bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deformed solutions of the Yang–Baxter equation associated to dual weak braces
Authors: Mazzotta Marzia , Rybołowicz Bernard , Stefanelli Paola
Published: September 2024

A recent method for acquiring new solutions of the Yang–Baxter equation involves deforming the classical solution associated with a skew brace. In this work, we demonstrate the applicability of this method to a dual weak brace $$\left( S,+,\circ \right) $$

S
,
+
,
∘

and prove that all elements generating deformed solutions belong precisely to the set $$\mathcal {D}_r(S)=\{z \in S \mid \forall a,b \in S \, \, (a+b) \circ z = a\circ z-z+b \circ z\}$$

D
r

(
S
)

=

{
z
∈
S
∣
∀
a
,
b
∈
S

(
a
+
b
)

∘
z
=
a
∘
z
-
z
+
b
∘
z
}

, which we term the distributor of S. We show it is a full inverse subsemigroup of $$\left( S, \circ \right) $$

S
,
∘

and prove it is an ideal for certain classes of braces. Additionally, we express the distributor of a brace S in terms of the associativity of the operation $$\cdot $$
·
, with $$\circ $$
∘
representing the circle or adjoint operation. In this context, $$(\mathcal {D}_r(S),+,\cdot )$$

(

D
r

(
S
)

,
+
,
·
)

constitutes a Jacobson radical ring contained within S. Furthermore, we explore parameters leading to non-equivalent solutions, emphasizing that even deformed solutions by idempotents may not be equivalent. Lastly, considering S as a strong semilattice $$[Y, B_\alpha , \phi _{\alpha ,\beta }]$$

[
Y
,

B
α

,

ϕ

α
,
β

]

of skew braces $$B_\alpha $$

B
α

, we establish that a deformed solution forms a semilattice of solutions on each skew brace $$B_\alpha $$

B
α

if and only if the semilattice Y is bounded by an element 1 and the deforming element z lies in $$B_1$$

B
1

.
Disability during the last ten years of life: evidence from a register-based study in Austria
Authors: Stolz Erwin , Schultz Anna , Zuschnegg Julia , Großschädl Franziska , Dorner Thomas E. , Roller-Wirnsberger Regina , Freidl Wolfgang
Published: September 2024

Analyses of late-life disability based on survey data of the oldest old often suffer from non-representative samples due to selective participation and attrition. Here, we use register data on the Austrian long-term care allowance (ALTCA) as a proxy for late-life disability. In this retrospective mortality follow-back study, we analyze receipt of ALTCA, a universal cash benefit based on physician-assessed disability in activities of daily living during the last 10 years of life, among all decedents aged 65 years and over from 2020 in Austria (n = 76,781) and its association with sex, age at death, and underlying cause of death. We find that on average, ALTCA was received for 3.5 and 5.3 years in men and women. At 10 years before death, 10% of men and 25% of women received ALTCA, which increased to 56% and 77% at one year before death. Both the probability and duration of ALTCA increased with age at death and varied by cause of death: Those who died from cancer, myocardial infarction, and external causes of death were less likely to receive ALTCA and for shorter durations, while those who died from dementia, Parkinson’s disease, chronic heart disease, or chronic lung disease were more likely to receive it and longer so. Overall, our register-based estimates of the prevalence of late-life disability were higher than previous survey-based estimates. Policy-makers should be aware that costs of long-term care will rise as life expectancy rises and deaths from dementia and chronic heart disease will likely increase in the rapidly aging European societies.
Co-design: From Understanding to Prototyping an Adaptive Learning Technology to Enhance Self-regulated Learning
Authors: Mejeh Mathias , Sarbach Livia
Published: September 2024

Self-regulated learning (SRL) is an important aspect of successful knowledge acquisition. Adaptive learning technology (ALT) is a form of educational technology that can improve SRL by offering learners personalized and timely support. Despite the potential of ALT to support SRL, its integration into schools’ pedagogical practices remains a challenge. To address this challenge, this study took a co-design approach to develop and implement an ALT in an upper secondary school over three phases. In the exploration phase, we collected and analyzed qualitative data from structured interviews (n = 14) and group discussions (n = 7) with students and teachers. In the defining phase, we identified problem areas of ALT through a co-design group and formulated suggestions for developments. These suggestions were integrated into the ALT in the shaping phase. The findings showed that the co-design process facilitated better incorporation of the needs of students and teachers into the development of the ALT. Direct integration of user perceptions and descriptions strengthened the connection between ALT and SRL while enhancing the tool’s adaptability. Not all suggestions from the co-design group could be implemented into the ALT. In the future, more attention should be given to understanding the interfaces between different groups of actors in the co-design process, particularly in K-12 education contexts.
Equine-Assisted Short-Term Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and the Role of Personality Functioning, Emphasizing Self-Control and Identity integration
Authors: Kovács Géza , van Dijke Annemiek , Leontjevas Roeslan , Enders-Slegers Marie-José
Published: September 2024

