bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Spectrum‐Tailored Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal Film for Energy‐Saving Smart Windows
Authors: Qin Jing , Yuan Baohua , Yang Yihai , Zhang Zuowei , Jing Fuman , Zou Cheng , Gao Yanzi , Yu Meina , Yang Huai
Published: December 2024

The polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) holds potential application in smart windows, owing to its feasibility in regulating the transmittance of specific wavelength bands to improve energy utilization. Herein, a composite PDLC smart window is designed, which showcases high emissivity of 93.79% in the mid‐infrared region and features the regulation of ultraviolet (UV), visible, and near‐infrared (NIR) light. Titanate nanomaterials with diverse morphologies are synthesized and doped to endow the PDLC film with perfect UV shielding property and excellent electro‐optical (E‐O) performance. Subsequently, the E‐O performance is further improved by modifying the structure of acrylate monomers, with the maximum transmittance exceeding 80%. Furthermore, the LaB6 layer is incorporated to effectively shield NIR light. Due to the synergistic effect of sunlight modulation and passive radiative cooling, the composite PDLC smart window can effectively lower the indoor temperature compared with traditional PDLC films. Eventually, the fabricated LaB6/PVA/PDLC smart window displays high contrast (210.65), a low threshold voltage (6.68 V), and remarkable passive radiative cooling performance (cooling power of 131.24 m2 K−1). Overall, the composite presents switchable transmittance in visible region, excellent UV‐blocking (>99%), and high NIR shielding capacities, thereby broadening its potential application in the field of smart windows.
Enhanced Performance of Sn‐Based Perovskite Photodetectors Through Double‐Sided Passivation for Near‐Infrared Applications
Authors: Lai Yu Hsuan , Li Chien Cheng , Huang Yu Chuan , Yu Huang Tzu , Gao Xin Kai , Yang Chung Chi , Shan Tan Chih
Published: December 2024

The development of high‐performance Sn‐based perovskite photodetectors is presented with double‐sided passivation using large alkylammonium interlayers of PEAI and BDAI₂. This dual passivation strategy, applied to the top and bottom of FASnI₃ films, effectively improves film quality by reducing defect density, enhancing carrier mobility, and minimizing non‐radiative energy losses at the interfaces. At 720 nm, the photodetectors demonstrate a responsivity of 0.37 A W−1, a detectivity of 6.12 × 10¹3 Jones, and an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 65.60%, with a rapid response time of 9 µs. Additionally, at 850 nm, the detectivity reaches as high as 3.27 × 10¹3 Jones. Furthermore, the device demonstrated a low 1/f noise of 1.21 × 10⁻¹⁵ AHz⁻⁰.⁵ at 10 Hz. Transient photocurrent (TPC) and transient photovoltage (TPV) measurements revealed a significant increase in charge recombination lifetime (τe) and improved charge transfer efficiency. These results showcase the potential of Sn perovskite photodetectors for near‐infrared applications, including autonomous vehicles, biometric recognition, and biomedical treatments.
Construction of 1D Molecular Conductive Wires Through a Polarized Gene Weaving Strategy for Efficient Electromagnetic Wave Absorption
Authors: Chen Congjie , Shan Zhen , Li Bocong , Wang Jinjian , Liu Tongtong , Li Shu‐Fan , Yang Hongwei , Su Jian , Zhang Gen
Published: December 2024

The growing threat of electromagnetic pollution has become a pressing safety concern. Metal‐organic framework (MOF) derivatives are considered ideal candidates for mitigating electromagnetic radiation. However, due to the limitations imposed by complex post‐processing and disruption of pristine crystal structures, the mechanisms of electromagnetic wave absorption remain unclear, let alone achieving atomic‐level regulation in MOF derivatives. Moreover, research on MOF‐based electromagnetic wave absorbers (EMWA) has predominantly focused on 2D and 3D structures, leaving 1D MOFs largely unexplored. To address these challenges, a bottom‐up polarization gene weaving strategy is proposed to integrate polarizable conjugated groups, thieno(3,2‐b)thiophene (TBTT), into two types of conductive MOFs by fine‐tuning self‐assembly conditions. As expected, both MOFs exhibited strong natural polarization effects. Among them, the 1D linear coordination mode of CuTBTT‐1D demonstrated enhanced charge carrier mobility and geometric effects compared to the 2D structure, CuTBTT‐2D. The synthesized 1D molecular polarization wire, with a thickness of 2.2 mm, achieved ultra‐high reflection loss (−77 dB) and super‐wide absorption bandwidth (6.52 GHz). Its performance surpasses that of all known MOF‐based EMWAs. This study provides a valuable strategy for the rational design of next‐generation 1D MOF EMWA with atomic precision.
UV Irradiation as a Versatile Low‐Temperature Strategy for Fabricating Templated Mesoporous Titania Films
Authors: Pan Guangjiu , Yin Shanshan , Huber Linus F. , Li Zerui , Tian Ting , Spanier Lukas V. , Zhong Huaying , Guan Tianfu , Ehgartner Caroline R. , Hüsing Nicola , Schwartzkopf Matthias , Roth Stephan V. , Müller‐Buschbaum Peter
Published: December 2024

