Unique Complex Research Articles

Triage nurse staffing: a study on the need for model improvements

This study addresses the challenge of determining appropriate nurse staffing levels for triage in Emergency Departments (EDs). It evaluates whether existing nurse staffing models, typically designed for other hospital settings, can be effectively applied to triage. The research was conducted at Merano Hospital’s ED from January 1, 2021, to November 30, 2022, and involved an analysis of data from patient triage assessments. The findings indicate that standard ward staffing models are not easily adaptable to the triage environment, underscoring the need for a more systematic approach to calculating triage nurse staffing. The current Italian ministerial guidelines do not account for the unique demands and complexities of the triage setting.

Deposition of Nanometric Polymer-Surfactant Complexes Formed by Cationic Dextran: A Path to Sustainable Formulations.

The home and personal care industry is evolving toward more sustainable and environmentally friendly ingredients. Rinse-off personal care products rely on formation of polymer-surfactant complexes to drive deposition of benefit agents (e.g., conditioning oils, fragrances, etc.) onto the skin or hair. The most used natural polymers for this purpose are cationic guar (catGuar) and cationic hydroxyethyl cellulose (catHEC), and the complexation of these polymers with surfactants has been rigorously characterized. Various gaps still exist with these polymers, specifically low biodegradation and undesirable aquatic toxicity profiles. Modified dextran offers an exciting solution as a biodegradable polysaccharide with a high natural origin content. This paper aims to compare the morphology of polymer-surfactant complexes formed between a cationic dextran (catDex) polymer with mixtures of sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) and cocamidopropyl betaine (CapB) to the morphologies of complexes formed between catGuar or catHEC and the same surfactants. Solutions were designed to mimic industrially relevant shampoos. Through a suite of complementary techniques, unique nanometric sized complexes were observed to form between catDex-SLES/CapB compared to the widely reported micrometer-sized coacervates (liquid-liquid phase separation) or precipitates (liquid-solid) formed in catHEC or catGuar-SLES systems. Using a quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation, the adsorption behavior of the catDex-SLES/CapB is characterized on a silica-coated sensor. The results show deposition throughout the dilution regime for catDex-SLES/CapB where the highest deposition is recorded with the undiluted rinsing formulation. This contrasts with catHEC-SLES/CapB and catGuar-SLES/CapB where the highest deposition is recorded in phase-separated regimes. This result was extended to performance testing on hair, confirming that the unique complexes formed by catDex can drive remarkably high levels of silicone deposition from rinse-off personal care products. This innovative approach of utilizing catDex-SLES/CapB complexes could enable design of more sustainable formulations that rely on polycation-surfactant nanocarriers.

Cell-autonomous targeting of arabinogalactan by host immune factors inhibits mycobacterial growth

Deeper understanding of the crosstalk between host cells and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) provides crucial guidelines for the rational design of novel intervention strategies against tuberculosis (TB). Mycobacteria possess a unique complex cell wall with arabinogalactan (AG) as a critical component. AG has been identified as a virulence factor of Mtb which is recognized by host galectin-9. Here, we demonstrate that galectin-9 directly inhibited mycobacterial growth through AG-binding property of carbohydrate-recognition domain 2. Furthermore, IgG antibodies with AG specificity were detected in the serum of TB patients. Based on the interaction between galectin-9 and AG, we developed a monoclonal antibody (mAb) screening assay and identified AG-specific mAbs which profoundly inhibit Mtb growth. Mechanistically, proteomic profiling and morphological characterizations revealed that AG-specific mAbs regulate AG biosynthesis, thereby inducing cell wall swelling. Thus, direct AG-binding by galectin-9 or antibodies contributes to protection against TB. Our findings pave the way for the rational design of novel immunotherapeutic strategies for TB control.

Cell-autonomous targeting of arabinogalactan by host immune factors inhibits mycobacterial growth.

