bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An empirical study on the relationship between urbanization, transportation infrastructure, industrialization and environmental degradation in China, India and Indonesia
Authors: Qian Lyu Huai
Published: November 2024

In certain densely populated Asian countries (China, India, and Indonesia), unsustainable urban development may be directly or indirectly related to the environment and may cause environmental problems due to low industrial structure and poor transportation infrastructure. Thus, this study uses AMG, CCEMG and MG estimators to reveal the relationship between urbanization, transportation infrastructure, industrial structure, renewable energy use, economic growth and per capita carbon dioxide emissions in densely populated Asian countries from 1995 to 2020. Relying on the AMG estimator, the results show that urbanization, industrial structure, and transportation infrastructure investment significantly accelerate per capita carbon dioxide emissions in the long run. However, the use of renewable energy has a significant adverse impact on per capita CO2 emissions in the long run. The second model based on urbanization structure clearly shows that, except for the insignificant impact of renewable energy consumption, other explanatory factors (transportation infrastructure, industrial structure and GDP) have significant progressive effects on urbanization. Considering the moderating role of institutional quality, the analysis succinctly argues that in the long run, institutional quality intensifies the negative impact of renewable energy utilization on environmental pollution. Institutional quality turns the strong positive effects of urbanization, industrial structure, and transportation infrastructure on per capita carbon emissions into negative effects. Furthermore, the quality of existing institutions in specific country panel can even interact with industrial structure and transportation infrastructure to improve urban structure and thereby reduce environmental harm. Finally, the specific threshold level is examined to determine that the impact of baseline regression variables (urbanization, transportation infrastructure, renewable energy utilization, industrial structure) on per capita carbon dioxide emissions has fully penetrated into the institutional quality level. Strategic empirical evidence shows that sustainable urban growth goals that contribute to a sustainable environment can be achieved by upgrading two major components of cities—industrial structures and transport infrastructure. The good performance of industrial structure and transportation infrastructure can be improved through institutional quality. Compared with weak institutional quality, a sound institution can expand the ability of transportation infrastructure and industrial structure to improve the urbanization structure, thereby slowing down environmental degradation. Furthermore, in this pursuit, the role of institutional quality in developing policies to support renewable energy is also becoming increasingly important.
Long extraction in German: banned, but still alive
Authors: Bader Markus , Koukouloti Vasiliki
Published: November 2024

Long extraction, that is, the displacement of a constituent across a clause boundary, is considered a process of broad applicability. This view is challenged by the claim that extracting a phrase from a that-clause into a relative clause is ungrammatical in German. Since the evidence for this claim is extremely limited, we ran three acceptability experiments investigating long extraction in German. As expected from a large range of studies on long extraction in German, long extraction was judged as less acceptable than corresponding sentences without long extraction. Importantly, long extraction was equally acceptable across the three contexts that were tested—relative clauses, embedded questions and main clause questions. Our experiments, thus, show that long extraction applies across different structural contexts in German, as expected if long extraction is a general syntactic process. In addition, this paper presents new evidence concerning the sources of individual variation with regard to the acceptability of long extraction. First, we confirm that long extraction gets less acceptable when going from the South to the North of the German speaking area. Second, we tested whether individual participants differ with regard to how easily they accept non-standard constructions. To this end, we ran an additional experiment on verb-cluster formation, including sentences that are ungrammatical according to prescriptive grammar but that are, nevertheless, accepted by many speakers of German. The acceptability of long extraction correlates with the acceptability of non-standard verb clusters even when regional background is controlled for.
Reduced Graphene Oxide Loaded with ZCF Magnetic Nanoparticles as a Promising Photocatalyst and Antibacterial Agent
Authors: Abuzeyad Osama H. , El-Khawaga Ahmed M. , Tantawy Hesham , Gobara Mohamed , Elsayed Mohamed A.
Published: November 2024

Due to waste, pollution, and unequal distribution of the world’s finite freshwater resources, there is currently a problem of water scarcity. Therefore, developing novel, affordable, and efficient techniques for water purification is essential. Here, the photo-assisted degradation of Methyl Orange dye (MO) under visible light and UV was achieved by using reduced graphene oxide (RGO) photocatalyst loaded with Zn0.5Cu0.5Fe2O4 (ZCF) called MRGO 20. Furthermore, all prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), fourier transformation infrared (FTIR), transmission electron microscope (TEM), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) and Raman analysis. After 40 minutes, the high photocatalytic efficacy effectively eliminated about 96 % of the 10 ppm MO using 20 mg of MRGO 20 NPs at pH 5 under Visible light irradiation. From the results, MRGO 20 demonstrated good performance stability after five cycles of photocatalytic degradation of MO dye. The shown performance of the generated samples in both visible and UV light may motivate further investigation into more potent photocatalysts for water filtering. MRGO 20 NPs nanocomposite displayed great activity against Gram-negative (E. coli) bacteria with a zone of inhibition (ZOI) mm value of 24.0 mm, and high biofilm inhibition of 94.3%. The produced samples’ observed efficacy in both UV and visible light may encourage continued research into more effective photocatalysts for the filtration of water and for biological applications.
Women’s Experience of Domestic Violence: A Qualitative Study in Hangzhou, China
Authors: Yuan Weiman , Kadetz Paul I. , Shen Xiaohui , Hesketh Therese
Published: November 2024

Purpose

There has been an increasing awareness of Domestic Violence (DV) in China following the announcement of the First Anti-Domestic Violence Law, in 2015 yet, there has been limited in-depth research concerning DV in China -with most focused on prevalence and risk factors. This study aims to capture female DV victims’ experience of violence in China, and identify the perceived causes and impacts of DV.

