioreactor (MPBR). The outdoor facilities were operated continuously for three months under unfavourable environmental conditions such as lack of temperature control, winter season with lower solar irradiation and lower daylight hours which was a challenge for the present work, not previously described. The energetic valorisation of the organic matter present in the wastewater by biomethane produced in the UASB would contribute to reducing overall facilities’ energy requirements. The ultrafiltration (UF) membrane facilitated the harvesting of biomass, operating at 10 L·h−1·m−2 during the experimental period. Although the main contribution to fouling was irreversible, chemical cleanings were not necessary due to effective fouling control, which prevented the final TMP from exceeding 25 kPa. In addition, microalgae-bacterial consortium developed without prior inoculation were harvested from the MPBR using membrane assistance. The obtained biomass was also successfully tested as a biostimulant for corn germination/growth, as well as a biopesticide against Rhizoctonia solani and Fusarium oxysporum.
Graphical abstract
How materialities and space–time travellings in class can breathe new life into Swedish secondary school Natural Science sexuality education
Authors: Planting-Bergloo Sara , Orlander Auli Arvola 
Published: July 2024

AbstractIn this study, we investigate the phenomenon of Swedish Natural Science sexuality education. These classes tend to provide factual knowledge, focus on the negative outcomes of sexuality, be heteronormative and include little time for discussion—like much school sexuality education across the world—and this study aims to contribute ideas about new becomings of Natural Science sexuality education. Baradian theorising was used to explore how materialities and space and time travels within the classroom can challenge often-dominant perspectives. Data were produced in a secondary school and consist of teacher-researcher discussions and participatory observations in class. A futuristic case introduced students to spaces, times and materialities that not only helped the group move beyond a medical focus but also made the sexuality education more student centred. The participating teachers suggested imaginary lust-oriented scenarios for the 15–16-year-old students as an entrance to more preventive messages in teaching. A taken-for-granted heterosexual premise was also challenged with gender-neutral words and pronouns, an exercise on how to use both condoms and dental dams, and a time travel into future possibilities for reproduction and parenting. The acknowledgement of spacetimematter intra-activity in teaching thereby enabled new becomings of Swedish Natural Science sexuality education. However, although this study suggests how dominant medical and heterosexual perspectives can be challenged, it also made visible the absence of cultural, religious, asexuality and disability perspectives in Swedish sexuality education.
Investigations on the Ability of the Insular Cortex to Process Peripheral Immunosuppression
Authors: Bihorac Julia , Salem Yasmin , Lückemann Laura , Schedlowski Manfred , Doenlen Raphael , Engler Harald , Mark Melanie D. , Dombrowski Kirsten , Spoida Katharina , Hadamitzky Martin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The brain and immune system communicate through complex bidirectional pathways, but the specificity by which the brain perceives or even remembers alterations in immune homeostasis is still poorly understood. Recent data revealed that immune-related information under peripheral inflammatory conditions, termed as “immunengram”, were represented in specific neuronal ensembles in the insular cortex (IC). Chemogenetic reactivation of these neuronal ensembles was sufficient to retrieve the inflammatory stages, indicating that the brain can store and retrieve specific immune responses. Against this background, the current approach was designed to investigate the ability of the IC to process states of immunosuppression pharmacologically induced by the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor rapamycin. We here show that the IC perceives the initial state of immunosuppression, reflected by increased deep-brain electroencephalography (EEG) activity during acute immunosuppressive drug treatment. Following an experienced period of immunosuppression, though, diminished splenic cytokine production as formerly induced by rapamycin could not be reinstated by nonspecific chemogenetic activation or inhibition of the IC. These findings suggest that the information of a past, or experienced status of pharmacologically induced immunosuppression is not represented in the IC. Together, the present work extends the view of immune-to-brain communication during the states of peripheral immunosuppression and foster the prominent role of the IC for interoception.