Deeper understanding of the crosstalk between host cells and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) provides crucial guidelines for the rational design of novel intervention strategies against tuberculosis (TB). Mycobacteria possess a unique complex cell wall with arabinogalactan (AG) as a critical component. AG has been identified as a virulence factor of Mtb which is recognized by host galectin-9. Here, we demonstrate that galectin-9 directly inhibited mycobacterial growth through AG-binding property of carbohydrate-recognition domain 2. Furthermore, IgG antibodies with AG specificity were detected in the serum of TB patients. Based on the interaction between galectin-9 and AG, we developed a monoclonal antibody (mAb) screening assay and identified AG-specific mAbs which profoundly inhibit Mtb growth. Mechanistically, proteomic profiling and morphological characterizations revealed that AG-specific mAbs regulate AG biosynthesis, thereby inducing cell wall swelling. Thus, direct AG-binding by galectin-9 or antibodies contributes to protection against TB. Our findings pave the way for the rational design of novel immunotherapeutic strategies for TB control.

Exploring patient involvement in obstetrics and gynaecology education for medical students: a scoping review protocol

IntroductionIt is important to incorporate the patient perspective into healthcare education, as we know that patients are experts in their own conditions. The expertise gained through lived experience serves to complement the theoretical knowledge that healthcare educators can provide. This scoping review aims to explore patient involvement in medical education within obstetrics and gynaecology, a specialty that can provide unique challenges and complexities to patient involvement due to its potentially highly sensitive and intimate nature. The goal of this study is to map the available literature on this topic which will allow for the identification of potential gaps in the provision of training for medical students in this field. The research also aims to highlight challenges that may be associated with patient involvement in this specialty in order to guide future initiatives.Methods and analysisThe Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review framework and methodology will be used to guide and conduct this scoping review. A systematic search of electronic databases MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, PsycINFO, ERIC, Google Scholar, Web of Science, African Journals Online, Cochrane Library and SciVerse will be carried out. Articles will be limited to the English language. No geographical limitations will be placed on the search. Literature from 1960 to 2023 will be considered for inclusion which corresponds with the first reports of patient educators used to assist with the demonstration of clinical skills in obstetrics and gynaecology. Relevant academic journals will be hand-searched for the previous 5 years. Identified studies will be screened by two independent reviewers and data extraction carried out by the primary researcher. Key findings will be presented in tables and summarised in narrative form. Findings from the review will be reported according to the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews reporting checklist.Ethics and disseminationEthical approval is not required for this study. The findings from the study will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals and at medical education conferences.

Psychosocial Needs of People Living With Pleural Mesothelioma and Family Carers: A Mixed Methods Study.

Mesothelioma is a cancer of growing global incidence, especially in developing countries, with unique complex psychosocial impacts on patients and their carers. To provide a comprehensive understanding of the psychosocial needs of people living with pleural mesothelioma and family carers. A mixed methods design with 61 semi-structured interviews and psychometrically validated questionnaires to assess pleural mesothelioma patients' (n=36) quality of life and frailty and carers' (n=25) caregiving experiences, quality of life, and pre-loss prolonged grief symptoms. People with mesothelioma (29 men, 7 women, aged 46-89years) indicated moderate quality of life; 18 (50%) met criteria for frailty. Current carers (21 women, 4 men; aged 41-79years) generally reported positive caregiving experiences and high quality of life; 5 (20%) scored in the range indicative of risk for prolonged grief disorder. Four themes were generated: a desire for tailored information with bespoke detail, assistance to coordinate tasks of treatment, improved social and peer support, and effective psychological services. Needs varied, with main concerns being about breaking the news to spouses/children, the impact of the disease and death on family, loss of personal future, managing psychological symptoms, and avoiding burden. These specific and unmet psychosocial needs provide a strong basis for individualised care pathways to address these needs via the integration of psychology into the multidisciplinary care team and the development and evaluation of mental health and wellbeing interventions for mesothelioma patients and carers. Doing so will reduce psychosocial distress and improve residual vitality.

Single-cell analysis of nasal epithelial cell development in domestic pigs

The nasal mucosa forms a critical barrier against the invasion of respiratory pathogens. Composed of a heterogeneous assortment of cell types, the nasal mucosa relies on the unique characteristics and complex intercellular dynamics of these cells to maintain their structural integrity and functional efficacy. In this study, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) of porcine nasal mucosa was performed, and nineteen distinct nasal cell types, including nine epithelial cell types, five stromal cell types, and five immune cell types, were identified. The distribution patterns of three representative types of epithelial cells (basal cells, goblet cells, and ciliated cells) were subsequently detected by immunofluorescence. We conducted a comparative analysis of these data with published human single-cell data, revealing consistent differentiation trajectories among porcine and human nasal epithelial cells. Specifically, basal cells serve as the initial stage in the differentiation process of nasal epithelial cells, which then epithelial cells. This research not only enhances our understanding of the composition and transcriptional signature of porcine nasal mucosal cells but also offers a theoretical foundation for developing alternative models for human respiratory diseases.

