bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship Between Sexual Function, Health‐Promoting Behaviors, and Quality of Life in Female Patients With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Luo Ting , Xie Liu , Chen Sisi , Huang Lingzhi
Published: December 2024

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a chronic progressive exacerbation of cardiopulmonary vascular disease. The patients' exercise endurance decreased progressively and the survival rate was low. Current basic therapy and targeted drug therapy can improve the quality of life (QoL) of PAH patients, but the long‐term efficacy and prognosis are not good. In this study, the female sexual function index (FSFI) scale, Health Promoting Life Style Profile (HPLPII), and emPHasis‐10 were used to evaluate PAH patients' sexual function, health‐promoting behaviors and QoL. Their correlation and the moderating effect of health promoting behavior were conducted. In total, 306 female patients responded. Age ranged from 18 to 69 years old and the mean age was (38.049 ± 10.686). The average score of sexual function in female PAH patients was (21.703 ± 8.947) points, and the detection rate of sexual dysfunction was 51.307%. The average score of health‐promoting behaviors and QoL was (121.915 ± 13.507) points and (17.992 ± 10.245) points respectively. QoL was significantly negatively correlated with sexual function and health‐promoting behaviors, while sexual function was significantly positively correlated with health‐promoting behaviors. The health‐promoting behaviors of female patients with PAH has a moderating effect between sexual function and QoL. The sexual function, health‐promoting behaviors and QoL of female PAH patients were all at an general level. Improving the level of health‐promoting behaviors could reduce the negative predictive effect of sexual function on QoL.
Quantum Key Recovery Attacks On Prøst‐COPA and Prøst‐OTR Using Simon's Algorithm
Authors: Liu Wen‐Jie , Zhang Yuan‐Yuan
Published: December 2024

Due to its innovative and performance advantages, Prøst‐COPA and Prøst‐OTR have attracted widespread attention. For the Prøst‐COPA without associated data and with associated data, the corresponding quantum key recovery attacks are proposed using Simon's algorithm, respectively. In the first scenario, the messages are used to calculate the Message Authentication Code (MAC) and construct a period function to recover the secret parameter . Then, utilizing ciphertext, a periodic function is constructed with a periodic value equal to the key value. MAC is calculated from messages and the associated data in the second scenario. Considering the impact of the associated data on the periodicity of the function, the messages are treated as a constant and further construct two periodic functions to recover the secret parameter and the key. For Prøst‐OTR, by constructing two periodic functions using two tags with different numbers of message blocks, the secret parameter can be recovered, and then the key can be recovered using Simon's algorithm. Compared to the classical attacks, the quantum‐based methods only require quantum queries (where is the message block size), resulting in an exponential speed acceleration and the success probability of the method is close to 1. These methods also show a lower query complexity than the state‐of‐the‐art quantum methods.
Efficient Satellite QKD Strategy Using High‐Brightness Entangled Photon‐Pair Source with Fixed‐Intensity
Authors: Kim Jin‐Woo , Lim Suseong , Kim Heonoh , Rhee June‐Koo Kevin
Published: December 2024

A high‐brightness entangled photon‐pair (HBEPP) source is essential for long‐reach entanglement‐based quantum key distribution (QKD) such as in a satellite QKD system. An ultrabright source is a good candidate to overcome significant losses and to increase the sifted key rate, but the performance is critically limited due to the multi‐photon effect that raises the error rate of the system. To accurately estimate system performance, this study first investigates an analytical model for calculating the measurement probabilities of HBEPP distribution through an asymmetric loss channel. Based on this model, this study proposes the use of a fixed‐intensity HBEPP source for satellite QKD systems, assuming a polarization‐independent channel and threshold detectors for measurement. This study confirms that fixing the mean photon number at achieves a performance of compared to the ideal one‐way communication entanglement‐based satellite QKD protocol, which is effectively optimizing the HBEPP source brightness in accordance with system losses.
The New Viking Age: A speculative historical archaeology
Authors: Baron Joanne
Published: December 2024

Written in response to the Nordic Krone scheme described in Mandirola's (2025) fictional brochure, this essay continues the fiction, presenting a historical and archaeological look back on the Nordic Council 200 years after its formation. In confusing a measure of economic output (e.g. money) with the output itself, the Nordic Council has doomed its society to violence and collapse.
Unveiling the pandemic's shadow: A ground report on COVID‐19 impact on transgender community in India
Authors: Raja Rameez , Khan Mohd Azam , Rajab Mudasir
Published: December 2024