Methods

This qualitative research, conducted from June to September 2019 in Hangzhou, China, consisted of in-depth semi-structured interviews with 30 women who had experience of DV. Social cognitive theory served as the theoretical framework and Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis to analyze the data.

Results

The most common types of physical violence reported included hitting, throwing objects at women, choking, kicking, and slapping. Psychological violence consisted of insults and denigration, physical threats, and enforcement of social isolation. Sexual violence consisted of forced sexual behaviors against women’s willingness. All informants suffered physical or psychological impacts from the violence experienced. Perceived causes of DV included the perpetrator’s personality and childhood experience of violence; victims’ self-blame; conflict between couples that include those concerning raising children and household finances; family conflicts, especially with parents-in-law; social factors including rural-to-urban migration for work, social norms and constraints, and legal constraints to separation. 80% of informants reported that they still cohabit with their abusive partner.

Conclusion

Our findings provide insights into potential preventative measures for DV from individual, family, and social perspectives, and the need to de-stigmatize and support victims of DV in China.
Optimum storage temperature of a reusable radiochromic gel dosimeter composed of PVA, iodine, and silica
nanoparticles (PAISiN)
Authors: Welti Sophia E. , Miyoshi Hirokazu , Yasuda Hiroshi
Published: November 2024

A recently introduced radiochromic complex composed of polyvinyl alcohol, iodide, and silica nanoparticles named “PAISiN” has potential as an extremity dosimeter because of its easily recognizable color change and reusability. In this study, the influence of temperature on the decolorization process of PAISiN after X-ray irradiation was investigated at four different temperatures. The results indicated that the optimal storage temperature for maintaining the post-irradiation coloration status of PAISiN was judged to be 10–11 °C.
Ethical and epistemological considerations in applying moral injury (MI) concepts to refugee populations
Authors: Dehghan Roghieh
Published: November 2024

Empirical research on moral injury (MI) has rapidly evolved since 2009. Originally developed to address the moral dimensions of traumatic experiences among US veterans, MI has also found application in the context of traumatized refugees. This paper delves into the ethical and epistemological questions that arise when applying a concept originally rooted in a qualitatively distinct experience and a demographically different population to refugees. It is argued that the prevailing clinical and psychological conceptualization of MI may not adequately accommodate the unique needs and experiences of refugee populations. This examination underscores the imperative of conceptualizing to better serve the ethical and epistemic demands of refugee communities.
Transit modal complementarity: measuring the access provided by transfers
Authors: Rayaprolu Hema , Levinson David
Published: November 2024

This research investigates the interactions among transit (public transport) modes by inferring complementarity from a comparison of access provided by various transit modal combinations over a period of 160 years. A unique historical dataset of transit networks and services including buses, trains, and trams, generated for the Greater Sydney region for a period spanning from 1855 to 2015 was used. Access to population was measured for each year by 11 different modal cases formed by combinations of the three transit modes at a spatially disaggregated level as well as the regional level. The changes in access provided by the different modal cases were compared temporally and spatially to infer complementarity among the modes. Throughout the study period, trains, buses, and trams (when available) were found to be highly sub-additive at the regional level. Spatial comparison of complementarity was also demonstrated for Sydney’s Central Business District as an example. Such an investigation of access by modal combinations is a useful planning tool to ensure equitable supply and to investigate transfer benefits and penalties.
The longitudinal interplay of mothers’ and fathers’ literacy teaching and Chinese preschool children’s literacy interest and word reading abilities
Authors: Liu Catrina Cuina , Zhang Xiao , Cheung Wai Ming
Published: November 2024

This study examined the longitudinal interplay of fathers’ and mothers’ literacy teaching and children’s word reading skills and interest in literacy. A total of 194 second-year kindergarten (K2) children and their fathers and mothers in Hong Kong participated. At the three time points from K2 to K3 (i.e., the third year in kindergarten), fathers and mothers independently reported the frequency of their own literacy teaching activities. Mothers reported their children’s interest in literacy-related activities. The children were individually assessed on Chinese word reading. The results from cross-lagged panel analysis showed that the children’s prior literacy interest was associated with later frequency of parental literacy teaching, but not the other way around. No significant relations were observed between the children’s word-reading skills and the literacy teaching provided by their mothers or by their fathers. Additionally, it was the children’s earlier word reading skills that predicted their later development of literacy interest, but not vice versa. Thus, the parents seemed to adjust their home literacy teaching flexibly in response to their perceptions of their children’s literacy interest. The findings also underscore the potential importance of word reading abilities in fostering children’s literacy interest.
No Normative Output Without Normative Input? An Examination of the Argument from Deliberative Indispensability
Authors: Vesper Achim
Published: November 2024

