bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal Heatwave Forecasting with Explainable Machine Learning and Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Kan Jung-Ching , Passos Marlon Vieira , Destouni Georgia , Barquet Karina , Ferreira Carla S.S. , Kalantari Zahra
Published: November 2024

Heatwaves can greatly impact societies, underscoring the need to extend current heatwave prediction lead times. This study investigated multiple machine-learning (ML) model approaches for heatwave occurrence prediction with long lead times of one to five months based on explanatory atmospheric and land surface features. Five ML classifiers were built using Google Earth Engine remote sensing datasets to predict heatwaves at national scale (Sweden) based on 16 features referring to the period of 1989–2019. Extreme Gradient Boosting performed best for lead times of one month (F1-score = 0.63, accuracy = 0.81) and four months (F1-score = 0.54, accuracy = 0.79), while K-Nearest Neighbour was best for lead times of two, three and five months (respective F1-score = 0.63, 0.65, 0.49, accuracy = 0.77, 0.79, 0.78). When applying the SHapley Additive exPlanations technique for model interpretation, land surface features emerged as more impactful heatwave predictors than atmospheric features at longer lead times. More frequent heatwave occurrence was associated with places in Sweden characterized by lower values of geopotential height, latitude, topographical slope, evaporation, precipitation and cropland area, and higher values of average temperature, mean sea level pressure, and southerly and westerly winds. The study also concretely exemplifies how use of this multi-model ML method can enhance predictions and further step-wise improve them, thereby facilitating earlier warning in support of better planning of measures to mitigate adverse heatwave impacts, up to several months ahead of their possible occurrence.
Mechanical decoupling on multiscale heterointerface for customizable and robust strain sensors
Authors: Wen Liaoyong , Wang Lang , Gao Yuyu , Wu Chenbo , Yu Xinge
Published: November 2024

Strain sensors are pivotal for monitoring mechanical deformation across various fields, including robotics, prosthetics and wearable electronics. Crack-based strain sensors are favored among the diverse approaches for their high sensitivity. However, they face significant challenges, such as uncontrollable cracks and interface delamination between functional materials and flexible substrates. Here, we introduce a mechanical decoupling strategy using aluminum-3DLithography (AL-3DLitho), which enables out-of-plane mechanical anchoring and in-plane stress redistribution at the multiscale heterointerface. The introduced out-of-plane anchoring improves the adhesion of functional layers to polymer substrates, preserving electrical integrity even under harsh conditions such as ultrasonic exposure. Additionally, the controlled in-plane strain localization and the enhanced stress intensity factor allow precise adjusting of crack propagation modes and densities, enabling customization of sensing performance. The resulting strain sensor, featuring optimized nanofiber and micropyramid arrays at the multiscale heterointerface, achieves a gauge factor exceeding 100,000 with customizable working ranges from 0.005% to 75% and minimal signal drift (<1%). This ultrasensitive sensor, capable of detecting surface topography with a height resolution of 2.7 μm through indirect contact, offers promising applications in flexible electronics where tactile feedback is critical.
Harnessing Magnesium Ion for Innovative Fenton-Like Processes: Greener Multi-Oxidants Strategy to Depollute Water
Authors: Vijay Aswin Kottapurath , Rolly Gifty Sara , Marks Vered , Sharma Virender K. , Meyerstein Dan
Published: November 2024

Organic water pollution poses significant environmental and public health challenges. Fenton reaction process is used as an advanced oxidation process to depolllute water, typically relying on transition metals and effective under acidic conditions of pH 3.0, contributing to secondary pollution. This research presents a Fenton-like process for the first time without applying transition metals that produce multi-oxidative species and are operational around neutral pH conditions. A solution comprising magnesium ions (Mg²⁺), bicarbonate ions (HCO₃⁻), and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) at pH 7.4 generated reactive oxygen species that effectively degrade organic pollutants (e.g. dimethyl sulfoxide and acetamidophenol) in water. Product analysis was conducted using 1H-NMR and HPLC techniques to determine the efficiency of the oxidation process and to identify transformation products. The findings revealed that the active multi-oxidizing agents, hydroxyl radical and carbonate radical or superoxide and carbonate radical, effectively depolluted water. This study is novel in demonstrating that a Fenton-like process can be achieved with Mg²⁺ serving only as a template to facilitate redox reactions rather than participating directly. These findings suggest a more sustainable approach to remediating water pollutants. The mechanisms for generating oxidizing radicals offer potential applications in both environmental cleanup and biological processes.
Scientific reports Trichromacy and Ultraviolet Vision in a Nocturnal Australo-Papuan Marsupial: The Sugar Glider (Petaurus breviceps)
Authors: Nielsen Leah M. , Beck Harald , Oufiero Christopher , Johnston Robert J. , Handler Jesse S. , Hagen Joanna F.D.
Published: November 2024

Color vision among mammals is diverse and complex, with many physiological and genetic factors affecting spectral sensitivity, the ability to perceive different wavelengths of light. In this study, the color vision of the sugar glider (Petaurus breviceps), a nocturnal, gliding mammal, was examined through a series of behavioral tests, genetic analyses, and immunohistochemistry. This is the first study to classify the color vision capabilities of this species. Sugar gliders demonstrated trichromacy and ultraviolet (UV) sensitivity, the latter of which was further supported by genetic analysis. Visualization of the sugar glider retina exhibited a rod-dominant retina that expresses rhodopsin, short-wavelength sensitive 1 opsin, and long/medium-wavelength sensitive opsin. Diurnal primates were thought to be the only mammals able to visualize trichromatically, however the results of this examination and evidence from a few other marsupial studies provide support for nocturnal trichromacy in Metatheria. Intriguingly, the genetic basis for the medium-wavelength sensitivity in marsupials has yet to be discovered. Our results are evidence of a fourth Australian marsupial that is UV-trichromatic, supporting complex spectral sensitivity and UV vision as benefits to survival in nocturnal environments.
Study on the Isothermal Adsorption/DesorptionCharacteristics and Influencing Factors of Shale Gasin Transitional Facies
Authors: Tang Zejun , Xiong Wei , Guo Wei , Yuan Hang , Li Yong
Published: November 2024

