Local Group Research Articles

High-Order Local Clustering on Hypergraphs

Graphs are a commonly used model in data mining to represent complex relationships, with nodes representing entities and edges representing relationships. However, graphs have limitations in modeling high-order relationships. In contrast, hypergraphs offer a more versatile representation, allowing edges to join any number of nodes. This capability empowers hypergraphs to model multiple relationships and capture high-order information present in real-world applications. We focus on the problem of local clustering in hypergraphs, which computes a cluster near a given seed node. Although extensively explored in the context of graphs, this problem has received less attention for hypergraphs. Current methods often directly extend graph-based local clustering to hypergraphs, overlooking their inherent high-order features and resulting in low-quality local clusters. To address this, we propose an effective hypergraph local clustering model. This model introduces a novel conductance measurement that leverages the high-order properties of hypergraphs to assess cluster quality. Based on this new definition of hypergraph conductance, we propose a greedy algorithm to find local clusters in real time. Experimental evaluations and case studies on real-world datasets demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods.

Genetic Features of the Bream Abramis brama from the Lake System of the Sebezhsky National Park

For the first time, the analysis of the genetic variability of microsatellite DNA for five loci in the bream Abramis brama (L.) from lakes Sebezhskoye and Necheritsa of the Sebezhsky National Park, Sebezhsky district of the Pskov region, included in the lake system, was carried out. The results obtained demonstrate the uniformity of estimates of the genetic variability of bream in the lake system. Estimates of the allelic diversity of microsatellite loci and the expected heterozygosity of local bream groups did not differ significantly. The total genetic differentiation of bream was θ = 0.004. 95% CI (-0.01; 0.01) and was significantly insignificant. The population-genetic structure based on the studied multilocus genotypes has not been revealed by the Bayesian analysis method. The result indicate a high level of gene flow between local bream groupings and make it possible to assume the presence of a genetically unified panmixed population in the Sebezh lakes system.

HPB SO53 - Implementation of High Volume-Low Complexity 'GIRFT' lists for laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Abstract Background Waiting times for elective surgery have risen steadily since 2010, with particularly sharp increases after the Covid pandemic. There have been several initiatives to improve theatre productivity and increase operative numbers and these are broadly encompassed within GIRFT standards and the development of the concept of a High Volume-Low Complexity list. Current GIRFT standards recommend six laparoscopic cholecystectomies on an all-day operating list. This study aimed to describe the development and implementation of these lists within out district general hospital setting and outline the key barriers and solutions for other units to learn from. Method All patients on the waiting list for laparoscopic cholecystectomy were assessed and screened by a panel of consultant surgeons to assess suitability for a HVLC list. Theatre staff, anaesthetists and surgeons were widely consulted within local focus groups and a novel method of remuneration for additional work was developed: a 'cost-per-case (CPC)' remuneration structure was introduced (in contrast to standard remuneration by session time) to ensure productivity and high quality surgery. Operations were carried out on weekend lists in a dedicated accredited Elective Surgical Hub and staff were able to finish the day when all operations were completed. Results CPC lists took place from August 2023 to May 2024. All lists had six laparoscopic cholecystectomies or eight hernia repairs (or a combination) in line with GIRFT standards. Overall 124 cholecystectomies were performed and 119 were completed on a day case basis. The remaining 5 patients had a single night stay. There were no returns-to-theatre or major morbidity. All lists had started by 830AM and the latest finish time throughout the study period was 1525PM. The utilisation of CPC lists contributed to waiting times falling dramatically from over 52 weeks to 28 weeks by the end of the study period. Conclusion By utilising a novel form of remuneration, based on volume of work completed rather than time, we were able to maximise productivity without compromising safety whilst developing employment conditions that encouraged colleagues to perform additional work. Key facets to successful implementation include appropriate screening of cases, allowing staff to leave when the work is completed (rather than have to wait till the end of the day) and standardising equipment and kit to reduce wastage and turnaround time between cases. These lessons can be implemented in any surgical unit to improve productivity and increase volume of cases performed.