While the COVID‐19 pandemic had a global impact, the transgender community faced pre‐existing vulnerabilities. Analyzing the pandemic's effects on this marginalized group is crucial for formulating strategies to mitigate future crises. Using a convergent parallel mixed‐method approach, 335 transgender respondents were recruited through purposive sampling and analyzed using descriptive statistics, cross‐tabulation, and critical discourse analysis. The findings reported that transgender persons with COVID symptoms were not accessing medical facilities, and the mental health of transgender people was highly impacted. Nearly one‐third (n = 96, 28%) and one‐fourth (n = 76, 22.7%) of transgender respondents engaged in sex work and begging for survival, respectively, and many faced high difficulties accessing food or groceries. One‐third (n = 107, 31.9%) reported disconnectedness, and half of the respondents (n = 178, 53.1%) experienced increased feelings of social isolation due to COVID‐19 restrictions.The COVID‐19 pandemic had significant and varied impacts and required an urgent need for targeted interventions to address these multifaceted issues and mitigate the adverse effects on the lives of transgender individuals.
Regulation of Electron Cloud Density by Electronic Effects of Substituents to Optimize Photocatalytic H2 Evolution of Carbon Dots
Authors: Ou Xue , Chen Xinrui , Zhao Siyu , Shi Yarong , Zhang Junhua , Wu Min , Ragauskas Arthur J. , Song Xueping , Zhang Zhanying
Published: December 2024

Carbon dots (CDs) have a wide light absorption range, which are promising candidates for photocatalytic water splitting H2 evolution, but they show low activity for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) due to the slow transfer efficiencies of photogenerated carriers. The electron cloud density of photocatalyst is essential for the separation and migration of photogenerated carriers. In this study, the effect mechanism of electron cloud density regulated by the substituents with different electronic effects on the photocatalytic HER of glucose‐based CDs is clarified. CDs‐SO3H and CDs‐OH are first obtained by introducing electron‐drawing group (─SO3H) and electron‐donating group (─OH) using a tailoring post‐processing strategy. Experimental results show that the H2 yield catalyzed by CDs‐SO3H is 89.95 µmol•g−1 in 4 h, which is about four times that of CDs, and 7.4 times that of CDs‐OH. The ─SO3H induces a much negative energy band and high electron cloud density on CDs edges, promoting the separation and transfer of photogenerated carriers; while the CDs‐OH exhibits a high positive charge density and an upward energy band, hindering the surface complexation of electron‐hole pairs and HER. This study will provide an insight into the design of CDs catalysts with efficient photocatalytic HER at a molecular level.
High‐Performing Direct X‐Ray Detection Made of One‐Dimensional Perovskite‐Like (TMHD)SbBr5 Single Crystal With Anisotropic Response
Authors: Zheng Guangya , Wu Haodi , He Song , Li Hanchen , Dong Zhiwu , Jin Tong , Pang Jincong , Masrour Rachid , Zheng Zhiping , Niu Guangda , Xu Ling , Tang Jiang
Published: December 2024

3D and 2D organic hybrid perovskites, as well as double perovskites, have demonstrated their suitability for direct X‐ray detection. However, the sensitivity and stability of 3D perovskite X‐ray detectors are currently being hindered by the existing constraints on ion movement. Therefore, there is an immediate need to develop X‐ray detectors that are both highly sensitive and stable while also being environmentally friendly. The novel low‐dimensional perovskites demonstrate exceptional inherent stability and effectively mitigate ion migration, thereby showcasing their remarkable photoelectric performance. Inspired by this, a solution crystallization method is employed to synthesize novel single crystals (SCs) of one dimensional (1D) (TMHD)SbBr5. The dimensions of the chained (TMHD)SbBr5 SC are 13 × 1.3 × 1.2 mm3 in size. The device based on a perovskite chain (TMHD)SbBr5 exhibits unique anisotropic X‐ray detection performance with a sensitivity of 62.8 and 30.5 µC Gyair−1cm−2 in the parallel and perpendicular orientations, respectively. It can lead to the directional movement of ions, resulting in large carrier mobility under the action of electric fields, and effectively increase the sensitivity to X‐ray detection.
Z‐scheme CeO2‐TiO2@CNT Heterojunction for Efficient Photoredox Removal of Mix Pollutants (CPF, MB, MO, and RhB)
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Sharma Ashish Ranjan , Mishra Yogendra Kumar , Sharma Sanjeev Kumar
Published: December 2024

Z‐scheme CeO2‐TiO2@CNT (CTC) heterojunction is fabricated using hydrothermal method and evaluated for removing mixed pollutants (MIX‐P) from ciprofloxacin (CPF) and textile contaminations. CTC demonstrated ≈99% removal efficiency against MIX‐P under solar irradiation of ≈105 lumens. High removal efficiency of CTC is attributed to reduced bandgap (Eg), 2.65 eV, and high specific surface area (68.193 m2 g−1). Lower Eg extends light absorption that generates more charge carriers and reactive species, RS (•O2−, h+, •OH), to facilitate the photocatalytic removal process. These RS are confirmed through trapping experiments using IPA, N2, and KI. Binding energies of 282.5, 283.7, and 285 eV, corresponding to Ti─C, Ti─O─C, and Ce─C bondings, indicated coupling of TiO2, CeO2, and CNT within the CTC structure. Ionic and pH tests confirmed lower photocatalytic efficiency of CTC in an alkaline environment. Photocurrent density and EIS measurements provide insights into the charge carrier dynamics, while HPLC‐MS analysis offered information on degradation pathway and identification of intermediates in the removal process. DFT studies confirmed the adjustments in electronic states, structural modifications, and band alignments in agreement with experimental results. This study highlights the potential of CTC as highly effective catalyst for sustainable removal of mixed pollutants from wastewater.
Plasmonic MOF for Highly Selective SERS Sensing of Trace Mercury (II) in Complex Matrices
Authors: He Zhijian , Hu Jieying , Zhong Jing , Long Yunchen , Shen Junda , Chen Song , Ou Weihui , Liu Qiyu , Lu Jian , Lou Zaizhu , Li Yang Yang , He Jun
Published: December 2024

