bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Desulfurization Behavior of Magnetite Pellets Reduced by Isothermal Pure Hydrogen
Authors: Tong Shuai , Ai Liqun , Hong Lukuo , Zhou Meijie , Chen Jiansong
Published: October 2024

The desulfurization behavior of magnetite pellets reduced by pure hydrogen at isothermal temperature is studied, the mechanism of self‐oxidation desulfurization is put forward, and the thermodynamic theoretical calculation and experimental verification of this mechanism are carried out. The feasibility of the reaction between iron sulfide and Fe3O4 is analyzed by HSC Chemistry 6.0 software. Additionally, a thermal gravimetric analyzer is used to further study the thermal behavior of pellet material under Ar atmosphere from 400 to 1400 K. The results show that the removal of sulfur in the isothermal reduction process of pure hydrogen does not depend on hydrogen phase diffusion and reduction temperature. During the heating process, self‐oxidation desulfurization occurs in the system, and the self‐desulfurization reaction is more inclined to Fe3O4 + FexSy → FeS + SO2. Under the experimental conditions, the temperature range of self‐oxidation desulfurization under conventional thermal field and microwave field is 700–1100 and 370–1140 K, respectively, and the desulfurization rate is 92.9% and 95.8%, respectively. The key to improving desulfurization by microwave radiation is that iron sulfide has good wave‐absorbing characteristics.
Characterization of Chayotextle Starch Films Supplemented with Essential Oils and Their Effect as a Coating on the Shelf Life of Bread
Authors: Luna‐Niño María Fernanda , Beristain‐Guevara César Ignacio , Pascual‐Pineda Luz Alicia , Rascón‐Díaz Martha Paola , Luna‐Solano Guadalupe , Jiménez‐Fernández Maribel
Published: October 2024

Starch extracted from chayote root is a carbohydrate polymer ideal for producing edible films, especially when combined with essential oils. This study develops starch‐based edible films incorporating rosemary (E‐RO) or cinnamon (E‐CO) essential oil and assesses their effectiveness in extending bread's shelf life. Films with essential oils exhibit significantly higher (p < 0.05) water vapor permeability compared to control films without oil. Tensile strength and elongation tests show that films stored at low water activity (aw < 0.443) have greater strength and lower elongation (p < 0.05) than those stored at high water activity. Additionally, essential oils significantly enhance the films' antimicrobial and antifungal activity against selected microorganisms. Edible films with essential oils are fully degraded around day 18, while control films degraded by day 15. Bread coated with these films is stored at different temperatures to analyze effects on physicochemical properties and hardness. Sensory analyses reveal that coated bread receives overall acceptance scores (7.61–8.64) similar to control bread and show delayed mould growth during the 15‐day storage period. These findings suggest that chayote root starch‐based films with essential oils have strong potential as active food coatings, effectively extending the shelf life of stored bread.
On DORIS Precise Orbit and Reference Frame Determination Based on the ITRF2020 Using Multiple Altimetry Satellite Missions
Authors: Reinhold Anton , Schreiner Patrick , Neumayer Karl Hans
Published: October 2024

Following extensive evaluations, the latest realization of the International Terrestrial Reference System (ITRS), the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF) 2020 (ITRF2020), was published at the end of last year. For operational application, certain extensions of an ITRF are generated by the services of the different space geodetic techniques. The extension of the ITRF2020 for the Doppler Orbitography and Radiopositioning Integrated by Satellite (DORIS) technique, is the recently released DPOD2020, which is generated by the International DORIS Service (IDS). In this study we exhibit the differences that we see in the application of the DPOD2020. For this purpose, we use altimetry satellites equipped with a DORIS receiver in a setup using the latest DPOD2014 and DPOD2020. Initially we performed Precise Orbit Determination (POD) and evaluate the differences we see internally, in terms of the orbital fit, as well as changes in the derived orbit. Subsequently, weekly local terrestrial reference frames (TRFs) are computed for each single satellite as well as a combined solution to evaluate the impact on derived station coordinates and Earth Rotation Parameters (ERPs). The following generated TRF solutions are evaluated with respect to the reference frame defining parameters, i.e. origin, scale, and orientation, in comparison to the a priori TRF and as differences between ITRF2014 and ITRF2020 solutions. The processed orbits show comparable results w.r.t. orbital fits and orbit comparisons between both solutions. The local TRF’s show also overall good agreement between the ITRF2020 and ITRF2014 solutions with no systematic bias.
Meteorite Impact Origin of Yangju Circular Structure in the Middle Part of the Korean Peninsula Estimated by Gravity Field Interpretation
Authors: Choi Sungchan , Kim Sung-Wook , Shin Younghong , Choi Eun-Kyeong
Published: October 2024

To ascertain the origin of the Yangju-Circular-Structure (YCS), located north of Seoul, South Korea, extensive gravity surveys were conducted. A collaborative analysis, integrating geology, geomorphology, gravity field interpretation, and density modeling, yielded significant insights:

(1) The eastern region of the YCS, adjacent to the Dongducheon fault line, has been displaced approximately 3,000 m southward. This substantial shift provides crucial evidence of significant tectonic activity affecting the area. (2) Our analyses indicate that the formation of the YCS is unlikely to be a result of differential weathering processes. (3) The YCS features three distinct concentric circular structures with varying in diameter. (4) The subsurface structure beneath the YCS appears to be symmetrical, likely resulting from concentric energy waves caused by an external impact, such as a meteorite.
Analysis of Novel Sensors and Satellite Formation Flights for Future Gravimetry Missions
Authors: Kupriyanov Alexey , Reis Arthur , Knabe Annike , Fletling Nina , HosseiniArani Alireza , Romeshkani Mohsen , Schilling Manuel , Müller Vitali , Müller Jürgen
Published: October 2024

Accelerometers (ACCs) in low-low satellite-to-satellite gravimetry missions measure the non-gravitational forces acting on the spacecraft that have to be taken into account to derive the gravitational contribution in the distance variations. Multiple ACCs form a so-called gradiometer that measure the gravity gradient. In satellite gravimetry up to now, only electrostatic ACCs were used, which are one of the main instrumental limitations due to their error contribution at low frequencies, known as drift.

In this paper, we compare the performance of electrostatic ACCs at low Earth orbits with other sensors, i.e. so-called Optical ACCs based on flight heritage of the LISA-Pathfinder mission, and theoretical ACC concepts, for example Cold Atom Interferometer (CAI) ACCs and hybridized sensors (combination of electrostatic and CAI ACCs) in terms of static gravity field recovery. Under our assumptions, in particular that high-frequency variations of the gravity field can be perfectly modeled and removed during gravity field recovery, the results may be limited in the future by the performance of the LRI.

We also discuss the outcomes from the various novel satellite formation flights (SFF) that utilize two orbits that differ either by right ascension of the ascending node (RAAN) or by inclination in order to acquire ranging information in the cross-track direction. The closed-loop simulations from both scenarios showed significantly lower order of magnitude of the residuals w.r.t. reference gravity field than from the anticipated future performance of the solely in-line GRACE-like satellite pair. Moreover, these triple satellite formations provide better multi-directionality of the retrieved data, avoiding the North-South striping behavior. However, it is worth noting that in such formations significant modifications are needed in the satellite bus, ACC test mass readout, LRI beam steering mechanism, etc. in order to be capable of measuring the cross-track range changes at higher range rates w.r.t. in-line GRACE-like configuration. In addition, a substantial reduction of costs in building and launching only three satellites rather than four as in double-pair constellations could be an advantage for such formations.
Bitcoin: Vehicle for Speculation and Fictitious Wealth Generation in the Age of Finance Capital
Authors: Schulmeister Stephan
Published: October 2024

The chapter offers a synthetic and compact view of the essence and functions of the bitcoin phenomenon in the context of the still prevailing type of capitalism, that is, finance capitalism. Hence, it addresses the following issues: What are the core properties of bitcoins? How are their enormous price fluctuations brought about? What is the impact of the related creation and destruction of “fictitious” financial wealth on the real economy? How is the phenomenon of cryptocurrencies embedded into that type of capitalism where striving for profits is focused on changes in the valuation of already existing assets? This “finance capitalism” has been shaping the global economy for almost 50 years—in contrast to the “real capitalism” of the 1950s and 1960s where striving for profits was focused on producing new real assets.
The Weaponization of Finance and Digitalization: A Cooperative Approach Between the EU and LAC
Authors: Bilotta Nicola
Published: October 2024

Since the demise of the Gold Standard, the US dollar has stood as the sole global currency, empowering the United States with considerable foreign policy leverage. However, developments like economic dislocations, geopolitical tensions, and digitalization pose challenges that could lead to fragmentation in the global monetary system. The risk is forming economic blocs that establish parallel, non-complementary systems that impede the free flow of capital and money across borders. The potential rise of national Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) offers a new tool to reshape the international monetary architecture for settling cross-border transactions. This chapter proposes a cooperation exercise between the European Union (EU) and the Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) region to explore and develop interoperable CBDC systems. The EU and LAC share a common interest in collaborating to influence the architecture of the following international monetary system. The cooperative development of CBDC experiments presents an opportunity for the EU and LAC to shape the future of cross-border transactions and strengthen their positions in the evolving international financial order.
The European Union Will Be Built on Solidarity: Lessons Learned and the Financial Crisis Management of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: De Souza Guilherme Bettina
Published: October 2024