Mesoporous titania thin films offer promising applications in sensors, batteries, and solar cells. The traditional soft templating methods rely on high‐temperature calcination, which is energy‐intensive, incompatible with thermosensitive flexible substrates, and destructive for titania structures. This work demonstrates UV irradiation as a versatile low‐temperature and energy‐saving alternative for mesoporous crystalline titania fabrication. Grazing incidence wide‐angle X‐ray scattering analysis reveals a three‐stage crystallization process with increasing UV irradiation time supported by photoluminescence data. UV‐irradiation‐derived samples exhibit crystallinity and crystal size comparable to that of calcination. Integration with block copolymer templated sol–gel synthesis enables the creation of various morphologies, including cylindrical, ordered spherical, and hybrid structures. Characterizations via scanning electron microscopy and grazing incidence small‐angle X‐ray scattering confirm the homogeneity of morphology in the resulting films. The resulting films maintain similar optical properties despite morphological differences, as demonstrated by photoluminescence and UV–vis measurements. The versatility of UV irradiation extends to different titanium precursors, underscoring it as a flexible and efficient method for mesoporous titania thin film fabrication at low temperatures.
Structural Stabilization of 4.6 V LiCoO2 Through Tri‐Site Co‐Doping with Al‐Mg‐F
Authors: Park Sangbin , Seok Jangwhan , Lee Wontae , Lee Seongeun , Lee Sungbum , Moon Hyungjoon , Chung Hyun Jei , Kim Nam‐In , Ryou Jae‐Hyun , Yoon Won‐Sub
Published: December 2024

Uplifting the charging voltage of LiCoO2 is crucial for surpassing current energy density thresholds in Li‐ion batteries. However, the structural and chemical instability of LiCoO2 in the deeply delithiated state is a major obstacle to the practical implementation of high‐voltage LiCoO2. This study proposes a multi‐element co‐doped LiCoO2 that exhibits enhanced electrochemical performances at 4.6 V (vs Li/Li+). Al, Mg, and F are doped at three distinct lattice sites, and the contributions of each dopant are investigated using advanced synchrotron X‐ray analyses and electron microscopies. Al and Mg delay the detrimental transition to the H1‐3 phase and facilitate a smoother phase transition, thereby preserving particle robustness. The electronegative anion dopant F mitigates oxygen oxidation and ensures a wider range of transition metal redox reactions. These enhancements enable the particles to withstand numerous cycles without severe cracking or surface degradation, thereby significantly improving cyclability. Consequently, the tri‐site doping strategy effectively minimizes capacity sacrifice and bolsters battery performance, with every dopant functioning synergistically.
Burnout and mental health among veterinarians: The role of self‐compassion and associated risk factors
Authors: Hernández‐Esteve Indira , Zumbado Manuel , Henríquez‐Hernández Luis Alberto
Published: December 2024

Background

Veterinarians represent a population at risk for burnout. The influence of self‐compassion on the development and consequences of burnout remains poorly understood.

Methods

A validated 30‐item survey was disseminated to registered members of the College of Veterinarians of Las Palmas (Spain) via Google Survey between October and December 2023 to assess levels of burnout (Maslach Burnout Inventory—general survey) and self‐compassion (self‐compassion scale) and explore the prevalence of anxiety, depression and benzodiazepine use.

Results

A total of 141 responses were received. Respondents exhibited high levels of exhaustion and cynicism. Older veterinarians exhibited lower cynicism, while those with 1‒10 years of experience reported higher exhaustion. Veterinarians with more than 10 years in their current role demonstrated increased efficacy. Females showed a lower likelihood of self‐compassion. Exhaustion and cynicism were negatively correlated with self‐compassion. A total of 19.8% of the respondents reported being diagnosed with anxiety/depression, and 19.1% took benzodiazepines, half of them without a prescription.

Limitations

This cross‐sectional study provides a snapshot of the situation at a single point in time and may be susceptible to response bias, such as the healthy worker effect.

Conclusion

These findings underscore the urgent need for interventions to address the complex interplay of burnout, self‐compassion, mental health and demographic factors within the veterinary profession.
Influence of Host and Landscape‐Associated Factors in the Infection and Transmission of Pathogens: The Case of Directly Transmitted Virus in Mammals
Authors: Villalobos‐Segura María del Carmen , Rico‐Chávez Oscar , Suzán Gerardo , Chaves Andrea
Published: December 2024

Background

Among pathogens associated with mammals, numerous viruses with a direct transmission route impact human, domestic and wild species health. Host and landscape factors affect viral infection and transmission dynamics of these viruses, along with barriers to host dispersal and gene exchange. However, studies show biases toward certain locations, hosts and detected pathogens, with regional variations in similar host–virus associations.

Methods

Using a systematic review, in two electronic repositories for articles published until December 2022, we analysed the available information on host‐ and landscape‐associated factors influencing the infection and transmission of directly transmitted viruses in mammals.