Developing Ag‐based surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) sensors for detecting Hg(II) has garnered significant research interest due to their unparalleled selectivity, which is brought by the specific Ag‐Hg amalgamation reaction. However, existing sensors perform unsatisfactorily in the trace detection of Hg(II) because the low concentration of Hg(II) does not have the redox potential sufficient to amalgamate with Ag. To address this challenge, a plasmonic MOF SERS sensor is developed, nanoetched Ag@UiO‐68‐SMe, by integrating the enormous Raman enhancement effects of nanoetched Ag with the selective enrichment function of UiO‐68‐SMe into single entity. This sensor enables on‐site readout of Hg(II) in various real‐world samples with high selectivity and sensitivity (0.17 ppb) using a portable Raman spectrometer coupled with a homemade 3D print holder. Mechanistic studies reveal that the UiO‐68‐SMe selectively captures and concentrates trace amounts of Hg(II) through thiomethyl groups, significantly increasing their redox potential. The resultant higher oxidative capacity allows for the spontaneous Ag‐Hg amalgamation, inducing a SERS turn‐off response to Hg(II), which is otherwise thermodynamically prohibited. This work not only reports a powerful SERS sensor for monitoring trace levels of Hg(II) pollution but also offers a proof‐of‐concept demonstration of utilizing the enrichment capabilities of MOF to manipulate redox reaction.
Normalizing the Shamed Self: Stigma, Neutralization and “Narrative Credibility” in Interviews on White‐Collar Transgression
Authors: Müller Thaddeus
Published: December 2024

In this article, I analyze my interviews with Mark (pseudonym), a social scientist who committed major academic fraud in over 50 top‐tier journal articles in the first decade of this century. I explain how stigma played a central role in how Mark and I shaped our interaction. I focus on how Mark, a former Professor and Dean with a distinguished career, constructed normalizing narratives using neutralization techniques. Mark was named a selfish, narcissistic person and labeled as an academic folk devil, which hurt him deeply. He felt he was vilified, ostracized, and demonized. I also focus on my reaction to Mark's representation of being stigmatized, specifically on how I navigated between empathizing and challenging to elicit answers with “narrative credibility.” This article contributes to the field of neutralization techniques in two ways. First, by focusing on the specific interview situation, I show how neutralization techniques are constructed in the unfolding interactional dynamics between the researcher and the research participant. Second, this research describes how neutralization techniques are used to normalize “the shamed self.”
Effects of Aluminum Oxide Nanoparticles in the Spinal Cord of Male Wistar Rats and the Potential Ameliorative Role of Melatonin
Authors: Abdelhameed Nermeen G. , Ahmed Yasmine H. , Yasin Noha A. E. , Mahmoud Mohamed Y. , El‐sakhawy Mohamed A.
Published: December 2024

Aluminum oxide nanoparticles (Al2O3 NPs) are widely utilized in vaccine manufacturing and other medical preparations. Melatonin has numerous effects as an antioxidant and anti‐apoptotic. The purpose of this study was to examine the beneficial impact of melatonin on Al2O3 NPs toxicity in the spinal cord. Forty male rats were divided into four groups: Group I, the negative controls (received standard diet and distilled water); Group II, Al2O3 NPs (received 30 mg/kg bw Al2O3 NPs); Group III, melatonin and Al2O3 NPs (received 30 mg/kg bw Al2O3 NPs + 10 mg/kg bw melatonin); Group IV, melatonin (received 10 mg/kg bw melatonin). All treatments were administered daily for 28 days by gastric gavage. After that, all rats were sacrificed, then, the samples from different spinal cords were subjected to histopathological, biochemical, and immunohistochemical analyses. Al2O3 NPs markedly elevated malondialdehyde and 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine while inhibiting superoxide dismutase and catalase. Al2O3 NPs also induced histological alterations in both gray and white matter manifested by neuronal degeneration, vacuolation, axonal degeneration, ballooning, and fusion of myelin sheaths. Furthermore, immunohistochemical results displayed a strong positive expression of caspase‐3. Conversely, melatonin significantly mitigated the effects of Al2O3 NPs by increasing the activities of antioxidant enzymes and inhibiting malondialdehyde and 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine. Moreover, melatonin alleviated most histological alterations induced by Al2O3 NPs and reduced caspase‐3 immunoreactivity. Collectively, melatonin could protect the spinal cord and mitigate Al2O3 NPs‐induced neurotoxicity.
Chronic and Idiopathic Pancreatitis—A Personalized Treatment Approach
Authors: von Widdern Julian Cardinal , Rosendahl Jonas , Ammer‐Herrmenau Christoph
Published: December 2024