It is a long-debated question in practical philosophy whether normative conclusions can be drawn from non-normative facts. Enoch takes sides in this controversy by denying that there can be normative output without normative input. This paper critically examines his argument from deliberative indispensability that moves from the normative indispensability of deliberation to the view that we are epistemically justified to believe that there are normative facts. I argue that the argument is defensible if some refinements are made. As I show, it further proves successful against the challenge of quasi-realism, i.e., the view that we are only internally, not externally, justified to believe that mind-independent normative facts exist.
Application of waste iron in wet flue gas desulfurization (WFGD) wastewater treatment
Authors: Ścieżyńska Dominika , Majewski Maciej , Nath Susmita , Bury Dominika , Jastrzębska Agnieszka , Bogacki Jan , Marcinowski Piotr
Published: November 2024

The wet flue gas desulfurization (WFGD) procedure results in wastewater containing a complex mixture of pollutants, including heavy metals and organic compounds, which are hardly degradable and pose significant environmental challenges. Addressing this issue, the proposed approach, incorporating waste iron shavings as a heterocatalyst within a modified Fenton process, represents a sustainable and effective solution for contaminants degrading in WFGD wastewater. Furthermore, this study aligns with the Best Available Techniques (BAT) regulations by meeting the requirement for compound oxidation—replacing the chlorine utilization with the generation of highly reactive radicals—and coagulation, which completes the treatment process. This method introduces an innovative use of waste-derived iron shavings in a BAT-compliant technology, providing a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to conventional treatments. The study focuses on process kinetics and optimization parameters, achieving approximately 48% total organic carbon (TOC) removal in 90 min at an optimal pH 3, using 1998 mgL−1 H2O2 under UV light. Analysis of variance revealed that the process efficiency depended more significantly on pH than time duration or the H2O2 dose. Catalyst’s characterization, including the use of microscopic techniques, including electron microscopy, laser diffraction, X-ray fluorescence, Raman spectroscopy, and UV spectroscopy, indicates its stability and great reusability with consistent TOC decrease across three process cycles. This research demonstrates a cost-effective, environmentally friendly approach to wastewater treatment, advancing sustainable methodologies through the repurposing of waste materials and underscoring the catalyst’s reuse potential.
Study to Determine the Nutritional Characteristics of Potato Varieties that Are Suitable for the Application of the Freeze-Drying Process
Authors: Répás Zoltán , Nagy Róbert , Polgár Zsolt Géza , Győri Zoltán
Published: November 2024

The aim of this study was to determine the nutritional values related to structural stability during the storage of freeze-dried potato cubes and investigate the colour changes that occur during boiling, freeze-drying, and rehydration, as well as the suitability of rehydration and, on the basis of this information, establish varietal characteristics suitable for the use of technology. Nine different potato varieties were analysed. Significant relationships were detected between the amount of dry matter protein and starch content and the colour and colour change values. Significant relationship was measured between the amount of protein calculated in dry matter and the structural stability and rehydration suitability of freeze-dried boiled potatoes. According to our study, the optimal varieties for freeze-dried boiled potatoes were those with high protein content in dry matter, which provided maximum structural stability during storage and optimal properties for short-term rehydration at low temperatures. Based on our study, potato varieties that are suitable for processing by freeze-drying technology can be easily selected and our study provides useful information for breeders, growers, and food processors to achieve their goals in food processing.
External validation of the performance of commercially available deep-learning-based lung nodule detection on low-dose CT images for lung cancer screening in Japan
Authors: Fukumoto Wataru , Yamashita Yuki , Kawashita Ikuo , Higaki Toru , Sakahara Asako , Nakamura Yuko , Awaya Yoshikazu , Awai Kazuo
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms for lung nodule detection have been developed to assist radiologists. However, external validation of its performance on low-dose CT (LDCT) images is insufficient. We examined the performance of the commercially available deep-learning-based lung nodule detection (DL-LND) using LDCT images at Japanese lung cancer screening (LCS).

Materials and methods

Included were 43 patients with suspected lung cancer on LDCT images and pathologically confirmed lung cancer. The reference standard for nodules whose diameter exceeded 4 mm was set by a radiologist who referred to the reports of two other radiologists reading the LDCT images. After we applied commercially available DL-LND to the LDCT images, the radiologist reviewed all nodules detected by DL-LND. When he failed to identify an existing nodule, it was also included in the reference standard. To validate the performance of DL-LND, the sensitivity for lung nodules and lung cancer, the positive-predictive value (PPV) for lung nodules, and the mean number of false-positive (FP) nodules per CT scan were recorded.