The transitional facies represent a unique geological environment with complex shale gas reservoirs, yet their adsorptionand desorption behavior remains understudied. This study aims to investigate the isothermal adsorption and desorptioncharacteristics of shale gas in these transitional facies, using shale samples under different temperature and moisture conditions.Understanding these processes is crucial for optimizing gas extraction from such reservoirs. Our results reveal that adsorptioncapacity increases with pressure but decreases significantly with rising temperature, with adsorption rates slowing as saturationis approached under high pressure. The desorption rate shows a linear increase with temperature, confirming that highertemperatures promote gas desorption. Additionally, water-saturated shale exhibited reduced adsorption capacity compared todry samples, as water occupies pore spaces and competes with methane molecules. The ternary Langmuir model effectivelycaptures the adsorption/desorption behavior, providing a reliable tool for analyzing gas storage and release in these transitionalfacies. This research offers important insights into the mechanisms controlling shale gas adsorption and desorption, providinga foundation for enhancing extraction efficiency in such complex geological settings.
Comprehensive analysis of complete chloroplast genome sequence of Cardiospermum halicacabum L. (Sapindaceae)
Authors: Su Yongjing , Wei Wei , Han Lintong , Wen Haicheng , Lu Hailin
Published: November 2024

Cardiospermum halicacabum L., a notable species of the genus Cardiospermum, is well-known for its culinary and medicinal properties. Nonetheless, a detailed description of the C. halicacabum chloroplast's phylogeny and genes is still absent. We present the findings of an in-depth investigation of the chloroplast genome of C. halicacabum. The circular, 159,370 bp chloroplast genome of C. halicacabum has a 37.91% GC content. There are 134 genes in the circular genome, comprising 89 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNAs, and 8 rRNAs. There are found to be 28 simple sequence repeats. Comparative chloroplast genome analysis of five related species suggests that Between C. halicacabum and other Sapindaceae species, there are variations in the contraction and extension of the reverse repeat region. Our phylogenetic analysis illustrates C. halicacabum has a relatively close relationship with S. erecta. The chloroplast genome of C. halicacabum has been examined, advancing our understanding of the evolutionary relationships among Sapindaceae.
Quality control of dietary supplements based on melatonin manufactured and marketed in Tunisia
Authors: MAHFOUDHI SARRA , Mokni Yassine , Zitouni Nesrine , Bouazizi Marwa , Romdhane Selsebil , zribi Kaouther , Safta Fethi
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to establish the stability conditions for melatonin in solution and to estimate its content in food supplements manufactured and marketed in Tunisia by optimizing and validating an analytical method based on high performance. We began by studying the effect of light on the melatonin content of the solution during storage. The significance of both factors, temperature and storage time of melatonin, was assessed using a complete factorial plan. The dosing method was optimized by considering three factors: the mobile phase, the stationary phase, and the wavelength. The performance of the dosage method has been validated according to the guidelines of the French company of pharmaceutical sciences and techniques (SFSTP). We were able to demonstrate the molecule's photosensitivity and thermolability based on its shelf life. Our dosing technique is both easy to use and reliable in terms of specificity, linearity, accuracy, and fidelity. Significant deviations from the declared strength on the label were found in 66% of supplements. Regarding the health claims, as well as the mention of the vulnerable population, the manufacturers were in the majority not respected. The urgency of structuring the regulatory framework for this type of product is evident.
Effect of Eating Speed on Sarcopenia, Obesity, and Sarcopenic Obesity in Older Adults: A 16-Year Cohort Study Using the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES) Data
Authors: Lee Sae Rom , Lee Sang Yeoup , Cho Young Hye , Lee Youngin , Choi Jung In , Kwon Ryuk-Jun , Son Soo Min , Lee Jeong Gyu , Yi Yu Hyeon , Tak Young Jin , Lee Seung-Hun , Kim Gyu Lee , Ra Young Jin , Park Eun Ju
Published: November 2024

Background Sarcopenia and obesity are age-related conditions associated with dietary habits. However, relationship between eating speed and sarcopenia, particularly in older adults >65 years of age remains unclear.
Methods To investigate the effect of eating speed on the occurrence of sarcopenia, obesity, and sarcopenic obesity. We examined eating speed, socioeconomic factors, and disease history of 6,202 patients at baseline and their changes over a 16-year follow-up period.
Results Fast eating speed was significantly associated with a higher risk of developing sarcopenia (normal eating: HR 1.284, 95% CI 1.107-1.490; slow eating: HR 1.583, 95% CI 1.279-1.958). Slower eating was associated with a reduced risk of obesity (normal eating: HR 0.865, 95% CI 0.786-0.952; slow eating: HR 0.680, 95% CI 0.577-0.802). These trends were consistent among participants aged <65 years. Among participants aged ≥65 years, fast eating was associated with a higher incidence of sarcopenia (HR 1.603, 95% CI 1.119-2.298), but no significant relationship existed with obesity (normal eating: HR 0.846, 95% CI 0.623-1.150; slow eating: HR 0.792, 95% CI 0.537-1.168).
Conclusions Slow eating speed decreased obesity incidence but increased sarcopenia incidence in aged <65 years. However, in age ≥65 years, slow eating speed increased sarcopenia incidence, but did not reduce obesity incidence.
Trial registration This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital (approval number: 05-2023-084). Clinical trial number: not applicable.
Generating Cervical Anatomy Labels using a Deep Ensemble Multi-Class Segmentation Model Applied to Transvaginal Ultrasound Images
Authors: Dagle Alicia , Liu Yucheng , Skeel Madeline , Trigo Gabriel G , Crosby David , Feltovich Helen , House Michael , Yan Qi , Myers Kristin M , Jambawalikar Sachin
Published: November 2024

