bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mediation of the influence of mindfulness on academic buoyancy by academic hope: A two‐wave longitudinal study
Authors: Satıcı Seydi Ahmet , Kütük Hasan , Okur Sinan
Published: September 2024

Educational activities are significant in that they have an important place in the life of the individual and support mental health. In this study, the relationship between mindfulness and academic buoyancy and the mediating role of academic hope were examined in a longitudinal research study. Data were collected from 287 Turkish university students who participated in the study at 4‐month intervals. An autoregressive analysis of the cross‐lagged panel model for a half‐longitudinal design was used to test the role of academic hope as a mediator in the relationship between mindfulness and academic buoyancy. The results revealed the direct effect of mindfulness on academic hope and academic buoyancy. In addition, academic hope was found to have a mediating effect on the relationship between mindfulness and academic buoyancy. It was, therefore, concluded that improving mindfulness practices may benefit people from both an academic and spiritual perspective.
On the Role of Tramp Elements for Surface Defect Formation in Continuous Casting of Steel
Authors: Bernhard Christian , Gaiser Georg , Bernhard Michael , Winkler Johann , Kern Maximilian , Presoly Peter , Kang Youn‐Bae
Published: September 2024

In the course of the decarbonization of steel production, electric steel production will continue to gain importance. The processing of low‐quality scrap will also play an important role, which may lead to an increase in the content of so‐called tramp elements in steel production and further processing. This article examines the effect of the elements Cu, Sn, and Ni on the formation of surface cracks under the conditions of the continuous casting process. Results of an in situ bending test are compared with the results of the experimental simulation of high‐temperature oxidation and thermodynamic analysis based on the CALculation of PHase Diagrams (CALPHAD) approach. For a temperature of 900 °C, an equivalent Cu content of 0.20 wt% must be considered as the critical upper limit. The presumable reason is the existence of Cu‐ and Sn‐rich liquid phases at the austenite grain boundaries. The results clearly show the effect of the investigated elements but also point to the importance of the gas atmosphere and cooling conditions on the results. This can be a groundbreaking result for extending the process window for casting steels with increased tramp element contents.
Reusable Specification Patterns for Verification of Resilience in Autonomous Hybrid Systems
Authors: Adelt Julius , Mensing Robert , Herber Paula
Published: September 2024

Autonomous hybrid systems are systems that combine discrete and continuous behavior with autonomous decision-making, e.g., using reinforcement learning. Such systems are increasingly used in safety-critical applications such as self-driving cars, autonomous robots or water supply systems. Thus, it is crucial to ensure their safety and resilience, i.e., that they function correctly even in the presence of dynamic changes and disruptions. In this paper, we present an approach to obtain formal resilience guarantees for autonomous hybrid systems using the interactive theorem prover KeYmaera X. Our key ideas are threefold: First, we derive a formalization of resilience that is tailored to autonomous hybrid systems. Second, we present reusable patterns for modeling stressors, detecting disruptions, and specifying resilience as a service level response in the differential dynamic logic (d$$\mathcal {L}$$
L
). Third, we combine these concepts with an existing approach for the safe integration of learning components using hybrid contracts, and extend it towards dynamic adaptations to stressors. By combining reusable patterns for stressors, observers, and adaptation contracts for learning components, we provide a systematic approach for the deductive verification of resilience of autonomous hybrid systems with reduced specification effort. We demonstrate the applicability of our approach with two case studies, an autonomous robot and an intelligent water distribution system.
A Case Study on Formal Equivalence Verification Between a C/C++ Model and Its RTL Design
Authors: Raia Gaetano , Rigano Gianluca , Vincenzoni David , Martina Maurizio
Published: September 2024

In the field of communication system products, most datapath Digital Signal Processing algorithms are initially developed at a high-level in MATLAB® or C/C++. Subsequently, design engineers use these models as a reference for implementing Register Transfer Level designs. The conventional approach to verify their equivalence involves extensive Universal Verification Methodology dynamic simulations, which can last for months and require significant verification efforts. However, some elusive errors might still occur because it is infeasible to explore all input combinations with this method. On the other hand, Formal Equivalence Verification aims to verify that a Register Transfer Level design is functionally equivalent to the reference high-level C/C++ model across all possible legal states. With recent advancements in formal solver technology, Formal Equivalence Verification provides a distinct benefit by using mathematical methods to ensure that the Register Transfer Level (timed) matches the original high-level C/C++ model (untimed). This drastically reduces the verification time and ensures the exhaustive coverage of the design state space. This paper presents an in-depth exploration of complex Finite State Machine with datapath verification, specifically focusing on Multiplier-Accumulator, Tone Generator, and Automatic Gain Control, by employing the formal equivalence methodology. Although these signal processing blocks were previously verified throughout Universal Verification Methodology dynamic simulations, Formal Equivalence Verification was able to identify hard-to-find bugs in just a few weeks by utilizing the new workflow, thereby streamlining the verification process.
Einleitung
Authors: Kuhn Andrea
Published: September 2024