Results

The radiologist detected 97 nodules including 43 lung cancers and missed 3 solid nodules detected by DL-LND. A total of 100 nodules was included in the reference standard. DL-LND detected 396 nodules including 40 lung cancers. The sensitivity for the 100 nodules was 96.0%; the PPV was 24.2% (96/396). The mean number of FP nodules per CT scan was 7.0; sensitivity for lung cancer was 93.0% (40/43). DL-LND missed three lung cancers; 2 of these were atypical pulmonary cysts.

Conclusion

We externally verified that the sensitivity for lung nodules and lung cancer by DL-LND was very high. However, its low PPV and the increased FP nodules remains a serious drawback of DL-LND.
Actigraphy-derived multidimensional sleep health among breast cancer survivors and controls: Pink SWAN
Authors: Price Sarah N. , Crawford Sybil L. , Swanson Leslie M. , Hood Michelle M. , Avis Nancy E.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To compare breast cancer survivors (BCS) to women without breast cancer (controls) on sleep health risk factors and actigraphy-derived dimensions of sleep (duration, maintenance, timing, and regularity) and examine whether the effect of breast cancer on sleep differs by time since diagnosis.

Methods

Analyses included data from 68 BCS and 1042 controls who participated in actigraphy and Pink SWAN sub-studies within the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation. BCS and control characteristics were compared using chi-square, Fisher’s exact, and Wilcoxon rank sum tests. Sleep measures were regressed onto breast cancer status using binomial logistic and linear regression. The interaction between BCS status and years since diagnosis (< 5; ≥ 5) was tested in these models before and after covariate adjustment.

Results

There were no overall sleep differences between BCS and controls; both groups experienced poor sleep health on average across multiple dimensions. Physical inactivity, sleep apnea, and vasomotor and depressive symptoms were associated with worse sleep in both groups. Total sleep time was lower among BCS than controls within 5 years of diagnosis (6.13 vs. 6.57 h; p = .03) but did not differ at > 5 years post-diagnosis (6.59 vs. 6.45 h; p = .32). BCS reported greater use of exogenous hormones (p < .0001) and were twice as likely to have initiated anxiolytic use post-diagnosis (p = .03).

Conclusions

BCS within 5 years of diagnosis experienced shorter sleep duration than controls but did not differ on other sleep parameters. Both groups experienced poor sleep health.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

BCS and similarly-aged women experience poor sleep health requiring assessment and treatment.
Slashing the surplus – how prosumers with smart metering respond to regulatory restrictions on self-consumption in Croatia
Authors: Kesselring Anne , Seebauer Sebastian , Skardelly Sara , Svetec Erica , Nad Lucija , Pelka Sabine , Preuß Sabine
Published: November 2024

With the diffusion of prosumerism, where households act both as producers and consumers of energy, policy makers must strike a balance between encouraging microgeneration and regulating this new prosumer segment on the energy market. However, effective policy implementation depends on prosumers’ behavioural reactions. This paper provides evidence on the interplay between digital real-time information and regulation of self-consumption for rooftop photovoltaics (PV) in Croatia. Croatian households that produce more annual electricity than they consume are automatically re-classified as renewable traders, which means additional administrative duties and less favorable tax treatment. This creates perverse incentives to reduce PV generation or increase energy consumption by year-end. We document the behavioural reactions to this policy design, indicating that energy production and consumption are highly elastic regarding regulatory incentives, but only if these incentives are made transparent and accessible with timely information. We collected two survey waves (n = 54 and n = 80) and smart meter data (n = 39), which illustrate the behavioural reaction before and after year-end. According to the survey wave before year-end, almost half of the participants considered curtailing their PV output. According to the smart meter data, a sizable share did indeed take action by shutting down PV production or by powering additional devices to reduce the surplus near year-end. In a second survey wave in the new year, prosumers provide ex-post insights on the specific measures taken to reduce surplus. We discuss research insights regarding the transparency and control offered by metering feedback, and how this can influence household behaviour within regulatory frameworks.
Dark Triad, Dyad, or Core? A Psychometric Evaluation of the Short Dark Triad (SD3) Across Three Countries
Authors: Denovan Andrew , Plouffe Rachel A. , Dagnall Neil , Artamonova Elena , Kowalski Christopher Marcin , Saklofske Donald H.
Published: November 2024

Since its introduction to personality psychology literature in 2002, the study of Dark Triad personality traits has gained traction across nations. However, there exists theoretical debate regarding the empirical distinctiveness of traits. Moreover, despite universal study across countries, the Short Dark Triad (SD3) lacks validation for use in all populations. The objective of this study was to scrutinise SD3 performance across three nations, including the United Kingdom (n = 617), Canada (n = 263), and Russia (n = 1048). Specifically, factor structure and item-person functioning of the SD3 was assessed across samples. Exploratory structural equation modelling designated that a three-factor bifactor solution provided superior data-fit. In this model, SD3 items loaded on a general factor, in addition to loading on Machiavellianism, narcissism, and psychopathy dimensions. This enabled scrutiny of the degree to which SD3 items reflected a shared general dimension vs. individual subfactors. Further analyses revealed that the general factor did not possess sufficient variance to disqualify the SD3 as multidimensional. Rasch analyses focusing on the three subscales supported unidimensionality and satisfactory item fit. However, inadequate reliability existed, and items exhibited differential item functioning across nations. Although the SD3 can be considered a valid tool for capturing Dark Triad traits across countries, concerns relating to reliability and DIF suggested that revising SD3 items would enhance measurement precision.
Frozen Green Leaves as Potential Nutrient Subsidies in North American Mangrove Ecosystems
Authors: Overstreet Katelyn , Dangremond Emily M. , Feller Ilka C.
Published: November 2024