Ever since the outbreak of the global financial crisis (GFC) in 2007/2008, the European Union (EU) is confronted by a new reality of poly- and permacrisis which requires the EU to constantly adjust and reform. Crises management responses, however, vary in their legitimacy, which affects the evolution of the EU in the long term, and its resilience. In a previous publication in the context of the research conducted by the Jean Monnet Network ‘Crisis-Equity-Democracy for Europe and Latin America’, I focused on EU’s crisis management of the global financial crisis (GFC) and subsequent sovereign debt crisis (SDC) and showed that they were managed in an intergovernmental way, largely sidelining the European Parliament (EP) and national parliaments, creating a ‘double democratic deficit’ (De Souza Guilherme, 2020). This chapter compares the EU responses to the COVID-19 to the GFC, analyses and explains the paradigm change introduced in the financial management of the COVID-19 crisis, in particular, the creation of the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) in 2020, and focuses on democratic aspects of the crisis management at EU level. The articles highlights the role of the EP in this process and how it contributed to the input and throughput legitimacy of the response and concludes that the management of the COVID-19 crisis by the community method strengthened EU’s legitimacy and contributed to its resilience, reflecting and confirming Jean Monnet’s and Robert Schuman’s visions.
Financing Recovery and Development in the Post-pandemic EU: Issues of Strategy, Institutions and Implementation
Authors: Andreou George
Published: October 2024

EU cohesion policy—a network of variable mixes of European and national sectoral policies serving the objective of economic, social and territorial cohesion—was the main source of growth-supporting EU investment during the economic and financial crisis of the previous decade. In 2020, in its attempt to mitigate the economic and social impact of the COVID-19 crisis, the EU established a new, temporary recovery instrument called NextGenerationEU. The centrepiece of the latter is the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), which has been activated for a 6-year period through the implementation of National Recovery and Resilience Plans (NRRPs). RRF also aims at promoting the goal of cohesion but is also focused on strengthening economic and social resilience, mitigating the social and economic impact of the crisis and supporting the green and digital transitions. For 2021–2026, RRF and the cohesion policy are operating in parallel, funding similar—though not identical—investment activities based on different terms and conditions, processes and mechanisms. The goal of this chapter is to offer a comparative analysis of the activities of RRF and cohesion policy in post-pandemic Europe, focusing on issues of strategy, institutions and implementation.
Circular Economy Best Practices in the Built Environment
Authors: Cervantes Puma Genesis Camila , Salles Adriana , Turk Janez , Rajčić Vlatka , Muñoz Puche Almudena , Korniejenko Kinga , Tsalkatidis Themistoklis , Tavares Vanessa , Martos Rocio Pineda , Ruchinskaya Tatiana , Bragança Luís
Published: October 2024

This document serves as the opening chapter of a book that addresses the critical issue of resource depletion in the built environment, illustrating the unsustainable trends in current construction and demolition practices that extensively rely on new raw materials. It highlights the significant impact of the building sector on global resource consumption, energy utilization, and waste generation, with alarming statistics such as buildings accounting for 40% of the world’s extracted materials and a significant source of waste and greenhouse gas emissions. Advocating for a transformative shift towards a circular economy in the built environment, the text emphasizes sustainable and regenerative economic practices that minimize waste and maximize resource efficiency. This approach necessitates the redesign of systems to ensure the durability, reparability, and recyclability of construction materials, thereby promoting a model where waste is systematically eliminated and materials are continually repurposed. The document also discusses the 10R strategy, which centres on minimizing waste and enhancing resource efficiency, and explores various circular practices within the construction sector. It includes examples from case studies and best practices to demonstrate the viability and advantages of adopting circular economy principles. The challenges and success factors in implementing such practices are thoroughly examined, emphasizing the urgent need for increased awareness, supportive policies, and robust stakeholder collaboration to foster a more sustainable and resource-efficient built environment. The first chapter sets the stage for a detailed exploration of these themes throughout the book’s subsequent sections.
Adaptive Reuse of Existing Buildings
Authors: Andreucci Maria Beatrice , Karagözler Selin
Published: October 2024

Amid the introduction of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, the longevity and lifecycle of heritage and modern buildings and the process of redevelopment have come under greater scrutiny. Through adaptive reuse, i.e., changes that involve both a functional and a physical component, practitioners can give a second life to existing buildings. To define the state of the art in the scientific research focused on building adaptive reuse, the authors conducted a rapid evidence assessment. It emerged that adaptive reuse is comprehensive topic that deals with social, economic and environmental issues. The goal of the adaptive reuse studies varies from social to environmental topics such as human-centred adaptive reuse, and energy efficient adaptive reuse. A comprehensive approach to adaptive reuse requires integrated strategies aimed at preserving valuable pre-existing human artifacts in the Anthropocene era, characterized by unsustainable consumption and transience of data and images. Adaptive reuse combines pragmatism and creativity and requires sensitivity in the selective approach on existing structures, contexts, and materials. Adaptive reuse projects call for specific skills and targeted strategies that falls into different action categories: reuse, restoration and renewal, i.e., innovative transformations of the “old and degraded” into “new and performative”. Overall, adaptive reuse optimizes environmental sustainability, efficient regeneration processes, increased community interest, and profitability, making it an attractive opportunity for stakeholders seeking to revitalize urban and peri urban areas. Adaptive reuse projects deliver workable solutions, support heritage and cultural preservation, while meeting the changing needs of communities.
Circular Manufacturing
Authors: Fohl François , Rajčić Vlatka , Ungureanu Viorel , Palermo Michele , Arrè Lidiana , Carević Ivana , Buzatu Raluca
Published: October 2024