Preterm birth (PTB) is the leading cause of perinatal death, affecting 10% of pregnancies. Currently, transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) measurement of cervical length (CL) is the sole quantitative imaging metric for PTB risk, but offers limited predictive value. While 3D computational models of cervical biomechanics show promise as PTB risk predictors, they require precise clinician-provided measurements. AI-enabled ultrasound segmentation offers a solution by automatically extracting anatomical features, thus addressing the labeling bottleneck. This study utilizes an ensemble of deep learning-based multi-class segmentation models trained on diverse TVUS data (N=246) and evaluated on an out-of-distribution dataset (N=29). High agreement (dice score ~0.8) between expert and model labels demonstrates the utility of AI tools in accurately measuring cervical geometry. Ultimately, this can enhance 3D biomechanical models and more sophisticated AI-based models to better predict birth timing, specifically targeting PTB risk.
Categorisation of children’s lower limb pain conditions as chronic primary and secondary musculoskeletal pain: a modified Delphi study
Authors: Smith Mitchell , Pacey Verity , Davies Luke M , Williams Cylie M
Published: November 2024

Background Chronic lower limb pain is common and often disabling for children. Classification of chronic pain changed with the release of the International Classification of Diseases 11 (ICD-11), describing ‘chronic primary musculoskeletal pain’ – as chronic pain in muscles, bones, joints, or tendons associated with emotional distress, functional disability, and not explained by another diagnosis. Existing terminology for paediatric chronic lower limb pain may be better described within the new classification or considered under these broad parent terms. This study aimed to categorise children’s lower limb pain conditions as chronic primary or secondary musculoskeletal pain using expert consensus.Methods An international panel completed a three-round Delphi survey. Participants were presented with 124 conditions resulting in chronic lower limb pain, selecting whether each could be categorised as either chronic primary musculoskeletal pain or chronic secondary musculoskeletal pain. Conditions achieving > 70% agreement reached consensus for categorisation, while conditions achieving 50–69% agreement progressed to the following round for re-rating. Conditions achieving < 50% agreement were excluded.Results There were 21 expert health professionals who categorised four conditions as chronic primary musculoskeletal pain: ‘growing pains’, ‘musculoskeletal pain’, ‘persistent lower limb pain in the presence of restless leg syndrome’ and ‘persistent lower limb pain in the presence of functional neurological disorder’. There were 117 conditions categorised as chronic secondary musculoskeletal pain.Conclusions Conditions categorised as chronic primary musculoskeletal pain share features of persistent lower limb pain without clear underlying pathophysiology, or historically being diagnoses of exclusion. Considering these under the umbrella of ‘chronic primary musculoskeletal pain’ may provide opportunity for developing shared clinical guidance to reduce unnecessary variation in care.Trial registration N/A, this research is not a clinical trial
The impact of abortion values clarification and attitude transformation (VCAT) workshops on Rwandan healthcare providers' stigmatizing attitudes and beliefs about abortion.
Authors: Ntihinyurwa Polyphile , Neil Kara Louise , Mvuyekure Briand , Girma Hana , Negatu Balkachew K. , Rafiki Michel , Mafende Liliane , Umutesi Sharon , Muvunyi Claude Mambo
Published: November 2024

Unsafe abortions are a major cause of pregnancy-related deaths in Rwanda. Even though abortion is legal under certain situations, many healthcare providers are reluctant to offer these services because of personal beliefs. This often forces women to seek unsafe methods that endanger their health and lives. Our study looked at whether a training workshop could help change healthcare providers’ attitudes toward abortion, making them more understanding and willing to help women who need safe abortion services. We used data from 18 midwives and doctors who provide abortion services in Rwanda. They had participated in a five-day training that included discussions about personal beliefs around abortion and had been trained on safe abortion practices. To understand how their attitudes changed, we looked at data about their beliefs and feelings toward abortion both before and after the training and again six weeks later. The results showed a clear improvement in their attitudes. Before the training, many had strong negative views, but after, they became much more supportive of providing safe abortion care. Nearly all participants said they no longer held negative beliefs about women who need abortions or about providing these services. In conclusion, this study suggests that workshop and training programs that help people clarify their own values and attitudes on abortion can help create a more supportive environment for safe abortion care in Rwanda, ultimately protecting women’s health and reducing deaths due to unsafe abortion.
Synthesis and characterization of Ammonium Hexachlorostannate perovskite and its application as cathode material in Lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Romero-Contreras Alfredo , Serrano-Quezada Thelma , Garcia-Gomez Nora Aleyda , Parra-Arcinega Salome Maribel de la , Sanchez-Cervantes Eduardo Maximiano
Published: November 2024