Patients with maladaptive personality functioning often experience poorer outcomes in psychotherapy. However, little is known about the role of personality functioning in animal-assisted psychotherapy. This study examines the role of personality functioning in Equine-assisted short-term Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (ESTPP) for adults with intrapsychic and interpersonal problems (N = 92), comparing it to treatment-as-usual (TAU, N = 107) using an exploratory non-randomized pre- and post-treatment design. We assessed psychological dysfunction and personality domains, including self-control, identity integration, responsibility, relational capacities, and social concordance, while also exploring the impact of therapeutic alliance on outcomes. Despite higher psychological dysfunction scores in ESTPP participants, linear mixed models demonstrated significant improvement in psychological dysfunction in both conditions. Higher levels of personality domains were associated with lower psychological dysfunction in ESTPP, except for self-control. However, higher baseline scores of self-control and identity integration were linked to weaker improvement in psychological dysfunction in both conditions, with ESTPP showing less improvement in identity integration. The therapeutic alliance did not significantly influence the outcomes. While ESTPP may benefit highly distressed patients, those with severe personality problems might require additional support, particularly in self-control and identity integration. This underscores the significance of exploring personality functioning to enhance therapy outcomes. Further research and application of ESTPP is warranted.
Intentional scaffolding of advising, mentoring, and wise intervention programming in the 1st year experience promotes student resilience in the face of a global pandemic: a case study of STEM student responses to college and COVID-19 stressors
Authors: Zorwick M. Leslie Wade , Kinoshita Veronica , Lassiter-Counts Leigh , Moran Matthew , MacDonald Laura
Published: September 2024

In this research, we assessed the impacts of participation in a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Scholars community built around the scaffolding of multiple strategies that fostered belonging and integrated the use of wise psychological interventions to enhance the experiences of college students who belong to groups that have been historically underrepresented in STEM. Wise interventions are small, psychological strategies that have been demonstrated to have a profound positive impact on student experiences and success in academic contexts. We found evidence that our STEM Scholars community encouraged the development of growth mindsets, helped our students experience meaningful inclusion and belonging in college, and facilitated students’ ability to connect their personal values and academic work. We also saw strong evidence that the structures we placed as part of their 1st year experience contributed to our students’ resilience in the face of the stressors caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
‘Bad Jobs’ in Europe: Derivation and Analysis of a Wellbeing-Related Job Quality Threshold
Authors: Green Francis , Lee Sangwoo
Published: September 2024

A method is proposed for defining the threshold of a ‘bad job’, based on a discontinuity in the relationship between a composite index of job quality and subjective wellbeing. Applied to European data, there is a monotonic relationship between the job quality index and psychological wellbeing. However, there is a distinctly large increase in psychological wellbeing, and in several measures of work-related wellbeing, between workers in the lowest decile and those in the second lowest decile of job quality. We therefore propose that ‘bad jobs’ should be designated as those in lowest decile. Using this threshold gives a ‘bad jobs’/ ‘other jobs’ dichotomy that discriminates on wellbeing far better than definitions based only on low earnings and job insecurity. Using multi-level probit analysis, we find that bad jobs are more common in poorer countries and in countries with weaker labour regulation. Three findings differentiate the distributional pattern of bad jobs from that of low-earnings jobs: first, the prevalence of bad jobs is greater in large establishments; second, there is no gender gap in the prevalence of bad jobs; third, working in the private sector raises the chance of being in a bad job but not of being in a low earnings job.
Neuroimaging evaluations of olfactory, gustatory, and neurological deficits in patients with long-term sequelae of COVID-19
Authors: Masala Carla , Porcu Michele , Orofino Gianni , Defazio Giovanni , Pinna Ilenia , Solla Paolo , Ercoli Tommaso , Suri Jasjit S. , Spinato Giacomo , Saba Luca
Published: September 2024

The World Health Organization indicated that around 36 million of patients in the European Region showed long COVID associated with olfactory and gustatory deficits. The precise mechanism underlying long COVID clinical manifestations is still debated. The aim of this study was to evaluate potential correlations between odor threshold, odor discrimination, odor identification, and the activation of specific brain areas in patients after COVID-19. Sixty subjects, 27 patients (15 women and 12 men) with long COVID and a mean age of 40.6 ± 13.4 years, were compared to 33 age-matched healthy controls (20 women and 13 men) with a mean age of 40.5 ± 9.8 years. Our data showed that patients with long COVID symptoms exhibited a significant decrease in odor threshold, odor discrimination, odor identification, and their sum TDI score compared to age-matched healthy controls. In addition, our results indicated significant correlations between odor discrimination and the increased activation in the right hemisphere, in the frontal pole, and in the superior frontal gyrus. This study indicated that the resting-state fMRI in combination with the objective evaluation of olfactory and gustatory function may be useful for the evaluation of patients with long COVID associated with anosmia and hyposmia.
Linking financial ecosystem and the growth of young SMEs: evidence from Spanish regions
Authors: Vega-Pascual Manuela , di Pietro Filippo , Palacín-Sánchez María-José , Alfalla-Luque Rafaela
Published: September 2024