Avicennia germinans, the black mangrove, has shifted its range limit northward, and increased in abundance in the Southeastern United States. In January 2018, a 3-day freeze event caused substantial defoliation of green leaves in A. germinans near its northernmost range limit in St. Augustine, FL. During their recovery, plants that lost their leaves grew similarly to plants fertilized with nitrogen, leading to the hypothesis that freeze-killed green leaves (frozen green) may have acted as a fertilizer. To assess the value of frozen green litter as a nutrient subsidy, we performed an experiment in which A. germinans seedlings were grown in sand with green, frozen green, senescent, and control leaf litter. We measured growth response in seedlings using the following criteria: total plant height, internode elongation, and plant biomass. All litter treatments stimulated growth in seedlings to a greater extent than that of controls. Seedlings treated with frozen green leaves were at least 5 cm taller and had 0.5 cm longer internodes than those treated with senescent leaves. Seedlings grown in the green leaf treatment were 8 cm taller, on average, and internodes were 0.12 cm longer than the senescent treatment. Biomass was 0.6–0.8 g greater in seedlings treated with green or frozen green litter than in the control treatments. We also conducted a leaching experiment to compare mass loss rates. Frozen and green leaves lost more mass in the leaching experiment than senescent leaves or controls. These results support the hypothesis that green litter that freezes can act as a nutrient source within the ecosystem and spur rapid recovery from freeze damage.
Improving Work Skills in People with Disabilities in a Long-Term, In-Field Study on Robotic Tutors
Authors: Drolshagen Sandra , Pfingsthorn Max , Hein Andreas
Published: November 2024

Inclusion of people with disabilities in the open labor market using robotic assistance is a promising new and important field of research, albeit challenging. People with disabilities are severely underrepresented in the open labor market, although inclusion adds significant value on both financial and social levels. Here, collaborative industrial robots offer great potential for support. This work conducted a month-long, in-field user study in a workshop for people with disabilities to improve learning progress through collaboration with an innovative intelligent robotic tutoring system. Seven workers with a wide variety of disabilities solved assembly tasks while being supervised by the system. In case of errors or hesitations, different modes of assistance were automatically offered. Modes of assistance included robotic pointing gestures, speech prompts, and calling a supervisor. Which assistance to offer the different participants during the study was personalized by a shared policy using reinforcement learning. Here, new, non-stationary Contextual Multi-Armed Bandit algorithms were developed during the prior simulation-based study planning to include the workers contextual information. Pioneering results were obtained in three main areas. The participants significantly improved their skills in terms of time required per task. The algorithm learned within only one session per participant which modes of assistance were preferred. Finally, a comparison between simulation and re-simulation, including the study results, revealed the underlying basic assumptions to be correct but individual variation led to strong performance differences in the real-world setting. Looking ahead, the innovative system developed could pave the way for many people with disabilities to enter the open labor market.
Semiotic Analysis of Robot Sounds in Films: Implications for Sound Design in Social Robotics
Authors: Latupeirissa Adrian B. , Murdeshwar Akshata , Bresin Roberto
Published: November 2024

This paper investigates the sound design of robots in films and their potential influence on the field of social robotics. Cinematic robot portrayals have inspired researchers and practitioners in Human-Robot Interaction (HRI). While the non-verbal sounds of iconic film robots like R2-D2 and Wall-E have been explored, this study takes a more comprehensive approach. We explore a broader selection of 15 films featuring humanoid robots across decades through a semiotic analysis of their non-verbal communication sounds, including those related to movements and internal mechanisms . Informed by Bateman and Schmidt’s multimodal film analysis framework, which draws on Saussure’s organization of signs through paradigmatic and syntagmatic relations, our analysis interprets the paradigmatic axis as an examination of the sound and the syntagmatic axis as an exploration of the events surrounding the sound. The findings uncover two primary film robot sound materials: mechanical and synthetic. Furthermore, the analysis revealed several narrative themes, categorized into two groups based on the syntagmatic focus: sounds associated with the robots’ visual appearances and sounds linked to the broader elements within the scene. The discussion section explores the implications of these findings for social robotics, including the importance of sound materials, the role of movement sounds in communication and emotional expression, and the significance of narrative and context in human-robot interaction. The paper also acknowledges the challenges in translating film sound design into practical applications in social robotics. This study provides valuable insights for HRI researchers, practitioners, and sound designers seeking to enhance non-verbal auditory expressions in social robots.
SARS-CoV-2 RNA Presence in Outdoor Air of Public Spaces in Valladolid During Winter, 2021
Authors: da Silva Priscilla Gomes , Gonçalves José , Rodriguéz Elisa , García-Encina Pedro A. , Nascimento Maria São José , Sousa Sofia I. V. , Mesquita João R.
Published: November 2024