Einige deutsche Bundesländer haben in den letzten Jahren Pflegekammern errichtet, sie ermöglichen der Profession Pflege erstmals ihre Selbstverwaltung. Kammerrecht ist Länderrecht, es obliegt jedem einzelnen Bundesland, sich für die Errichtung von Kammern als berufliche Selbstverwaltungsorgane zu entscheiden. Als heilberufliche Körperschaften des öffentlichen Rechts leisten Pflegekammern einen Beitrag zur Sicherung der gesundheitlichen Versorgung der Bevölkerung. Dieses Mandat erteilen die Bundesländer der Profession Pflege qua Gesetzgebung. Das Aufgabenportfolio von Pflegekammern umfasst auch das Thema Ethik. Allerdings mangelt es bis heute an Konkretisierung: Weder ist klar, was genau mit Ethik gemeint ist, noch welches Mandat sich daraus für Pflegekammern ableitet und mit welchen Interventionen es zu füllen wäre. Die Studie unternimmt die wissenschaftliche Entwicklung einer Programmtheorie der nötigen Interventionen des ethischen Mandats der Pflegekammer, kurz: eine Programmtheorie für Ethik in Pflegekammern.
Programmtheorie – Interventionen für Ethik in Pflegekammern
Authors: Kuhn Andrea
Published: September 2024

Zielgerichtete Interventionen erfordern eine Programmtheorie. Sie erleichtert die Planung, fördert die Implementierung und steigert die Nachhaltigkeit. Die Entwicklung einer passenden Programmtheorie erfolgt im besten Fall vor der Durchführung der Interventionen. Allerdings ist Theorieentwicklung ein selten verfolgtes Anliegen, auch in der deutschsprachigen Pflege. Programmtheorien unterstützen Interventionen als Steuerungsinstrument und als Messinstrument der Wirkung, sie bilden die Grundlage zur Konzeption. Gelingende Programmtheorien verfügen über drei interagierende Bausteine: die strategische Theory of Change, die operative Theory of Action und erklärende Logic Models. Diese präsentieren sowohl narrativ als auch grafisch, retrospektiv oder prospektiv ausgerichtet, die Ergebnisse. Auf Grundlage dieses Theoriekonzepts wird anhand spezifizierten Forschungsfragen die Programmtheorie der Interventionen für Ethik in Pflegekammern entwickelt.
Ethik im deutschen Gesundheitssystem – die Desiderate der Pflege
Authors: Kuhn Andrea
Published: September 2024

Der zweite Argumentationsstrang befasst sich mit vorhandenen Ansätzen zur Handhabung ethischer Komplexität im Gesundheitssystem, den in den letzten Jahrzehnten entwickelten Strukturen der Klinischen Ethikberatung. Ausgangspunkt waren kirchliche und ärztliche Initiativen, die Interventionen normierten Standards. Untersucht werden die Ziele, das inhärente Verständnis von Ethik in der Medizin sowie die Übertragbarkeit auf die Pflege. Die Etablierung von Ethikstrukturen verlief im Krankenhaus und in der Langzeitpflege sehr unterschiedlich. Neben quantitativen Ergebnissen zu vorhandenen Beratungsstrukturen wird qualitativ aufgezeigt, inwieweit die professionelle Pflege in implementierten Strukturen repräsentiert ist und wie der Umgang mit pflegeethischen Fragen eingeschätzt wird. Nach der Analyse der Normen und ihrer deduktive Umsetzung rückt ein Perspektivwechsel die induktive Sicht der Pflegefachpersonen auf die ethischen Belange der Pflege in den Mittelpunkt. Pflegewissenschaftliche Studienergebnisse zeigen, welche Strukturen zur Bearbeitung ethischer Problemlagen in Deutschland bereits existieren, wo Lücken aus Perspektive des Heilberufs Pflege bleiben und welche gesundheitlichen Belastungen daraus erwachsen. Zusammenfassende Logic Models erbringen den Potentialabgleich zur Frage, ob die bestehenden Angebote zur Lösung der vorgefundenen Problemlagen dienen. Das zweite prospektive Pipeline Logic Model zeigt entscheidende Komponenten, die die Programmtheorie des ethischen Mandats von Pflegekammern aufnehmen muss: die Sorge für die Sorgenden.
Fazit und Ausblick
Authors: Kuhn Andrea
Published: September 2024

Unternommen wurde die wissenschaftliche Entwicklung einer Programmtheorie des ethischen Mandates der Pflegekammer als der Körperschaft des öffentlichen Rechts, kurz: eine Programmtheorie für die Interventionen der Ethik in Pflegekammern. Zur Analyse der Situation des Heilberufs Pflege in Deutschland war der Überblick über die mannigfaltigen Belastungen im Pflegealltag nötig. Dies geschah ausdrücklich nicht, um in den „Chor des Jammerns“ einzufallen. Es hilft der Profession Pflege nicht, nur problematisierend die Finger in die vielen Wunden zu legen. Es braucht die konsequente, konstruktive Lösungsorientierung. Gezeigt wurde, dass aus dem unspezifisch formulierten Thema Ethik in Pflegekammern das ethische Mandat der Pflegekammern erwächst: Die Verantwortung für die Sicherung der pflegerischen Gesundheitsversorgung der Bevölkerung. Dazu steht nun eine Programmtheorie bereit.
Association between blood-based protein biomarkers and brain MRI in the Alzheimer’s disease continuum: a systematic review
Authors: Mitolo Micaela , Lombardi Gemma , Manca Riccardo , Nacmias Benedetta , Venneri Annalena
Published: September 2024