This study analyses the effect of the financial ecosystem on the growth of young firms at the regional level. This subject is relatively new in entrepreneurial finance research since most of the previous studies have failed to consider all the alternative sources of external financing to which young firms have access. This study highlights the relevance of alternative resources and actors in the financial environment beyond traditional banks, such as crowdfunding, business angels, peer-to-peer lending, accelerators, incubators and venture capital. Specifically, our research incorporates a proxy of the development of the financial ecosystem based on survey data from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM). Moreover, our investigation uses a sample of young small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) representing every Spanish region between 2008 and 2015. The empirical analysis applies panel data methodology. The results show that the growth of young enterprises depends on developing a regional financial ecosystem, evidencing that better access to external finance favours the growth of young firms. This relationship is even more relevant among early-stage firms, which suggests that firm age moderates the relationship between the regional financial ecosystem and the growth of young SMEs.
Efficient Combustion of the Fixed Coal Layer in an Advanced Combustion Chamber Design for Low-Power Boilers
Authors: Kudasheva A. B. , Khazimov M. Zh. , Niyazbayev A. K. , Tursynzhanova A. A. , Borsikbayeva A. B. , Urmashev B. A. , Gorburov V. D. , Khazimov K. M.
Published: September 2024

In the long term, coal will remain a competitive resource in the thermal power sector, primarily due to its abundant global reserves and low costs. Despite numerous factors, including significant environmental concerns, the global share of coal power generation has remained at 40% over the past four decades. Efficient and clean coal combustion is a high priority wherever coal is used as a fuel. An improved low-power boiler design has been proposed to enhance efficiency during fixed-bed coal combustion. This design reduces harmful emissions into the atmosphere by optimizing parameters and operating modes. In this study, mathematical modeling of gas velocity and temperature distribution during fixed-bed coal combustion was conducted for a conventional grate system and an improved grate-free system. Experimental methods were employed to develop descriptive airflow models in the fixed coal layer, considering nozzle diameter and air supply pressure in the furnace chamber without a grate system. Comparative evaluations of fixed-bed coal combustion rates were performed using an experimental laboratory setup with both grate and grate-free stove systems.
Zur Konstruktion der EU als Wertegemeinschaft in der deutschen Öffentlichkeit
Authors: Wallaschek Stefan
Published: September 2024

Die EU wird gemeinhin als Wertegemeinschaft verstanden. Die geteilte Wertebasis gerät zunehmend unter Druck wie politische Auseinandersetzungen in Polen oder Ungarn zeigen. Weniger bekannt ist jedoch, wie die EU als Wertegemeinschaft diskursiv in der Öffentlichkeit konstruiert wird. Der vorliegende Beitrag baut auf der Forschung zu mediatisierten Wertekonflikten, Wertewandel in Europa und Werteframing auf und schlägt eine neue Wertetypologie vor, die Werte als institutionalistisch, individualistisch und kollektivistisch klassifiziert. Daran anknüpfend wird der öffentliche Diskurs über die EU als Wertegemeinschaft in sieben deutschen Printmedien im Zeitraum 2019 bis 2021 anhand einer quantitativen und qualitativen Inhaltsanalyse untersucht. Im ersten Schritt wird gefragt, welche Werte im Diskurs gemeinsam auftreten. Dabei zeigt sich eine Fokussierung auf Rechtsstaatlichkeit und Demokratie als primäre Werte und Freiheit und Solidarität als sekundäre Werte. Im zweiten Schritt werden sechs frames herausgearbeitet, die die EU als Wertegemeinschaft konstruieren. Der Diskurs ist krisen-inhärent, da er die Wertediskussion mit Krisen wie der COVID-19 Pandemie oder mit der Krise um das europäische Migrationsregime verbindet. Zudem lässt sich eine Gefahr von innen durch populistische Parteien und autoritäre Tendenzen in EU-Mitgliedsstaaten von der Gefahr von außen unterscheiden. Letztere dient als werte-orientierte Abgrenzung zu anderen Staaten wie Russland und China. Frames, die die Einigkeit der EU sowie die EU als Friedensprojekt betonen, sind schwächer im Diskurs vertreten. Die Arbeit trägt zu einem besseren Verständnis der EU als Wertegemeinschaft bei und welche Werte ihr in der öffentlichen Debatte in Deutschland zugeschrieben werden.
The emergence of large flake-based Acheulian technology: perspective from the highland site-complex of Melka Wakena, Ethiopia
Authors: Gossa Tegenu , Hovers Erella
Published: September 2024

Isaac GL (1969) proposed that Large Cutting Tools (LCTs) made on large flake blanks detached from giant/boulder cores are the key technological variable that distinguishes the Acheulian from the Oldowan. The production of large flake blanks was initially observed in the earliest records of the Acheulian technology in Africa ca. 1.75 Ma, subsequently becoming a technological feature of many sites across eastern Africa. Still, the mode and tempo of evolution of the large flake-based Acheulian technology remains poorly understood. Here we report on the large flake-based Acheulian assemblage at locality MW5 in the Melka Wakena site-complex, chronologically constrained between 1.37 and 1.34 Ma. At the site-complex level we note that aspects related to small flake production remain relatively unchanged since ~ 1.6 Ma. Secondary modification of small flakes by retouch remained marginal and there is only a slight increase in the frequency of structured reduction of cores, compared to the earlier 1.6 Ma assemblage. In contrast, the MW5 lithic assemblages inform of the diachronic shift of lithic techno-economy into a large flake-based LCTs technology. This shift is characterized by: (1) A highly selective use of a specific raw material (glassy ignimbrite) for the production of large flake blanks; (2) transport of prepared large flake blanks from relatively distant sources into the sites as part of a spatially and temporally fragmented reduction sequence; (3) improved know-how of large flake production, (4) the introduction of the Kombewa technology; (5) a unified technological concept for the production of handaxes and cleavers, diverging only in the specific decisions determining their final shape parameters. Taken together, these trends indicate changes in techno-economic strategies related to LCT production, including higher levels of pre-planning in the raw material acquisition stage and higher investment in controlling the morphometric properties of the artifacts.
Force generation and resistance in human mitosis
Authors: Caldwell Colleen C. , Clement Tinka V. M. , Wuite Gijs J. L.
Published: September 2024