Research on the efficiency and spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of agricultural green development in central cities of the Yangtze River Delta

IntroductionAgricultural green development (AGD) prioritizes sustainable growth by integrating economic, ecological, and social dimensions, aiming to harmonize agricultural economic development with environmental protection and social progress.MethodsThis study integrates the three-stage super-efficiency DEA-SBM model with the BP algorithm, creating an advanced DEA-SBM-BP model to overcome the shortcomings of traditional DEA in evaluation and management processes. The study further applies the Dagum Gini coefficient, kernel density estimation (KDE), and Moran’s index to assess and forecast the efficiency and spatiotemporal evolution patterns of green agricultural development in key cities within the Yangtze River Delta.ResultsThe analysis shows that AGD in the central city of the Yangtze River Delta is overall balanced; however, substantial variations exist among cities within individual provinces. Factors like macroeconomic conditions, workforce quality, and policy support play a crucial role in promoting the efficiency of AGD. Among these, macroeconomic development level has a negative impact, while labor quality and policy support exhibit bidirectional effects. Infrastructure construction, digitalization of agricultural economy, and rural security have become key factors in the green development of modern agriculture. The green advancement of agriculture in the central Yangtze River Delta region typically exhibits a marked clustering effect; however, the local clustering reveals a trend toward dispersed development.DiscussionDespite the emergence of new characteristics in agricultural production in China within the context of high-quality development, differences in resource endowments and economic structures among cities continue to be significant factors contributing to regional imbalances and changes in the agglomeration patterns of agricultural development.

Optimizing Na2EDTA Concentration for Enhanced Properties of SILAR - Deposited CTS Thin Films

Abstract This study investigates the impact of varying Na2EDTA concentrations on the properties of copper tin sulfide (CTS) thin films deposited on soda lime glass substrates using the successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method. The aim is to optimize CTS thin film growth for photovoltaic technology applications. CTS thin films were prepared using SILAR with Na2EDTA concentrations of 0.01M, 0.04M, and 0.07M, resulting in samples CTS01, CTS04, and CTS07. Characterization techniques included XRD, SEM, EDAX, FTIR, I-V curves, transmittance spectra, and Tauc plots. The results reveal significant variations in film properties with changing Na2EDTA concentration. XRD patterns indicate polycrystalline films with an orthorhombic CTS phase. SEM images show smooth, dense films with localized clusters. FTIR spectra detect hydrocarbon chains, aromatic rings, and hydroxyl or ether groups. The I-V curves of three samples (CTS01, CTS04, and CTS07) show a voltage-dependent transition from semiconducting to ohmic behavior. The CTS01 exhibits superior conductivity (3.13x10-5/Ωm), while the samples' resistance and conductivity values show an inverse relationship. Transmittance curves display low UV transmittance and high visible transmittance,suggests that the samples are highly absorptive in the UV range and become more transparent in the visible range, indicating potential applications in optical filtering and photovoltaic devices. Tauc plots estimate band gap energies of 3.66, 3.89, and 3.23 eV, indicating high band gap energies suitable for buffer layers in solar cells. The correlation between band gap energy and crystallite size as a function of Na2EDTA concentration is also observed. The study demonstrates the importance of optimizing Na2EDTA concentration for achieving high-quality CTS thin films with desirable properties for photovoltaic applications. The findings highlight the potential of CTS thin films for solar cells, optical filtering, and photonic devices.

M-CLUSTER: multistage clustering for unsupervised train wheel condition monitoring

Wheel out-of-roundness (OOR) is a common wheel defect that raises maintenance costs and increases the risk of failure or damage to track components. This paper proposes a novel multistage clustering framework (M-CLUSTER) for unsupervised condition monitoring of train wheels. The framework initially extracts time-domain features from raw acceleration responses collected by rail-mounted sensors. Sensitive features are then selected through an unsupervised feature selection algorithm called local learning-based clustering (LLC). Next, a detector model is trained using density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise (DBSCAN), a data clustering method effective for clusters with similar density. Since this algorithm does not originally involve separate training and testing phases, a new two-step mechanism is introduced: (1) training on a healthy dataset and (2) testing on an unlabelled dataset. Finally, the severity of train wheel defects is classified by K-means, with cluster validity indices (CVI) automatically determining the number of severity clusters (classes). The framework’s efficiency is demonstrated through the detection of defective wheels using the Alfa Pendular passenger model. Results indicate that M-CLUSTER accurately identifies train wheel flats and polygonal wear without labelled data, achieving 98% accuracy by selecting 10 features from the set.