One of the most interesting topics in energy storage area is the use of organic–inorganic hybrids materials due to the possibility of integrating properties of inorganic and organic molecules such as electrical, optical and conductivity properties. Specifically, the selection of metals such as Tin (Sn) may offer unique chemical structure and properties that could potentially lead to enhance energy storage devices performance such as batteries. In this work, the synthesis of (NH4)2SnCl6 as cathode material for Li-ion batteries was carried out following a simple chemical precipitation method. The material was characterized by X-ray diffraction to analyze the crystallographic structure and SEM to analyze the morphology of the active compound also, IR spectrum was recorded. The inorganic-organic material was tested in a CR2032 coin cell configuration and its electrochemical properties were measured. Cyclic voltammetry was used to analyze the oxidation-reduction phenomena, several features were observed within a voltage range from 0.01 to 2V Discharge/charge process were investigated. The obtained discharge capacity was close to 160 mAhg− 1 at 20 mAg− 1.
RETRACTED: Analysis of Williamson Nanofluid Flow Over a Stretching Surface Using Keller Box Method
Authors: Shahzad Aamir , Khan Waqar Ahmed , Sand Hussnain Ali
Published: November 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Fault Location Detection in Active Distribution Networks Using Optimal PMU-based State Estimation
Authors: Killi Venkateswrarao , Pitchaimuthu Raja , Selvan M P
Published: November 2024

Fault location in distribution networks is a challenging task, especially after the incorporation of renewable energy sources. Traditional fault location methods rely on the direction of power flow, which is not always clear in active distribution systems (ADSs). This can make it difficult to identify the location of a fault, which can lead to power outages and inconvenience consumers for several hours. This paper proposes a new approach to find the accurate fault location via distribution system state estimation (DSSE). The proposed method uses optimally placed phasor measurement units (PMUs) to determine the system states. The voltage magnitude change (∆V) at each bus is calculated based on the estimated system states. Faulty locations are detected by comparing ∆V at each bus with its designated change in voltage threshold(∆Vthreshold). The precise fault location is detected between the buses with the highest and second-highest ∆V values. This approach was tested and validated on the IEEE 33-bus active distribution network using 11 optimally positioned PMUs in MATLAB Simulink. Results demonstrate that this method can accurately locate faults even before fuse activation.
Evaluation of clinical and radiological features of patients diagnosed with hypersensitivity pneumonia
Authors: AKKURT ESMA SEVIL , OZYUREK BERNA AKINCI , ENSARIOGLU KEREM , OZDEMIREL TUGCE SAHIN , BIRBEN OZLEM DUVENCI , ERTURK HAKAN , DOLMUS TUNAHAN
Published: November 2024

Background
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is an inflammatory fibrotic disease that affects the lung parenchyma and small airways.
Aims
Our study aimed to evaluate the clinical and radiological features of patients with an HP diagnosis in follow-up.
Study Design:
A retrospective cross-sectional study.
Methods
Our study included 100 patients diagnosed with HP who were diagnosed and managed in our clinic between 2020 and 2024. Clinical data, comorbidities, pulmonary function test-carbon monoxide diffusion capacity (PFT-DLCO) parameters, six-minute walk test results, high-resolution lung computed tomography (HRCT) patterns, prognosis, and mortality data were retrospectively documented.
Results
In our study, the male–female ratio was equal (50–50). The mean age was 63 (± 14). The majority of the patients were active smokers. While 65% of the patients were exposed to an organic or inorganic agent, 86.4% of all known exposures were caused by exposure to birds and bird products. A total of 29 patients (29%) were diagnosed by surgical sampling. The most common HRCT findings were reticulation (87%), ground-glass opacities (84.7%), and centrilobular nodules (75%). Fibrosis findings were seen in 40% of the patients. Glucocorticoids were the main treatment (77%), and 20 (20%) patients also required antifibrotic treatment. When correlation analyses were performed, the neutrophil count showed a negative correlation with the presence of a mosaic pattern, while a positive correlation was found with the presence of honeycombing. The basophil count had a positive correlation with exposure to birds and bird products.
Conclusion
There are no guidelines or consensus published in Turkiye regarding the diagnosis and treatment of HP. In our study, the positive correlation between the neutrophil count of the patients and the development of fibrosis in HRCT suggested that neutrophilia may also be a poor prognostic factor. The positive correlation between exposure to birds and bird products and basophilia was a striking finding.
Integrated analysis of differential expression profile of miRNA in the uterus of seasonal estrus sheep
Authors: Yang Fan , Liu Jiannan , La Yongfu , Di Ran , He Xiaoyun , Wang Pingqing , Liu Yufang , Chu Mingxing
Published: November 2024

Background
Photoperiod is one of the important factors affecting seasonal estrus of sheep. The importance of the uterus to reproduction is self-evident. However, the uterine molecular mechanisms involved in photoperiodic regulation of seasonal estrus events in sheep remain poorly understood. In recent years, the role of uterine microRNA (miRNA) in mammalian reproduction has been continuously revealed, and it is necessary to analyze and discuss their participation in the seasonal estrus of sheep.
Results
We compared the miRNA expression profile in uterine tissues of Sunit sheep at three different photoperiods, short photoperiod (SP), short transfer to long photoperiod (SLP), and long photoperiod (LP). The results showed that 31, 29 and 21 differentially expressed miRNA (DEM) were identified between SP and LP, SP and SLP, LP and SLP, respectively. Subsequently, we constructed co-expression networks of DEM and target genes in different periods. Among all DEM, nove_320, nove_338 and nove_339 target the most mRNA. Functional annotation analysis showed that these DEM target genes can be enriched in multiple GO and KEGG signaling pathways, such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, reproductive process and biological adhesion, which are related to animal reproduction and uterine receptivity. Finally, the expression level of DEM was verified by RT-qPCR, and the binding regulation relationship between DEM and their target genes in the co-expression network was confirmed by double luciferase reporter gene experiment.
Conclusions
This study revealed the changes of miRNA expression in sheep uterus under different photoperiod, providing valuable resources for understanding the molecular mechanism of sheep seasonal estrus.
Using A Multi-Criteria Method for the Recruitment and Deployment of Health Human Resources to Strengthen the Health System in Central African Republic
Authors: Cheuyem Fabrice Zobel Lekeumo , Zombré David , Banthas-Bata Ghislain Géraud , Lalani Anum , Yaman Atilla , Romano Sostena , Mbanga Clarence , Andinwoh Ngassa B. , Mokom Sandra Bei , Saidu Yauba
Published: November 2024