Circular Manufacturing (CM), understood as CE strategies adopted in manufacturing, takes a key position in decoupling industry growth from environmental impacts. To achieve a transition into circular economy in construction, a clear view on the state-of-the art is crucial. Construction materials such as concrete, cross-laminated timber or steel have an environmental impact during their production and circularity is not always given. Knowing that the design phase of a product defines a big part of its overall environmental footprint, this chapter discusses CM principles and most commonly pursued CM strategies for steel, concrete and timber. Effects and impacts on buildings and eventual challenges are discussed. Furthermore, Additive Manufacturing (AM), as a possible key driver of circularity is analysed. The reduction of material use is identified as key driver in order to reduce material flows, however structural safety and durability needs to be assured. The design and mixture of construction products and materials itself together with an efficient design process in the projects are essential pillars of CM. Prefabrication, modular construction as well as DfD and DfA are key principles that can be achieved with all the analysed construction materials but are more widespread in steel construction today.
Design Frameworks for Circular Buildings: Circular Principles, Building Lifecycle Phases and Design Strategies
Authors: Marchesi Marianna , Tavares Vanessa
Published: October 2024

This chapter explored the current theory and practices on circular building design to provide an overview of what a circular building is and how a circular building has been implemented by design through a literature review. Until now, the circular economy in the built environment has mainly been implemented through technological innovation focusing on materials, products, business models and industrial systems. Design for a circular economy in the built environment has progressively expanded from single products and components to building and urban systems. The enlargement of the design scope has entailed a shift from insular to system innovation. Besides a technocentric approach focused on circulating resources through economic and technical innovation, a holistic vision has emerged in the literature that sees circularity as a transformation which integrates technological, social, organizational and institutional considerations of circularity to promote systemic changes in large urban social-technical systems. This study initially investigated the current understanding of the circular building concept, and then analysed design frameworks applied to develop circular buildings by reviewing the literature. Finally, it defined propositions for evaluating the current level of implementation of circular buildings This exploration provided an overview of the current body of knowledge on the circular building concept, a classification of existing design frameworks and strategies for implementing the circular building concept and the identification of relevant propositions to test through case study research to assess the level of implementation of circular buildings.
Circular Material Usage Strategies—Principles
Authors: Santos Paulo , Byrne Aimee , Karaca Ferhat , Villoria Paola , del Rio Mercedes , Pineda-Martos Rocío , Cervantes Puma Genesis Camila
Published: October 2024

The construction industry significantly contributes to global greenhouse gas emissions, raw material extraction, and waste production. Implementing circular economy (CE) principles in this sector could greatly reduce these impacts. However, adoption within the industry remains slow due to barriers such as limited knowledge and experience. This chapter aims to assess and help overcome these obstacles by providing a comprehensive analysis of circular material usage principles and strategies in construction. It also highlights opportunities and enablers of change, including innovations and emerging technologies in recycling, digitization, robotic systems, new materials, and processing techniques. Four case studies illustrate the application of circular theory through a Bio-Building, Urban Mining and Recycling (UMAR) Experimental Unit, Open-spaced apartment, and an “Escuela Politécnica Superior”. The conclusions emphasize the need for strong regulatory frameworks, awareness initiatives, and international cooperation. Integrating technological advancements like AI, robotics, and blockchain is crucial for optimizing waste management. Additionally, education on circular practices is vital. By fostering global collaboration, standardizing circular construction approaches can lead to a more sustainable and resilient building industry.
Evolution of China–Africa Cooperation in Science, Technology and Innovation: A Way to Capacity Building
Authors: Lin Xianlan , Zhang Xiao , Wang Siqian
Published: October 2024