Chronic pancreatitis is a fibroinflammatory disease of the pancreas with heterogeneous clinical features and a significant socioeconomic burden. Assessing its aetiology and early diagnosis of associated complications remain challenging. Personalized therapy necessitates precise knowledge of the genetic, biological, and clinical differences within a patient population. In this context, the identification of the underlying aetiology represents an essential cornerstone. This review elucidates current standards for identifying underlying aetiologies and the diagnostic work‐up for idiopathic cases. It provides an overview of general therapeutic approaches and highlights individual treatment options. Additionally, the follow‐up management of pancreatitis‐associated complications, namely exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, post‐pancreatitis diabetes mellitus, pain management, pancreatic fluid collections, and pancreatic cancer risk, is summarized.
Carboxymethyl cellulose‐based bioactive food packaging films incorporated with Ficus religiosa/Psidium guajava extracts: Effect of additive ratio variation
Authors: Sharma Swati , Priyadarshi Ruchir , Mishra Narayan Chandra
Published: December 2024

The incorporation of plant extract into biopolymers is an environment‐friendly method of fabricating bioactive films (BFs) with multifunctional properties for food packaging. The current work explores the development of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)‐based BFs by combining Ficus religiosa (Peepal) extract (PLE) and Psidium guajava (Guava) extract (GLE) in varying ratios. The impact of extract concentration on the films' physiochemical and functional properties was examined. The structural analysis of the films showed good compatibility between the polymer and extracts. The findings indicate that BFs with PLE and GLE in a 50:50 ratio exhibited better mechanical properties than other films. All the BFs enhanced oxidative stability and UV‐blocking properties. Among all combinations, the CMC/GLE100 film (having only GLE and CMC) exhibited the highest antioxidant and UV‐blocking properties although transparency is slightly reduced. On employing the CMC/GLE100 film as UV protective packaging, it was able to preserve the color and shape of grapes even after 48 h of direct UV exposure. CMC/GLE100 film, when applied to pack fried items, exhibited enhanced oxidative stability. Overall, CMC/GLE100 film can find potential applications for packaging fruits and fried items.

Highlights

CMC/GLE100 film exhibited enhanced oxidative stability for packing fried items.

CMC/GLE100 film showed potential as UV‐blocking film for fruits' packing.

CMC/GLE100 film exhibited very good antioxidant potential.

CMC/GLE100 film has very good UV‐blocking properties but decreased transparency.

BFs with PLE/GLE in a 50:50 ratio exhibits very good mechanical properties.
Radiative effects on 2D unsteady MHD Al2O3‐water nanofluid flow between squeezing plates: A comparative study using AGM and HPM in Python
Authors: Majidi Zar Pooriya , Shateri Amirali , Jalili Payam , Al‐Yarimi Fuad A. M. , Jalili Bahram , Ganji Davood Domiri , Ben Khedher Nidhal
Published: December 2024

This research uses Python programming to explore the influence of magnetic field strength on a two‐dimensional squeezing nanofluid flow confined between two parallel plates. The primary objective is to examine an aluminum oxide nanofluid's velocity and heat transfer characteristics which are governed by dimensionless parameters such as the Prandtl number and friction coefficient. The non‐dimensionalized differential equations are solved employing two analytical techniques: the Akbari‐Ganji Method and the Homotopy Perturbation Method, both implemented through Python programming. Using Python programming to solve these equations represents a novel approach that offers accurate and efficient results. The study's findings reveal that as the Prandtl number increases, the temperature and thermal properties of the nanofluid flow also increase while the concentration decreases. Additionally, the Nusselt number experiences a decline. The implementation of Python programming in this research showcases the versatility of the language in solving complex mathematical problems, particularly in fluid dynamics. Python's ability to provide accurate solutions efficiently enhances its potential for further applications and advancements in this area.
Concept for Direct Recycling of Battery Electrodes and Recovery of Active Material
Authors: Denk Florian , Wiechers Patrick , Lödige Lukas , Schabel Sebastian , Gleiß Marco , Scharfer Philip , Schabel Wilhelm , Fleischer Jürgen
Published: December 2024

To achieve the goal of sustainable and competitive production of battery electrodes, the integration of recycling approaches into the product life cycle is becoming increasingly important. In addition to the fixed recycling quotas for end-of-life batteries, which are legally stipulated for the future, production scrap also plays a decisive role.

Production scrap is a result of quality requirements, which are directly correlated to production parameters. As a result, up to 40% of the material used in battery cell production is scrap, which also needs to be recycled to close the value chain. Currently, there are two established processes for recycling the functional materials of lithium ion batteries (LIBs), namely pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical recycling. An alternative process, which is not yet established due to the complexity of the physical and chemical relationships, is direct battery recycling. This function-preserving recycling enables a direct return to the LIBs value chain while simultaneously processing the materials in an environmentally friendly and resource-saving manner. Therefore, this paper presents technological approaches in the form of a process chain for the direct recycling of active materials (lithium iron phosphate and graphite) in order to significantly improve the battery sustainability. Anode layers with defined structural properties are treated in the process chain consisting of decoating, dispersing and thickening.

