bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Infiltration and recharge dynamics in the Nubian Sandstone Aquifer System of northern Chad
Authors: Vogt Marie-Louise A. , Zwahlen François , Pera Sebastián , Mahamat Hamza Brahim , Hunkeler Daniel , Brunner Philip 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe Nubian Sandstone Aquifer System (NSAS) is one of the world’s largest fossil groundwater resources. In northern Chad, notably in the areas of the Tibesti and Ennedi mountains, precipitation occurs seasonally with rates up to 150 mm year–1. This precipitation could lead to diffuse recharge, as well as concentrated recharge along the episodically flooded wadis. Although it is clear that infiltration occurs under flooded areas, it is unknown if and to what extent the infiltration can recharge groundwater. This study combines remote sensing data on precipitation, evapotranspiration, and the temporal and spatial dynamics of the flooded areas with chemical and stable isotopic data from groundwater and surface water sampled between 2013 and 2016. The combination of these data shows that (1) the only area where diffuse recharge occurs is in the southern area of the Ennedi mountains, where concentrated recharge through the wadis occurs concurrently during the month of August, and (2) southeast of the Tibesti and north of the Ennedi mountains, only concentrated recharge occurs. The length of the flooded areas and thus the spatial extent of concentrated recharge varies significantly from year to year and can last up to 3 months. The study has shown that modern recharge does occur in northern Chad, but to a very limited extent, both in space and time. This means that achieving sustainable management of this renewable resource can only be considered through rigorous quantitative assessments. Furthermore, these findings have important implications for future studies on the regional dynamics of the NSAS.
Feasibility study to identify machine learning predictors for a Virtual Environment Grocery Store
Authors: Parsons Thomas D. , McMahan Timothy , Asbee Justin 
Published: January 2024

AbstractVirtual reality-based assessment and training platforms proffer the potential for higher-dimensional stimulus presentations (dynamic; three dimensional) than those found with many low-dimensional stimulus presentations (static; two-dimensional) found in pen-and-paper measures of cognition. Studies have investigated the psychometric validity and reliability of a virtual reality-based multiple errands task called the Virtual Environment Grocery Store (VEGS). While advances in virtual reality-based assessments provide potential for increasing evaluation of cognitive processes, less has been done to develop these simulations into adaptive virtual environments for improved cognitive assessment. Adaptive assessments offer the potential for dynamically adjusting the difficulty level of tasks specific to the user’s knowledge or ability. Former iterations of the VEGS did not adapt to user performance. Therefore, this study aimed to develop performance classifiers from participants (N = 75) using three classification techniques: Support Vector Machines (SVM), Naive Bayes (NB), and k-Nearest Neighbors (kNN). Participants were categorized as either high performing or low performing based upon the number items they were able to successfully find and add to their grocery cart. The predictors utilized for the classification focused on the times to complete tasks in the virtual environment. Results revealed that the SVM (88% correct classification) classifier was the most robust classifier for identifying cognitive performance followed closely by kNN (86.7%); however, NB tended to perform poorly (76%). Results suggest that participants’ task completion times in conjunction with SVM or kNN can be used to adjust the difficult level to best suit the user in the environment.
AOTMiT reimbursement recommendations compared to other HTA agencies
Authors: Mela Aneta , Lis Dorota , Rdzanek Elżbieta , Jaroszyński Janusz , Furtak-Niczyporuk Marzena , Drop Bartłomiej , Blicharski Tomasz , Niewada Maciej 
Published: January 2024

AbstractOur objective was to compare AOTMiT (Polish: Agencja Oceny Technologii Medycznych i Taryfikacji) recommendations to other HTA (Health Technology Assessment) agencies for newly registered drugs and new registration indications issued by the European Medicines Agency between 2014 and 2019. The study aims to assess the consistency and justifications of AOTMiT recommendations compared to that of other HTA agencies in 11 countries. A total of 2496 reimbursement recommendations published by 12 HTA agencies for 464 medicinal products and 525 indications were analyzed. Our analysis confirmed that the Polish AOTMiT agency seems to bear the closest resemblance to the corresponding HTA agencies from Canada (CADTH) and New Zealand (PHARMAC), when it comes to the outcome of HTA recommendations (positive or negative). Poland had a general scheme for justifying recommendations, similar to that of Ireland—four aspects (i.e., clinical efficacy, safety profile, cost-effectiveness, and impact on the payer’s budget) are important for Poland when formulating the final decision. Compared to other countries, Poland shows a noticeably different pattern of justifying reimbursement recommendations, as revealed primarily in terms of budget impact and somewhat less so for cost-effectiveness rationales.