China–Africa relations go back to ancient times when scientific and technological exchanges already emerged, and are being greatly driven by cooperation in science, technology and innovation (STI). There are generally three stages of the evolution of China–Africa cooperation in STI: “mutual exchanges” focused cooperation from the Han Dynasty to the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC), “direct aid” focused cooperation from the founding of the PRC to the late twentieth century, and “capacity building” oriented cooperation since the beginning of the twenty-first century. In the new era, two versions of the China–Africa Science and Technology Partnership Program (CASTEP), namely, the “CASTEP 1.0” and the “CASTEP 2.0”, are implemented and advanced, targeting national capacity building to realize transformation and development, which have made certain achievements. China–Africa cooperation in STI sees new opportunities and challenges brought by profound changes unseen in a century, the evolving international political and economic landscape, and the ongoing new round of technological revolution and industrial transformation. In response to this, capacity building-oriented is still the future direction of China–Africa cooperation in STI. Both sides need to further strengthen the strategic significance of China–Africa cooperation in STI and the consensus on development, expand China–Africa cooperation in the fields of new technologies, and diversify and improve mechanisms of cooperation.
A Critical Evaluation of Health Diplomacy as an Altruistic Underpinning of China–Africa Relations
Authors: Mangani Dylan Yanano , Mutambara Marcia Victoria , Shambare Richardson
Published: October 2024

Post-Cold War studies on foreign policy analysis pay increasing attention to ‘soft power’ politics as an effective diplomatic construct to attaining a state’s objectives. In this chapter, health diplomacy is understood as non-coercive repertoires of engagement that are constituted as a subset of foreign policy. Health diplomacy is international cooperation or aid focused on promoting health programmes to attain public health objectives. This chapter acknowledges a dearth of scholarship on China–Africa health relations. The available literature is preoccupied with China–Africa socio-economic and political relations and therefore locates the discussion within the broader limits of political  challenges. This minimalist approach does not exhaustively analyse China’s involvement in African public health issues. Therefore, work on health diplomacy has contributed to new interpretations of China–Africa relations by proffering alternative perspectives beyond the traditional conceptions of hegemonic power interests in Africa. These alternatives demonstrate the developmental trajectory pursued by a developing country, China, towards a developing African region. In the broadest sense, China’s health policy in Africa is encapsulated in the 1964 ‘Eight Principles for Economic Aid and Technical Assistance to Other Countries and the 2006 ‘China’s African Policy’ that promulgated the bedrock for the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
Exploring China’s Emerging Role in Africa’s International Research Collaboration
Authors: Zhu Ruoyan , Li Yin
Published: October 2024

China’s involvement in Africa has dramatically increased during the last few decades. This paper analyses the emerging role of China in Africa’s international research collaboration using data of African scientific publications from 1971 to 2019 in the Web of Science database. Utilizing a bibliometrics analysis strategy, this study provides an examination of the growth of China–Africa scientific research collaboration, followed by a detailed analysis of the patterns and dynamics, the implications for policy, and recommended actions to maximize collaboration for mutual benefit. The findings suggest that China is gaining an increasingly important position in Africa’s international research collaboration. China is now establishing contacts with African researchers through scholars from other countries. Surprisingly, publications involving Chinese researchers typically attract more citations. It demonstrates how scientific research collaboration differs from economic cooperation by nature. China–Africa scientific research collaboration is more about inclusive and win–win cooperation than an exclusive and zero-sum game.
Portuguese translation, cultural adaptation and psychometric properties of the temporomandibular joint scale: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Cervaens Mariana , Pereira Jéssica , Magalhães André , Esteves Mário , Vilarinho Rui , Abreu Verónica , Amaral Luísa
Published: October 2024

Background

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) scale assesses the severity of temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD), yet a European Portuguese translation is lacking.

Objectives

To translate, cross-culturally adapt and to examine the psychometric properties (construct validity and reliability) of the TMJ scale.

Methods

Translation and cultural adaptation were carried out according to international recommendations, including initial translation, evaluation of this translation and cultural adaptation by a panel of experts, and back translation. The final Portuguese version was used to examine the reliability and validity, and participants with TMD were recruited from a Portuguese outpatient clinic. Reliability measures included internal consistency with Cronbach’s alpha and test-retest reliability with the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC2,1). The Spearman correlation comparing the TMJ scale with the Fonseca and Helkimo indexes was used to assess the construct validity.

Results

A total of 63 participants (23 ± 2 years; 61,9% female) were included. Similar internal consistency was observed between the two moments of application (0.921 and 0.918), and test-retest reliability was excellent, with an ICC2,1 = 0.998 (95%CI: 0.988–0.999). Robust positive correlations (rho 0.554–0.611, p < 0.001) were found between the TMJ scale and Fonseca and Helkimo indexes.

Conclusion

The European Portuguese version of TMJ scale is now available to improve the assessment of severity of TMD in routine clinical practice. This version is also reliable and valid.
Voxel-wise segmentation for porosity investigation of additive manufactured parts with 3D unsupervised and (deeply) supervised neural networks
Authors: Iuso Domenico , Chatterjee Soumick , Cornelissen Sven , Verhees Dries , Beenhouwer Jan De , Sijbers Jan
Published: October 2024