Blood-based biomarkers (BBM) are becoming easily detectable tools to reveal pathological changes in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). A comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the association between BBM and brain MRI parameters is not available. This systematic review aimed to summarize the literature on the associations between the main BBM and MRI markers across the clinical AD continuum. A systematic literature search was carried out on PubMed and Web of Science and a total of 33 articles were included. Hippocampal volume was positively correlated with Aβ42 and Aβ42/Aβ40 and negatively with Aβ40 plasma levels. P-tau181 and p-tau217 concentrations were negatively correlated with temporal grey matter volume and cortical thickness. NfL levels were negatively correlated with white matter microstructural integrity, whereas GFAP levels were positively correlated with myo-inositol values in the posterior cingulate cortex/precuneus. These findings highlight consistent associations between various BBM and brain MRI markers even in the pre-clinical and prodromal stages of AD. This suggests a possible advantage in combining multiple AD-related markers to improve accuracy of early diagnosis, prognosis, progression monitoring and treatment response.
Efficient and accurate analysis of locally resonant acoustic metamaterial plates using computational homogenization
Authors: Lenders T. , Liu L. , Kouznetsova V. G.
Published: September 2024

This paper introduces a computational homogenization framework for metamaterial plates consisting of locally resonant acoustic metamaterial (LRAM) unit cells. Based on the linearity assumption, the unit cell model is simplified through the superposition of long-wavelength (quasi-static) and local resonant eigenmode solutions. This method results in closed-form expressions describing the macroscale thin plate (shell) with enriched internal variable fields representing the amplitudes of the local resonant eigenmodes. The homogenized macroscopic shell model is implemented using isogeometric analysis, allowing for a straightforward handling of higher-order continuity requirements. Validation against fully-resolved direct numerical simulations (DNS) is conducted, showcasing the capability of the approach in computing the dispersion spectrum of an infinite LRAM plate, as well as performing frequency and time domain analyses of a finite LRAM plate. Results demonstrate that the homogenized enriched plate model accurately predicts wave attenuation within the frequency band-gaps, vibration modes, and wave propagation outside the band-gaps, achieving significantly reduced computational cost compared to DNS. The developed homogenization framework serves as a valuable computational tool for the analysis and design of LRAM panels of finite sizes and arbitrary shape under non-trivial excitations.
Minimally invasive versus mini-open transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion in managing low-grade degenerative spondylolisthesis
Authors: Ali Elsayed Mohamed Selim , Abdeen Mohamed , Saleh Mohammed Khalid
Published: September 2024

Data background

Because the traditional open-TLIF approach has several drawbacks, minimally invasive surgery (MIS) approaches for TLIF (MISTLIF) have been developed to speed up recovery after surgery and minimize pressure on the para-spinal muscles, necessitating a cost-utility analysis for comparison in healthcare reforms.

Objectives and aim of the work

This study aimed to compare the radiological and clinical parameters between mini-open TLIF and minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) surgery in patients with single-level lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis.

Hypothesis

This study hypothesizes that both minimally invasive and mini-open methods using sublaminar trimming laminoplasty (SLTL) (while preserving midline structures) and interbody cages have comparable mid- and long-term clinical and radiological outcomes.

Methods

Retrospective analyses were performed on 120 patients who underwent single-level TLIF procedures with a minimum of two years of follow-up utilizing either the mini-open (n = 60) or MIS (n = 60) technique. Records of the operation's time frame, intraoperative fluoroscopy, blood loss, postoperative drainage volume, duration of bed rest, and complications were recorded. The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and visual analog scale (VAS) scores for both groups were utilized to assess improvements in clinical scores, and t tests were employed to statistically compare the outcomes. For comparison, radiological parameters, including lumbar lordosis, pelvic incidence (PI), and localized lordosis at the index level, were measured preoperatively, postoperatively, and at the final follow-up. To assess postoperative interbody fusion, the Bridwell grading system was used.

Results

In the Mini-open TLIF group, the average follow-up time was 24.91 ± 5.7 months, while in the MIS-TLIF group, the average follow-up time was 25.15 ± 4.2 months. In the MIS-TLIF group, the mean operation and radiological time were longer. However, compared to the Mini-open TLIF group, the MISTLIF group experienced less blood loss and a shorter hospital stay. The MIS-TLIF group outperformed the Open-TLIF group in terms of the VAS score for back pain and the ODI at less than 6 months following surgery, and the differences were statistically significant. However, at the final follow-up, there were no statistically significant differences in the VAS score for the back between the two groups, but the ODI score was significantly greater in the MIS-TLIF group. Both groups' lumbar lordosis and focal lordosis significantly improved at the index level, with the Mini-open-TLIF group showing more focal lordosis. The interbody fusion rate did not significantly differ between the two groups.

Conclusion

MIS-TLIF and mini-open-TLIF can be surgically effective in treating single-level degenerative lumbar spine spondylolisthesis.
Cartel Damages Claims, Passing-On, and Passing-Back
Authors: Garrod Luke , Han Tien-Der , Harvey James , Olczak Matthew
Published: September 2024

Firms can mitigate the harm of an input cartel by passing on some of the higher cost to their customers by raising their own prices. Recent damages claims have highlighted that firms may also respond by reducing the prices that are paid to their suppliers of complementary inputs; the firm thereby passes back some harm upstream. To provide guidance for practitioners as to how such effects together affect the division of the harm, we derive the equilibrium ‘passing-on’ and ‘passing-back’ effects in a successive oligopolies model where one of two inputs is cartelised. We show that the passing-back effect is larger when there is greater market power in the complementary input sector. This reduces the passing-on effect. The complementary input suppliers can incur substantial harm, and the harm that is inflicted on the cartel’s direct and/or indirect purchasers can thereby be reduced.
Pluralism and the Design of Autonomous Vehicles
Authors: Henschke Adam , Arora Chirag
Published: September 2024