Metal-based nanoparticles in antibacterial application in biomedical field: Current development and potential mechanisms
Authors: Jiang Hao , Li Lingzhi , Li Zhong , Chu Xiang 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe rise in drug resistance in pathogenic bacteria greatly endangers public health in the post-antibiotic era, and drug-resistant bacteria currently pose a great challenge not only to the community but also to clinical procedures, including surgery, stent implantation, organ transplantation, and other medical procedures involving any open wound and compromised human immunity. Biofilm-associated drug failure, as well as rapid resistance to last-resort antibiotics, necessitates the search for novel treatments against bacterial infection. In recent years, the flourishing development of nanotechnology has provided new insights for exploiting promising alternative therapeutics for drug-resistant bacteria. Metallic agents have been applied in antibacterial usage for several centuries, and the functional modification of metal-based biomaterials using nanotechnology has now attracted great interest in the antibacterial field, not only for their intrinsic antibacterial nature but also for their ready on-demand functionalization and enhanced interaction with bacteria, rendering them with good potential in further translation. However, the possible toxicity of MNPs to the host cells and tissue still hinders its application, and current knowledge on their interaction with cellular pathways is not enough. This review will focus on recent advances in developing metallic nanoparticles (MNPs), including silver, gold, copper, and other metallic nanoparticles, for antibacterial applications, and their potential mechanisms of interaction with pathogenic bacteria as well as hosts.
Connectivity Maintenance through Unlabeled Spanning Tree Matching
Authors: Hamaoui Moshe 
Published: January 2024

AbstractA key function of mobile networks is the ability to dynamically reshape itself to any desired geometry. Lacking absolute position awareness, agents often rely on distance-limited inter-agent spatial measurements to maintain state awareness. Methods of formation control must therefore ensure a minimal level of persistent pairwise measurement feedback throughout transition, giving rise to the classic connectivity maintenance problem. To address this problem, we propose a method of structure-preserving assignment, matching agents to desired positions such that persistent global connectivity is naturally and automatically satisfied under smooth transition. Compared to other approaches, this complementary technique reduces reliance on aggressive or costly mid-flight formation control protocols. The technique is shown to scale and even improve with network size.
Enactive psychiatry and social integration: beyond dyadic interactions
Authors: Dengsø Mads J. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractEnactive approaches to psychiatry have recently argued for an understanding of psychiatric conditions based within relational interactions between individuals and their environments. A central motivation for these enactive approaches is the goal of social integration: the integration of a naturalistic approach to psychiatric conditions with their broader sociocultural dimensions. One possible issue, however, is whether appeals to the autonomy and authenticity of relationally constituted enactive individuals can provide a means of adjudicating between harmful and beneficial social constraints upon individual behaviour. This paper seeks to provide enactive approaches to psychiatry with a possible means of evaluating normative influences of social contexts beyond direct interactions with relationally constituted individuals. Some of the most significant influences of the sociocultural dimension of psychiatric conditions consist not in direct interaction with individuals, but in setting the terms for interactions and interactants alike. Insofar as some social influences precede and predefine dyadic relations between individuals and their social context, these cannot be accounted for as features of interactions, but must be assessed as independent structures of the sociocultural dimension. I will provide one potential means for enactive models to assess social norms using Canguilhem’s distinction between health and pathology. I will argue that Canguilhem’s conceptualization of health in terms of adaptive normative structure provides a potential tool for social integration which strongly complements enactive approaches to psychiatry.