Initial tests have looked at two different decoating methods. The mechanical removal of anode active material from the collector foil using brushes and removal in a high-power ultrasonic bath are demonstrated. Furthermore, the process for the preparation of the recyclate is presented. This involves dispersing the decoated material to break up large agglomerates. Finally, the anode suspension is thickened so that the concentrate has the same solids concentration as a newly produced paste.
Process Chain for Functionally Integrated Structures Based on Continuous Fibre Reinforced Thermoplastic Sheets
Authors: Reichel Vicky , Berlin Werner , Dröder Klaus
Published: December 2024

Thermoforming enables the efficient processing of continuous fibre reinforced thermoplastic (CFRT) such as organo sheets into geometrically complex and structurally advantageous structures; however, resulting components are often hybrized through additional processes for an increased rigidity. For this, injection moulding is a widespread option, as it allows for the precise integration of plastic ribs into the thermoformed products, leading to improved structural integrity and mechanical stiffness [1, 2]. As thermoforming and injection moulding offer synergistic advantages, especially based on many related process steps, the processes can be successfully integrated [3]. When further manufacturing steps such as cutting are combined within this integrated process, the previously required handling steps are avoided entirely and the overall process cycle time can be reduced [4].

Within the present research, the integration of multiple process steps into an integrative process chain is examined through a prototypical experimental setup. The investigated one-shot injection moulding mould (IMM) combines the thermoforming and trimming of the final contour as well as the injection moulding step within an index plate mould. This enables comparably short process cycles while maintaining part quality, such as the defined position of CFRT in edge contours. The process chain is validated and resulting demonstrator components are analyzed regarding the adhesion between CFRT and applied thermoplastics by applying tensile loads. Even in comparison to conventionally established processes, the investigated integrated process chain enables feasible results. Within the examined process parameters, the temperatures within the different system components significantly influence the overall part quality. Overall, the concept for an integrated process chain shows promise for further investigations, as it offers significant gains in overall process efficiencies through reduced handling steps and potential time savings.
Comparative mechanisms for O2 storage and metabolism in two Florida diving birds: the anhinga (Anhinga anhinga) and the double-crested cormorant (Nannopterum auritum)
Authors: White Jeff , Schell Elizabeth R. , Dawson Neal J. , McCracken Kevin G.
Published: December 2024

Air-breathing vertebrates face many physiological challenges while breath-hold diving. In particular, they must endure intermittent periods of declining oxygen (O2) stores, as well as the need to rapidly replenish depleted O2 at the surface prior to their next dive. While many species show adaptive increases in the O2 storage capacity of the blood or muscles, others increase the oxidative capacity of the muscles through changes in mitochondrial arrangement, abundance, or remodeling of key metabolic pathways. Here, we assess the diving phenotypes of two sympatric diving birds: the anhinga (Anhinga anhinga) and the double-crested cormorant (Nannopterum auritum). In each, we measured blood- and muscle-O2 storage capacity, as well as phenotypic characteristics such as muscle fiber composition, capillarity, and mitochondrial arrangement and abundance in the primary flight (pectoralis) and swimming (gastrocnemius) muscles. Finally, we compared the maximal activities of 10 key enzymes in the pectoralis, gastrocnemius, and left ventricle of the heart to assess tissue level oxidative capacity and fuel use. Our results indicate that both species utilize enhanced muscle-O2 stores over blood-O2. This is most apparent in the large difference in available myoglobin in the gastrocnemius between the two species. Oxidative capacity varied significantly between the flight and swimming muscles and between the two species. However, both species showed lower oxidative capacity than expected compared to other diving birds. In particular, the anhinga exhibits a unique diving phenotype with a slightly higher reliance on glycolysis and lower aerobic ATP generation than double-crested cormorants.
Mitigating content poisoning attacks in named data networking: a survey of recent solutions, limitations, challenges and future research directions
Authors: Ullah Syed Sajid , Hussain Saddam , Ali Ihsan , Khattak Hizbullah , Mastorakis Spyridon
Published: December 2024

Named Data Networking (NDN) is one of the capable applicants for the future Internet architecture, where communications focus on content rather than providing content. NDN implements Information-Centric Networking (ICN) with its unique node structure and significant characteristics such as built-in mobility support, multicast support, and efficient content distribution to end-users. It has several key features, including inherent security, that protect the content rather than the communication channel. Despite the good features that NDN provides, it is nonetheless vulnerable to a variety of attacks, the most critical of them is the Content Poisoning Attack (CPA). In this survey, the existing solutions presented for the prevention of CPA in the NDN paradigm have been critically analyzed. Furthermore, we also compared the suggested schemes based on latency, communication overhead, and security. In addition, we have also shown the possibility of other possible NDN attacks on the suggested schemes. Finally, we adds some open research challanges.
Analyzing customer preferences for hydrogen cars: a characteristic objects method approach
Authors: Shekhovtsov Andrii , Rafiei Oskooei Amirkia , Wątróbski Jarosław , Sałabun Wojciech
Published: December 2024