PERSPECTIVA TEÓRICO-METODOLÓGICA E PROPOSTA DE ANÁLISE SOBRE PEQUENAS CIDADES, CIDADES LOCAIS, PEQUENAS LOCALIDADES, ESPAÇO MIKRIPOLITANO

This study aims to analyze and define the appropriate terminology for "small cities," "local cities," "small localities," or "mikripolitan space". To achieve this, one of the methodological procedures was a comprehensive literature review regarding the subject, highlighting key authors of Brazilian geography, such as Pierre Monbeig, Milton Santos, Roberto Lobato Corrêa, Tania Maria Fresca, and Ângela Maria Endlich. The study underscores the lack of available research on these geographical spaces. Monbeig (1957) argued that small cities warrant investigation due to their unique complexity. Santos (2008) also acknowledged the paucity of studies on these cities, accentuating their significance as entities comparable to large cities in developing countries. In Espaço e Método [Space and Method], Santos (2008b [1985]) expounded on how complexity increases as the scale of study diminishes. While Endlich (2017) reported an increase in academic production on small localities, she nonetheless observed that it remains insufficient. Data from the 2022 Demographic Census demonstrated that in 88.01% of Brazilian municipalities the population is less than 50,000, thus reflecting the importance of this topic. In order to exemplify, the study also proposes to analyze the network and the intermediate geographic region of Cascavel in the state of Paraná. Keywords: Small Cities; Local Cities; Small Localities; Mikripolitan Space; Geographic Region.

From Verses to Paragraphs: Macrostructure Shifts and Their Implications in English Translations of the Qur'an

This paper examines the macrostructural shift from verse to paragraph structure in English translations of the Qur'an, focusing on the transition from a running-text format to paragraph divisions. It addresses the Qur'an's unique linguistic and structural complexities and evaluates the impact of this shift on the fidelity to the source text and preservation of meaning. The paper also explores how this approach affects cross-cultural understanding and religious interpretation, assessing whether a paragraph format can adequately retain the original functions and meanings of Qur'anic suras in English. By analysing the strategies modern Qur'an translators use, the study demonstrates that the shift from verse to paragraph is a non-obligatory macrostructural change, reflecting considerations of the translator’s objectives and the target audience's cultural and linguistic context. This shift is a deliberate choice, not dictated by language, but by the translator's goals of accessibility and skopos in the target text.

Habitat quality assessment on the Qinghai-Tibet plateau across vegetation ecoregions using InVEST and Geodetector models

IntroductionThe Qinghai-Tibet Plateau holds a significant position in the global ecosystem, with its unique high altitude and complex geographical features fostering rich biodiversity. The plateau’s high-altitude environment and distinctive climate system significantly influence the Asian monsoon and regional hydrological cycles. Its vast glaciers and snow reserves are crucial in regulating the Asian climate. While previous studies have analyzed the habitat quality of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, significant variations exist across different vegetation ecoregions, warranting further investigation into these variations and their influencing factors.MethodsThis study conducted a comprehensive assessment of habitat quality on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau by analyzing the impacts of human activities, climate change, and grazing intensity. Using the InVEST Model and Geodetector Model, we evaluated habitat quality across the plateau’s six vegetation ecoregions from 2000 to 2020. The efficacy of ecological red-line policies in actual conservation efforts was also examined.ResultsThe results indicate that habitat quality among vegetation ecoregions is shaped by a complex interaction of geographical and human-induced factors, leading to notable spatiotemporal variations. From 2000 to 2020, the quality of habitats was significantly impacted by human activities, climate change, grazing intensity, and land-use changes. These effects were especially prominent during the period from 2005 to 2010.DiscussionThe changes in habitat quality on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau are influenced by multiple driving factors, with significant differences in the drivers across various vegetation ecoregions. The ecological redline policy has played an important role in protecting the ecological environment in key areas, particularly in regions with high human intervention, where its effectiveness is more pronounced. In future ecological management, it is essential to strengthen conservation measures based on regional specificity. By comprehensively considering the impact of human activities and natural factors, developing more targeted management strategies is crucial for improving habitat quality.