Results

In the analysis, about 50% of papers examined either host traits, landscape composition or configuration measures, while approximately 24% combined host and landscape‐associated factors. Additionally, approximately 17% of the articles included climatic data and 30% integrated factors related to anthropogenic impact, as these variables have a role in host density, distribution and virus persistence. The most significant and frequent host traits used as predictor variables were sex, age, body weight, host density and species identity. Land cover was the most evaluated landscape attribute, while some explored configuration variables like edge density and fragmentation indexes. Finally, temperature, precipitation and features such as human population density and human footprint index were also typically measured and found impactful.

Conclusion

Given the many contributions host‐ and landscape‐related factors have in pathogen dynamics, this systematic study contributes to a better knowledge of host–virus dynamics and the identification of variables and gaps that can be used for disease prevention.
Monitoring active osprey nests with drones is more time efficient and less disturbing than conventional methods
Authors: Murphy Natasha K. , Elmore Jared A. , Boudreau Melanie R. , Dorr Brian S. , Rush Scott A.
Published: December 2024

Drones are used to monitor bird nesting sites at less accessible locations, such as on cliffs, human infrastructure, or within the tree canopy. While there are a growing number of studies documenting avian behavioral responses to various drones, there is a continued need to monitor taxa‐specific responses to different drone models. We explored both the time efficiency and impact of different nest survey methods (drones, nest climbing, and observations from a bucket truck) and different drone model sizes (small, medium, large) on the nest defense behavior of breeding ospreys. We conducted 166 surveys (126 drone, 25 climbing, 15 bucket truck) at 85 active nests across three nesting stages. We found variation in four of six pre‐defined behavioral categories, namely for calling, flying, at nest, and perching behaviors with survey method, sex, and nest stage. Females were more responsive to all survey methods compared to males and engaged in nest‐protection behaviors most frequently during incubation. Ospreys spent greater time at their nests during drone surveys compared to other methods. Agitated calling and flying were also less frequent during drone surveys. We recorded defensive behaviors across all survey types and there were no strikes on drones or researchers. Drone size appeared to influence behavior, with female ospreys spending, on average, 18% of survey time calling when surveyed with medium‐sized drone compared to smaller (8%) or larger (6%) models. Surveys with drones took less time to complete compared to the other methods tested. Based on our findings, drones appear to be the best choice for monitoring osprey nests as they are adaptable, time efficient, and result in less apparent disturbance to nesting ospreys than other methods tested. Our research aids in setting best practices, optimizing drone size, and developing evidence‐driven approaches for monitoring avian nests across a variety of landscapes and contexts.
The Lived Experience of Coercion
Authors: Munt Chris , Littlechild Brian
Published: December 2024

This chapter has been jointly planned and produced by a mental health services Expert by Lived Experience and an academic. Crucially, it has been co-authored with a cohort of people with Lived Experience, coming together in a collective effort to highlight how violence towards patients, and deliberate and premeditated coercion, though rare, does exist in the UK Mental Health system, and happens more frequently than many agencies and professionals would care to acknowledge. The fact that these incidents do not routinely result in criminal or disciplinary proceedings against the alleged perpetrators, perhaps says more about ill-informed and possibly prejudiced attitudes to mental health patients, and a lack of understanding in society about mental illness. The common misconception of people with a mental illness being chaotic and unreliable may lead some to conclude that when an incident is reported, the victim’s account is considered unsound. The shared experience gleaned from consultation with our co-authors is that the odds are stacked so heavily against the victim, that violence is endured, left unchecked, and is often repeated.

Our lived experience co-author colleagues have been at pains to state and restate that the vast majority of mental health practitioners do not present a direct threat towards their patients. However, as many of our lived experience colleagues testified in what they wished to have represented in this chapter, at least some of the incidents they have experienced were witnessed by the perpetrator’s colleagues although the perpetrator(s) encountered little or no challenge, formally or informally.

Illustrative quotes from our lived experience colleagues are presented throughout this chapter and tell their own story.
Ward Culture and Atmosphere
Authors: Hallett Nutmeg , Duxbury Joy A. , Björkdahl Anna , Johnson Sheena
Published: December 2024

The culture and atmosphere of wards within mental health inpatient settings both shape and are shaped by the quality of care provided. This chapter defines ward culture and atmosphere and examines the ways in which the physical environment, staff behaviour and organisational policies interact to influence patient outcomes and staff well-being. These factors play a critical role in fostering a therapeutic and compassionate care setting. The chapter further discusses strategies for enhancing care quality and staff experiences, highlighting the importance of collaboration, respect and understanding to cultivate a positive ward culture.
Preventing and Managing Challenging Behaviour: Staff Training
Authors: Lickiewicz Jakub , Hallett Nutmeg , Pekara Jaroslav , Oud Nico
Published: December 2024

Violence is a serious issue in mental health care, where the safety of both patients and staff needs to be protected. Organisations should take care to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of not only their staff but also of the patients in their care. The chapter provides the issues related to training and training of trainers in the recognition, prevention, post-incident care, and therapeutic management of aggressive, violent behaviour, and sexual harassment in healthcare settings. The chapter also contains recommendations for training evaluation and training effectiveness.