Background
Effective human resources for health (HRH) planning is essential for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3, particularly in a country like the Central African Republic (CAR) where significant HRH shortages hinder health system performance. This article discusses the use of a multi-criteria approach to objectively recruit and deploy HRH in the CAR.
Methods
This was a documentary analysis conducted between October 2023 – January 2024, with a multi-criteria approach used to inform HRH recruitment and deployment. First, HRH distribution by professional category was assessed at facility level, with results aggregated to determine distribution at health district (HD) level. Next, key indicators influencing HRH need were analyzed by HD, with weights assigned proportionally to the indicator value in each HD. Priority scores were then computed, with a score of 01 assigned to the HD with the highest indicator value, and other HDs scored relative to it. A gap analysis comparing available HRH to national standards was then performed, with the difference (gap score) indicating the number of vacancies per HRH category. Finally, a need index was calculated from the product of the gap and priority scores, and the HRH allocation ratio per HD derived by dividing its need index by the total need index across all HDs.
Results
Health Region 6 (HR6) had the highest need index while HR7 had the lowest. The highest indices were observed in the Bamingui-Bangoran HD for physicians (2.56), state-registered nurses (8.68) and health assistants (7.85); the Kouango-Grimari HD for midwives (3.86); the Bangassou HD for birth attendants (1.0), and the Haut-Mbomou HD for senior laboratory technicians (0.5). Overall, 130 local and 10 international HRH were recruited and deployed to 35HDs across 05 HRs, with HR6 (47/130), HR3 (33/130) and HR2 (22/130) receiving the majority. At HD level, the Bangassou HD received the most HRH (13/130).
Conclusions
The use of a multi-criteria approach to inform HRH recruitment and deployment in the CAR proved to be an objective method to addressing the country’s HRH challenges. This underscores the need for targeted recruitment and deployment to meet HRH needs and ensure equitable distribution across the country.
Evaluation of hydrogen adsorption on Zn-Ni alloy coating by electrochemical desorption technique and its permeability on AISI 1020 steel
Authors: Torres By J. R. Jovelino , Lira G. Carvalho , Vilar E. O.
Published: November 2024

The objective of this study was to assess the impact of Ni composition in a Zn-Ni coating on the retention of hydrogen and the reduction of its permeability in a low-carbon alloy steel. The methodology used in this study has been modified and adapted from the electrochemical desorption methodology proposed by Zakroczymski [19]. In addition to the advantages of this method mentioned by this author, the present work uses this technique to evaluate the influence of the barrier formed by the Zn-Ni coating on the permeability of hydrogen in the base metal, thereby mitigating its deleterious effects. For the different Ni compositions that are obtained in the Zn-Ni coating, the results of the SEM and EDS analyses indicated that higher nickel concentrations were conducive to grain refinement, resulting in more uniform and compact deposits. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis yielded diffractograms displaying well-defined peaks, indicative of a γ-phase cubic crystalline structure. Nevertheless, while there has been a favourable improvement in the anti-corrosion parameters associated with the increased Ni composition in the coating, it remains imperative to assess the degree of hydrogen content retained throughout the electrodeposition process. It is well known that the nickel content of the coating is a factor in the amount of hydrogen adsorbed during the electroplating process. This, in turn, has the potential to influence the permeation of the coating into the base metal as a result of the synergistic effect of the coating composition. The intensity of the hydrogen adsorption energy is thus dependent upon the aforementioned factors. It is essential to exercise caution with similar base metals that require anti-corrosion protection to prevent them becoming brittle due to hydrogen. In accordance with the findings a reduction in permeation was observed for an intermediate composition of 17.27 wt.% Ni. It was suspected that the interaction between the two elements of the coating may result in a modification of the ratio of reversible and irreversible hydrogen trap sites, which could directly influence the permeation of hydrogen into the base metal.
Establishing Rapid Assessment of Control Benefits in Bridge Installation Using Multiple Neutral Equilibrium Mechanisms as Virtual Piers
Authors: Sung Wen-Pei , Shih Ming-Hsiang
Published: November 2024

This study aims to evaluate the control effectiveness of vertical displacement of a bridge under control of multiple neutral equilibrium mechanisms, NEMs. The methodology of this research involves conducting dynamic experiments with various combinations of control gain coefficients, followed by statistical analysis. Different PID control coefficient combinations were utilized in multiple dynamic experiments. A simplified model for analyzing the precision and stability of vertical displacement of a bridge was proposed and compared with traditional statistical analysis methods, including t-test, and F-test, to assess control accuracy and effectiveness. The test and analysis results indicate that bridge under NEMs control exhibit excellent control effectiveness. However, traditional statistical analysis methods fail to identify unfavorable ratios. This proposed analysis method reveals that, when controlling vertical displacement of a bridge within the requirement of ±one two-thousandth of the bridge length: (1) In the GP = 0.5, GD = 0.0, GI = 0.02 combination, the displacement control for positions A1 and B1 falls short by approximately 21.38% and 24.81%, respectively. (2) In the GP = 1.0, GD = 0.0, GI = 0.02 combination, the displacement control for positions A2 and B2 is deficient by only about 0.53% and 2.07%, respectively. (3) In the GP = 2.0, GD = 0.0, GI = 0.02 combination, the displacement control for positions A3 and B3 meets the requirements, demonstrating superior performance in terms of control precision and stability. These proposed indicators offer a straightforward method for assessing control accuracy and stability, providing practical insights for optimizing subsequent control systems.
Dual Approach to Type 2 diabetes Mellitus Risk Assessment in Women: Machine Learning Predictions and Fractional-Order Modeling of Physiological Dynamics
Authors: Amilo David , Sadri khadijeh , Hincal Evren
Published: November 2024