RILPL2 as a potential biomarker for predicting enhanced T cell infiltration in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Chen Dongfang , Zhang Hongyan , Zhao Lifang , Liu Xueqing , Lou Yueyan , Wu Peiling , Xue Shan , Jiang Handong 
Published: July 2024

AbstractOur previous bioinformatics analysis has revealed that Rab-interacting lysosomal protein-like 2 (RILPL2) is associated with tumor immune microenvironment in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In our study, we collected 140 patients with primary NSCLC to verify the RILPL2 expression and its prognostic value, the relationship between RILPL2 expression and CD4+, CD8+T cell infiltration. A total of 140 patients who had been diagnosed with primary NSCLC (including 66 lung adenocarcinomas and 74 lung squamous cell carcinomas) were enrolled in our study. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining was performed to analyze the expression of RILPL2, CD4, and CD8 in these patients. Compared with peri-cancer tissues, the RILPL2 expression in NSCLC tissues was significantly lower (P < 0.0001). RILPL2 expression was significantly related to clinical stage (P = 0.019), and low RILPL2 expression indicated higher stage. Low RILPL2 expression predicted worse overall survival (OS) in NSCLC patients (P = 0.017). Correlational analyses revealed that RILPL2 expression was significantly positively correlated with CD4+T cell infiltration in NSCLC (R = 0.294, P < 0.001), LUAD subgroup (R = 0.256, P = 0.038), and LUSC subgroup (R = 0.333, P = 0.004); RILPL2 expression was also significantly positively correlated with CD8+ T cell infiltration in NSCLC (R = 0.263, P = 0.002), LUAD subgroup (R = 0.280, P = 0.023), and LUSC subgroup (R = 0.250, P = 0.031). In conclusion, RILPL2 expression was downregulated in NSCLC; low RILPL2 expression was significantly related to higher stage and worse prognosis; RILPL2 expression was significantly positively correlated with CD4+, CD8+T cell infiltration.
Deep Brain Stimulation for Consciousness Disorders; Technical and Ethical Considerations
Authors: Deli Alceste , Green Alexander L. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractDisorders of Consciousness (DoC) result in profound functional impairment, adversely affecting the lives of a predominantly younger patient population. Currently, effective treatment options for those who have reached chronicity (prolonged symptom duration over 4 weeks) are extremely limited, with the majority of such cases facing life-long dependence on carers and a poor quality of life. Here we briefly review the current evidence on caseload, diagnostic and management options in the United Kingdom (UK), United States of America (USA) and the European Union (EU). We identify key differences as well as similarities in these approaches across respective healthcare systems, highlighting unmet needs in this population. We subsequently present past efforts and the most recent advances in the field of surgical modulation of consciousness through implantable neurostimulation systems. We examine the ethical dilemmas that such a treatment approach may pose, proposing mediating solutions and methodological adjustments to address these concerns. Overall, we argue that there is a strong case for the utilisation of deep brain stimulation (DBS) in the DoC patient cohort. This is based on both promising results of recent clinical trials as well as technological developments. We propose a revitalization of surgical neuromodulation for DoC with a multicenter, multidisciplinary approach and strict monitoring guidelines, in order to not only advance treatment options but also ensure the safeguarding of patients’ welfare and dignity.
Psilotum (Psilotaceae-Ophioglossales): a taxonomic assessment based on morpho-anatomical studies of the species from the Neotropics
Authors: Tejero-Díez J. Daniel , Grego-Valencia Dalia , Prado Jefferson , Aguilar-Rodríguez Silvia , Terrazas Teresa 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe recent discovery of Psilotum × intermedium in Mexico prompted us to reassess the nomenclature of this genus, which has global implications. From an extensive review of nomenclatural types and herbarium specimens, field collections, and a morpho-anatomical analysis, P. nudum and P. flaccidum are treated as accepted species, while P. × complanatum is treated as an interspecific hybrid between them. With this clarification, we specify their main synonymies and designate seven lectotypes (for Bernhardia schiedeana, Psilotum complanatum var. latissimum, P. complanatum var. mexicanum, P. floridanum, P. neocaledonicum, P. triquetrum, P. triquetrum var. gracile) and we select an epitype to give taxonomic support to the hybrid. We provide descriptions, diagnostic comments, and a key for identification of the accepted taxa, and also update the geographical ranges of these three taxa, mainly in Neotropics.