The process of training staff must be complex, and it is necessary to check if the training is ethically and legally accurate and appropriate. The training analysis is a prerequisite before (an external) training (provider) can and may start. In this process, the gap between the actual and desired knowledge, skills, and attitudes of the staff is identified. The last step is to assess and determine the training options and to answer whether the chosen training is fit for the intended purpose.
Violence Risk Assessment
Authors: Mistler Lisa A. , Almvik Roger , Fluttert Frans , Lockertsen Øyvind , Hassiotis Angela , Manton Matthew , Pekara Jaroslav
Published: December 2024

The complex history of progression from risk prediction to risk assessment of aggression and violence directed at others by clients in mental healthcare and forensic populations is described in this chapter. We briefly summarise risk factors associated with aggression and violence and then present three common methods for risk assessment, noting their strengths and limitations. We describe the evolution of the field of risk assessment, present a particular model called the Early Recognition Model in detail, and describe risk assessment in special populations. At the end of the chapter, we briefly review the current state of research on risk assessment and make recommendations for future research. As with other chapters in this book, we propose moving away from the oversimplified view that only clients are responsible for aggression and violence, proposing that staff members and the environment also contribute considerably. Finally, we recommend an organisational innovation to increase safety and security in clinical mental healthcare.
Variational Models with Eulerian–Lagrangian Formulation Allowing for Material Failure
Authors: Bresciani Marco , Friedrich Manuel , Mora-Corral Carlos
Published: December 2024

We investigate the existence of minimizers of variational models featuring Eulerian–Lagrangian formulations. We consider energy functionals depending on the deformation of a body, defined on its reference configuration, and an Eulerian map defined on the unknown deformed configuration in the actual space. Our existence theory moves beyond the purely elastic setting and accounts for material failure by addressing free-discontinuity problems where both deformations and Eulerian fields are allowed to jump. To do this, we build upon the work of Henao and Mora-Corral regarding the variational modeling of cavitation and fracture in nonlinear elasticity. Two main settings are considered by modeling deformations as Sobolev and SBV-maps, respectively. The regularity of Eulerian maps is specified in each of these two settings according to the geometric and topological properties of the deformed configuration. We present some applications to specific models of liquid crystals, phase transitions, and ferromagnetic elastomers. Effectiveness and limitations of the theory are illustrated by means of explicit examples.
Obstructions to Topological Relaxation for Generic Magnetic Fields
Authors: Enciso Alberto , Peralta-Salas Daniel
Published: December 2024

For any (analytic) axisymmetric toroidal domain

$$\Omega \subset \mathbb {R}^3$$

Ω
⊂

R

3

we prove that there is a locally generic set of divergence-free vector fields that are not topologically equivalent to any magnetohydrostatic (MHS) state in

$$\Omega $$

Ω

. Each vector field in this set is Morse–Smale on the boundary, does not admit a nonconstant first integral, and exhibits fast growth of periodic orbits; in particular this set is residual in the Newhouse domain. The key dynamical idea behind this result is that a vector field with a dense set of nondegenerate periodic orbits cannot be topologically equivalent to a generic MHS state. On the analytic side, this geometric obstruction is implemented by means of a novel rigidity theorem for the relaxation of generic magnetic fields with a suitably complex orbit structure.
Can structured integration of BI-RADS criteria by a clinical decision rule reduce the number of unnecessary biopsies in BI-RADS 4 lesions? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Vatteroni Giulia , Dietzel Matthias , Baltzer Pascal A. T.
Published: December 2024

Aim

This systematic review and meta-analysis investigate the added value of structured integration of Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) criteria using the Kaiser score (KS) to avoid unnecessary biopsies in BI-RADS 4 lesions.

Material and methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted using predefined criteria. Eligible articles, published in English until May 2024, dealt with KS in the context of BI-RADS 4 MRI. Two reviewers extracted study characteristics, including true positives (TP), false positives (FP), true negatives (TN), and false negatives (FN). Sensitivity, specificity, negative likelihood ratio, and positive likelihood ratio were calculated using bivariate random effects. Fagan nomograms identified the maximum pre-test probability at which post-test probabilities of a negative MRI aligned with the 2% malignancy rate benchmark for downgrading BI-RADS 4 to BI-RADS 3. I² statistics and meta-regression explored sources of heterogeneity. p-values < 0.05 were considered significant.

Results

Seven studies with 1877 lesions (833 malignant, 1044 benign) were included. The average breast cancer prevalence was 47.3%. Pooled sensitivity was 94.3% (95%-CI 88.9%–97.1%), and pooled specificity was 68.1% (95%-CI 56.6%–77.7%) using a random effects model. Overall, 52/833 cases were FNs (6.2%). Fagan nomograms showed that KS could rule out breast cancer in BI-RADS 4 lesions at a pre-test probability of 20.3% for all lesions, 25.4% for masses, and 15.2% for non-mass lesions.