This study examines diabetes risk in women through predictive machine learning models and fractional- order physiological modeling. Machine learning models, including Bagged Trees, k-Nearest Neighbors (k-NN), Decision Trees, SVM (Support Vector Machine), and Logistic Regression, were applied to assess accuracy in diabetes prediction. Bagged Trees achieved the highest performance, with over 99% accuracy across metrics, and a user-friendly GUI-enabled real-time risk assessment. The GUI interface designed for these models provided users with accessible, dynamic feedback, enhancing usability for real-time assessment. Analysis revealed notable correlations, including age with pregnancies (0.54) and BMI with skin thickness (0.39), suggesting key factors in diabetes risk. Findings show that Glucose, BMI, Blood Pressure, and Diabetes Pedigree Function emerge as the top influential features, across all models. Using fractional-order modeling, we simulated glucose, insulin, BMI, and blood pressure changes over time, showing that higher fractional orders aligned with increased response dynamics. Together, these methods offer a comprehensive view of diabetes risk factors in women. By combining machine learning’s predictive power with the detailed, time-sensitive insights of fractional-order modeling, this study highlights key risk indicators and deepens our understanding of diabetes dynamics, ultimately supporting more effective risk assessment and management strategies. This dual approach provides an enriched perspective on diabetes risk factors and offers improved strategies for prediction and management.
Barriers to BIM Adoption and Environmental Sustainability in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Bibliometric and PLS-SEM Approach
Authors: Precious Doe
Published: November 2024

The study presents a comprehensive analysis of Building Information Modelling (BIM) research and its impact on environmental sustainability in the context of Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The research employs a two-part methodology, combining a bibliometric analysis of BIM-related publications from the Scopus database with an empirical investigation using the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). The bibliometric analysis reveals trends, influential publications, and collaboration networks in BIM research within SSA, highlighting the limited adoption and implementation of BIM in the region compared to developed countries. The PLS-SEM results indicate significant positive relationships between knowledge and information-related barriers and environmental sustainability, as well as between market-related barriers and environmental sustainability. However, the relationship between human-related barriers and environmental sustainability is not statistically significant. The study contributes to the Technology Acceptance Model by extending its application to the context of BIM adoption and environmental sustainability in SSA, challenging traditional assumptions and highlighting the need for further research on mediating and moderating factors.
#73 - Pädagogik | Technik | Utopie Folge 1: Fachredaktionstalk
Authors: Redaktion merz
Published: November 2024

Was braucht es in düsteren Zeiten? Utopien!
 
Utopien sind wichtig für den gesellschaftlichen Wandel. Sie lassen auf eine bessere Zukunft und die Überwindung von Missständen hoffen. Sie motivieren Menschen, das aus ihrer Sicht Richtige zu tun. 

Auch medienpädagogisches Handeln steht in einem engen Verhältnis zu utopischem Denken, wenn es Menschen Möglichkeitsräume eröffnet, Gesellschaft mitzugestalten und neu zu denken. In Zeiten, die von vielen als Dauer- und Polykrise erlebt werden, können Utopien so der Ausbreitung von Resignation und Fatalismus entgegenwirken.
Im Talk erzählt uns Dr. Wolfgang Reißmann, was seine Motivation zu diesem Heft war, was er bei der Erstellung gelernt hat und warum Utopien unerlässlich für die Medienpädagogik sind bzw. warum auch die Medienpädagogik selbst eine Utopie ist.

Zur aktuellen Ausgabe – Pädagogik | Technik | Utopie
Jugendkulturell bewegt, massenmedial geprägt
Authors: Wagner Ulrike
Published: November 2024

Im Rahmen der Frage nach der Rolle massenmedialer Inhalte bei der Aneignung einer konvergenten Medienwelt wird zunächst herausgearbeitet, welche Muster konvergenzbezogener Medienaneignung sich aus dem Medienhandeln von Jugendlichen extrahieren lassen.Im zweiten Schritt werden die Artikulationsformen von Jugendlichen in Online-Räumen analysiert, die Jugendliche für ihre Selbstdarstellung nutzen. Massenmediale Inhalte spielen in diesen Selbstdarstellungen eine wichtige Rolle. Abschließend werden neue Spannungsfelder diskutiert, die für die Jugendlichen dabei entstehen können.
Konvergente Medien
Authors: Weber Karsten , Drüeke Ricarda , Langewitz Oliver , Nagenborg Michael
Published: November 2024