Heteromultimetallic Platform for Enhanced C-H Bond Activation: Aluminum-Incorporated Dicopper Complex Mimicking Cu-ZSM-5 Structure and Oxidative Reactivity.

Bimetallic complexes have sparked interest across various chemical disciplines, driving advancements in research. Recent advancements in this field have shed light on complex reactions in metalloenzymes and unveiled new chemical transformations. Two primary types of bimetallic platforms have emerged: (1) systems where both metals actively participate in reactivity, and (2) systems where one metal mediates the reaction while the other regulates reactivity. This study introduces a novel multinucleating ligand platform capable of integrating both types of bimetallic systems. To demonstrate the significance of this platform, we synthesized a unique dicopper complex incorporating aluminum in its coordination environment. This complex serves as the first structural model for the active site in copper-based zeolites, highlighting the role of aluminum in hydrogen atom abstraction reactivity. Comparative studies of oxidative C-H bond activation revealed that the inclusion of aluminum significantly alters the thermodynamic driving force (by -11 kcal mol-1) for bond activation and modifies the proton-coupled electron-transfer reaction mechanism, resulting in a 14-fold rate increase. Both computational and experimental data support the high modularity of this multinucleating ligand platform, offering a new approach to fine-tune the reactivity of bimetallic complexes.

Exploring Blockchain Adoption in the Italian Wine Industry: Insights from a Multiple Case Study

Modern blockchain-based product tracking systems have the potential to revolutionize the agrifood industry, ensuring transparency and accountability. The need to comply with stringent regulations and contrast frauds makes applications in the wine industry particularly relevant. However, recent studies suggest that the adoption of blockchain in the wine industry presents unique complexities and opportunities. Adopting a multiple case study approach, this paper uses data from 16 SMEs in the Italian wine industry to provide a comprehensive overview of the drivers and challenges of blockchain adoption in the wine industry. Furthermore, this study extends the literature by identifying the key requirements of a blockchain system that meets the needs of SMEs in the wine industry. This study contributes to the literature through the identification of 8 fundamental challenges and drivers of blockchain adoption in the wine industry, including companies’ lack of familiarity with the technology, lack of technological skills, the importance of management vision and partnerships with technology providers. The results also clearly highlight the need to develop blockchain systems combining supply chain management and marketing objectives. Finally, this study provides useful practical implications, which can guide wineries and governments to promote the adoption of blockchain in the wine industry.

On the Mathematical Background of Sliding Mode-Based Friction Compensation of a Micro-Telemanipulation System

Modeling of various phenomena in engineering work is always a kind of simplification of real processes, aiming at a model where a certain level of mathematical theory and computational procedures is sufficient. If the complexity of the required theory corresponds to the general mathematical competence of engineers, then technical problems can be treated separately in engineering (or physical) models without regard to the mathematical background. However, in some advanced engineering fields, the harmonized development of engineering and mathematical models and toolboxes is necessary to find efficient solutions. For example, modeling variable structure systems in ideal sliding mode requires a mathematical toolbox that goes far beyond general engineering competence through the theory of discontinuous right-hand-side differential equations. Although sliding mode control is popular in practice and the concept of sliding mode allows a significant reduction of model complexity, its exact mathematical description is rarely encountered. The problem of friction compensation of a micro-telemanipulator using sliding mode control demonstrates a harmonized application of the mathematical and engineering approaches. Based on Filippov’s theory, the ideal sliding mode can be discussed. Although an ideal system cannot be implemented in reality, the real systems can be kept close enough to it; therefore, the discussion of the solution of the ideal model is important for practical applications. Although several elements of the topic are available in the literature, in this paper a unique complex approach is given for users of sliding mode control with experimental considerations, different engineering models, and codes. The paper concludes that sliding mode control is a case where engineering and mathematical modeling are inseparable and requires the competence of both fields.