Since the first observations of chromosome segregation over 150 years ago, efforts to observe the forces that drive mitosis have evolved alongside advances in microscopy. The mitotic spindle acts as the major generator of force through the highly regulated polymerization and depolymerization of microtubules as well as associated motor proteins. Centromeric chromatin, along with associated proteins including cohesin and condensin, is organized to resist these forces and ensure accurate chromosome segregation. Microtubules and centromeric chromatin join at the kinetochore, a complex protein superstructure. Ongoing research into the forces generated at the kinetochore-microtubule interface has resulted in a range of estimates for forces necessary to separate chromosomes, from tens to hundreds of piconewtons. Still, the exact magnitude and regulation of these forces remain areas of continuing investigation. Determining the precise forces involved in chromosome segregation is hindered by limitations of current measurement techniques, but advances such as optical tweezers combined with fluorescence microscopy are promising for future research.
Study of the optical and structural properties of copper nanoparticles prepared via the electrochemical technique
Authors: Mohammed Mohammed Shareef , Kadhim Seenaa Essa
Published: September 2024

In the current study, copper nanoparticles (np-Cus) are produced on an ITO-coated glass substrate using an affordable, template-free electrochemical method using copper sulfate (CuSO4·5H2O) as a complexing agent. It has been found that the current density had a significant impact on regulating the formation of nanocrystals during electrodeposition. By carefully adjusting the electrolyte concentration in this process, copper nanoparticles of various sizes and densities were created by altering the current density. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy techniques were used to analyze the morphological.Structural evolution of copper nanoparticles as they were initially created. Structural analysis revealed the face centered cubic (fcc) crystal structure of copper. Nanoparticles grown along the preferential (111) growth orientation and crystallinity of the thin layer deposited at 1.6 mAcm−2 is improved compared to the thin layers deposited at 0.8 and 0.5 mAcm−2.The roughly 512 nm-sized, regular, homogenous, and very dense copper nanoparticles were produced directly on an ITO-coated glass substrate. The optical properties of Cu nanoparticles are strongly affected by localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR). UV–visible analysis shows that the maximum surface plasmon peak of np-Cus generated at 1.6 mAcm−2 appears near 366 nm. The thin films around 550 nm are significantly higher compared to other thin films deposited at deposition current densities of 0.8 and 0.5 mAcm−2. Surface roughness was characterized by atomic force microscopy (AFM), in the field of catalysis. In environmental remediation, copper nanoparticles are expected to become an excellent alternative and play a vital role.
Highly dispersive optical solitons with polarization-mode dispersion for polynomial law of self-phase modulation
Authors: Alngar Mohamed E. M. , Shohib Reham. M. A. , Yıldırım Yakup , Hussein Layth , Jawad Anwar Ja’afar Mohamad , Moshokoa Seithuti P. , Biswas Anjan
Published: September 2024

This paper recovers highly dispersive 1-soliton solutions with differential group delay and having polynomial law of self-phase modulation structure. Two integration approaches have made this retrieval possible. They are the extended auxiliary equation method and Kudryashov’s algorithm. Together, these yielded a full spectrum of 1-soliton solutions along with their respective parameter constraints that are also presented.
Effect of biochar application on physiochemical properties and nitrate degradation rate in a Siliciclastic Riverine Sandy soil
Authors: Alessandrino Luigi
Published: September 2024

This study investigated the efficacy of biochar as a soil amendment for enhancing soil physicochemical properties and solute transport dynamics, with implications for agricultural sustainability and environmental stewardship. Batch laboratory experiments and column studies were conducted to assess the effects of biochar application on soil parameters and solute transport under saturated conditions. The saturation soil extraction approach was employed in batch leaching tests, while column experiments replicated subsurface conditions. Transport modeling using CXTFIT 2.1 elucidated solute dispersion dynamics in biochar-amended soils. Batch experiments revealed significant alterations in soil pH, electrical conductivity, and nutrient release following biochar addition. Biochar exhibited adsorption capacity for fluoride ions and released dissolved organic carbon, highlighting its potential for soil carbon sequestration and microbial activity. Column studies demonstrated enhanced solute dispersion and increased microbial activity in biochar-amended soils, as evidenced by changes in breakthrough curves and degradation rates of nitrate. Indeed, nitrate first-order degradation coefficients were 9.08E-06 for the column with only sandy soil, 3.09E-05 and 1.47E-04 for the columns with minimum and maximum doses of biochar respectively. Biochar application significantly influenced soil physicochemical properties and solute transport dynamics, with potential implications for nutrient management and contaminant attenuation in agricultural systems. Despite limitations in laboratory-scale experiments, this research provides valuable insights into biochar-soil interactions. It underscores the need for further investigation under field conditions to validate findings and optimize biochar management practices for sustainable soil and environmental management.
Formulation and characterization of reduced fat muffins using a plant based fat replacer
Authors: Ahsan Mehak , Moin Abeera , Ashraf Humaira , Khan Alvina , Giuffrè Angelo Maria
Published: September 2024