As hydrogen vehicles gain popularity, car manufacturers are introducing numerous models, presenting customers with the challenge of choosing the most suitable option. To address this, Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis methods are often used to evaluate and select the best alternative. This study applies the Characteristic Objects Method (COMET) to address the practical problem of selecting the most appropriate hydrogen car for decision-makers. Using data provided by manufacturers, we evaluate ten hydrogen vehicles and create six decision models based on the preferences of three decision-makers, utilizing both the recently proposed Triad Support and Expected Solution Point-COMET algorithms. The models provide insights into how customer preferences can be extracted and represented in decision models. Moreover, we analyze local weights derived from the models to understand customer expectations for hydrogen cars better. The results of our study highlight the effectiveness of the COMET approach in capturing and comparing decision-maker preferences, offering a valuable methodology framework for future applications in similar multi-criteria decision-making problems.
Landscape of machine learning evolution: privacy-preserving federated learning frameworks and tools
Authors: Nguyen Giang , Sáinz-Pardo Díaz Judith , Calatrava Amanda , Berberi Lisana , Lytvyn Oleksandr , Kozlov Valentin , Tran Viet , Moltó Germán , López García Álvaro
Published: December 2024

Machine learning is one of the most widely used technologies in the field of Artificial Intelligence. As machine learning applications become increasingly ubiquitous, concerns about data privacy and security have also grown. The work in this paper presents a broad theoretical landscape concerning the evolution of machine learning and deep learning from centralized to distributed learning, first in relation to privacy-preserving machine learning and secondly in the area of privacy-enhancing technologies. It provides a comprehensive landscape of the synergy between distributed machine learning and privacy-enhancing technologies, with federated learning being one of the most prominent architectures. Various distributed learning approaches to privacy-aware techniques are structured in a review, followed by an in-depth description of relevant frameworks and libraries, more particularly in the context of federated learning. The paper also highlights the need for data protection and privacy addressed from different approaches, key findings in the field concerning AI applications, and advances in the development of related tools and techniques.
Ratai: recurrent autoencoder with imputation units and temporal attention for multivariate time series imputation
Authors: Lai Xiaochen , Yao Yachen , Mu Jichong , Lu Wei , Zhang Liyong
Published: December 2024

Multivariate time series is ubiquitous in real-world applications, yet it often suffers from missing values that impede downstream analytical tasks. In this paper, we introduce the Long Short-Term Memory Network based Recurrent Autoencoder with Imputation Units and Temporal Attention Imputation Model (RATAI), tailored for multivariate time series. RATAI is designed to address certain limitations of traditional RNN-based imputation methods, which often focus on predictive modeling to estimate missing values, sometimes neglecting the contextual impact of observed data at and beyond the target time step. Drawing inspiration from Kalman smoothing, which effectively integrates past and future information to refine state estimations, RATAI aims to extract feature representations from time series data and use them to reconstruct a complete time series, thus overcoming the shortcomings of existing approaches. It employs a dual-stage imputation process: the encoder utilizes temporal information and attribute correlations to predict and impute missing values, and extract feature representation of imputed time series. Subsequently, the decoder reconstructs the series from the feature representation, and the reconstructed values are used as the final imputation values. Additionally, RATAI incorporates a temporal attention mechanism, allowing the decoder to focus on highly relevant inputs during reconstruction. This model can be trained directly using data that contains missing values, avoiding the misleading effects on model training that can arise from setting initial values for missing values. Our experiments demonstrate that RATAI outperforms benchmark models in multivariate time series imputation.
A Nash equilibria decision tree for binary classification
Authors: Suciu Mihai-Alexandru , Lung Rodica Ioana
Published: December 2024

Decision trees rank among the most popular and efficient classification methods. They are used to represent rules for recursively partitioning the data space into regions from which reliable predictions regarding classes can be made. These regions are usually delimited by axis-parallel or oblique hyperplanes. Axis-parallel hyperplanes are intuitively appealing and have been widely studied. However, there is still room for exploring different approaches. In this paper, a splitting rule that constructs axis-parallel hyperplanes by computing the Nash equilibrium of a game played at the node level is used to induct a Nash Equilibrium Decision Tree for binary classification. Numerical experiments are used to illustrate the behavior of the proposed method.
Varieties of Work with Preferred Futures in Solution-Focused Brief Therapy
Authors: Zatloukal Leoš
Published: December 2024

The term “preferred future” refers to the outcomes a client hopes to achieve through psychotherapy. Collaborative goal setting is a crucial component of many psychotherapy approaches. This article describes the six ways to focus on a preferred future in solution-focused brief therapy: (1) common project, (2) Vision of a preferred future, (3) goal(s), (4) skill(s), (5) values, and (6) small signs of progress. All variants are briefly expounded upon with accompanied case examples. The second part of the article focuses on the transitions from problem descriptions to various forms of work related to a preferred future, and on the transitions among different methods of preferred future conversations. The primary purpose of this article is to broaden therapists’ strategies when working with preferred futures, enhancing their adaptability in managing these types of conversations with their clients.
Assessing the impact of federalism on constitutional compliance
Authors: Kantorowicz Jaroslaw , Voigt Stefan
Published: December 2024