Medienkonvergenz fördert die Entwicklung neuer Anbieter, die sich nicht nur als Konkurrenz, sondern als Antithese zu traditionellen Massenmedien sehen. Ihnen wird die Hoffnung entgegengebracht, zur Integration der medial vermittelten Öffentlichkeit beizutragen, andererseits existieren Befürchtungen, dass sie die bereits bestehende Fragmentierung der Öffentlichkeit verstärken. Am Beispiel der politischen Kommunikation in konvergenten Medien wird die Plausibilität entsprechender Prognosen untersucht.
Tieber, Claus (Hrsg.) (2009). Fokus Bollywood. Das indische Kino in wissenschaftlichen Diskursen. Wien: LIT Verlag. 184 S., 19,90 €.
Authors: Merz Redaktion
Published: November 2024

Man mag zu Bollywood stehen wie man möchte – aber man wird nur schwerlich leugnenkönnen, dass sich Bollywood in den letzten Jahren daran gemacht hat, nach und nach den Westen zu erobern. Aber was ist Bollywood eigentlich genau? Claus Tieber und seine Autorinnen und Autoren präsentieren den aktuellen Stand der Forschung zum Thema indische Populärkulturund richten damit den Fokus auf Bollywood. Gleich zum Einstieg machen sie deutlich, dass der Hindi-Film sich nicht so einfach auf eine Handvoll von Stereotypen reduzieren lässt, wie oft angenommen wird. Um Bollywood zu verstehen ist laut Tieber interdisziplinäre Forschung unumgänglich. Was einleuchtet, schließlich ist es schwierig, ohne Einblicke in die indische Kultur, die Geschichte des Landes und die Gesellschaft dieses Phänomen aus westlicher Sicht nachzuvollziehen.
Gerade das Zusammenfließen verschiedener kultureller Faktoren macht es auch so schwierig, eine Definition für Bollywood zu finden. Selbst die in Tiebers Buch versammelten Autorinnen und Autoren verwenden den Begriff unterschiedlich, einige ziehen auch die Bezeichnung Hindi-Film vor. In verschiedenen Beiträgen wird die Welt des indischen Films beleuchtet. Begonnen beim Einfluss des Theaters über die Bedeutung des Kostüms als wichtigstes visuelles Zeichen bei der Konstruktion indischer Identitäten und Gender-Rollen, die Musik, deren Produktion erst im Kontext der zu vertonenden Szene darstellbar wird, bis hin zur Rolle der Stars und der Religion bzw. religiösen Darstellungen in den Hindi-Filmen – das Buch verschafft einen guten Einblick in das durchaus komplexe System, das hinter den Filmen steckt. Mehr noch liefert es eine Menge Hintergrundinformationen, die das Verstehen der „Erscheinung Bollywood“ erleichtern, auch wenn der eigene Geschmack die Faszination, die viele mit dem indischen Film verbinden, vielleicht nicht teilen kann. Insgesamt überzeugen die Essays, die vor allem durch einige Filmbeispiele und Exkurse in die Geschichte Indiens trotz der Menge an Information lebendig wirken.
Wer wenig für Bollywood übrig hat, wird eventuell Probleme mit den abgekürzten Filmtiteln oder Namen der Darstellerinnen und Darsteller haben, die das Lesen ab und an etwas schwierig gestalten. Auch etwas mehr Sorgfalt bei der Korrektur wäre wünschenswert gewesen. Leserinnen und Leser etwa aus dem Bereich der Indologie, der Filmwissenschaft, aber auch der Anthropologie oder Musikwissenschaft mit einem grundsätzlichen Interesse für den populären indischen Film werden aber ihre Freude an dem Werk haben, das nicht nur umfassend informiert, sondern auch meist gut unterhält. Da das Buch den Schwerpunkt aber deutlich auf die wissenschaftliche Beschäftigung mit dem Thema legt ist es als bloße Unterhaltungslektüre für Bollywood-Fans aber wohl weniger geeignet.
Ästhetik im Fernsehen
Authors: Grisko Michael
Published: November 2024

Logos, Teaser, Trailer, Appetizer, also das Fernsehdesign und die vielfältigen und immer weiter ausgebauten Formen der Programmverbindungen und -markierungen sind die Gegenstände von Barbara Links umfangreicher, mit zahlreichen s/w-Abbildungen, versehener Studie. Vier Zielfragen formuliert die Autorin in der Einleitung: „Welche Entwicklung hat das deutsche Fernsehdesign genommen, um zu einem derartig wichtigen Faktor in der Fernsehlandschaft zu werden, und wie kann eine zukünftige Entwicklung in der sich ändernden Fernsehlandschaft aussehen? Welche Rolle spielt das Design im Programmablauf, und werden die einzelnen Sender an das Corporate Design des Senders angepasst?“ (S. 10) Nach einem Abriss der historisch-theoretischen Grundlagen (Kap. 2, S. 17-124) und der Entwicklung des methodischen Rahmens (Kap. 3, S. 125-185) liegt der Schwerpunkt der Arbeit im Abschnitt „Ergebnisse der Inhaltsanalyse“ (Kap. 4, S. 186-424). Grundlage ihrer Arbeit ist das Corporate-On-Air-Design der Sender ARD, ZDF, RTL, SAT.1 und ProSieben im Jahr 2004 und die von der Autorin gesehene Notwendigkeit einer (im Rahmen dieser Arbeit jedoch nicht leistbare) Ausweitung der Untersuchung auf alle im Zusammenhang mit dem öffentlichen Auftritt verbundenen visuellen Zeichen. Im Analyseteil erarbeitet die Autorin einen vollständigen Katalog der zum Untersuchungszeitraum verwendeten programmverbindenden Paratexte – am Schluss des Buches ergänzt sie kursorisch deren Änderungen. Dieser ist als einführende Lektüre gut zu gebrauchen, wobei der aufmerksamen Leserin bzw. dem aufmerksamen Leser jedoch die sich rasant entwickelnde Dynamik und die praxisorientierte Wirkung der eingesetzten Mittel bewusst bleiben muss.
Neben der Vorreiterfunktion der Privatsender, der visuellen Prädominanz des Internets und der zunehmenden Individualisierung des Designs, lassen sich zum Teil wechselnde saisonale Auftritte erkennen und eine Dominanz des Ästhetischen über den Inhalt und das Abzielen auf eine Emotionalisierung der Zuschauerinnen und Zuschauer als Ergebnisse festhalten. Dass diese Aktivitäten zur Sender-Markenbildung, zur Aufmerksamkeitsgenerierung und zur Zuschauerbindung, vor allem via audience-flow undEigenwerbung veranstaltet werden und im Zuge der zunehmenden Ästhetisierung des Alltags seit den 1980er Jahren zu verorten sind, versteht sich dabei von selbst. Leider verbleibt die Studie zu sehr im Deskriptiven und schlägt keine Bögen zur Ästhetisierung des Alltags. Hier, in der zunehmenden Konvergenz von Mediendesign und Alltagsgestaltung, und der Frage von Ursache und Wirkung, von medialer Dominanz und deren Folgen stecken die eigentlichen kulturellen Entwicklungen, denen es sich lohnen würde auf den Grund zu gehen. Und auf die Frage, welchen Stellenwert das Design in einem sich wandelnden Fernsehmarkt haben wird, hat die Autorin leider nur eine sehr allgemeine Antwort.
Bildung weltweit in neuem Glanz
Authors: Merz Redaktion
Published: November 2024