From Physiology to Pathology of Astrocytes: Highlighting Their Potential as Therapeutic Targets for CNS Injury
Authors: Yuan Yimin , Liu Hong , Dai Ziwei , He Cheng , Qin Shangyao , Su Zhida 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
In the mammalian central nervous system (CNS), astrocytes are the ubiquitous glial cells that have complex morphological and molecular characteristics. These fascinating cells play essential neurosupportive and homeostatic roles in the healthy CNS and undergo morphological, molecular, and functional changes to adopt so-called ‘reactive’ states in response to CNS injury or disease. In recent years, interest in astrocyte research has increased dramatically and some new biological features and roles of astrocytes in physiological and pathological conditions have been discovered thanks to technological advances. Here, we will review and discuss the well-established and emerging astroglial biology and functions, with emphasis on their potential as therapeutic targets for CNS injury, including traumatic and ischemic injury. This review article will highlight the importance of astrocytes in the neuropathological process and repair of CNS injury.
Chitosan membranes incorporating Aloe vera glycolic extract with joint synthesis of silver nanoparticles for the treatment of skin lesions
Authors: Amaral Venâncio A. , Santana Victoria L. , Lisboa Erika S. , Martins Fredrico S. , Chaud Marco V. , de Albuquerque-Júnior Ricardo L. C. , Santana Wanessa , Santos Cochiran , de Jesus Santos Adriana , Cardoso Juliana C. , Souto Eliana B. , Severino Patrícia 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
New wound dressings based on polymeric membranes have been widely exploited for clinical applications to assist in the healing process and prevent additional complications (e.g., bacterial infections). Here we propose the development of a new production method of polymeric membranes based on chitosan, incorporating glycolic extract of Aloe vera with joint synthesis of silver nanoparticles for use as a new bioactive dressing. The membranes were obtained by casting technique, and their morphological, physicochemical characteristics, degree of swelling, degradation profile and antimicrobial activity evaluated. Morphological analyzes confirmed the synthesis and presence of silver nanoparticles in the polymeric membrane. The chemical compatibility between the materials was demonstrated through thermal analysis (TGA and DSC) combined with ATR-FTIR tests, showing the complexation of the membranes (Mb-Ch-Ex.Av-NPs). All membranes were characterized as hydrophilic material (with a contact angle (ө) < 90°); however, the highest degree of swelling was obtained for the chitosan. (Mb-Ch) membrane (69.91 ± 5.75%) and the lowest for Mb-Ch-Ex.Av-NPs (26.62 ± 8.93%). On the other hand, the degradation profile was higher for Mb-Ch-Ex.Av-NPs (77.85 ± 7.51%) and lower for Mb-Ch (57.60 ± 2.29%). The manufactured bioactive dressings showed activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Our work confirmed the development of translucent and flexible chitosan-based membranes, incorporating Aloe vera glycolic extract with joint synthesis of silver nanoparticles for use as a new bioactive dressing, with proven antimicrobial activity.