Deep transformer-based architecture for the recognition of mathematical equations from real-world math problems

Identifying mathematical equations from real-world math problems presents a unique and challenging task within the field of Natural Language Processing (NLP). It has a wide range of applications in various areas, such as academics, digital content design, and the development of automatic or interactive learning systems. However, the accurate understanding of these equations still needs to be enhanced due to the intrinsic complexity of mathematical symbols and various structural formats. Additionally, the unique syntax, diverse symbols, and complex structure of mathematical equations present significant obstacles that traditional NLP methods and Optical Character Recognition (OCR) systems need help to overcome. In this research, we utilize deep transformer architecture to recognize mathematical equations, and we have utilized our novel dataset with 3433 distinct observations. This dataset, which we have collected to include a diverse range of mathematical equations, is used to predict six (z=x+y, z=x−y, z=xy, z=x/y, y=x! and y=x) basic mathematical equations. We applied different transformer-based architectures, such as BERT, ELECTRA, XLNet, RoBERTa, and DistilBERT, and BERT performs best with 99.80% accuracy. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first NLP work in any language where we recognize the equation from the mathematical text.

The 3D Density Structure of the South China Sea Based on Wavelet Multi-Scale Analysis of Gravity Data and Its Tectonic Implications

Due to its unique geographical location and complex geological evolution processes, the South China Sea has been a focus of extensive research. Previous studies on the density structure of the South China Sea mostly focused on 2D density structures, with relatively limited research on 3D density structures. A comprehensive study is still needed to refine the expansion mechanism and tectonic evolution of the South China Sea. In this study, we utilized wavelet multi-scale analysis of gravity data to obtain a 3D density model of the South China Sea and discussed its tectonic evolution from the pattern of density anomalies. The inversion results show that (1) the expansion of the South China Sea caused the typical thin oceanic crust and parts of the continent–ocean transition zone may fracture due to the expansion; (2) the low-density anomaly in the upper mantle of Luzon Island may indicate partial melting or the upwelling of asthenosphere materials; and (3) the expansion of the South China Sea is influenced by multiple plate forces and uneven forces affect the distribution of high-density anomalies in the upper mantle.

An Analysis of the Adaptability of Switzerland’s Financial Regulatory Framework to Blockchain and Digital Currency Innovations

Switzerland has emerged as a global leader in the regulation of blockchain technology and digital currencies, attracting numerous blockchain startups and investors to its “Crypto Valley.” This paper provides an in-depth analysis of Switzerland’s financial regulatory framework, examining its adaptability to blockchain and digital currency innovations. The study highlights the proactive stance of the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) and the enactment of the Blockchain Act, which have created a flexible and forward-thinking legal environment. Furthermore, the paper explores the opportunities afforded by Switzerland’s regulatory framework, such as legal certainty, privacy protection, and access to European markets. However, it also addresses the challenges that remain, including regulatory arbitrage, scalability issues, and the unique regulatory complexities introduced by decentralized finance (DeFi) and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). The findings suggest that while Switzerland has built a conducive ecosystem for blockchain innovation, it must continue to adapt its regulatory framework to maintain its leadership position in an ever-evolving global landscape.

Clinical Pharmacology Of Selective Oestrogen Receptor Modulators In The Prevention Of Breast Cancer, Osteoporosis, Coronary Heart Disease, Alzheimer's Disease, Use In Hormone Replacement Therapy, Cholesterol Metabolism

Oestrogen is the key regulatory hormone for the development and maintenance of reproductive functions and affects various physiological systems, including the skeletal, cardiovascular, and central nervous systems. oestrogen replacement therapy (ERT) is highly effective in postmenopausal women, addressing menopausal symptoms and providing beneficial effects on osteoporosis and coronary heart disease. However, ERT is associated with significant side effects, such as an increased risk of breast cancer. To mitigate these risks, selective oestrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) have been developed. SERMs are a growing class of synthetic nonsteroidal compounds that act as oestrogen receptor agonists or antagonists in a tissue-specific manner. They can selectively activate or inhibit oestrogen receptors in different tissues throughout the body. SERMs are used to treat a variety of conditions, including ER-positive breast cancer, osteoporosis, coronary heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and cholesterol metabolism disorders in postmenopausal women. Specific SERMs are employed for different conditions: raloxifene for osteoporosis, tamoxifen and toremifene for breast cancer, clomiphene for the induction of ovulation, and ormeloxifene for oral contraception. Arzoxifene is used for altering cholesterol metabolism. Each SERM forms a unique complex with oestrogen receptors, influencing target tissues and resulting in a tissue-selective pharmacological profile. This unique mechanism of action translates into specific safety and efficacy profiles for each SERM. The surprising pharmacology of SERMs has sparked interest in developing new selective medications, allowing for precise treatment of various diseases. This article reviews the pharmacological properties of SERMs and explains how they differ from oestrogen in their actions.