Conclusions

In MRI-assessed BI-RADS 4 lesions, applying structured BI-RADS criteria with the KS reduces unnecessary biopsies by 70% with a 6.2% FN rate. Breast cancer can be ruled out up to pre-test probabilities of 20.3%.

Key Points

Question

What, if any, value is added by structured integration of BI-RADS criteria using the Kaiser Score (KS) to avoid unnecessary biopsies in BI-RADS 4 lesions?

Findings

The structured integration of BI-RADS criteria using the Kaiser Score (KS) reduces unnecessary biopsies in BI-RADS 4 lesions by 70%.

Clinical relevance

The structured approach offered by the Kaiser Score (KS) avoids unnecessary recalls, potentially reducing patient anxiety, lessening the burden on medical personnel, and the need for further imaging and biopsies due to more objective and thus efficient clinical decision-making in evaluating BI-RADS 4 lesions.
Occurrence of ‘soft flesh’ condition induced by Kudoa thyrsites parasite in the Iberian European sardine stock
Authors: Giulietti Lucilla , Hernandez-Milian Gema , Cipriani Paolo , Bao Miguel , Tung Hui-Shan , Hernández Carmen , Levsen Arne
Published: December 2024

European sardine Sardina pilchardus is a commercially valuable coastal pelagic fish species. Spain is one of the largest sardine suppliers in Europe and the Iberian stock is of particular significance. Kudoa parasites are known to infect sardines causing the so-called ‘soft flesh’ condition; however, data on the occurrence of ‘soft flesh’ in this sardine stock are limited. This study investigates the occurrence of Kudoa-induced ‘soft flesh’ in the Iberian sardine stock caught in 2023 off the northern Spanish Atlantic coast (Division 8.c). Five hundred specimens were examined for ‘soft flesh’ by manual texture testing and visual inspection 48 h post-catch using standardized procedures. ‘Soft flesh’ was detected in 5.4% (27/500) of the sardines. Microscopic examination of muscle samples revealed the presence of Kudoa thyrsites–like myxospores in all ‘soft flesh’–affected fish, which based on SSU rDNA gene sequence analysis was identified as K. thyrsites. The unsightly appearance of infected fillets represents a substantial food quality issue for the Iberian sardine stock that could reduce marketability and consumer confidence in both local and international markets. This is particularly relevant since larger Iberian sardines, which are highly appreciated by consumers, appear to be the most affected.
Investigations into the residual multipath errors of choke-ring geodetic antennas on GNSS carrier-phase measurements
Authors: Lau Lawrence
Published: December 2024

For about three decades, the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) has been used for high-precision positioning in scientific and engineering applications, such as deformation monitoring for seismicity and volcano eruption. Such high-precision positioning applications require millimeter-level positioning accuracy. There are many man-made and natural reflective surfaces near the GNSS receiving antennas. GNSS signals can be reflected and then arrive at the GNSS antenna. The multipath effect occurs when the direct signal is mixed with the reflected signal at the GNSS receiver. Choke-ring antennas are designed to mitigate the multipath effect of reflected signals from below the horizontal plane of the GNSS receiving antenna. Moreover, GNSS receiving antennas at network/permanent stations are usually installed on tall pillars or monuments to prevent multipath from “ground” reflected signals. However, part of the reflected signals can still arrive at the GNSS antenna center and cause multipath errors in GNSS measurements. How much can the multipath effect be on the real-time GNSS-measured displacements in studies on seismicity and volcano eruption? This work investigates the below-the-horizon multipath effect of choke-ring antennas on GNSS carrier-phase measurements. Here we show the differenced carrier-phase multipath errors of two commonly used GNSS antennas at the International GNSS Service (IGS) tracking stations can reach 8 mm, the maximum, with the mean and SD in a few millimeters at the 95% confidence level. The findings of this work should be applicable to other choke-ring antennas with similar architecture.
A counterexample and a corrective to the vector extension of the Bellman equations of a Markov decision process
Authors: Mifrani Anas
Published: December 2024

Under the expected total reward criterion, the optimal value of a finite-horizon Markov decision process can be determined by solving the Bellman equations. The equations were extended by White to processes with vector rewards. Using a counterexample, we show that the assumptions underlying this extension fail to guarantee its validity. Analysis of the counterexample enables us to articulate a sufficient condition for White’s functional equations to be valid. The condition is shown to be true when the policy space has been refined to include a special class of non-Markovian policies, when the dynamics of the model are deterministic, and when the decision making horizon does not exceed two time steps. The paper demonstrates that in general, the solutions to White’s equations are sets of Pareto efficient policy returns over the refined policy space. Our results are illustrated with an example.
Academic ICTs training in South Africa, Cameroon, and Nigeria. Strategies for ICT training course design
Authors: Cappelli Maria Assunta , Akkari Abdeljalil
Published: December 2024