Federalism is a constitutionalized version of multi-tier governance. Proponents of veto-player theory argue that a high number of veto players leads to a high degree of policy stability. Compared to states with a unitary structure, federal countries, in which at least one sub-central level of government is constitutionally recognized and endowed with some degree of exclusive competences, dispose of a higher number of veto players, who can voice and challenge constitutional non-compliance by the central government. In this paper, we therefore ask whether federally constituted states also enjoy a higher degree of constitutional compliance, i.e. have governments that respect and enforce the promises made in their country’s constitution. At the same time, with a higher number of governments under federalism, there are more chances that some of them will not comply with constitutional constraints leading to greater non-compliance. To test these hypotheses, we employ data from up to 163 countries and apply standard panel data estimation techniques. Our results indicate that federalism is neither positively nor negatively correlated with constitutional compliance of the respective countries.
Regression analysis with independent variables in shares: a guide and an empirical example
Authors: Morawetz Ulrich B. , Klaiber H. Allen
Published: December 2024

The use of shares or percentages as independent variables in regressions is a popular modeling technique for aggregated data but can be particularly challenging when it comes to model specification and interpretation. Reviewing theory and providing an empirical application to building height in Vienna, Austria, we discuss aggregation bias and show how to appropriately identify and interpret share coefficients. We further distinguish interpretation for constant and non-constant share sums and extend our analysis to the case of two stage least squares. Finally, we suggest a test for the conditional correlation of an instrument with shares which is needed for exogeneity if only one instrument is available.
GIS-based analysis of anti-Asian hate speech and its socioeconomic and ideological drivers in the United States during the early COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Wu Chia-Yu , Chang Shao-Yun , Liu Li-Yin , Hohl Alexander
Published: December 2024

Anti-Asian racism and xenophobia surged on social media during the COVID-19 pandemic, fueling discrimination and violence against Asians and Asian Americans in the United States. This study aims to understand the spatial patterns of Anti-Asian hate speech (AAHS) and identify the socioeconomic and ideological factors that may influence its emergence. Using Geographic Information System (GIS) tools, including hotspot analysis, Ordinary Least Squares (OLS), and Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR), we analyzed several socioeconomic and ideological factors to understand their impact on the spatial variability of AAHS risk levels. Our models show AAHS hotspots tend to cluster in suburban areas near the metropolitan and micropolitan regions. Our OLS model identifies three significant socioeconomic factors: the poverty level is negatively correlated with the AAHS risk level, but both high education level and diversity index demonstrate positive correlations with the AAHS risk level. The GWR model further explored local spatial patterns of how these factors influence AAHS levels. We suggest that anti-Asian sentiments may be driven by dominant groups fearing the loss of their identity and socioeconomic security. Additionally, in diverse areas, pandemic-related crises can exacerbate existing intergroup tensions, with structural inequalities further deepening divisions. Policymakers can leverage these findings to develop strategies aimed at mitigating the factors contributing to hate speech and effectively combating it. Future studies can expand on our findings to develop more robust theoretical frameworks for understanding these patterns.
Online force prediction by neural networks in single point incremental hole flanging operations
Authors: Besong Lemopi Isidore , Buhl Johannes , Bambach Markus
Published: December 2024

Incremental hole flanging by industrial robots requires an accurate estimation of process forces to ensure the safe use of robots and develop tool path strategies that enable defect-free forming. Existing analytical models for force prediction in single-point incremental forming (SPIF) usually predict only the maximum process force, which is insufficient for real-time force prediction necessary for process control. This research investigates the application of neural network models for real-time prediction of the process forces in hole flanging by incremental forming. Experiments and finite element simulations (synthetic data) serve as training data to compare the performance of four time series machine learning (ML) algorithms: a nonlinear autoregressive model with exogenous inputs (NARX), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a long short-term memory (LSTM), and a hybrid CNN-LSTM neural network in predicting real-time forces. The experimental forces predicted by the NARX had a regression ($$\:{R}^{2}$$) of 0.998, while the other ML algorithms achieved $$\:{R}^{2}$$ greater than 0.75, indicating strong correlations between the predicted and measured data. All the ML algorithms trained on synthetic data achieved $$\:{R}^{2}$$ greater than 0.98. Surrogate models built by the integration of synthetic to experiment data led to a decline in the performance of the ML models compared to models composed of only experimental data. The NARX model exhibits superior performance in the investigated scenarios and can be applied to predict online process forces while minimizing experimental effort through the utilization of synthetic data.
Endometriosis in later life: an intersectional analysis from the perspective of epistemic injustice
Authors: Langmann Elisabeth , Kainradl Anna-Christina , Weßel Merle , Rokvity Alekszandra
Published: December 2024