Process model for multifactorial characteristics of the sense of place in the case of Budapest (Hungary) District VII

The existence of residential well-being of the locals in the sense of equilibrium-state is a competitive advantage for tourism in a given destination. The rise of overtourism could jeopardize this equilibrium and ultimately the effectiveness of tourism in a vulnerable destination. The research question of the study aimed to answer: what are the spiral dynamics of the multifactorial characteristics of the sense of place that can be mapped under the influence of overtourism. Answering the question draws attention to the sense of place—which can be interpreted as a synonym for local character—of the issues of overtourism and residential well-being. Mapping the mechanism of action of the multifactorial characteristic of locality can help to identify non-supportive functions, to pinpoint the balance point for moving towards a supportive quality, and to answer the “how yes” questions at individual, local and collective levels. The answer to the research question is the result of concluding three district-specific sub-questions. The assessment of the results was based on the content analysis of 251 posts (2017–2021) in the local public Facebook group (supplemented by a questionnaire survey of local residents (2022), 30 in-depth interviews with experts and residents (2022) conducted as part of the cross-sectional research, and 10 additional in-depth interviews with residents (2024) conducted for the last sub-question. The flowchart showing the current state of the district along a negative spiral dynamic, the possibility to turn it in a positive direction, and the mind-map-like summary of local, individual and collective mitigation and solution alternatives supporting the change of direction can be considered as a novel scientific result.

Youth Engagement in Water Quality Monitoring: Uncovering Ecosystem Benefits and Challenges

A youth-centric participatory mapping approach was employed to monitor the lower Mill Creek, an urban waterway located in Cincinnati, Ohio, by collecting geospatial data points on surface water quality and ecological assets. Utilizing the ArcGIS Field Maps application, a digital survey-based tool was developed to identify key areas related to ecological assets and urban water management challenges. The purpose of this citizen science approach was to allow researchers to capture and understand community perspectives and insights while engaging in scientific research that focuses on identifying geographic vulnerability areas and ecological assets. The primary objective was to empower local community groups and residents in an environmental justice neighborhood to understand the current opportunities and constraints of the adjacent waterbody, enabling informed decision-making for future planning initiatives that benefit both conservation and remediation efforts aligned with local values and needs. A youth-centric participatory mapping approach was employed to monitor the lower Mill Creek, an urban waterway in Cincinnati, Ohio, through the collection of geospatial data on surface water quality and ecological assets. The findings, based on hotspot analysis, revealed significant spatial clustering of heavy debris near the barrier dam and the lower portion of Mill Creek, where it converges with the Ohio River. This accumulation is attributed to the structural features of the barrier dam’s inner flood catchment area, which traps debris during rainfall events. Although no areas showed spatial significance for perceived ecological services, students identified specific areas with esthetic and biodiversity value, particularly at Mill Creek’s confluence with the Ohio River and along the northern stretch of the stream corridor. These findings provide valuable insights for guiding future conservation and remediation efforts that reflect both community values and environmental priorities.

Geoparks Twinning Agreements, A Vision from Formality and Territorial Links. Mixteca Alta (Mexico) and Napo Sumaco (Ecuador) Geoparks as Comparative Cases

AbstractCurrently, geoparks represent territories with great potential for the generation of educational and conservation processes, with productive and community development strategies through geotourism, using their natural and unique attributes, in a coordinated effort to improve the quality of life of their communities, based on the sustainable use of sites of geological interest of global importance. On the way to the construction of geoparks, territories find elements in common with other territories pursuing similar objectives, which leads to the creation of synergies and commonwealths. Working together in a network represents one of the most solid pillars of the geoparks, being a fundamental contribution to society. Geopark twinning is an alternative to promote micro-partnerships between geoparks with similar conditions and characteristics, which allow strengthening internal processes, as well as the exchange of knowledge, strategies and experiences, and the strengthening of institutional and management capacities. In addition, twinning arrangements are management tools that also serve as instruments to merge and unite identities in territories that are compatible in several areas, beyond geological heritage. In this sense, the present work shows the case studies of Mixteca Alta UNESCO Global Geopark (MAUGG) and Napo Sumaco Aspiring UNESCO Global Geopark (NSAUGG), where twinning arises from aspects such as community management, traditions, cultural approaches, worldview towards the land and its use. In both territories there is a high population of local indigenous groups: Mixtecos (Mexico) and Napo Runa (Ecuador), with agricultural customs based on their limitations or environmental conditions, such as the development of lamabordos and chacras; moreover, the decision-making systems are based on the competence and trust that the population has in their leaders, and not in political or partisan conflicts (election by uses and customs). Finally, their vision of the territory is based on respect for the environment and the beings that are part of it, and on giving a sacred conception to what provides them with food and life.