This paper advocates for an ethical analysis of autonomous vehicle systems (AVSs) based on a moral epistemic pluralism. This paper contends that approaching the design of intricate social technologies, such as AVSs, is most effective when acknowledging a diverse range of values. Additionally, a comprehensive ethical framework for autonomous vehicles should be applied across two interconnected layers. The first layer centers on the individual level, where each autonomous vehicle becomes a unit of moral consideration. The second layer focuses on the system level, directing moral attention toward the intricate autonomous vehicle system as a whole. Distinguishing the approach from metaphysical pluralism, the paper responds to counterarguments from a moral relativist and value monist perspectives. It concludes by emphasizing the necessity of embracing epistemic pluralism to navigate the complex ethical landscape of AVSs, urging a holistic understanding that transcends individual events and integrates system-level considerations.
Green synthesis of carbon nanomaterials from Chondrus crispus and Palmaria palmata algae biomass for ciprofloxacin and malachite green uptake from water
Authors: Nogueira João , Kovalevsky Andrei V. , Daniel-da-Silva Ana L.
Published: September 2024

Carbon-based nanomaterials were prepared using a simple microwave-assisted hydrothermal carbonization method, with Chondrus crispus and Palmaria palmata algae as a sustainable feedstock. These materials were thoroughly characterized by FTIR spectroscopy, elemental microanalysis, and XPS analysis. The resulting hydrochars effectively removed ciprofloxacin (CIP), an antibiotic, and malachite green (MG), an organic dye, both of which are pollutants posing threats to ecosystems and public health. The hydrochar derived from Chondrus crispus (HC-Cho-MW) demonstrated superior performance, following a cooperative adsorption process well-described by the Dubinin–Radushkevich isotherm. It exhibited maximum adsorption capacities of 350 mg.g−1 for CIP and 136 mg.g−1 for MG, at 25ºC and pH 6. These values surpass those of previously reported hydrochars and are competitive with certain activated carbons. The pseudo-second-order model provided the best fit for the kinetic data, with film diffusion predominant at specific intervals. The adsorption of CIP and MG was exothermic and entropically favorable for both hydrochars. The small ΔH values (-9.85 to -23.26 kJ.mol−1) suggest that physisorption predominantly governed the overall adsorption mechanism, although electrostatic interactions may also contribute. The hydrochars could be regenerated and reused to remove CIP and MG over three consecutive cycles. These results highlight the potential of using renewable and readily available algae biomass as a precursor for sorbents to remove pollutants from environmental water. This approach utilizes highly efficient microwave heating and avoids costly activation processes.
Implementation of homogeneous and heterogeneous tidal arrays in the Inner Sound of the Pentland Firth
Authors: Patel Misha D. , Smyth Amanda S. M. , Angeloudis Athanasios , Adcock Thomas A. A.
Published: September 2024

The effective development of tidal stream energy sites requires an understanding of constraints limiting extraction of the resource. This study considers the implications of certain spatial constraints on the practical tidal stream energy resource. Specifically, we investigate how bathymetry influences array design and how much energy is obtained when heterogeneous arrays (comprising of turbine devices with varying specifications) are deployed at a site compared to homogeneous arrays. A novel framework for designing arrays of homogeneous and heterogeneous turbine specifications is set out and applied to the Inner Sound of the Pentland Firth as a case study. The array that delivers the most energy yield consists of 5 m diameter turbines with homogeneous diameter and control. However, this case achieves the lowest capacity factor due to the assignment of a homogeneous rated speed across the entire site, which does not account for the spatial variability of the resource. A 6% increase in capacity factor is achieved when turbines of heterogeneous control (rated speed = 1.5–2.5 m/s) are deployed across the site, producing a similar amount of power. The power per turbine can be increased if a heterogeneous diameter and control array design is adopted because 69% fewer turbines can be deployed with only a 5% decrease in average power. Heterogeneous array design maximises usage of a site, whilst allowing the maximum allowable diameter of turbine to be deployed in areas, and to exploit the spatial variation of the resource across a site by tailoring turbines to operate at appropriate rated speeds.
Single-Strain Inoculation of Bacillus subtilis and Rhizobium phaseoli Affects Nitrogen Acquisition of an Improved Mungbean Cultivar
Authors: Pataczek Lisa , Armas Juan Carlos Barroso , Petsch Theresa , Hilger Thomas , Ahmad Maqshoof , Schafleitner Roland , Zahir Zahir Ahmad , Cadisch Georg
Published: September 2024

Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) increase plant root growth, potentially improving soil nitrogen (N) uptake, and productivity. Legumes, for instance mungbean, could also benefit from a rise in potential infection sites for nodulation, thereby increasing rates of biological N2 fixation (BNF). Consequently, the objectives of this study were (i) to assess whether PGPR had an effect on mungbean root biomass and if that was linked to N accumulation and productivity; (ii) to identify whether multi-strain inoculation showed greater efficacy in increasing N accumulation and overall productivity than single-strain inoculation; (iii) to test whether N acquisition was based on BNF rather than on soil N uptake. Field trials were conducted in two seasons at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad with mungbean cultivar NM11 and multi-strain inoculation consisting of Rhizobium phaseoli, Bacillus subtilis, and Pseudomonas fluorescens. The strains were tested additionally in the second season as single-strain inoculation. Multi-strain and inoculation with P. fluorescens alone had no effect on root biomass, total plant-N, BNF or soil N uptake. Inoculation with B. subtilis, however, resulted in significantly increased root dry matter (+ 211 kg ha− 1), total dry matter (+ 1.7 t ha− 1), and total plant-N (+ 36 kg ha− 1). Only inoculation with R. phaseoli enhanced BNF (+ 24%). Yield was not affected by any inoculation. The results suggested that total plant-N was based on soil N uptake rather than on BNF and demonstrated that only single strains affected total N accumulation, pointing to antagonistic mechanisms of the strains in a mixed inoculum.
Participatory communication in the provision of development services in the Ghanaian decentralised government system: evidence from the Central Region
Authors: Odoom Daniel , Dick-Sagoe Christopher , Opoku Ernest , Obeng-Baah Joseph
Published: September 2024

This paper explores citizens’ views regarding the application of participatory communication in the delivery of development services within the decentralised government system of Ghana. The participatory theory informed the core issues of this study. Data were obtained from 309 inhabitants selected from three administrative areas in the Central Region using the quota sampling technique. Questionnaires and researcher-administered survey were used to gather data and analysed using means, standard deviations, Kruskal Wallis test, independent samples t-test, and one-way ANOVA. The study revealed that issues of empowerment were moderately applied in development services. Again, people-centred approaches to the delivery of development services were lowly considered. Overall, participatory communication principles have not received adequate attention during the delivery of development services. The situation was the same across the three-tier decentralised government system. Despite their educational differences, respondents expressed similar opinions on the application of participatory development principles. Participatory communication faced challenges like the absence of well-trained development communicators, inadequate resources, low motivation on the part of local representatives, a low sense of ownership, and an absence of clear institutional policies on communication. The paper outlines key practical implications of the findings, including the need for governments to set up the necessary institutional framework to aid the incorporation of participatory communication techniques into the development strategies of Assemblies.
The Global Burden of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Comparing Benefit–Cost Analysis and Social Welfare Analysis
Authors: Ferranna Maddalena
Published: September 2024

This article discusses the difference between benefit–cost analysis (BCA) and social welfare analysis in the evaluation of pandemic preparedness policies. Two social welfare approaches are considered: utilitarianism and prioritarianism. BCA sums the individuals’ monetary equivalents of the pandemic impacts. Social welfare analysis aggregates individuals’ well-being impacts. The aggregation rule identifies the normative judgments about what is fair. This article shows that the two methods yield very different estimates of the value of avoiding a future pandemic similar to the COVID-19 one. Compared to BCA, considerations about the distribution of the costs of the hypothetical intervention play a major role in the estimate of both utilitarian and prioritarian pandemic burdens: The more progressive the distribution of the costs is, the larger the net benefits of preventing the pandemic. In contrast, the BCA pandemic burden is indifferent to the distribution of the intervention costs. In addition, BCA tends to underestimate the burden suffered by low-income countries compared to social welfare analysis.
No Peeking: Peer Review and Presumptive Blinding
Authors: Ballantyne Nathan , Celniker Jared
Published: September 2024

Blind review is ubiquitous in contemporary science, but there is no consensus among stakeholders and researchers about when or how much or why blind review should be done. In this essay, we explain why blinding enhances the impartiality and credibility of science while also defending a norm according to which blind review is a baseline presumption in scientific peer review.
Dynamics of the Summer Counter‐Wind Current Along South Sri Lanka Coast 1: The Dominant Role of Intra‐Seasonal Variability
Authors: Xin Hongyu , Wang Weiqiang , Xie Qiang , Han Weiqing , Huang Ke , Xu Kang , Arulananthan K. , Tennakoon Kamal
Published: September 2024

The spatiotemporal characteristics of the south Sri Lanka coastal current (SSLCC) during summer are examined in this study. Climatologically, the SSLCC flows eastward as a part of the southwest monsoon current during summer. However, westward SSLCC occurred lasting more than 20 days in the summer of 2013, 2016, 2017, and 2018 based on reanalysis data, implying significant interannual variability of the SSLCC. The analysis on the summer extreme westward SSLCC indicates that the intra‐seasonal wind associated with atmospheric boreal summer intra‐seasonal oscillation (BSISO) is the main factor leading to the westward SSLCC. Firstly, the northward propagation of the BSISO induces the westerly wind anomaly and positive wind stress curl anomaly along the south and east coast of Sri Lanka, which induces the westward SSLCC. Secondly, driven by equatorial Indian Ocean intra‐seasonal wind, the low sea level anomaly associated with upwelling Rossby wave reflected from the west coast of Sumatra Island propagates westward. This propagation significantly influences the cyclonic circulation off the south coast of Sri Lanka, thus facilitating the occurrence of the westward SSLCC.
Spatio‐Temporal Characteristics and Variability of GNSS‐Derived Atmospheric Precipitable Water Vapor From 2010 to 2023 in Fujian Province, China
Authors: Pan Weihua , Wang Shuiying , Su Chuhan , Yu Yongjiang , Li Ling , Weng Shenheng
Published: September 2024