Obesity and associated health alarms have encouraged increased awareness in developing healthier food alternatives, such as low-fat bakery products. This study explores a sustainable plant-based approach to formulate low-fat muffins by partially replacing butter with sago flour at levels of 25, 37, and 50% (w/w). The research designed to assess the physicochemical and pasting properties of wheat-sago flour composites and their impact on the texture, color, post-baking attributes, and sensory characteristics of the muffins. Results presented that the ash content of the fat-reduced muffins significantly improved, increasing from 1.08 to 3.09%. Sago concentration significantly affected solvent retention, swelling, sedimentation properties, pasting temperature, and both peak and breakdown viscosities. At 50% fat replacement, the muffins exhibited increased density and firmness, measuring 32.67 N, compared to full-fat and lower-fat samples. Sensory evaluations by semi-trained assessors rated both full-fat and reduced-fat muffins within the liking range, with scores ranging from 8.52 to 7.42. Lightness values showed no significant difference between full-fat and reduced-fat muffins. These findings suggest that sago flour is an effective partial fat replacer in muffin formulations, enhancing nutritional value while maintaining acceptable sensory qualities, with the 25 and 37% replacements achieving the best balance of properties.

Graphical abstract
Cesàro operators associated with Borel measures acting on weighted spaces of holomorphic functions with sup-norms
Authors: Beltrán-Meneu María J. , Bonet José , Jordá Enrique
Published: September 2024

Let $$\mu $$
μ
be a positive finite Borel measure on [0, 1). Cesàro-type operators $$C_{\mu }$$

C
μ

when acting on weighted spaces of holomorphic functions are investigated. In the case of bounded holomorphic functions on the unit disc we prove that $$C_\mu $$

C
μ

is continuous if and only if it is compact. In the case of weighted Banach spaces of holomorphic function defined by general weights, we give sufficient and necessary conditions for the continuity and compactness. For standard weights, we characterize the continuity and compactness on classical growth Banach spaces of holomorphic functions. We also study the point spectrum and the spectrum of $$C_\mu $$

C
μ

on the space of holomorphic functions on the disc, on the space of bounded holomorphic functions on the disc, and on the classical growth Banach spaces of holomorphic functions. All characterizations are given in terms of the sequence of moments $$(\mu _n)_{n\in {\mathbb {N}}_0}$$

(

μ
n

)

n
∈

N
0

. The continuity, compactness and spectrum of $$C_\mu $$

C
μ

acting on Fréchet and (LB) Korenblum type spaces are also considered .
Ellipticity and the problem of iterates in Denjoy–Carleman classes
Authors: Fürdös Stefan , Schindl Gerhard
Published: September 2024

In 1978 Métivier showed that a linear differential operator P with analytic coefficients is elliptic if and only if the theorem of iterates holds for P with respect to any non-analytic Gevrey class. In this paper we extend this theorem to Denjoy–Carleman classes given by strongly non-quasianalytic weight sequences. The proof involves a new way to construct optimal functions in Denjoy–Carleman classes via Fourier integrals, which might be of independent interest. Moreover, we point out that the analogous statement for Braun–Meise–Taylor classes given by weight functions cannot hold. This signifies an important difference in the properties of Denjoy–Carleman classes and Braun–Meise–Taylor classes, respectively.
Innovative chemical functionalisation of biosolids for removing heavy metals and enhancing ammonium recovery from wastewater
Authors: Hedayati Marzbali M. , Hakeem I. G. , Ngo T. , Surapaneni A. , Shah K.
Published: September 2024

This study addresses ammonium removal from wastewater effluents. The utilisation of biosolids (stabilized sewage sludge) derived products as adsorbents was explored to contribute to sustainable sludge management. Biosolids were subjected to a mild acid (10% v/v HNO3) and alkali (0.5 M NaOH) treatment at ambient conditions followed by pyrolysis at 450 °C. R-COOH functional group was introduced to the biochar surface by HNO3 treatment followed by the ionic replacement of H+ with Na+ from NaOH treatment to form R-COO-Na group. The surface functional groups were studied via XPS, EDS, and FTIR analyses. The chemical treatment achieved on average about 75% removal of heavy metals from the product. The modified biochar showed a high ammonium adsorption capacity from both synthetic wastewater (17.03 mg g−1) and real digester effluent (16.1 mg g−1), higher than that of raw biosolids biochar (5.23 mg g−1 in synthetic effluent). The N-laden biochar (composed of 1.6 wt% surface nitrogen) with reduced heavy metals content could be applied to land as a slow-release nitrogen fertiliser. Economic analysis reveals a net present value of $1 million and a payback period of 8 years. This approach potentially reduces environmental pollution and provides economic benefits via cost-effective waste treatment solutions.