Impact of a nanofiltration system on microplastic contamination in Geneva groundwater (Switzerland)
Authors: Negrete Velasco Angel , Ellero Alicia , Ramseier Gentile Stéphan , Zimmermann Stéphane , Ramaciotti Pascal , Stoll Serge 
Published: January 2024

AbstractMicroplastics (MPs) have been observed in the oceans, fresh waters, karstic water and remote water bodies. However, little is known on groundwater contamination, which is a natural resource of utmost importance for millions of people and is often perceived as a reliable source of water. Moreover, nanofiltration is perceived as a reliable technology to remove contaminants from water. In this study, large sample volumes of a silty-sandy gravel aquifer and the corresponding nanofiltered water were analysed for the presence of MPs (> 20 µm) using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) microscopy. Concentration in ground water was 8 ± 7 MPs/m3 and increased to 36 ± 11 MPs/m3 in nanofiltered water. All MPs had a maximum Ferret diameter lower than 500 µm. Size distribution of MPs was towards the small size class (20–50 µm). In groundwater, 33% of MPs were detected in the smallest size class (20–50 µm) and 67% in the 50–100-µm-size class. In comparison, around 52% of MPs in nanofiltered water were observed in the 20–50 µm size class. Moreover, 33% of the MPs observed in nanofiltered water were in the 50–100 µm size class and 15% in the 100–500-µm-size class. From a chemical point of view, different plastic polymers were identified in groundwater and in nanofiltered water, such as polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), ethylene (vinyl acetate) copolymer (EVA), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and other polymer materials (such as polystyrene-based copolymers, vinyl-based copolymers). Fibres were observed in all samples, but only a small number of fibres (near 1%) were identified as PP synthetic fibres in nanofiltered water. Furthermore, no clear difference of fibre concentrations was observed between groundwater (232 ± 127 fibres/m3) and nanofiltered water (247 ± 118 fibres/m3). Groundwater had extremely low levels of microplastics, and although the nanofiltration effectively removes suspended particulate matter, it slightly contaminates the filtered water with MPs.
Real-time prediction of tunnel face conditions using XGBoost Random Forest algorithm
Authors: Wu Lei-jie , Li Xu , Yuan Ji-dong , Wang Shuang-jing 
Published: January 2024

AbstractReal-time perception of rock conditions based on continuously collected data to meet the requirements of continuous Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) construction presents a critical challenge that warrants increased attention. To achieve this goal, this paper establishes real-time prediction models for fractured and weak rock mass by comparing 6 different algorithms using real-time data collected by the TBM. The models are optimized in terms of selecting metric, selecting input features, and processing imbalanced data. The results demonstrate the following points. (1) The Youden’s index and area under the ROC curve (AUC) are the most appropriate performance metrics, and the XGBoost Random Forest (XGBRF) algorithm exhibits superior prediction and generalization performance. (2) The duration of the TBM loading phase is short, usually within a few minutes after the disc cutter contacts the tunnel face. A model based on the features during the loading phase has a miss rate of 21.8%, indicating that it can meet the early warning needs of TBM construction well. As the TBM continues to operate, the inclusion of features calculated from subsequent data collection can continuously correct the results of the real-time prediction model, ultimately reducing the miss rate to 16.1%. (3) Resampling the imbalanced data set can effectively improve the prediction by the model, while the XGBRF algorithm has certain advantages in dealing with the imbalanced data issue. When the model gives an alarm, the TBM operator and on-site engineer can be reminded and take some necessary measures for avoiding potential tunnel collapse. The real-time predication model can be a useful tool to increase the safety of TBM excavation.