Analgesic Efficacy of Transversus Abdominis Plane block vs Local Infiltration of Lignocaine and Bupivacaine in Post-operative Patients

Objective: To compare the effectiveness of Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) block vs Local Infiltration for pain management techniques in patients undergoing laparoscopic lower abdominal surgeries. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Surgery, Lahore General Hospital, from March to May, 2024. It involved a total of 110 patients, divided into two groups of 55 each, between the ages of 20 to 60 years, diagnosed with indirect inguinal hernia by ultrasound. Chronic smokers, drug addicts, intravenous drug abusers, patients with a history of previous surgeries, with known drug allergies and with complicated hernia were excluded from this cross-sectional study. The Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) was used to see the pain variation and effectiveness of both techniques at 6, 12, 18 and 24 hours. Results: The mean age in the TAP Block Group was 32.0 ± 9.92 years, and the mean age in the Local Wound Infiltration Group was 34.21 ± 10.01 years. There were 108 (98.18%) male and 2(1.81%) female cases with a higher male-to-female ratio. The results indicated that the TAP Block group consistently required fewer rescue analgesic doses than the local wound Infiltration group at all postoperative time points. At 6 hours, 23.63% of patients in the TAP Block group needed additional analgesia, compared to 38.18% in the Wound Infiltration group, though this difference was not statistically significant. However, at 12, 18, and 24 hours, the TAP Block group showed a significantly lower need for rescue analgesia, with p-values of 0.002, and 0.008, respectively. Conclusion: In managing postoperative pain of Inguinal Hernia Repair, TAP Block is superior to Wound Infiltration of local anesthetic agent. After TAP Block NRS remains fewer and a smaller number of rescue doses are needed as compared to Wound infiltration.

MAVR in the Metaverse

Extended reality (XR) technologies, which include virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR), are gaining significant attention from educators for their potential to transform teaching and learning in higher education. According to recent research, XR offers immersive and interactive experiences that enhance student engagement and provide unique opportunities for experiential learning (Merchant et al., 2014; Radianti et al., 2020). In response to this growing interest, various professional organizations have developed virtual communities of practice (Wenger, 1998) to support educators in integrating XR into their curricula. One notable example is the Mixed, Augmented, and Virtual Realities in Learning Special Interest Group (MAVR SIG) of the Japan Association for Language Teaching (JALT). Founded in 2017, the MAVR SIG was created to support language educators interested in adopting XR technologies for language learning (Hawkinson, Mehran, & Alizadeh, 2017). The SIG provides a platform for educators to share their experiences, exchange ideas, and collaborate on research focused on XR in education. This community of practice is instrumental in advancing the integration of immersive technologies in language education, aligning with the broader global trends in educational technology (Ferdig et al., 2020). The MAVR SIG facilitates knowledge sharing and professional development through a variety of events, including research presentations, workshops, symposia, and webinars. Recent workshops have highlighted the pedagogical applications of XR, such as immersive language learning environments, AR-enhanced vocabulary instruction, and the use of VR for cultural immersion. These events not only promote the use of XR in education but also encourage educators to critically assess the affordances and challenges of these technologies in teaching. The positive impact of this community of practice has been evidenced by a growing number of members outside of Japan including the Philippines and Turkiye . Based on interviews from international members, the lack of local groups that support research and collaboration related to immersive technologies for teaching and learning encouraged them to join the Japan-based group. A particularly noteworthy initiative by the SIG is its regular series of events hosted on the Metaverse platform, Frame (https://framevr.io/). Frame offers an immersive and customizable virtual environment where members can meet, interact, and collaborate in real time. The platform’s features, such as virtual rooms, collaboration tools, and generative AI functions, enable educators to experiment with new teaching approaches and test platform capabilities. By leveraging these tools, educators can enhance their teaching practices, receive feedback, and refine their approaches to using XR in language learning. Looking ahead, the MAVR SIG is poised to expand its impact by increasing the number of events, deepening collaborations with educational institutions and professional organizations in Japan and globally and exploring novel applications of XR in both language and interdisciplinary education. As the community continues to support educators and drive innovation, the MAVR SIG is well-positioned to lead the integration of XR technologies into teaching and learning practices worldwide.