Graphical abstract
Biodiesel synthesis from low cost biomass wastes and its cost assessment inducing process optimization
Authors: Okwelum C. O. , Nwadiolu R. , Okolotu G. I. , Balogun T. A. , Adepoju T. F. , Oboreh J. S. , Chiemeke S. C. , Oboreh J. C. , Essaghah A. E. , Ibimilua A. F. , Taiga A. , Efih O. A.
Published: September 2024

This study employed low-cost biomass wastes for the synthesis of biodiesel that is cost-effective and environmentally friendly. The major raw material (oil) was obtained by steam distillation (SD) from Croton heliotropiifolius Kunth leaf (CHKL) and was characterized for its aptness for biodiesel production. Dwarft green coconut husk ash (DGCHA) was used as a bio-adsorbent for acid value reduction of Croton heliotropiifolius Kunth leaves oil (CHKLO). A novel, highly potassium-based catalyst was derived from Karpuravalli banana peels (KBP), calcined, and characterized using TGA, ZETA, FTIR, SEM-EDX, XRF-FS, and BET analysis. Biodiesel was synthesized using a microwave-assisted method, characterized, and compared with the recommended standard. The catalytic strength of the calcined Karpuravalli banana peel powder (CKBPP) was tested using a reusability test, and the cost evaluation of production was estimated. Results showed that the CHKL was rich in oil (43% wt./wt.), and the oil is highly acidic (5.23 mg KOH/g oil). At high particle size, the dwarf green coconut husk ash (DGCHA) bagasse reduced the acid value to a minimum (1.4 mg KOH/g oil) at 3 days. The developed novel catalyst from CKBPP indicated high potassium-calcium contents for base transesterification. Process optimization indicated that the predicted response data of 95.285% (wt./wt.) at T1 = 90 min, T2 = 60 oC, T3 = 4.5% (wt.), and T4 = 9 (vol./vol.) was validated in triplicate, and the average data value of 95.10% (wt./wt.) was established. Dataset on the quality of biodiesel showed that the produced biodiesel properties were in line with recommended standards. Economic appraisal data showed that the cost of producing 20 L of CHKLOB (biodiesel) was $4.73 at 1,500 to $1. The study concluded that the production of biodiesel from waste can be cost-effective and environmentally friendly if wastes are harness.

Graphical Abstract
ACE Enquiry in Primary care: A Qualitative Exploration of the Perspective of General Practitioners in Northern Ireland
Authors: Smyth Rafael , McSherry Dominic
Published: September 2024

This study sought to identify gaps in the current literature base by exploring the perspectives of General Practitioners (GPs) in Northern Ireland in relation to the significance, relevance, and feasibility of conducting a comprehensive inquiry into Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) with patients. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 10 qualified GPs using Zoom Videoconferencing technology. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Qualitative data was analysed using Theoretical Thematic Analysis (Braun & Clarke Qualitative Research in Psychology 3(2):77-101, 2006). Analysis revealed nine key superordinate themes. These themes encompassed various aspects such as the role of a GP, trauma-informed training, the advantages and barriers associated with conducting an ACE assessment, and the impact of childhood adversity on subsequent physical and mental health. This study provides valuable primary care professional insights that contribute to the existing evidence base. It highlights the importance of recognising, discussing, and screening for ACEs in primary care settings. Furthermore, this study explores a range of practical adjustments that could support the implementation of routine ACE enquiry within the primary healthcare system in Northern Ireland.
The Association Between Maternal ABO Blood Group and the Occurrence of Spontaneous Preterm Birth: A Retrospective Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Rom Eyal , Massalha Manal , Erez Offer , Salim Raed
Published: September 2024

There is limited and inconsistent evidence that imply a relationship between ABO blood types and rate of preterm birth (PTB). We aim to examine the association between maternal ABO blood group and PTB rate. A retrospective-study conducted at a university teaching institution on data collected between 2013 and 2019. Women who delivered a viable neonate at ≥ 24 weeks without major malformations were included. Indicated PTBs were excluded. PTB and early PTB were defined as deliveries that occurred < 37 and < 34 weeks respectively. PTB was further divided into 3 subgroups according to etiology: membranes rupture, intact membranes, and placental abruption regardless of membranes’ status. The primary outcome was spontaneous PTB rate. Of 19,301 women included, PTB and early PTB rates were 7.3% (1,418/19,301) and 2.3% (440/19,301) respectively. Rates of PTB in blood groups A, B, O, and AB, were 7.3%, 6.9%, 7.5%, and 7.5% respectively (p = 0.68). There was no significant difference according to etiology. Rates of early PTB were also comparable (p = 0.63). After adjustment for demographic and obstetric variables, blood type was associated with increased placental abruption rate among women who had early PTB (p = 0.038). Placental abruption rate was significantly higher in group A (22.5%) compared to group B (14.1%), (adjusted p = 0.04) and group O (14.0%), (adjusted p = 0.01). The rate in group AB was 17.1%, (adjusted p = 0.85). In conclusion, no association was found between a particular blood group and PTB rate. Women with group A, admitted in early PTB, had an increased risk that the underlying etiology was placental abruption.
Microstructural and properties investigations of tantalum-doped tungsten diboride ceramic coatings via HiPIMS and RF magnetron sputtering
Authors: Psiuk Rafał , Chrzanowska-Giżyńska Justyna , Denis Piotr , Wyszkowska Edyta , Wiśniewska Maria , Lipińska Marta , Wojtiuk Ewa , Kurpaska Łukasz , Smolik Jerzy , Mościcki Tomasz
Published: September 2024