The impact of meaning in life on preservice teachers’ innovative behavior: the chain mediating effects of career calling and learning engagement
Authors: Huang Weiwei , Zhang Shuyue 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe cultivation of innovation ability among preservice teachers is crucial for the modernization of Chinese education, and the neglect of nonintellectual factors constitutes a key determinant of the inadequate training outcomes. Based on the self-determination theory, this study constructs a theoretical model with meaning in life as the independent variable, innovative behavior as the dependent variable, and career calling and learning engagement as the mediating variables to explore ways to stimulate innovative behavior. We used four scales of meaning in life, innovative behavior, career calling and learning engagement to investigate preservice teachers, and collected 2516 valid data. The results show that the meaning in life has a positive predictive effect on innovative behavior. The effect of meaning in life on innovative behavior can be mediated by career calling and learning engagement independently as well as through the chain mediation of ‘career calling → learning engagement’. The findings indicate that the innovative behavior of preservice teachers is not only affected by the meaning in life, but also closely related to their career calling and learning engagement. To better cultivate the innovation ability of preservice teachers, educational policymakers and administrators should focus on fostering their meaning in life, enhancing their career calling, and promoting learning engagement.
Sequestration of chromium by Ananas comosus extract–coated nanotubes: synthesis, characterization, optimization, thermodynamics, kinetics, and antioxidant activities
Authors: Amaku James Friday , Taziwa Raymond 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Herein, a superior adsorbent was fabricated via immobilizing Ananas comosus juice extract on nanotubes (MWPJ) for the removal of chromium (VI) from simulated wastewater. The batch adsorption technique was used to establish the influence of solution pH, adsorbent dosage, solution temperature, initial Cr(VI) concentration, and contact time on the adsorption of chromium (VI). To comprehend the surface properties and to confirm chromium (VI) adsorption onto MWPJ and MWCNTs, TGA, SEM, and FTIR analyses were performed for MWPJ and MWCNTs before and after the adsorption process. These spectroscopic techniques revealed the temperature and surface characteristics responsible for the effectiveness of MWPJ. MWPJ and MWCNTs demonstrated optimum removal potential at solution pH 2, 0.05 g adsorbent dosage, and 180 min contact time. The MWPJ and MWCNTs had a maximum adsorption potential of 44.87 and 33.38 mg g−1 at 25 °C respectively. The reaction rate kinetics data for MWPJ and MWCNTs fitted well with Elovich and the pseudo-first-order kinetic model, respectively, while the saturated equilibrium data were best described by Freundlich isotherm. The thermodynamics analysis revealed that the uptake of Cr(VI) onto MWPJ and MWCNTs was a spontaneous and exothermic process. After five adsorption–desorption cycles of MWPJ, about 80% removal efficiency of Cr(VI) ions was sustained. Hence, MWPJ has demonstrated a superior capacity for practical applications in environmental remediation practice.
Atomically Substitutional Engineering of Transition Metal Dichalcogenide Layers for Enhancing Tailored Properties and Superior Applications
Authors: Liu Zhaosu , Tee Si Yin , Guan Guijian , Han Ming-Yong 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) are a promising class of layered materials in the post-graphene era, with extensive research attention due to their diverse alternative elements and fascinating semiconductor behavior. Binary MX2 layers with different metal and/or chalcogen elements have similar structural parameters but varied optoelectronic properties, providing opportunities for atomically substitutional engineering via partial alteration of metal or/and chalcogenide atoms to produce ternary or quaternary TMDs. The resulting multinary TMD layers still maintain structural integrity and homogeneity while achieving tunable (opto)electronic properties across a full range of composition with arbitrary ratios of introduced metal or chalcogen to original counterparts (0–100%). Atomic substitution in TMD layers offers new adjustable degrees of freedom for tailoring crystal phase, band alignment/structure, carrier density, and surface reactive activity, enabling novel and promising applications. This review comprehensively elaborates on atomically substitutional engineering in TMD layers, including theoretical foundations, synthetic strategies, tailored properties, and superior applications. The emerging type of ternary TMDs, Janus TMDs, is presented specifically to highlight their typical compounds, fabrication methods, and potential applications. Finally, opportunities and challenges for further development of multinary TMDs are envisioned to expedite the evolution of this pivotal field.