Additive Manufacturing (AM) has emerged as a manufacturing process that allows the direct production of samples from digital models. To ensure that quality standards are met in all samples of a batch, X-ray computed tomography (X-CT) is often used in combination with automated anomaly detection. For the latter, deep learning (DL) anomaly detection techniques are increasingly used, as they can be trained to be robust to the material being analysed and resilient to poor image quality. Unfortunately, most recent and popular DL models have been developed for 2D image processing, thereby disregarding valuable volumetric information. Additionally, there is a notable absence of comparisons between supervised and unsupervised models for voxel-wise pore segmentation tasks. This study revisits recent supervised (UNet, UNet++, UNet 3+, MSS-UNet, ACC-UNet) and unsupervised (VAE, ceVAE, gmVAE, vqVAE, RV-VAE) DL models for porosity analysis of AM samples from X-CT images and extends them to accept 3D input data with a 3D-patch approach for lower computational requirements, improved efficiency and generalisability. The supervised models were trained using the Focal Tversky loss to address class imbalance that arises from the low porosity in the training datasets. The output of the unsupervised models was post-processed to reduce misclassifications caused by their inability to adequately represent the object surface. The findings were cross-validated in a 5-fold fashion and include: a performance benchmark of the DL models, an evaluation of the post-processing algorithm, an evaluation of the effect of training supervised models with the output of unsupervised models. In a final performance benchmark on a test set with poor image quality, the best performing supervised model was UNet++ with an average precision of 0.751 ± 0.030, while the best unsupervised model was the post-processed ceVAE with 0.830 ± 0.003. Notably, the ceVAE model, with its post-processing technique, exhibited superior capabilities, endorsing unsupervised learning as the preferred approach for the voxel-wise pore segmentation task.
Longitudinal and Lateral Cooperative Control of Preview Intelligent Vehicles with Stabilization
Authors: Tang Minan , Chen Xiaowei , Tang Kunxi , Zhang Yaqi , Wang Wenjuan
Published: October 2024

Aiming at the highly nonlinear and coupled longitudinal and transverse motion control problems of intelligent vehicle path tracking control, a new method of preview MPC path tracking control is proposed by combining visual preview model and model predictive control theory. The method first locally linearizes the nonlinear prediction model and transforms the MPC optimization solution problem into a quadratic programming problem. The longitudinal vehicle speed and the preview distance are then treated as known in each control time domain, an exponential model is applied to characterize the longitudinal vehicle speed, and a transverse angular velocity-center of mass lateral deflection ($$r-\beta $$

r
-
β

) phase plane plot is applied to characterize the vehicle stability. Finally, proportional integral differential stability controller is designed to improve vehicle stability. Simulation and test results show that: Compared with the MPC tracking control method, the preview MPC control method proposed in this paper can optimize the vehicle tracking performance on different adhesion coefficient road surfaces and improve the tracking accuracy, and this enhancement effect is more obvious at high speeds.
Impact of ERG6 Gene Deletion on Membrane Composition and Properties in the Pathogenic Yeast Candida glabrata
Authors: Jacko J. , Morvová M. , Hervay N. Tóth , Eliaš D. , Gbelská Y. , Waczulíková I. , Gášková D. , Balážová M. , Šikurová L.
Published: October 2024

The ERG6 gene is crucial for the biosynthesis of ergosterol, a key component of yeast cell membranes. Our study examines the impact of ERG6 gene deletion on the membrane composition and physicochemical properties of the pathogenic yeast Candida glabrata. Specifically, we investigated changes in selected sterol content, phospholipid composition, transmembrane potential, and PDR16 gene activity. Sterol levels were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography, the phospholipid profile was analysed via thin-layer chromatography, transmembrane potential was assessed with fluorescence spectroscopy, and gene expression levels were determined by quantitative PCR. Our findings revealed a depletion of ergosterol, increased zymosterol and eburicol content, an increased phosphatidylcholine and a reduced phosphatidylethanolamine content in the Δerg6 strain compared to the wt. Additionally, the Δerg6 strain exhibited membrane hyperpolarization without changes in PDR16 expression. Furthermore, the Δerg6 strain showed increased sensitivity to the antifungals myriocin and aureobasidine A. These results suggest that ERG6 gene deletion leads to significant alterations in membrane composition and may activates an alternative ergosterol synthesis pathway in the C. glabrata Δerg6 deletion mutant.
Thermal Radiation
Authors: Zhao Changying
Published: October 2024

Thermal radiation studies have progressed rapidly, not only in theoretical and experimental exploration beyond the conventional use but also in advanced applications. This is a one-stop resource for capturing and discussing these cutting-edge developments exploring the theory, experiments, and applications of thermal radiation from macro- to nanoscale. Presented in a systematic framework, this book is divided into two parts: the first on macroscopic thermal radiation and the second on micro- and nanoscale thermal radiation. Each part delivers basic theory, numerical methods, advanced experimental techniques, and promising applications, making this an easy-to-follow guide meeting both basic and advanced needs. Supported by more than 180 colorful illustrations, readers can clearly visualize the theory, experiments, and applications in practice. A book for all, written at a graduate level but undoubtedly a useful tool for researchers, professionals, and even engineers who are interested in this fast-developing area.
Seismic Wave Propagation Through Random Media
Authors: Sato Haruo , Emoto Kentaro
Published: October 2024