Graphical Abstract
Evolution of Morphology, Particle Size and Oxidation Resistance of Recycled Ti-6Al-4V Powders Prepared by Planetary Ball Milling
Authors: Varol Temel , Ömür Fethi Doğukan , Akçay Serhatcan Berk , Güler Onur , Erdemir Fatih 
Published: July 2024

AbstractPlanetary ball milling is a high-energy ball milling technique that is widely used for the synthesis of alloy and composite powders with micrometer or nanometer particle sizes. The effect of process control agent (PCA) content (wt%) and milling time on the morphology, particle size and distribution, crystallite structure, apparent density and oxidation resistance of recycled T-6Al-4V alloy powders from lathe chips is investigated in this study. To investigate the effect of the PCA on the properties of the Ti-6Al-4V alloy particles, methanol is used as the PCA in various amounts of 0.5, 1 and 2 wt%. The milling is carried out using 20:1 of ball-to-powder ratio (BPR) and 400 rpm of milling speed. A morphological change from scrap form to flake-like shape, from flake-like morphology to irregular and semispherical shape and finally from semispherical form to spherical morphology is observed with increase in milling time for all PCA ratios. The results showed that the average particle sizes (D50) are 20, 18.1 and 21.8 μm after milling of 360 min with 0.5 wt%, 1 wt% and 2 wt% PCA, respectively. Results show that the most suitable recycled Ti-6Al-4V powders for powder-based manufacturing techniques are produced between 180 and 360 min of milling with 2 wt% PCA.
A mediation approach in resting-state connectivity between the medial prefrontal cortex and anterior cingulate in mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Huang Yiyuan Teresa , Yan Sui-Hing , Chuang Yi-Fang , Shih Yao-Chia , Huang Yan-Siang , Liu Yi-Chien , Kao Scott Shyh-Chang , Chiu Yen-Ling , Fan Yang-Teng 
Published: July 2024

AbstractMild cognitive impairment (MCI) is recognized as the prodromal phase of dementia, a condition that can be either maintained or reversed through timely medical interventions to prevent cognitive decline. Considerable studies using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) have indicated that altered activity in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) serves as an indicator of various cognitive stages of aging. However, the impacts of intrinsic functional connectivity in the mPFC as a mediator on cognitive performance in individuals with and without MCI have not been fully understood. In this study, we recruited 42 MCI patients and 57 healthy controls, assessing their cognitive abilities and functional brain connectivity patterns through neuropsychological evaluations and resting-state fMRI, respectively. The MCI patients exhibited poorer performance on multiple neuropsychological tests compared to the healthy controls. At the neural level, functional connectivity between the mPFC and the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) was significantly weaker in the MCI group and correlated with multiple neuropsychological test scores. The result of the mediation analysis further demonstrated that functional connectivity between the mPFC and ACC notably mediated the relationship between the MCI and semantic fluency performance. These findings suggest that altered mPFC-ACC connectivity may have a plausible causal influence on cognitive decline and provide implications for early identifications of neurodegenerative diseases and precise monitoring of disease progression.
Exposure to Endocrine Disruptors in Early life and Neuroimaging Findings in Childhood and Adolescence: a Scoping Review
Authors: Cajachagua-Torres Kim N. , Quezada-Pinedo Hugo G. , Wu Tong , Trasande Leonardo , Ghassabian Akhgar 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Purpose of Review
Evidence suggests neurotoxicity of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) during sensitive periods of development. We present an overview of pediatric population neuroimaging studies that examined brain influences of EDC exposure during prenatal period and childhood.

Recent Findings
We found 46 studies that used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to examine brain influences of EDCs. These studies showed associations of prenatal exposure to phthalates, organophosphate pesticides (OPs), polyaromatic hydrocarbons and persistent organic pollutants with global and regional brain structural alterations. Few studies suggested alteration in functional MRI associated with prenatal OP exposure. However, studies on other groups of EDCs, such as bisphenols, and those that examined childhood exposure were less conclusive.

Summary
These findings underscore the potential profound and lasting effects of prenatal EDC exposure on brain development, emphasizing the need for better regulation and strategies to reduce exposure and mitigate impacts. More studies are needed to examine the influence of postnatal exposure to EDC on brain imaging.
Biosafety, biosecurity, and bioethics
Authors: Resnik David B. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of biosafety in the biomedical sciences. While it is often assumed that biosafety is a purely technical matter that has little to do with philosophy or the humanities, biosafety raises important ethical issues that have not been adequately examined in the scientific or bioethics literature. This article reviews some pivotal events in the history of biosafety and biosecurity and explores three different biosafety topics that generate significant ethical concerns, i.e., risk assessment, risk management, and risk distribution. The article also discusses the role of democratic governance in the oversight of biosafety and offers some suggestions for incorporating bioethics into biosafety practice, education, and policy.