On the Andromeda-Milky Way Future Encounter: Thrice Faster Over Time

This inquiry accurately provides an analytical solution of the orbital free-falling time for the system of galaxies Andromeda-Milky Way within a non-expanding tired-light-dominated framework. The mathematical and physical background involves a two-body problem based on the orbital dynamics in which, in the first scenario, the gravitational interaction between local galaxies dominates over the expanding space. The latter is the standard astrophysical approach undertaken by public fund-based universities all over the world. However, in the second alternative scenario, Andromeda’s blueshift has to be corrected for the apparent recession velocity provided by the photon energy loss as a result of multiple interactions between photons and crystallized electrons through the intergalactic medium provided by a Tired Light, specifically, a New Tired Light process. This leads towards a substantial temporal deviation between the classic research approach and this unconventional and independent mindset. Hence, the outcome gives out a disagreement consisting in an orbital free-falling time equal to 1.7 rather than 4.5 billion years. Accordingly, the encounter of the two main galaxies of the Local Group will occur much earlier than estimated thus far. Accordingly, this implies an urgent shift in the scientific mindset as well as a course change in the application of the boundary conditions into forthcoming computational methods.

Beyond catching fish: exploring community-based management efforts to restore a Sub-Arctic lake in Norway

Across the world, local communities are actively engaging in management and monitoring of natural resources. The underlying driver of most community-driven efforts goes beyond the utilizations of natural resources to entail a deeper relation to the place or ecosystem they are managing. The aim of this study is to understand what motivates a local volunteer group to spend considerable amount of time and resources to manage and restore a subarctic lake. We used a case study approach combining analysis of documents, participant observation and semi-structured interviews to explore their narrative. The findings show that values, such as care, responsibility, and stewardship, were the primary motivation of this effort and its ultimate goal. The project also promoted relational values like social cohesion, cultural identity, and knowledge-sharing. Despite no longer being essential for subsistence, the lake retains cultural and social significance, highlighting the need to document informal community-based monitoring and management practices for understanding ecological dynamics. The implications include the importance of recognizing relational values in shaping behaviour towards nature for achieving sustainability.

The state of cancer care in Russia: pancreas cancer (C25). The survival rate of patients, taking into account the stage, localization and histological structure. Part II (clinical-population study)

Pancreas cancer (С25) is a cancer with an unfavorable prognosis, remains one of the most lethal types of cancer, at the national level mortality exceeds morbidity. The analysis of patient survival at the population level on the scale of federal districts is not carried out in Russia with the exception of the North-West Federal District. Considering that the levels of standardized rates of morbidity and mortality from pancreas cancer are close in Russia and NWFD, and the value of index of accuracy practically coincide, the results of the population cancer registry (PCR) of the NWFD RF actually characterize the state of cancer care on average in Russia, with the exception of autonomous districts. The aim of the second stage of the study was to identify the true state of the effectiveness of the oncological service in Russia by calculating a key parameter – evaluating its performance, specifically, calculating the leading parameter – the survival rate of patients, taking into account the stage, localization, histological structure, and the possibility of curing patients The conducted research made it possible to determine the effectiveness of providing specialized oncological care to patients with pancreas cancer at the federal district level. An increase in the one–year observed survival rate for the period from 2000 to 2004 to 2015-2019 was established from 16.0 to 21.8% or by 36.3%, and five–year from 5.1 to 6.0%. The median survival rate did not reach 4 years. A significant difference in the levels of one-year survival of patients in different age groups has been established. Significant defects in the distribution of patients according to the stage of the disease were revealed. The specification of patient survival by detailed localization groups and major histotypes of tumors was studied.