This study examines the effectiveness of ICT training programmes for academics at selected universities in Africa, specifically in Cameroon, Nigeria, and South Africa. Using a qualitative approach, we conducted semi-structured interviews with five ICT trainers and three trainees to better understand their experiences. The findings highlight both the challenges and the strengths that could be used to improve ICT training and make it more effective and relevant to the participants. Four key themes emerge from our analysis: course objectives and content, teaching strategies, implementation challenges, and expectations/impact of the courses. The objectives of the courses vary considerably—some focus on the practical application of ICT, while others aim to improve the participants’ understanding of ICT systems. Teaching methods also differ, ranging from more traditional teaching approaches to collaborative, project-oriented methods. However, we identify significant challenges, particularly poor internet connectivity and a lack of sufficient technological resources, which affect the learning process. In addition, there is often a divergence between trainer expectations and trainee perceptions of the impact of these courses on their professional development. This study aims to contribute to the definition of strategies to improve the effectiveness of ICT training, in the African context, including Cameroon, Nigeria and South Africa.
Sociodemographics and Digital Health Literacy in Using Wearables for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention: Cross-Sectional Nationwide Survey in Germany
Authors: Pan Chen-Chia , De Santis Karina Karolina , Muellmann Saskia , Hoffmann Stephanie , Spallek Jacob , Barnils Nuria Pedros , Ahrens Wolfgang , Zeeb Hajo , Schüz Benjamin
Published: December 2024

Background

Wearable technologies have the potential to support health promotion and disease prevention. However, it remains unclear how the role of social determinants of health (SDoH) and digital determinants of health (DDoH) plays in this context.

Objective

This study investigates differences in sociodemographic factors and digital health literacy between wearable users and non-users, whether the association with wearable use varies across age groups and its potential mediator.

Methods

A cross-sectional nationwide telephone survey was conducted in November 2022 in a panel of adult internet users in Germany. Assessments included self-reported wearable use, sociodemographic factors (sex, age, education, household size and income, and residence region), and digital health literacy (measured with the eHealth Literacy Scale, eHEALS). Associations between wearable use, sociodemographic factors and digital health literacy were analyzed using binomial logistic regression models in the total sample and with age group stratification, with a supplementary mediation analysis examining digital health literacy as a mediator in the relationship between age and wearable use.

Results

Overall, 24% (223/932) of participants (52% male, mean age 55.6 years) reported using wearables for health. Wearable use was lower among participants aged 65 and above, with lower educational attainment, living in 1–2 person households, with below-average household income, and residing in smaller cities or former East Germany. Wearable use prevalence is substantially lower in older age groups (18–40: 36%; 41–64: 26%; 65+:14%). Wearable users reported higher levels of digital health literacy (mean: 30.7, SD = 5) than non-users (mean: 28.3, SD = 6). Stratified analyses indicate that the association between digital health literacy and wearable use varies by age group, with significant positive association observed in older age groups (OR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.94 to 1.07 in age group 18–40; OR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.03 to 1.12 in age group 41–64; OR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.04 to 1.19 in age group 65+). Mediation analysis indicated that digital health literacy partially mediates the relationship between age and wearable use (indirect effect: coefficient = -0.0156, 95% CI: -0.0244 to -0.00791, p <.001).

Conclusions

This study indicates sociodemographic disparities in wearable use among the German population and differences in digital health literacy between wearable users and non-users. A generational divide in wearable use was identified, with older adults being less likely to embrace this technology. This was especially true for older adults with lower digital health literacy. Future public health initiatives employing health technologies should take SDoH and DDoH into consideration to ensure effective and equitable impacts.
Incorporating Spatial Information for Regionalization of Environmental Parameters in Machine Learning Models
Authors: Ohmer Marc , Doll Fabienne , Liesch Tanja
Published: December 2024

Machine learning models have gained popularity for environmental variable predictions due to their capacity to capture complex relationships and automate learning. However, incorporating spatial information as covariates into these models remains a challenge, as they may struggle to recognize spatial structures or autocorrelation without explicit training. In this study, we address this challenge by integrating spatial information into a random forest model, enhancing nitrate concentration predictions in groundwater. Using a dataset from 1,550 well locations in Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany, spanning 2016 through 2019, we consider various environmental covariates including climate data, topography, land cover, soil properties, and hydrology. To incorporate spatial information, we employ eight techniques leveraging spatial coordinates (geographic coordinates, polynomial geographic coordinates, oblique geographic coordinates) or distances (Wendland transformed coordinates, Euclidean distance fields, Euclidean distance matrix, principal component analysis, eigenvector spatial filtering). Results are compared with a baseline model and a univariate ordinary kriging benchmark, evaluated through leave-one-out cross validation, various error metrics, and Moran’s I of residuals. Our findings highlight that integrating spatial information significantly enhances random forest model accuracy in predicting groundwater nitrate concentrations. Distance-based methods, like the Euclidean distance matrix, outperform coordinate-based approaches, albeit with higher computational requirements. Employing a dimension-reduced matrix strikes a balance between performance and accuracy. This study advances groundwater management and demonstrates the effectiveness of machine learning models in environmental studies.
Morphology of the stem group echinoids Lepidocentrus eifelianus and Rhenechinus hopstaetteri from the Devonian of the Eifel region, Germany
Authors: Thompson Jeffrey R. , Nebelsick James H.
Published: December 2024