As SARS-CoV-2 continues to evolve and herd immunity establishes, an increasing number of asymptomatic infections have been reported, increasing the risk of airborne spread of the virus. Most of the studies regarding SARS-CoV-2 RNA presence in air refer to indoor environments, with few studies having reported SARS-CoV-2 RNA in outdoor air. The aim of this study was to assess the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA at two different settings, crowded outdoor versus empty outdoor environments in Valladolid, Spain, during winter 2021. Using a Coriolis® air sampler, samples were taken from nine different locations within the city center. RNA extraction and a one-step RT-qPCR were carried out. Six out of the 20 air samples were found to be positive, and they were all obtained from crowded outdoor environments. These results highlight that although in less quantity, SARS-CoV-2 RNA is still present in outdoor air, especially at moments of relaxed mitigation efforts and depending on the number of people present.
Design, manufacturing, and assembly of the GRASS small body gravimeter spring
Authors: Noeker Matthias , Ritter Birgit , Van Ransbeeck Emiel , Karatekin Özgür
Published: November 2024

The GRAvimeter for small Solar System bodies (GRASS) is a novel spring-based gravimeter for the application in extremely low-gravity environments on small bodies in our Solar System. It is one of the Juventas CubeSat payloads as part of the ESA Hera mission to measure the surface gravity on the asteroid moon Dimorphos. The GRASS gravimeter was successfully launched on-board Hera on 7 October 2024. Key element of this instrument is the gravimeter spring, a cantilever-type bending spring, allowing for measurements at arbitrary instrument orientation. This paper presents the design, manufacturing, and integration of the developed sensing element assembly. The spring design can serve as a future reference for data analysis of the gravimeter data obtained in-situ on extraterrestrial surfaces. The manufacturing process is detailed, including the raw material, laser cutting, heat treatment, and gold sputtering. The step-by-step assembly describes the integration of the spring assembly which includes the clamping of the spring and the tip mass, added to the spring to realise larger deflections and henceforth increase the sensitivity of the instrument for the small body gravity environment.
Stable Isotope Ratio and Elemental Analysis (CNS) in Mangrove Leaves in the Creek Ecosystem: An Indicator of Coastal Marine Pollution
Authors: Yadav V. B. , Dutta Moushumi D. , Pulhani Vandana A. , Kumar A. Vinod
Published: November 2024

The stable isotopes ratio and elemental composition in the mangrove leaves are excellent indicators for coastal marine pollution. The present study investigated the composition of Carbon, Nitrogen, and Sulfur, δ13C and δ15N values in mangrove leaves to identify the source of pollution and energy to the mangroves in the creek ecosystem of Mumbai Harbour Bay. The oxygen and hydrogen stable isotope ratios (δ18O and δ2H) of leaf water were estimated to understand the relative contribution of freshwater and seawater to the mangrove's water source. The Carbon, Nitrogen and Sulfur contents were found to vary from 37.79 to 42.55% (Average: 40.06 ± 1.54%), 2.13–3.79% (Average: 2.94 ± 0.45%) and 0.37–0.81% (Average: 0.53 ± 0.14%) in the mangrove leaves, respectively. The δ13C and δ15N values were found to vary from − 30.43 to − 28.41‰ (Average: − 29.46 ± 0.74‰) and from − 2.67 to 5.54‰ (Average: 2.21 ± 3.20%), respectively. The δ18O and δ2H values were found to vary from − 2.7 to 0.83‰ and − 6.86 to 5.43‰ with an average of − 0.94 ± 0.83 and − 2.03 ± 3.52‰ respectively. According to the observed δ18O and δ2H values, mangroves in the northern part had a relatively higher contribution of freshwater input compared to southern part of the study area. The lower values of δ15N towards the northern end of the creek indicate a relatively higher contribution of nitrogen from industrial discharges. Similar values of δ13C in mangrove in the region suggest a common source of carbon. Mangroves found near discharge locations have different elemental composition and δ15N values compared to those mangroves that are not located near discharge location. These differences can be used as potential markers to identify the coastal marine pollution. The results of the present study may be used for developing rational approaches for protection and conservation of the mangrove ecosystem in the bay.
Incorporating Phenology to Estimate Species’ Population Trends from Snapshot Citizen-Science Data
Authors: Dennis Emily B. , Morgan Byron J. T. , Harrower Colin A. , Bourn Nigel A. D. , Fox Richard
Published: November 2024