Development of an Integrated Process Flowsheet to Recover Valuable Metals from Waste Cathode Ray Tubes and Printed Circuit Boards
Authors: Tsebe Sello P. , Steenkamp Joalet D. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractElectrical and electronic waste is considered a valuable stream of secondary metal resources because it contains metals such as copper, silver and gold. However, it is also classified as hazardous waste as it contains toxic heavy metals such as lead and cadmium. If electronic waste is not managed properly, the toxic metals may pose serious risks to the environment and human health, especially complex fractions such as printed circuit boards (PCBs) and cathode ray tubes (CRTs). The current study investigated a new process for the thermal treatment of CRTs and PCBs in an integrated flowsheet for metal recovery. Smelting tests were conducted to demonstrate that oxidative smelting of PCB concentrate and recycled CRT slag can produce a crude copper alloy with a grade of more than 95%. Another set of smelting tests was conducted to demonstrate that reductive smelting of CRT funnel glass and recycled PCB fume can produce a crude lead alloy with a grade of more than 95%. The investigations were undertaken in a pilot-scale top blown rotary converter (TBRC). The PCBs were smelted under mildly oxidising conditions at temperatures up to 1350 °C. The CRTs were smelted under mildly reducing conditions at temperatures up to 1250 °C. The study demonstrated that it is technically feasible to produce crude alloys of copper and lead from electronic waste, using an integrated process flowsheet.
Graphical Abstract
New data on the shell anatomy of Selenemys lusitanica, the oldest known pleurosternid turtle in Europe
Authors: Pérez-García Adán , Camilo Bruno , Ortega Francisco 
Published: January 2024

AbstractOne of the most diverse turtle lineages in the Upper Jurassic and Lower Cretaceous record of Europe is that of the stem turtles Pleurosternidae (Paracryptodira), also distributed in North America. The oldest European representative of this lineage is the Portuguese Selenemys lusitanica, known from upper Kimmeridgian to lower Tithonian levels (Late Jurassic). The information on the shell of this taxon is so far very limited, being exclusively restricted to that provided in the publication in which the taxon was defined. New specimens from several upper Kimmeridgian to Tithonian localities in the Consolação Sub-basin of the Portuguese Lusitanian Basin, both from the Leiria District and the Lisbon District, are studied here. They include the most complete shell of the species found so far, as well as several isolated plates that allow us to improve knowledge about it. Thus, new information about the shell anatomy of Selenemys lusitanica is provided, but also about its intraspecific variability.
Common and specific genetic basis of metabolite-mediated drought responses in rice
Authors: Guo Zilong , Wang Shouchuang , Zhang Feng , Xiang Denghao , Yang Jun , Li Dong , Bai Baowei , Dai Mingqiu , Luo Jie , Xiong Lizhong 
Published: January 2024

AbstractPlants orchestrate drought responses at metabolic level but the genetic basis remains elusive in rice. In this study, 233 drought-responsive metabolites (DRMs) were quantified in a large rice population comprised of 510 diverse accessions at the reproductive stage. Large metabolic variations in drought responses were detected, and little correlation of metabolic levels between drought and normal conditions were observed. Interestingly, most of these DRMs could predict drought resistance in high accuracy. Genome-wide association study revealed 2522 significant association signals for 233 DRMs, and 98% (2471/2522) of the signals were co-localized with the association loci for drought-related phenotypic traits in the same population or the linkage-mapped QTLs for drought resistance in other populations. Totally, 10 candidate genes were efficiently identified for nine DRMs, seven of which harbored cis-eQTLs under drought condition. Based on comparative GWAS of common DRMs in rice and maize, representing irrigated and upland crops, we have identified three pairs of homologous genes associated with three DRMs between the two crops. Among the homologous genes, a transferase gene responsible for metabolic variation of N-feruloylputrescine was confirmed to confer enhanced drought resistance in rice. Our study provides not only genetic architecture of metabolic responses to drought stress in rice but also metabolic data resources to reveal the common and specific metabolite-mediated drought responses in different crops.