Atmospheric precipitable water vapor (PWV) is a crucial factor affecting precipitation and the atmospheric environment. To quantitatively investigate the spatio‐temporal distribution and characteristics of the PWV in Fujian, China, its diurnal and seasonal variations are analyzed based on the global navigation satellite system (GNSS) data from 2010 to 2023, ground meteorological observations, meteorological sounding data and ERA5 data. Moreover, the spatio‐temporal characteristics of the monthly PWV are assessed by using the empirical orthogonal function (EOF), the Mann‐Kendall test and the sliding t‐test. The results indicate that the ground‐based GNSS PWV data is able to reveal the distribution and variation of PWV over Fujian. Specifically, the diurnal distribution of the PWV varies remarkably with time, and the PWV in the eastern coastal areas is generally higher than in the western mountainous areas. The seasonal variation characteristics of the PWV are consistent with the atmospheric circulation variations, with the largest amount of PWV in summer, followed by spring, autumn and winter. Moreover, the EOF spatial modes show that the PWV distributions are different in the eastern coastal areas and inland mountainous areas. The oscillation intensity of the PWV strengthens from the northwest to the southeast, and the corresponding time series of the PWV displays apparent seasonal variations. The observed precipitation is inconsistent with the PWV and is more affected by local terrain and thermodynamic conditions. The Mann‐Kendall test and the sliding t‐test indicate that the PWV over Fujian has not undergone abrupt changes during the past 13 years, but there is a possibility of sudden changes in the future.
Scientists Are “Gobsmacked” by the Variability of Seafloor Currents
Authors: Chapman Andrew
Published: September 2024

The speed and direction of deep currents off Mozambique’s coast are more subject to change than scientists expected.
Cultivating Trust in AI for Disaster Management
Authors: Kuglitsch Monique , Pelivan Ivanka , Danakkaew Chinnawat , Dramsch Jesper , Arghandeh Reza
Published: September 2024

Artificial intelligence applied in disaster management must be reliable, accurate, and, above all, transparent. But what does transparency in AI mean, why do we need it, and how is it achieved?
Spatio-temporal breather dynamics in microcomb soliton crystals
Authors: Hu Futai , Vinod Abhinav Kumar , Wang Wenting , Chin Hsiao-Hsuan , McMillan James F. , Zhan Ziyu , Meng Yuan , Gong Mali , Wong Chee Wei
Published: September 2024

Solitons, the distinct balance between nonlinearity and dispersion, provide a route toward ultrafast electromagnetic pulse shaping, high-harmonic generation, real-time image processing, and RF photonic communications. Here we uniquely explore and observe the spatio-temporal breather dynamics of optical soliton crystals in frequency microcombs, examining spatial breathers, chaos transitions, and dynamical deterministic switching – in nonlinear measurements and theory. To understand the breather solitons, we describe their dynamical routes and two example transitional maps of the ensemble spatial breathers, with and without chaos initiation. We elucidate the physical mechanisms of the breather dynamics in the soliton crystal microcombs, in the interaction plane limit cycles and in the domain-wall understanding with parity symmetry breaking from third-order dispersion. We present maps of the accessible nonlinear regions, the breather frequency dependences on third-order dispersion and avoided-mode crossing strengths, and the transition between the collective breather spatio-temporal states. Our range of measurements matches well with our first-principles theory and nonlinear modeling. To image these soliton ensembles and their breathers, we further constructed panoramic temporal imaging for simultaneous fast- and slow-axis two-dimensional mapping of the breathers. In the phase-differential sampling, we present two-dimensional evolution maps of soliton crystal breathers, including with defects, in both stable breathers and breathers with drift. Our fundamental studies contribute to the understanding of nonlinear dynamics in soliton crystal complexes, their spatio-temporal dependences, and their stability-existence zones.
Structure and mechanism of a phosphotransferase system glucose transporter
Authors: Roth Patrick , Jeckelmann Jean-Marc , Fender Inken , Ucurum Zöhre , Lemmin Thomas , Fotiadis Dimitrios
Published: September 2024

Glucose is the primary source of energy for many organisms and is efficiently taken up by bacteria through a dedicated transport system that exhibits high specificity. In Escherichia coli, the glucose-specific transporter IICBGlc serves as the major glucose transporter and functions as a component of the phosphoenolpyruvate-dependent phosphotransferase system. Here, we report cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of the glucose-bound IICBGlc protein. The dimeric transporter embedded in lipid nanodiscs was captured in the occluded, inward- and occluded, outward-facing conformations. Together with biochemical and biophysical analyses, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, we provide insights into the molecular basis and dynamics for substrate recognition and binding, including the gates regulating the binding sites and their accessibility. By combination of these findings, we present a mechanism for glucose transport across the plasma membrane. Overall, this work provides molecular insights into the structure, dynamics, and mechanism of the IICBGlc transporter in a native-like lipid environment.
Bayesian spatio-temporal analysis of dengue transmission in Lao PDR
Authors: Soukavong Mick , Thinkhamrop Kavin , Pratumchart Khanittha , Soulaphy Chanthavy , Xangsayarath Phonepadith , Mayxay Mayfong , Phommachanh Sysavanh , Kelly Matthew , Wangdi Kinley , Clements Archie C. A. , Suwannatrai Apiporn T.
Published: September 2024