Ethics in Global Plastic Surgery Missions.

Delivering ethical care in global plastic surgery is challenging due to the unique complexities of resource-limited settings. Additionally, the rise of medical tourism has highlighted the importance of informed consent and awareness of the potential risks that are associated with seeking medical care in foreign countries. This article aims to consider core medical ethics principles and apply them in the context of delivering global plastic surgery. This article examines the application of the four core medical ethics principles in a framework set forth by Beauchamp and Childress, namely autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice, in the context of delivering plastic surgery in international settings. A literature review was performed, where all potential global plastic surgery articles were reviewed to better understand the application of the four core medical ethics framework in this context. Increased communication between visiting surgeons and local healthcare providers; heightened education of surgeons traveling to low-to-middle-income countries regarding local medical practices, resource availability, and cultural norms before providing surgical education; and a greater emphasis on collecting and publishing data analyzing short- and long-term outcomes in low-to-middle-income countries are all likely to improve the success of international medical missions, ensuring that all patients receive medical treatment in a manner that upholds Beauchamp and Childress' four core medical ethics principles. Providing plastic and reconstructive surgery abroad can be done ethically if the four main principles of medical ethics (respect for autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice) are used.

Reduced graphene oxide supported meso-pyridyl BODIPY-Cobaloxime complexes for electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction

Creating innovative catalysts utilizing nonprecious metals for the electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) poses a significant difficulty. We present a cobaloxime (Cox) complex having pyridine (2-Cox) and tetrafluorophenyl-thio-pyridine (4-Cox) functional groups, which contains a 4,4-Difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene (BODIPY) moiety. This combination serves as a catalyst for proton reduction and is immobilized onto reduced graphene oxide (rGO) by π–π stacking between the cobaloxime complex and rGO. Moreover, the unique complex's structures were determined through the application of ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The electrocatalytic activity of the two rGO/2-Cox and rGO/4-Cox electrodes towards hydrogen (H2) were examined under both alkaline and acidic conditions. The cobaloxime-modified rGO electrodes demonstrate superior electrocatalytic performance for the HER under acidic conditions compared to alkaline conditions. The overpotential at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 for rGO/2-Cox in 0.5 M H2SO4 is −0.342 V, which is notably lower than the overpotential of rGO/4-Cox (−0.496 V). The Tafel slope for the rGO/2-Cox electrode in a 0.5 M H2SO4 solution is 111 mV.dec−1, but for the rGO/4-Cox electrode it is 156 mVdec−1. This discrepancy suggests that the rGO/2-Cox electrode demonstrates better performance in the HER compared to the rGO/4-Cox electrode.

Distinction of mental health between salesman and R&D in high-tech enterprise: a fNIRS study

Employees in enterprises face numerous challenges due to the severe employment situation and job pressure. Sales personnel and research and development (R&D) personnel in companies are particularly susceptible to mental health issues due to the unique nature and complexity of their work. This study aims to explore the psychological health issues among sales personnel and R&D personnel in high-tech enterprises. Twenty-four R&D personnel (23 males and 1 female) and twenty-six sales personnel (25 males and 1 female) were recruited. The participants’ psychological health conditions were assessed using the Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90) and verbal fluency tasks combined with functional near-infrared spectroscopy (VFT-fNIRS), while their work stress level was evaluated using the Personal Stress Questionnaire (PSQ) and Personal Resources Questionnaire (PRQ). The results indicated significantly higher brain activities in the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and bilateral Broca’s areas of the R&D group compared to the sales group. The R&D group had significantly lower scores in the total score and multiple dimensions of SCL-90, such as somatization, obsession-compulsion, depression, anxiety, hostility, and paranoia. In addition, the R&D group exhibited significantly lower psychological and physical tension reactions compared to the sales group in PSQ. Based on the PRQ, the R&D group obtained significantly higher scores in self-care compared to the sales group. In conclusion, the mental health status of the R&D group is better than that of the sales group, the difference in self-care may be the most important factor leading to the difference in work stress and mental health of the two groups, VFT-fNIRS might be used to assist in detecting the mental health status of employees.