Relatively well-preserved echinoids from Palaeozoic strata are exceptionally rare fossils. New fossil finds can thus have an important impact on our understanding of the morphology, phylogenetic relationships and history of diversification of early sea urchins. The Devonian strata of Germany have long been known to contain echinoids, predominantly through the relatively abundant record of disarticulated plates and spines. In contrast, only select articulated or semi-articulated specimens are recorded. We herein describe new specimens from the Middle and Late Devonian belonging to two Palaeozoic echinoid taxa, Rhenechinus hopstaetteri and Lepidocentrus eifelianus. These specimens are amongst the most-complete known for these two taxa, and provide novel insight into their morphology and stratigraphic range. Additionally, the record of Rhenechinus is the youngest occurrence of an echinocystitid echinoid in the fossil record, indicating that this family ranged from the Silurian (Aeronian or Telychian) to at least the Middle Devonian (Givetian), prior to going extinct. The morphological details provided by the new specimen of L. eifelianus highlights similarities between this species and other Devonian echinoids known from elsewhere in Europe and North America, and suggest that the lepidocentrids were widely dispersed and abundant during the Devonian.
Application of Lignin as Partial Binder Replacement in Magnesium Phosphate Bonded Paper Sludge Composite Products; Board Properties and Economic Analysis
Authors: Barnard Eddie G. , Amiandamhen Stephen O. , Balboni Bruno M. , Görgens Johann F. , Tyhoda Luvuyo
Published: December 2024

The study investigated the feasibility for partial phosphate binder replacement with lignin in phosphate bonded paper sludge composites. A central composite experimental design (CCD) was used to optimise the board manufacturing process, wherein the effect of process temperature, as well as lignin content were investigated with respect to board properties based on the ASTM D1037 standard. Moduli of rupture and elasticity of up to 7.2 MPa and 2.8 GPa respectively in the boards with lignin content of 36–43 wt% and formulation temperatures of 118–133 °C were observed. The phosphate binder input, which bears a huge cost in the process was reduced by up to 49% with lignin incorporation. The effect of pine veneer lamination on the strength properties of the composite boards was investigated. Pine veneer lamination improved mechanical properties, with the moduli of rupture and elasticity increasing from 7.2 to 22.1 MPa (67% increase) and 2.8 to 3.6 GPa (22% increase) respectively. The economic viability of the boards produced was also assessed and the results showed that the required selling price for the composite boards is competitive in the local market for inexpensive construction materials, sold at wholesale prices for between R 158/m2 and R 295/m2, depending on product finishing.

Graphical Abstract
Preliminary experience in using the lateral single-incision laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal approach for inguinal hernia repair
Authors: Zhang Yizhong , Wu Weidong , Chen Junjie , Si Xianke , Li Jian , Wang Tingfeng
Published: December 2024

To evaluate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of the lateral single-incision laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal (L-SILTEP) approach in patients with inguinal hernia who had contraindications to the midline approach. This study included 58 patients who underwent L-SILTEP. Data on their baseline characteristics and perioperative details were collected. Quality of life and cosmetic satisfaction assessments were performed. Of the evaluated patients, 25.9% had a history of middle and lower abdominal surgery and 10.3% had skin diseases around the umbilicus. The mean surgical duration, blood loss volume, and incision length were 53.5 (± 22.3) min, 7.2 (± 9.7) mL, and 2.0 (± 0.13) cm, respectively. Additionally, 29.3% of patients experienced intraoperative peritoneal rupture, and one patient had epigastric vessel bleeding. The 6-, 24-, and 48-h postoperative pain scores were 3.0 (± 0.6), 1.6 (± 0.6), and 1.1 (± 0.4), respectively. Postoperative complications included seroma (n = 3), hematoma (n = 1), and scrotal edema (n = 1). The surgical incision in the L-SILTEP approach was more aesthetically pleasing than that in previous surgeries. Approximately 17.2%, 8.6%, and 10.3% of patients reported pain, mesh sensation, and movement limitation, respectively. Severe or disabling symptoms were not reported, and there were no cases of 30-day readmissions. Hernia recurrence or incisional hernia was not observed over a mean follow-up duration of 14.6 (± 6.1) months. L-SILTEP can be used for patients with contraindications to the midline approach. Furthermore, it is a safe and effective procedure.
Biome evolution in subfamily Cercidoideae (Leguminosae): a tropical arborescent clade with a relictual depauperate temperate lineage
Authors: Hagelstam-Renshaw Charlotte , Ringelberg Jens J. , Sinou Carole , Cardinal-McTeague Warren , Bruneau Anne
Published: December 2024