Lazy thermal annealing of material extrusion-based 3D-printed PLA specimens
Authors: Birosz Márton Tamás , Gál András , Hegedűs-Kuti János , Andó Mátyás 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Material extrusion (ME)-based 3D printing process is widely used nowadays, and the created parts can be used for rapid prototyping or as a finished part for industrial representatives, but the technology is also popular among home users. One of the greatest limitations of the parts created by ME is the mechanical anisotropy resulting from the extrusion process. The inter- and intra-layer adhesion makes the parts prone to early failure. By thermal post-processing, this kind of bond can be improved; however, that would need an investment of some new equipment/machines. In this article, a “lazy annealing” thermal post-processing method is presented, where the parts are cured on the 3D printer to increase their mechanical resistance. According to the results, even with this simple method, a significant increment can be achieved, but it has less effect on the infill patterns.
Australian Digital Mental Health Services: Consumer Perceptions of Their Usability and Acceptability
Authors: Ftanou Maria , Machlin Anna , Mangelsdorf Shaminka N. , Morgan Amy , Bassilios Bridget 
Published: July 2024

AbstractDigital mental health interventions are effective and can greatly enhance access to mental health care. They can reach people in remote and low-income areas and reduce the stigma of seeking mental health help by offering anonymity. Despite these benefits, they have not been fully integrated into mental health service delivery. The aim of this study was to understand consumers’ experiences and perceptions of accessing care through digital mental health services. Consumers of three key Australian Digital Mental Health Services completed an online survey about their experience receiving mental health care through digital mental health services. Some consumers were also invited to elaborate on their responses by taking part in a phone interview. A total of 351 participants completed an online survey (overall response rate of 11% of all those invited to take part), and 23 participants of whom also completed a phone interview. Most consumers were female and under the age of 50 years. Overall, consumers were very positive about their experience of using digital mental health services. They appreciated the accessibility, convenience, self-paced nature, therapeutic support, and guidance. Most found the services user-friendly, easy to use and navigate and were satisfied with their experience. A small number of consumers experienced difficulties with technology and internet connections. Most consumers would recommend services to their peers and recommend that digital mental health services be better promoted to improve awareness. Digital mental health services have a vital role in mental health care provision. Further research is needed to examine how digital mental health services can cater to the specific needs of disadvantaged sub-populations and diverse cultural populations and be seamlessly implemented in mental health care systems.
Impact of Train-Induced Vibrations on Residents’ Comfort and Structural Damages in Buildings
Authors: Seyedi Mohsen 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe rapid growth of urbanization and the progress of industrialization have resulted in the construction of over or near-track buildings. Train-induced ground-borne vibrations have attracted attention because they can damage buildings and cause residents discomfort. This study conducted a series of finite element analyses on three 5-story concrete framed buildings, which were subjected to the passage of trains at various speeds. One of the buildings was modeled as an over-track building, whereas the other two buildings were located in close proximity to the track but at different distances. The present study investigated the impact of train speed and track-to-building distance on the acceleration and velocity responses of buildings. The comparison of residents’ comfort levels and the structural safety of buildings against potential damages was conducted using international standards as the controlling criteria. Furthermore, an efficient mitigation technique was implemented, involving the utilization of open trenches with different depths between buildings and the railway track. This approach was employed with the aim of minimizing the detrimental impacts caused by trains-induced vibrations. The findings indicated that the over-track building was impacted by the train-induced vibrations more than near-track buildings. Furthermore, it was shown that although the passage of high-speed trains can disturb the comfort of building residents and potentially cause some structural damage to buildings, it did not lead to any significant story drifts in the structures. Finally, the minimum required depth of open trenches to mitigate train-induced vibrations was computed for every type of buildings and train speeds.