On the Ubiquity of Extreme Baryon Concentrations in the Early Universe

Abstract Early JWST observations have revealed the ubiquitous presence in the early Universe, up to z ∼ 16, of extreme baryon concentrations, namely forming globular clusters, extremely dense galaxies that may or may not be UV bright, and supermassive black holes in relatively low-mass galaxies. This paper is trying to pinpoint which physical conditions may have favored the formation of such concentrations, that appear to be very common at high redshifts while their formation being progressively more and more rare at lower redshifts. Building on local globular cluster evidence, it is argued that such conditions can consist in a combination of a ∼10 Myr extended feedback free time, coupled to low angular-momentum densities in deep local minima of the ISM vorticity field, where baryon concentrations are more likely to form. It is argued that the former condition would follow from more massive stars failing to explode as supernovae, and the latter one from low vorticity prevailing in the early Universe, in contrast to later times with their secular increase of the angular momentum density due to the cumulative effect of tidal interactions.

Developing a Scale to Measure Public Health Nurses' Advocacy Practices in Group and Community Settings in Japan.

This study aimed to develop a scale to assess public health nurses' (PHNs') advocacy practices in groups and communities in Japan and determine its reliability and validity. This study is a cross-sectional investigation. The sample comprised PHNs across various municipalities in Japan. Anonymous self-administered questionnaires were conducted, including the attributes of PHNs, a preliminary scale, and external criteria. Reliability was assessed by calculating the alpha coefficient. To ascertain construct validity, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted. A total of 432 questionnaires were analyzed. The scale comprised 27 items divided into five factors: "Raising awareness of the challenging situation faced by disadvantaged individuals," "Empowering disadvantaged individuals to improve their situation autonomously," "Establishing a foundation in local governments and community groups of disadvantaged individuals for advocacy initiatives," "Working toward policy changes," and "Collaborating with stakeholders and organizations to enhance the effectiveness of activities." The Cronbach's alpha coefficient for this scale was 0.945. Model fit indices included a comparative fit index of 0.907, a goodness-of-fit index of 0.840, an adjusted goodness-of-fit index of 0.806, and a root mean square approximation of 0.067. The developed scale demonstrated satisfactory reliability and validity.

Impact of Long COVID symptoms on individuals in Hong Kong: Implications for occupational therapy practices

Introduction: From occupational therapy perspective, this study investigates the nature and impact of Long COVID symptoms on individuals in Hong Kong according to their gender, age, and occupation and to understand their treatment needs Method: A total of 193 participants with an acute COVID-19 episode 3 months ago and having recovered from it who were experiencing subjective symptoms of Long COVID were recruited through snowball sampling from local COVID-19 support groups and healthcare facilities to participate in a cross-sectional design via an online survey assessing their symptoms and the impact on daily activities, and exploring their treatment preferences. Findings: Respiratory, systemic, sleep, and cognitive symptoms were found to be the most prevalent, with significant variations in symptom severity and impact on daily life across different age and occupational status groups. The treatment preference was quite strongly inclined to traditional Chinese medicine. Conclusion: This study has uncovered the critical and yet recognized roles of occupational therapy in managing Long COVID impact by identifying the potential gaps of occupational therapy in its management and calling for advocating promotion in the community and interdisciplinary collaboration with traditional Chinese medicine. Implications about occupational therapy management and the healthcare policies for tailoring treatment programs are discussed.

Comprehensive analysis of water and sediment from holy water body ‘Pokhri’ reveals presence of biomolecules that may educe skin, gastroenterological and neurological dysfunction