The solid Earth's medium is heterogeneous over a wide range of scales. Seismological observations, including envelope broadening with increasing distance from an earthquake source and the excitation of long-lasting coda waves, provide a means of investigating velocity inhomogeneities in the crust. These phenomena have been studied primarily using radiative transfer theory with random medium modelling. This book presents the mathematical foundations of scalar- and vector-wave scattering in random media, using the Born or Eikonal approximation, which are useful for understanding random inhomogeneity spectra and the scattering characteristics of the solid Earth. A step-by-step Monte Carlo simulation procedure is presented for synthesizing the propagation of energy density for impulsive radiation from a source in random media. Simulation results are then verified by comparison with analytical solutions and finite-difference simulations. Presenting the latest seismological observations and analysis techniques, this is a useful reference for graduate students and researchers in geophysics and physics.
Introduction to Clinical Psychology
Authors: Bernstein Douglas A. , Teachman Bethany A. , Olatunji Bunmi O. , De Los Reyes Andres
Published: October 2024

Fully updated and revised, the tenth edition of this bestselling textbook introduces clinical psychology as a bridge between science and practice. Featuring over 1000 new references, the revised text includes additional coverage of digital mental health, diversity, and identity, and the practice of evidence-based clinical science. Coverage of such topics as emerging models for clinical training and accreditation, new approaches to diagnosing and classifying mental illness, and changes in healthcare legislation ensure that students will understand the very latest trends in the subject. The pedagogical focus of previous editions is maintained. 'Thinking Scientifically' sections in each chapter break down how to evaluate conflicting findings and use them to draw conclusions, while clinical vignettes bring concepts and theories to life. 'In Review' tables at the end of each major section prompt students to review material and test their comprehension. The text is accompanied by a full suite of online teaching supports.
The Art of Working with the Mathieu Group M24
Authors: Curtis Robert T.
Published: October 2024

The Leech lattice Λ, the Conway group ∙O, and the Monster group M are immensely famous structures. They each grow out of the Mathieu group M24 and its underlying combinatorial structure, and play an important role in various branches of mathematics and in theoretical physics. Written by an expert in the field, this book provides a new generation of mathematicians with the intimate knowledge of M24 needed to understand these beautiful objects, and many others. It starts by exploring Steiner systems, before introducing the Miracle Octad Generator (MOG) as a device for working with the Steiner system S(5,8,24). Emphasizing how theoretical and computational approaches complement one another, the author describes how familiarity with M24 leads to the concept of 'symmetric generation' of groups. The final chapter brings together the various strands of the book to produce a nested chain of groups culminating in the largest Conway simple group Co1.
Introduction to Marine Dynamics
Authors: Troesch Armin W.
Published: October 2024

Master the fundamentals of complex marine systems with this introduction to marine dynamics, vibrations, hydrodynamics, and stochastic processes. It connects key theoretical concepts, including as the velocity potential, impulsive force and L'Hospital's rule, to real-world marine engineering applications such as such as marine platform dynamics, extreme motions and exceedance probabilities, and includes over 60 multi-part end-of-chapter problems, building from simplified questions to advanced exercises, enabling students to grow in confidence towards solving complex questions. Students will gain a deep understanding effective design and safe operation of offshore systems and ocean resources; and is supported by downloadable Matlab code, and online solutions for instructors. Including over 300 full-colour illustrations and worked examples, drawing on the author's 45 years of teaching experience in marine dynamics, this textbook provides the ideal introduction to marine dynamics for senior undergraduate and graduate students in marine engineering, and is a comprehensive reference for practitioners in industry.
The Poet's Voice
Authors: Goldhill Simon , Greensmith Emma
Published: October 2024

How are poetry and the figure of the poet represented, discussed, contested within the poetry of ancient Greece? From what position does a poet speak? With what authority? With what debts to the past? With what involvement in the present? Through a series of interrelated essays on Homer, lyric poetry, Aristophanes, Theocritus and Apollonius of Rhodes, this landmark volume discusses key aspects of the history of poetics: tale-telling and the representation of man as the user of language; memorial and praise; parody, comedy and carnival; irony, masks and desire; the legacy of the past and the idea of influence. Detailed readings of major works of Greek literature and liberal use of critical writings from outside Classics help to align modern and ancient poetics in enlightening ways. This revised edition contains a substantial new Introduction which engages with critical and scholarly developments in Greek literature since the original publication.
Influence without Arms
Authors: Fuhrmann Matthew
Published: October 2024