Endometriosis, a chronic inflammatory condition affecting 10% of biological women, is widely understudied and particularly overlooked in later life. Discussions surrounding endometriosis predominantly centre on medical gender bias during reproductive years, with limited attention to intersecting factors of discrimination and the impact of ageism on affected individuals. As endometriosis is framed as a disease of reproductive age, research is lacking when it comes to the effects of the illness on the older population. Symptoms in (post)menopausal individuals are frequently misattributed to other ailments due to ageist and sexist preconceptions, leading to prolonged diagnoses and mistreatment. This is a social justice issue in which age and sex contribute to the discrimination of a certain population – namely older biological women living with endometriosis. In this paper, we approach this issue from the perspective of epistemic justice. The experiences of the affected persons are shaped by a lack of knowledge about endometriosis among both the healthcare personal and the affected person, as well as a lack of acknowledgement and consideration of the persons experiences. Using the lens of epistemic justice, we develop an analytical model to understand the intersection of age and gender in the experiences of endometriosis patients. This article contributes to ongoing debates on epistemic injustice and intersectionality within medicine and healthcare, offering an analytical model that connects the critical approaches of epistemic injustice and intersectionality to address health injustice. Ultimately, this work advocates for a comprehensive, lifespan approach to endometriosis that acknowledges and addresses intersecting forms of discrimination.
The value of equal access to mandatory disclosure: evidence from the Great Postal Strike of 1970
Authors: Li Bin , Venkatachalam Mohan
Published: December 2024

How important is equal access to mandatory disclosures? We exploit the postal strike of 1970 that caused a delay in the delivery of annual reports via mail. This strike created unequal access because certain investors (e.g., institutions) had both the incentives and ability to obtain the annual reports by other means. Theory predicts that, when differential access exists, adverse selection problems intensify, causing a decline in stock trading. Our findings support this prediction: stock trading volume decreased by approximately 28% for firms unable to deliver the annual reports to shareholders during the strike, and this trading decline gradually dissipated afterward. Further tests confirm adverse selection as the primary mechanism. Overall, our paper underscores the importance of equal access to annual reports—a key mandated disclosure—and demonstrates the value of these reports to shareholders, as evidenced by their reluctance to trade absent this information.
Argumentation and Discourse of Polish Constitutional Tribunal Case-Law on Reprivatisation of Warsaw Real-Estate
Authors: Wycichowski-Kuchta Gniewomir
Published: December 2024

The paper examines the argumentation strategies of the Constitutional Tribunal’s case law on the reprivatisation of Warsaw real estate, a significant social issue in modern Poland. Following the post-war expropriation by the communist regime, legal successors of dispossessed individuals (both heirs and buyers of the claims to particular land) initiated widespread litigations to reclaim property and obtain compensation. This process led to the forceful eviction of thousands of tenants and the relocation of public institutions. This complex legal landscape lacks a comprehensive regulation for property restitution, resulting in reprivatisation cases being handled solely as court disputes without central legislation, leading to a decentralised system of reprivatisation. The Polish Constitutional Tribunal, with its unique position within the legal system, has played a crucial role in shaping the legal framework and influencing the outcomes of reprivatisation cases. The study employs an analysis of all Constitutional Tribunal judgments related to the reprivatisation of Warsaw’s real estate, highlighting the evolution of the discourse of the Constitutional Tribunal in this regard. It consists of two parts: mixed method (quantitative and qualitative) was utilised to assess how Constitutional Tribunal judges justified their decisions (what types of argument they used), and the discourse analysis method was used to analyse how they approached reprivatisation in the real-world context. This study gives insight into the arguments and reasoning that the judges used and how their framing of the legal discourse changed over 30 years.
Theories without models: uncontrolled idealizations in particle physics
Authors: Antoniou Antonis , Thébault Karim P. Y.
Published: December 2024

The perturbative treatment of realistic quantum field theories, such as quantum electrodynamics, requires the use of mathematical idealizations in the approximation series for scattering amplitudes. Such mathematical idealizations are necessary to derive empirically relevant models from the theory. Mathematical idealizations can be either controlled or uncontrolled, depending on whether current scientific knowledge can explain whether the effects of the idealization are negligible or not. Drawing upon negative mathematical results in asymptotic analysis (failure of Borel summability) and renormalization group theory (failure of asymptotic safety), we argue that the mathematical idealizations applied in perturbative quantum electrodynamics should be understood as uncontrolled. This, in turn, leads to the problematic conclusion that such theories do not have theoretical models in the natural understanding of this term. The existence of unquestionable empirically successful theories without theoretical models has significant implications both for our understanding of the theory-model relationship in physics and the concept of empirical adequacy.
Intermediated Co-production of Emergency Response: How Non-profit Organizations Build Trust in Citizens
Authors: Krogh Andreas Hagedorn , Lo Christian
Published: December 2024

For public organizations to harvest the benefits of co-producing emergency response, incident commanders must trust citizens to carry out hazardous tasks under immense pressure. This article examines how non-profit organizations (NPOs) serve as trust-supporting infrastructures that facilitate the co-production of emergency response operations. Reporting on a qualitative study of emergency management co-production in Denmark and Norway, it shows how NPOs provide temporary structures, procedures, and practices for registering, leading and commanding engaged citizens that enhance trust and thus sustain co-production of emergency response. Comparing intermediated co-production to organized volunteerism, however, the study also shows how intermediated co-production suffers from inherent trust limitations. Eliciting the role of NPOs as trust-building intermediaries, the study contributes with new knowledge for scholars, practitioners and policymakers involved in issues of co-production within and beyond the field of emergency management.