‘Pokhri mai’ refers to the natural pond amidst the hilly forest slopes of the Buxa tiger reserve (BTR) nearby Jayanti considered to be sacred by the local ethnic groups serving as the prime source of water for wild animals and occasionally by neighbouring inhabitants. However, the water body is designated to be noxious by a group of native people with no scientific validation. This paper focuses to explore its toxicity status and allied environmental concerns through Pokhri water and sediment sample analysis through physicochemical assessment, in vitro antioxidant assay, microbiological investigation followed by AAS, GC–MS and in silico study. pH of soil and water samples were found to be quite high (>6.8) with organic matter, carbon and available nitrogen content being 1.5308 ± 0.28 %, 0.89 ± 0.17 % and 0.072 ± 0.34 % respectively. Profuse microbial growths were observed in both sediment and water samples with consortia obtained exhibiting tolerance against a range of antifungals and antibiotics. Inhibition zone was absent for sediment consortium whereas consortium of water samples portrayed susceptibility against various heavy metals viz. Cu2+, Pb2+, Zn2+, Fe3+ and Al3+ salts with corresponding AAS quantified values of sediment samples being 133, 223.3, 86.8, 1449 and 481.5 ppm. A summative of 18 metabolites were identified by GC–MS in Pokhri lake sediment among which 13 (occupying 96.35 % peak area) were investigated to be potentially toxic with 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol (53.38 %) as the major compound. Biomolecular characterization, ADMET test and molecular docking study with dermal, gastrointestinal and neural peptides exhibiting high binding affinity scores (ranging between −2.6 to −8.3 kcal/mol) further affirmed the toxicity attributes of the GC–MS deciphered molecules. The findings clearly justifies the local ‘myth’ of Pokhri water to be deleterious with prospective dermatotoxic, neurotoxic and being evident of gastrointestinal toxicity emphasizing ecological risk to the environment, wildlife and microflora of the adjoining forests.

Extragalactic stellar tidal streams in the Dark Energy Survey

Context. Stellar tidal streams are a key tracer of galaxy evolution and have the potential to provide an indirect means for tracing dark matter. For the Local Group, many diffuse substructures have been identified and their link to galaxy evolution has been traced. However, the Local Group does not offer a statistically significant sample of stellar tidal streams. Thus, an analysis of a larger sample beyond the Local Group is required to better probe the frequency and characteristics of these streams to verify whether these properties are in agreement with the predictions of the ΛCDM model and its implementation in cosmological simulations, taking into account the impact of the baryonic physics modelling. Aims. The main scope of the Stellar Stream Legacy Survey is to obtain a statistically significant sample of stellar streams in the local Universe to be able to trace and study minor mergers and their contribution to galaxy evolution with respect to the ΛCDM theory. For that purpose, we are carrying out the first systematic survey of faint stellar debris from tidally disrupted dwarf satellites around nearby galaxies up to a distance of 100 Mpc. Methods. In this paper, we present a catalogue with the results of the first harvest of stellar tidal streams found by visual inspection in deep images of ∼700 galaxies from the Dark Energy Survey (DES). We also include, for the first time, a photometric characterisation of the streams obtained by measuring their surface brightnesses and colours. Results. We found a total of 63 streams in our sample at distances between 40 and 100 Mpc, including 58 that were not previously reported. We measured their average surface brightness for the g band, the r band and the z band, to be 28.35 ± 0.20, 27.81 ± 0.13, and 27.62 ± 0.09 mag arcsec−2, respectively. By applying a statistical analysis to our findings, we obtained a stream detection frequency of 9.1% ± 1.1% for the given surface brightness limit of the DES image sample, in agreement with previous studies. We identified stream progenitors in 5–14% of our stream sample, depending on the confidence level. Conclusions. The first catalogue of streams in the local Universe presented here will be complemented by future stream surveys within the Stellar Stream Legacy Survey and can be exploited in studies pertaining to galaxy evolution and cosmological models. In this work, we have learnt that the faintest measured stream surface brightness can be significantly brighter than the surface brightness limit of an image measured at the pixel level (in our case up to ∼1 mag arcsec−2 for the r band) mainly due to correlated noise present in the images.

A hierarchical clustering algorithm for addressing multi-modal multi-objective optimization problems

Many evolutionary multi-modal multi-objective algorithms (MMEAs) have been proposed to solve multi-modal multi-objective optimization problems (MMOPs). Unfortunately, the environmental selection process causes many algorithms to place too much emphasis on solution variety in the decision space, which leads to solutions with low convergence quality. As a result, not only are all local Pareto fronts reversed, but objective values are also far lower than the global Pareto Fronts. To tackle these tasks, this paper proposes a hierarchical clustering-based MMOEA_DC_HR model that uses decision space clustering methods to group neighborhood solutions into several local clusters, preserving local Pareto Sets. And secondary clustering is performed in the objective space to select temporary populations from these local clusters to maintain the diversity of the objective space. Additionally, a hierarchical ranking method is introduced to update the convergence archive aiding in maintaining the convergence of the algorithm and controlling the quality of the Pareto Front. The test results show that this novel algorithm exhibits competitive performance in solving selected benchmark problems when compared to other cutting-edge MMEAs.