In this work, tantalum-doped tungsten boride ceramic coatings were deposited from a single sputtering target with the radio frequency (RF) and high-power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS) methods. Two-inch torus targets were synthesised from pure elements with the spark plasma sintering (SPS) method with a stoichiometric composition of W1-xTaxB2.5 (x = 0, 0.08, 0.16, 0.24). Films were deposited with RF and HiPIMS power suppliers at process temperatures from RT to 600 °C. The substrate heating and the energy of the ionised material impacting the substrate increase the surface diffusivity of adatoms and are crucial in the deposition process. The results of SEM and XRD investigations clearly show that the addition of tantalum also changes the microstructure of the deposited films. The coatings without tantalum possess a finer microstructure than those with 24% of tantalum. The structure of films is homogeneous along the film thickness and composed mainly of columns with a (0001) preferred orientation. Deposited coatings are composed mainly of P6/mmm α-WB2 structures. The analysis of nanoindentation results allowed us to determine that ceramic coatings obtained with the HiPIMS method possess hardness above 41 GPa and a ratio of hardness to reduced Young modulus above 0.1. The thickness of HiPIMS-deposited films is relatively small: only around 60% of the RF magnetron sputtered coatings even when the average power input was two times higher. However, it has been shown that the RF coatings require heating the substrate above 400 °C to obtain a crystalline structure, while the HiPIMS method allows for a reduction of the substrate temperature to 300 °C.
Genome‐Enabled Parameterization Enhances Model Simulation of CH4 Cycling in Four Natural Wetlands
Authors: Zuo Yunjiang , He Liyuan , Wang Yihui , Liu Jianzhao , Wang Nannan , Li Kexin , Guo Ziyu , Zhang Lihua , Chen Ning , Song Changchun , Yuan Fenghui , Sun Li , Xu Xiaofeng
Published: September 2024

Microbial processes are crucial in producing and oxidizing biological methane (CH4) in natural wetlands. Therefore, modeling methanogenesis and methanotrophy is advantageous for accurately projecting CH4 cycling. Utilizing the CLM‐Microbe model, which explicitly represents the growth and death of methanogens and methanotrophs, we demonstrate that genome‐enabled model parameterization improves model performance in four natural wetlands. Compared to the default model parameterization against CH4 flux, genomic‐enabled model parameterization added another contain on microbial biomass, notably enhancing the precision of simulated CH4 flux. Specifically, the coefficient of determination (R2) increased from 0.45 to 0.74 for Sanjiang Plain, from 0.78 to 0.89 for Changbai Mountain, and from 0.35 to 0.54 for Sallie's Fen, respectively. A drop in R2 was observed for the Dajiuhu nature wetland, primarily caused by scatter data points. Theil's coefficient (U) and model efficiency (ME) confirmed the model performance from default parameterization to genome‐enabled model parameterization. Compared with the model solely calibrated to surface CH4 flux, additional constraints of functional gene data led to better CH4 seasonality; meanwhile, genome‐enabled model parameterization established more robust associations between simulated CH4 production rates and environmental factors. Sensitivity analysis underscored the pivotal role of microbial physiology in governing CH4 flux. This genome‐enabled model parameterization offers a valuable promise to integrate fast‐cumulating genomic data with CH4 models to better understand microbial roles in CH4 in the era of climate change.
Memorial for Jennifer L. Gannon
Authors: Pulkkinen Antti A. , Morley Steven K. , Robinson Robert M. , Knipp Delores J. , Olson Mark
Published: September 2024

An announcement of the passing of Editor of Space Weather, Jennifer Gannon.
GeoTraductores Democratizes Science, One Translation at a Time
Authors: Derouin Sarah
Published: September 2024

A collaboration to translate Eos articles into Spanish is yielding significant increases in engagement among Latin American and other Spanish-speaking communities.
Volcanic Anatomy, Mapped as It Erupts
Authors: Zanon Vittorio , D’Auria Luca
Published: September 2024

Testing during the 2021 Tajogaite eruption on La Palma demonstrated the value of near-real-time petrological analyses as a supplement to seismic and geochemical data for eruption monitoring.
Rootzone Soil Moisture Dynamics Using Terrestrial Water‐Energy Coupling
Authors: Sehgal Vinit , Mohanty Binayak P. , Reichle Rolf H.
Published: September 2024

A lack of high‐density rootzone soil moisture (θRZ) observations limits the estimation of continental‐scale, space‐time contiguous θRZ dynamics. We derive a proxy of daily θRZ dynamics — active rootzone degree of saturation (SRZ) — by recursive low‐pass (LP) filtering of surface soil moisture (θS) within a terrestrial water‐energy coupling (WEC) framework. We estimate the LP filter parameters and WEC thresholds for the piecewise‐linear coupling between SRZ and evaporative fraction (EF) at remote sensing and field scale over the Contiguous U.S. We use θS from the Soil Moisture Active‐Passive (SMAP) satellite and 218 in‐situ stations, with EF from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer. The estimated SRZ compares well against SMAP Level‐4 estimates and in‐situ θRZ, at the corresponding scale. The instantaneous hydrologic state (SRZ) vis‐à‐vis the WEC thresholds is proposed as a rootzone soil moisture stress index (SMSRZ) for near‐real‐time operational agricultural drought monitoring and agrees well with established drought metrics.
Cliff Notching Due To Swash Abrasion: Insights From Physical Experiments
Authors: Shen Yaxiong , Whittaker Colin N. , Dickson Mark E.
Published: September 2024