How does nuclear technology influence international relations? While many books focus on countries armed with nuclear weapons, this volume puts the spotlight on those that have the technology to build nuclear bombs but choose not to. These weapons-capable countries, such as Brazil, Germany, and Japan, have what is known as nuclear latency, and they shape world politics in important ways. Offering a definitive account of nuclear latency, Matthew Fuhrmann navigates a critical yet poorly understood issue. He identifies global trends, explains why countries obtain nuclear latency, and analyzes its consequences for international security. Influence Without Arms presents new statistical and case evidence that nuclear latency enhances deterrence and provides greater influence but also triggers conflict and arms races. The book offers a framework to explain when nuclear latency increases security and when it incites instability, and generates far-reaching implications for deterrence, nuclear proliferation, arms races, preventive war, and disarmament.
Equipment-related wounds and associated risk factors in working equids of the Oromia national regional state in Ethiopia
Authors: Merridale-Punter Mathilde S , Wodajo Abel L , Elias Belay , Bakos Anna-Marie , Zewdu Hanna , Tesfaye Reta , Hailegebreal Gizachew , Sori Teshale , El-Hage Charles M , Wiethoelter Anke K , Hitchens Peta L
Published: October 2024

Working equids support the livelihoods of millions of low-income households worldwide and face several welfare challenges. Although equipment-related wounds are common, little is known about specific risk factors. This cross-sectional study surveyed equids used for cart-work in three Ethiopian towns. Number, size, severity and location of wounds were recorded for each animal, as well as work equipment characteristics and indicators of equipment fit and assembly. Questionnaires were conducted with each cart-driver focusing on equipment practices and attitudes. Logistic regression models were generated to investigate associations between equipment-related wounds (outcome) and equipment, work, driver and animal-related factors (predictors). In total, 369 equids and cart-drivers were surveyed. The prevalence of equipment-related wounds was 72.6% (268/369) with girth wounds being the predominant wound type in horses (50%; 122/244) while donkeys had predominantly shaft-related wounds (59%; 72/122). Donkeys were two times more likely to have equipment-related wounds than horses. The presence of equipment-related wounds was associated with factors such as previously having wounds, inadequate collar positioning and using purchased equipment compared to partly home-made equipment. Characteristics of specific equipment components were also associated with certain wound types, such as narrow saddle pressure points and saddle wounds. Equipment-related wounds are highly prevalent in working equids, representing a serious welfare concern. Factors relating to equipment design, fit and assembly were associated with the presence of wounds. Importantly, species differences require tailoring of preventive approaches amongst working equids. A better understanding of work equipment should therefore be promoted as part of wound prevention and animal welfare strategies.
Is dietary goal failure associated with goal-supportive policy attitudes?
Authors: Grelle Sonja , Nielsen Kristian S. , Kukowski Charlotte A. , Hofmann Wilhelm , Bauer Jan M.
Published: October 2024

To improve public health and promote environmental sustainability, widespread dietary changes are necessary in high-income countries. However, adopting and maintaining dietary goals is challenging and requires repeated self-regulation. Effective public policies can facilitate healthy food choices and reduce the likelihood of goal failure. This study examines the relationship between individuals’ dietary goal failures and their acceptance of public food policies, using data from an experience-sampling study (Ni = 409 and Nobs = 6,447). Regression analyses revealed that participants who experienced more frequent dietary goal failures were generally less accepting of health-promoting food policies and perceived them as less effective. Additionally, perceived policy effectiveness positively predicted policy acceptance. Exploratory analyses showed that the negative relationship between dietary goal failure and food policy acceptance varied depending on the type of intervention (pull policies vs push policies) and the location of food selections (home vs out-of-home). Notably, we found a positive relationship between dietary goal failure and acceptance of pull policies for food selections made out-of-home. These findings highlight the importance of better understanding the complex interplay between public policy attitudes, the food environment and adherence to dietary goals.
Predicting mobility aspirations in Lebanon and Turkey: a data-driven exploration using machine learning
Authors: Ruhnke Simon , Rischke Ramona
Published: October 2024

The aspirations-ability framework proposed by Carling has begun to place the question of who aspires to migrate at the center of migration research. In this article, building on key determinants assumed to impact individual migration decisions, we investigate their prediction accuracy when observed in the same dataset and in different mixed-migration contexts. In particular, we use a rigorous model selection approach and develop a machine learning algorithm to analyze two original cross-sectional face-to-face surveys conducted in Turkey and Lebanon among Syrian migrants and their respective host populations in early 2021. Studying similar nationalities in two hosting contexts with a distinct history of both immigration and emigration and large shares of assumed-to-be mobile populations, we illustrate that a) (im)mobility aspirations are hard to predict even under ‘ideal’ methodological circumstances, b) commonly referenced “migration drivers” fail to perform well in predicting migration aspirations in our study contexts, while c) aspects relating to social cohesion, political representation and hope play an important role that warrants more emphasis in future research and policymaking. Methodologically, we identify key challenges in quantitative research on predicting migration aspirations and propose a novel modeling approach to address these challenges.