Dengue, a zoonotic viral disease transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, poses a significant public health concern throughout the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR). This study aimed to describe spatial–temporal patterns and quantify the effects of environmental and climate variables on dengue transmission at the district level. The dengue data from 2015 to 2020 across 148 districts of Lao PDR were obtained from the Lao PDR National Center for Laboratory and Epidemiology (NCLE). The association between monthly dengue occurrences and environmental and climate variations was investigated using a multivariable Zero-inflated Poisson regression model developed in a Bayesian framework. The study analyzed a total of 72,471 dengue cases with an incidence rate of 174 per 100,000 population. Each year, incidence peaked from June to September and a large spike was observed in 2019. The Bayesian spatio-temporal model revealed a 9.1% decrease (95% credible interval [CrI] 8.9%, 9.2%) in dengue incidence for a 0.1 unit increase in monthly normalized difference vegetation index at a 1-month lag and a 5.7% decrease (95% CrI 5.3%, 6.2%) for a 1 cm increase in monthly precipitation at a 6-month lag. Conversely, dengue incidence increased by 43% (95% CrI 41%, 45%) for a 1 °C increase in monthly mean temperature at a 3-month lag. After accounting for covariates, the most significant high-risk spatial clusters were detected in the southern regions of Lao PDR. Probability analysis highlighted elevated trends in 45 districts, emphasizing the importance of targeted control strategies in high-risk areas. This research underscores the impact of climate and environmental factors on dengue transmission, emphasizing the need for proactive public health interventions tailored to specific contexts in Lao PDR.
Acceleration of ion phase-space holes due to interactions with ion solitons in a wave-guided plasma
Authors: Lobo Allen , Sayal Vinod Kumar
Published: September 2024

Ion phase-space holes are solitary kinetic structures found in the ion phase-space of collision-less plasmas, and are nonlinear solutions to the Vlasov-Poisson equations, identified as Bernstein-Greene-Kruskal (BGK) modes. In this study, interactions between an ion phase-space hole and a travelling ion KdV soliton is presented. This interaction, which is simulated in a fully ionised highly magnetised plasma within a cylindrical wave-guide, exhibits acceleration and deacceleration of the ion hole, depending on its mode of collision with the travelling ion soliton. We present these interactions and discuss the mechanism of this interaction between the two solitary waves.
COVID-19 and mental distress among health professionals in eight European countries during the third wave: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Dechent Frieder , Mayer Gwendolyn , Hummel Svenja , Moritz Steffen , Benoy Charles , Almeida Rosa , Durán Raquel Losada , Ribeiro Oscar , Frisardi Vincenza , Tarricone Ilaria , Ferrari Silvia , Lemogne Cédric , Huber Christian , Weidt Steffi , Schultz Jobst-Hendrik
Published: September 2024

Even during the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic health professionals were facing mental health challenges. The aim of this study was to examine the mental health of doctors, nurses and other professional groups in Europe and to identify differences between the professional groups. We conducted a cross-sectional online survey in 8 European countries. We asked for demographic data, whether the participants were exposed to COVID-19 at work, for main information sources about the pandemic, the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21), and major stressors. A MANCOVA was carried out to find predictors of mental health among health care professionals. The sample (N = 1398) consisted of 237 physicians, 459 nurses, and 351 other healthcare professionals and 351 non-medical professionals with no direct involvement in patient care. The mean mental health of all groups was affected to a mild degree. Major predictors for depression and anxiety were the profession group with higher scores especially in the group of the nurses and working directly with COVID-patients. In the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, the psychological burden on health professionals has remained high, with being nurse and working directly with COVID19 patients being particular risk factors for mental distress. We found as a main result that nurses scored significantly higher on depression and anxiety than practitioners.
Motion onset VEPs can see through the blur
Authors: Kordek D. , Young L. , Voda P. , Kremláček J.
Published: September 2024

Motion-onset visual evoked potentials (MO VEPs) are robust to dioptric blur when low contrast and low spatial frequency patterns are used for stimulation. To reveal mechanisms of MO VEPs robustness, we studied whether the resistance to defocus persists even when using a high-contrast checkerboard using digital defocus in the emmetropic eyes of 13 subjects (males 20–60 years). We compared the dominant components of MO VEPs to pattern-reversal VEPs (PR VEP), which are sensitive to the blur. For stimulation, we used checkerboard patterns with 15´ and 60´ checks. To defocus the checkerboard, we rendered it with a second-order Zernike polynomial ($${Z}_{2}^{0}$$

Z

2

0

) with an equivalent defocus of 0, 2, or 4 D. For PR VEP, the checkerboards were reversed in terms of their contrast. To evoke MO VEP, the checkerboard of 60´ checks moved for 200 ms with a speed of 5 or 10 deg/s in the cardinal directions. The MO VEP did not change in peak time (P ≥ 0.0747) or interpeak amplitude (P > 0.0772) with digital blur. In contrast, for PR VEP, the results showed a decrease in interpeak amplitude (P ≤ 6.65ˑ10-4) and an increase in peak time (P ≤ 0.0385). Thus, we demonstrated that MO VEPs evoked by checkerboard, structure containing high spatial content, can be robust to defocus.
Synergistic effect of nano-iron phosphide and wood vinegar on soybean production and grain quality
Authors: Zhu Guikai , Tang Yuying , Ding Yanru , Zhao Weichen , Wang Quanlong , Li Yuanbo , Wang Qibin , Zhang Peng , Tan Zhiqiang , Rui Yukui
Published: September 2024

Phosphorus fertilizer (PF) is an important nutrient for crop growth, but it can be easily immobilized in the soil by oxides of aluminum, iron, and calcium, resulting in its reduced bioavailability.
Beyond absorption maxima: the impact of wavelength-resolved photochemistry on materials science
Authors: Thijssen Quinten , Carroll Joshua A. , Feist Florian , Beil Andreas , Grützmacher Hansjörg , Wegener Martin , Van Vlierberghe Sandra , Barner-Kowollik Christopher
Published: September 2024