Citizen-science data are increasingly used to contribute to our understanding of biodiversity change, but analysing such data requires suitable statistical methods, often to deal with forms of bias. We develop a new approach for modelling data from a snapshot, mass-participation citizen-science scheme for UK butterflies, the Big Butterfly Count (BBC). Butterfly abundance varies throughout the year as one or more generations of each species emerge and die off, and the timing (phenology) of emergences varies annually due to weather and climate. Thus, counts from the short 3-week BBC sampling period are susceptible to bias due to this inter-annual variation in phenology. We adapt the Generalised Abundance Index, drawing upon phenology estimates from standardised monitoring scheme data, to account for phenological bias in the estimation of species’ abundance trends from BBC data. The method is demonstrated via application to empirical and simulated data, revealing that not accounting for phenology leads to biased trend estimates, particularly for summer-flying single-generation species. Drawing upon phenology information, the new approach allows for the reporting of abundance trends from a snapshot citizen-science scheme, creating the potential to maximise available data sources to increase our understanding of changes in butterfly populations, particularly in urban environments.
Counteracting Effect of Sn Grain Orientation on Current Crowding in Electromigration Failures of Solder Joints
Authors: Yao Yifan , Lu Zhunan , An Yuxuan , Tu K. N. , Liu Yingxia
Published: November 2024

Electromigration (EM) failure in solder joints is a persistent reliability concern, especially in advanced electronic packaging structures. In this study, we conducted an EM experiment on solder joints with asymmetric under-bump-metallization (UBM) thicknesses. Open failure occurred at the solder joint with no current crowding effect but the highest atomic flux of EM, which is related to Sn grain orientation. Our work tries to reveal a counteracting effect of Sn grain orientation on current crowding and the essential reason for the EM failure mechanism of solder joints.

Graphical Abstract
The Skin-Lightening Power of Tirbanibulin 1% Ointment
Authors: Li Pomi Federica , d’Aloja Andrea , Rottura Michelangelo , Vaccaro Mario , Borgia Francesco
Published: November 2024

Background

Tirbanibulin 1% ointment has been licensed to treat non-hyperkeratotic actinic keratosis (AK) on the face and scalp in adults. Recent evidence suggests that, besides the antineoplastic effect, tirbanibulin may also confer substantial cosmetic benefits to patients.

Methods

We report a single-center retrospective study of patients affected by solar lentigines (SLs) and AKs in the context of field cancerization treated with tirbanibulin 1% ointment.

Results

Among 42 patients, 35% (n = 15) experienced complete clearance of SLs, while partial clearance was observed in 50% (n = 21) of patients. Regarding AKs, complete and partial clearance were observed in 52% (n = 22) and 40% (n = 17) of patients, respectively. Major study limitations are the small sample size and the absence of a control group.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that tirbanibulin 1% ointment may offer the dual benefit of treating AKs while simultaneously lightening aesthetically bothersome and difficult-to-treat lesions like SLs with just 5 days of application.
Strengthening and embrittlement mechanisms in laser-welded additively manufactured Inconel 718 superalloy
Authors: Hamada Atef , Ghosh Sumit , Rautio Timo , Jaskari Matias , Abd-Elaziem Walaa , Järvenpää Antti
Published: November 2024

Although laser-welded additively manufactured Inconel 718 joints find numerous high-temperature industrial applications, their strengthening and embrittlement mechanisms remain underexplored. To bridge this gap, we herein prepared such joints by the laser welding of the as-built material (built-LW), laser welding of double-aging heat-treated as-built material (DAT-LW), and double-aging heat treatment of laser-welded as-built material (LW-DAT). The microstructures of the joint fusion zones (FZs) were examined using scanning electron microscopy (electron backscatter diffraction and secondary electron imaging), while nanoscale features were probed by transmission electron microscopy, and mechanical properties were evaluated using microindentation hardness (HIT) measurements and tensile tests. The FZs of the built-LW and DAT-LW joints contained no strengthening precipitates, such as the Laves phase and γ′ and γ″ nanoparticles. In stark contrast, the FZ of the LW-DAT joint contained spherical nanoparticles of the γ′ and γ″ phases responsible for precipitation hardening. The DAT-LW joint displayed base metal (BM) strengthening and FZ softening (HIT = 6.47 and 3.6 GPa, respectively), whereas the LW-DAT joint demonstrated BM and FZ strengthening (HIT = 6.2 and 6.5 GPa, respectively). The built-LW joint exhibited the lowest ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of 833 MPa, primarily because of the absence of strengthening precipitates. The DAT-LW joint, despite experiencing FZ softening, exhibited a higher UTS of 1086 MPa and a limited elongation of 2%, while the LW-DAT joint featured the highest UTS of 1440 MPa, primarily because of the enhancement of nanosized γ′ and γ″ strengthening phases facilitated by postwelding double-aging heat treatment.
Functionally graded material for improved wear resistance manufactured by directed energy deposition
Authors: Marquardt R. , Biegler M. , Rethmeier M.
Published: November 2024