Some plant lineages remain within the same biome over time (biome conservatism), whereas others seem to adapt more easily to new biomes. The c. 398 species (14 genera) of subfamily Cercidoideae (Leguminosae or Fabaceae) are found in many biomes around the world, particularly in the tropical regions of South America, Asia and Africa, and display a variety of growth forms (small trees, shrubs, lianas and herbaceous perennials). Species distribution maps derived from cleaned occurrence records were compiled and compared with existing biome maps and with the literature to assign species to biomes. Rainforest (144 species), succulent (44 species), savanna (36 species), and temperate (10 species) biomes were found to be important in describing the global distribution of Cercidoideae, with many species occurring in more than one biome. Two phylogenetically isolated species-poor temperate (Cercis) and succulent (Adenolobus) biome lineages are sister to two broadly distributed species-rich tropical clades. Ancestral state reconstructions on a time-calibrated phylogeny suggest biome shifts occurred throughout the evolutionary history of the subfamily, with shifts between the succulent and rainforest biomes, from the rainforest to savanna, from the succulent to savanna biome, and one early occurring shift into (or from) the temperate biome. Of the 26 inferred shifts in biome, three are closely associated with a shift from the ancestral tree/shrub growth form to a liana or herbaceous perennial habit. Only three of the 13 inferred transcontinental dispersal events are associated with biome shifts. Overall, we find that biome shifts tend to occur within the same continent and that dispersals to new continents tend to occur within the same biome, but that nonetheless the biome-conserved and biogeographically structured Cercidoideae have been able to adapt to different environments through time.
Evaluating the quality of technology integration across seven European countries with the ICAP Technology Scale
Authors: Maričić Mirjana , Anđić Branko , Mumcu Filiz , Rokos Lukáš , Vondruška Jan , Weinhandl Robert , Lavicza Zsolt , Špernjak Andreja
Published: December 2024

Interactive, constructive, active and passive technology scale (ICAP-TS) is a relatively new developed instrument representing an essential literature need. Through this cross-cultural study, we strived to accomplish a three-fold aim. Firstly, we aspired to verify the scale's construct validity and reliability on a large sample of teachers across seven European countries. Secondly, we aimed to evaluate the quality of technology integration (TI) on this heterogeneous sample with the ICAP-TS to explore for which learning activities teachers use technologies, within which ICAP learning/engaging modes and how often. Thirdly, we strived to examine relationships between the different technology types (TT) and TI in ICAP learning modes. The research involved 2277 primary and lower secondary school teachers. Confirmatory factor analysis revealed that the internal structure of ICAP-TS corresponds well to the overall sample, but for some countries, the model fit should be further refined. Exploratory factor analysis extracted two basic components of TT—passive and active. On a general level teachers most often integrate technology into passive learning mode with the usage of passive TT, but if these results are observed within each country separately, this is not the case everywhere. Passive TT predicts TI into passive, active, and constructive modes more, while active TT predicts TI into interactive, constructive and active modes. This study has several implications. For example future research topics can include reviewing, revising, or adding new items to the ICAP-TS related to ICAP theory to improve its validity. Other recommendations are stated in the discussion.
The Evolution of Forest Restoration in Europe: A Synthesis for a Step Forward Based on National Expert Knowledge
Authors: Erdozain Maitane , Alberdi Iciar , Aszalós Réka , Bollmann Kurt , Detsis Vassilis , Diaci Jurij , Đodan Martina , Efthimiou Georgios , Gálhidy László , Haase Marie , Hoffmann Johanna , Jaymond Delphine , Johann Elisabeth , Jørgensen Henrik , Krumm Frank , Kuuluvainen Timo , Lachat Thibault , Lapin Katharina , Lindner Marcus , Madsen Palle , Nichiforel Liviu , Pach Maciej , Paillet Yoan , Palaghianu Ciprian , Palau Jordi , Pemán Jesús , Perić Sanja , Raum Susanne , Schueler Silvio , Skrzyszewski Jerzy , Svensson Johan , Teeuwen Sander , Vacchiano Giorgio , Vandekerkhove Kris , Cañellas Isabel , Menéndez-Miguélez María , Werden Leland Leland K. , Àvila Aitor , de-Miguel Sergio
Published: December 2024

Purpose of review

We are amid a historical momentum encouraging forest restoration, yet the translation of ambitious targets into reality is hindered by poor documentation and understanding of the success and failure of past restoration efforts. This review aims to evaluate the ecological, social, political and economic characteristics of forest restoration across Europe, their development over time and key lessons learned to guide future restoration initiatives. The analysis is based on the synthesis of expert assessments from 18 European countries.

Recent findings

Early restoration initiatives in central and southern Europe were largely reactive to natural disasters or timber shortages, and while effective in erosion control and timber production, their ecological benefits were often limited due to monoculture plantations and short-rotation systems. Geopolitical crises intensified timber production, with nationalized and centrally managed forests in several countries, but often at the cost of biodiversity. Since the 1990s, a shift toward multifunctionality has emerged driven by the convergence of environmental, social, political and economic events.

Forest restoration in Europe has transitioned from disaster reduction and production-driven efforts to a more multifunctional approach that promotes biodiversity. Changes have been driven by a combination of environmental (e.g., catastrophic consequences following natural disasters), political (e.g., wars, forest nationalization and management centralization), legal (e.g., strict and ambitious national and international policies), social (e.g., rural abandonment and changes in societal values) and economic (e.g., new funding mechanisms or market fluctuations) events. Despite the development, conflicting goals, insufficient funding, climate change and short-term thinking persist as key barriers.