Challenging the belief that maximal photochemical reactivity occurs at absorption maxima, this work argues that reactivity can peak at lower absorption wavelengths, with significant implications for volumetric 3D printing and materials science.
Synergistic self-driven and heterogeneous effect of a biomass-derived urchin-like Mn3O4/C3N4 Janus micromotor catalyst for efficient degradation of carbamazepine
Authors: Yang Jie , Yang Wenning , Zhang Chao , Gong Jian , Xu Ming , Li Jia , Liu Chengzhang
Published: September 2024

Here, we present biomass-derived urchin-like Mn3O4/C3N4 Janus micromotor catalyst for efficient degradation of carbamazepine. This method provides a promising pathway for rational construction and preparation of movable catalysts for efficient removal of organic pollutants from wastewater.
Optimization of diformylfuran production from 5-hydroxymethylfurfural via catalytic oxidation in a packed-bed continuous flow reactor
Authors: Pumrod Supakrit , Akkarawatkhoosith Nattee , Kaewchada Amaraporn , Tongtummachat Tiprawee , Andrew Lin Kun-Yi , Jaree Attasak
Published: September 2024

A highly efficient flow reactor packed with Ru/Al2O3 for the production of diformylfuran from 5-hydroxymethylfurfural.
Misconceptions in Epilepsy and its Differentiation from Psychogenic Nonepileptic Events in Pakistan: The Dilemma in Underdeveloped Regions
Authors: Bashir Muhammad Arsalan , Khalid Aashar
Published: September 2024

Epilepsy is a chronic brain disorder characterized by unpredictable seizures, significantly impacting emotional well-being and interpersonal relationships. Despite being a prevalent condition, pervasive myths and misconceptions persist, leading to stigma and societal discrimination. Disparities in epilepsy prevalence exist between affluent and impoverished nations, with higher rates observed in economically disadvantaged regions. In Pakistan, epilepsy affects over 2 million individuals, predominantly in rural areas, yet accurate diagnosis and treatment remain challenging due to limited access to specialized health care facilities and diagnostic tools like video electroencephalogram. Compounding this issue is the misdiagnosis of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) as epilepsy, resulting in inappropriate treatments and increased health care costs. Addressing these challenges necessitates a multifaceted approach, including awareness campaigns to dispel myths, improving access to diagnostic tools and specialized care, enhancing health care provider training, and integrating epilepsy management into primary health systems. Collaboration between stakeholders, along with increased research efforts, is vital to ensure equitable access to diagnosis and treatment for epilepsy and PNES, irrespective of geographical location or socioeconomic status.
Tardigrades
Authors: Morgan Anne , Falkner Jennifer
Published: September 2024

Tardigrades are one of the toughest creatures in nature! These tiny little animals, nicknamed 'moss piglets' or 'water bears', have incredible survival superpowers.

They've been found in astonishing places, from the top of a mountain to the bottom of an ocean. They've even survived a trip into space!

Tardigrades: Nature's Toughest Survivors showcases these astounding little creatures and their remarkable ability to survive.

Reading level varies from child to child, but we recommend this book for ages 6 to 9.
《国际中文教育中文水平等级标准》在美国落地的挑战和意义
Authors: Tian Ye , Dietrich Maiheng , Wu Grace
Published: September 2024

提要

通过分析美国宾夕法尼亚大学中文项目八门主要中文课程使用的三部教材《一言一行学中文》、《传承中文》、《新的中国》中汉字、词汇的数量与等级，本研究探讨《国际中文教育中文水平等级标准》在美国落地的挑战和意义，也为未来美国大学中文课程的总体设计、衔接和教材编写提供参考依据。
《国际中文教育中文水平等级标准》
Authors: Zheng Yue , Bai Bingbing , Li Ya’nan , Liu Lixin
Published: September 2024

提要

等级描述语是《国际中文教育中文水平等级标准》的核心内容之一，本文聚焦“听、说、读、写、译”五项语言技能中的“说”，回顾了语言标准的研制理论，介绍了“说”等级描述语的研制原则、描写角度及效度验证结果。最后结合美国中文教学的实际情况，就“说”等级描述语在教学与测试中的应用提出建议。
Interveners’ performance of “identity work” in the context of Chinese bystander intervention
Authors: Li Jie , Chen Xinren
Published: September 2024

The present study examines a variety of “identity work” that interveners perform discursively in the context of
Chinese bystander intervention, a communicative strategy underexplored in related literature. Analyzing data from 3 Chinese social
observation TV shows, it showcases the varied categories of identity work performed and the discursive practices employed by the
interveners. It demonstrates that identity work is a common device used by Chinese intervener to serve the purpose of intervention
and that it is driven by their needs to seek interactional power, pursue social alignment and justify accusation. Hopefully, the
present study could lend further support to the current conceptualization of identity as communicators’ resource to satisfy their
communicative needs in Chinese social interaction.
Task design, needs analysis, and task sequencing
Authors: Van den Branden Kris , Coss Matthew D. , Gilabert Roger , Malicka Aleksandra
Published: September 2024

In this interview, Kris Van den Branden (TASK Co-Editor) and Matt Coss (TASK Editorial Assistant) invited
international experts Dr. Roger Gilabert and Dr. Aleksandra Malicka to discuss their scholarship and recent thinking on areas of
TBLT including needs analysis, syllabus design, task sequencing, and task design.