Protecting components against wear and corrosion is a common way to improve their lifetime. This can be achieved by coating them with a hardfacing material. Common coatings consist of materials such as tungsten carbide or cobalt-chromium alloys, also known as Stellite. Hardfacing materials can be deposited by welding methods like plasma welding or laser cladding. The discrete change of the base material to the hardfacing layer can lead to cracks and chipping. Studies showed a reduced risk of cracking when a functionally graded material is used to create a smooth transition between the base and the hardfacing. Gradings from austenitic steel to cobalt-chromium alloys are already known in the literature. However, there is no knowledge about austenitic- ferritic duplex steels as base material. Therefore, this study aims to demonstrate the feasibility of a functionally graded material from duplex steel to cobalt-chromium alloy with a new approach. By using powder-based directed energy deposition, a graded material with smooth material transition is manufactured additively. Cracking and porosity are examined through metallography. Microhardness measurements as well as the analysis of the chemical composition by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray fluorescence are used to validate the build-up strategy.
Symbolic Policy
Authors: Boussaguet Laurie , Faucher Florence
Published: November 2024

Symbols are everywhere in politics. Yet, they tended to be overlooked in the study of public policy. This book shows how they play an important role in the policy process, in shaping citizens' representations thanks to their ability to combine meanings and to stimulate emotional reactions. We use crisis management as a lens through which we analyse this symbolic dimension, and we focus on two case studies (governmental responses to the Covid-19 crisis in Europe in 2020 and to terrorist attacks in France in 2015). We show how the symbolic enables leaders to claim legitimacy for themselves and their decisions, and foster feelings of reassurance, solidarity and belonging. All politicians use the symbolic, whether consciously or otherwise, but what they choose to do varies and is affected by timing, the existence of national repertoires of symbolic actions and the personas of leaders.
Afro-Brazilian Religions
Authors: Porcher José Eduardo
Published: November 2024

This Element introduces Afro-Brazilian religions and underscores the necessity for an expanded methodological framework to encompass these traditions in the philosophy of religion. It emphasizes the importance of incorporating overlooked sources like mythic narratives and ethnographies while acknowledging the pivotal role of material culture in cognitive processes. Furthermore, it advocates for adopting an embodiment paradigm to facilitate the development of a philosophy of religious practice. The Element illustrates this approach by examining phenomena often neglected in philosophical discussions on religion, such as sacrifice and spirit possession, and delves into the ontological commitments and implications of these practices. It also stresses the significance of employing thick descriptions and embracing interdisciplinary dialogue to cultivate a globally inclusive philosophy of religion, capable of engaging with phenomena frequently sidelined within the mainstream.
Discourse and Ideologies of the Radical Right
Authors: van Dijk Teun A.
Published: November 2024

There has been much scholarly attention for the radical right, especially in political science. Unfortunately, this research pays less attention to the discourse of the radical right, a topic especially studied by scholars in discourse studies. Especially lacking in this research in various disciplines is a theoretically based analysis of ideology. This Element first summarizes the authors theory of ideology and extends it with a new element needed to account for the ideological clusters of political parties. Then a systematic analysis is presented of the discourses and ideologies of radical right parties in Chile, Spain, the Netherlands and Sweden. From a comparative perspective it is concluded that radical right discourse and ideologies adapt to the economic, cultural, sociopolitical and historical contexts of each country.
Radial Anisotropy of the Crust and Uppermost Mantle Beneath the Central North China Craton From Joint Inversion of Surface Wave Dispersion Curves and Ellipticity: Implications for the Mechanisms of Differential Rifting and Uplift
Authors: Xu Hongrui , Luo Yinhe , Cheng Tianjian , Feng Jikun , Qi Qiaomu , Wang Hu , Gan Baoping , Liu Zepeng , Sun Shida
Published: November 2024

The central North China Craton (NCC) acts as a transition zone between the stable western and reworked eastern NCC. It is characterized by high seismic activity and experienced volcanic activity with small magma volumes. To assess the dynamic processes of the central NCC, particularly in a zone marked by intense differential tectonic deformation, we have obtained a 3‐D radial anisotropic model of crust and uppermost mantle via joint inversion of Love‐ and Rayleigh‐wave dispersion curves and ellipticity measurements. Compared to models without Rayleigh‐wave ellipticity, our new model shows improved accuracy in crustal radial anisotropy. This refined model reveals two noteworthy geological features: (a) Most of the Shanxi Rift has pronounced positive radial anisotropy in the crust except for Linfen and Xinding Basins, as critical earthquake‐prone areas, which are characterized by weak positive to negative anisotropy with much thinner sediments. This observation suggests that differential rifting processes with uneven sedimentation and crustal deformation occur in these Cenozoic basins due to right‐lateral strike slip motion. (b) The crust in the Lvliang Mountains shows weak positive or negative anisotropy with a lower crustal low‐velocity layer beneath the northern parts, whereas the crust in the Taihang Mountains exhibits positive anisotropy. This implies that the Lvliang Mountains experienced uplift under compressional environments since the Yanshanion Orogeny. Furthermore, the magmatic underplating in the crust accelerated the uplift of the northern Lvliang Mountains. In contrast, the Taihang Mountains underwent relative uplift under extensional environments, along with the subsidence of the Bohai Bay Basin during the Cenozoic.