Der Portalverbund des Deutschen Bildungsservers bekommt Zuwachs. Das Informationsportal Bildung weltweit wurde in dem Portalverbund des Deutschen Bildungsservers integriert. Nun bietet Bildung weltweit mehr aktuellere und umfassendere Inhalten und eine verbesserte Nutzerführung an. Dies ist auch einem technischen und gestalterischen Relaunch zu verdanken. Die Startseite von Bildung weltweit bietet den Nutzerinnen und Nutzern eine schlichte übersichtliche Anordnung von verschiedenen Kategorien zum Thema Bildung, unter denen sich umfangreiches Wissen verbirgt. Umfassende Informationen zu Schulbildung, Wissenschaft und Forschung sowie zu internationalen Bildungssystemen vereinigen sich auf diesem Portal. Mit einem Klick haben die Nutzerinnen und Nutzer die Möglichkeit, Institute der Bildungspolitik oder europäische Statistiken rund um Bildungsthemen aufzurufen. Des Weiteren sind verschiedene Literaturdatenbanken, wie zum Beispiel die FiS Bildung Literaturdatenbank auf dem Portal verlinkt. Anbieter der Internetpräsenz Deutscher Bildungsserver ist das Informationszentrum (IZ) Bildung des Deutschen Instituts für Internationale Pädagogische Forschung (DIPF). www.bildung-weltweit.de
stichwort Geocaching
Authors: Handlos Laura
Published: November 2024

Was früher Schnitzeljagd hieß und vor allem auf Kindergeburtstagen ein Renner war, ist heute wieder angesagt, wenn auch in abgewandelter Form. Die Rede ist von Geocaching, einer Art modernen Schatzsuche mittels GPS oder auch Kartenmaterial. Die geografischen Koordinaten der Verstecke, der ‚Geocaches’ oder kurz ‚Caches’, werden im Internet auf Foren wie geocaching.com oder opencaching.de veröffentlicht und können dann mit Hilfe eines GPS-Empfängers gesucht werden. Ein Cache ist in der Regel ein wasserdichter Behälter, in dem sich, je nach Größe, Tauschgegenstände sowie ein Logbuch befinden, in das sich – ähnlich einem Gipfelbuch – jeder eintragen kann, dem die Hebung des Schatzes gelungen ist. Der Cache wird in der Regel wieder an die gleiche Stelle zurückgelegt, um auch von anderen gefunden werden zu können.
Anschließend werden für andere Schatzsucherinnen und Schatzsucher der Ausgang der Suche sowie bei Änderung des Verstecks die neuen Koordinaten im Internet vermerkt. Gesucht wird auf unterschiedlichen Schwierigkeitsstufen. Mal ist das Versteck dank der angegebenen Koordinaten recht leicht zu finden, mal bedarf es der Lösung eines oder mehrerer Rätsel oder der schrittweisen Suche nach Hinweisen, um sich dem eigentlichen Cache endlich zu nähern. Der Umwelt zu Liebe verstößt das Vergraben der Behälter gegen den Ehrenkodex der Anhängerinnen und Anhänger der elektronischen Schnitzeljagd, so dass Verstecke meist in natürlich entstandenen Hohlräumen, in Mauerritzen oder an Unterseiten von Parkbänken zu finden sind – der Fantasie sind keine Grenzen gesetzt. Weltweit gibt es derzeit 970.579 aktive Verstecke, davon 89.000 in Deutschland, Tendenz steigend.
Sex – Popmusik – Medien
Authors: Ahlers Michael , Jacke Christoph
Published: November 2024

Welche Rolle spielt Sex in der (populären) Musik? Und welche Rolle spielt Musik beim Sex? Diese Fragen stellten sich zwei Seminare an der Uni Paderborn. Um sie zu klären, analysierten sie die aktuelle Forschungssituation, betrachteten die Musiklandschaft, untersuchten sie bezüglich erotischer/pornografischer Künstlerinnen und Künstler, Sparten und Lieder und starteten schließlich eine Befragung dazu, die interessante und teils überraschende Ergebnisse zutage förderte.