Notch development at the base of sea cliffs is an important control on cliff recession rates, but a detailed mechanistic understanding of notch formation by swash abrasion is lacking. We conducted physical experiments, using homogeneous erodible rock simulants, to study notch‐forming mechanisms under periodic sediment‐laden bore impacts. Our findings reveal shifts in the temporal dynamics of notch development. Initially, swash uprush and vortex formation contribute to a positive feedback loop that creates a shallow and wide notch. Subsequently, upward erosion ceases, and notch backwear and downwear are dominated by the vortex. Eventually, sediment deposition armors the notch floor; this negative feedback loop reduces erosion. The sediment size determines the amount of erosion, with a range of grain sizes generating maximum erosion. This indicates a dependence on the momentum of the sediment particles entrained within the bore. This research reveals fundamental notch formation mechanisms driven by swash abrasion.
Occurrence and Causes of Large dB/dt Events and AL Bays in the Pre‐Midnight and Dawn Sectors
Authors: Milan S. E. , Bower G. E. , Fleetham A. L. , Imber S. M. , Schillings A. , Opgenoorth H. , Gjerloev J. , Paxton L. J. , Vines S. K. , Hubert B. , Hairston M. R.
Published: September 2024

A necessary condition for the generation of Geomagnetically Induced Currents (GICs) that can pose hazards for technological infrastructure is the occurrence of large, rapid changes in the magnetic field at the surface of the Earth. We investigate the causes of such events or “spikes” observed by SuperMAG at auroral latitudes, by comparing with the time‐series of different types of geomagnetic activity for the duration of 2010. Spikes are found to occur predominantly in the pre‐midnight and dawn sectors. We find that pre‐midnight spikes are associated with substorm onsets. Dawn sector spikes are not directly associated with substorms, but with auroral activity occurring within the westward electrojet region. Azimuthally‐spaced auroral features drift sunwards, producing Ps6 (10–20 min period) magnetic perturbations on the ground. The magnitude of is determined by the flow speed in the convection return flow region, which in turn is related to the strength of solar wind‐magnetospheric coupling. Pre‐midnight and dawn sector spikes can occur at the same time, as strong coupling favors both substorms and westward electrojet activity; however, the mechanisms that create them seem somewhat independent. The dawn auroral features share some characteristics with omega bands, but can also appear as north‐south aligned auroral streamers. We suggest that these two phenomena share a single underlying cause. The associated fluctuations in the westward electrojet produce quasi‐periodic negative excursions in the AL index, which can be mis‐identified as recurrent substorm intensifications.
The April 2023 SYM‐H = −233 nT Geomagnetic Storm: A Classical Event
Authors: Hajra Rajkumar , Tsurutani Bruce Tsatnam , Lu Quanming , Horne Richard B. , Lakhina Gurbax Singh , Yang Xu , Henri Pierre , Du Aimin , Gao Xingliang , Wang Rongsheng , Lu San
Published: September 2024

The 23–24 April 2023 double‐peak (SYM‐H intensities of −179 and −233 nT) intense geomagnetic storm was caused by interplanetary magnetic field southward component Bs associated with an interplanetary fast‐forward shock‐preceded sheath (Bs of 25 nT), followed by a magnetic cloud (MC) (Bs of 33 nT), respectively. These interplanetary structures were led by a coronal mass ejection erupted from the Sun in association with an M1.7 X‐ray flare. At the center of the MC, the plasma density exhibited an order of magnitude decrease, leading to a sub‐Alfvénic solar wind interval for ∼2.1 hr. Ionospheric Joule heating accounted for a significant part (∼81%) of the magnetospheric energy dissipation during the storm main phase. Equal amount of Joule heating in the dayside and nightside ionosphere is consistent with the observed intense and global‐scale DP2 (disturbance polar) currents during the storm main phase. The sub‐Alfvénic solar wind is associated with disappearance of substorms, a sharp decrease in Joule heating dissipation, and reduction in electromagnetic ion cyclotron wave amplitude. The shock/sheath compression of the magnetosphere led to relativistic electron flux losses in the outer radiation belt between L* = 3.5 and 5.5. Relativistic electron flux enhancements were detected in the lower L* ≤ 3.5 region during the storm main and recovery phases. Equatorial ionospheric plasma anomaly structures are found to be modulated by the prompt penetration electric fields. Around the anomaly crests, plasma density at ∼470 km altitude and altitude‐integrated ionospheric total electron content are found to increase by ∼60% and ∼80%, with ∼33% and ∼67% increases in their latitudinal extents compared to their quiet‐time values, respectively.
The Water Balance Representation in Urban‐PLUMBER Land Surface Models
Authors: Jongen H. J. , Lipson M. , Teuling A. J. , Grimmond S. , Baik J.‐J. , Best M. , Demuzere M. , Fortuniak K. , Huang Y. , De Kauwe M. G. , Li R. , McNorton J. , Meili N. , Oleson K. , Park S.‐B. , Sun T. , Tsiringakis A. , Varentsov M. , Wang C. , Wang Z.‐H. , Steeneveld G. J.
Published: September 2024

Urban Land Surface Models (ULSMs) simulate energy and water exchanges between the urban surface and atmosphere. However, earlier systematic ULSM comparison projects assessed the energy balance but ignored the water balance, which is coupled to the energy balance. Here, we analyze the water balance representation in 19 ULSMs participating in the Urban‐PLUMBER project using results for 20 sites spread across a range of climates and urban form characteristics. As observations for most water fluxes are unavailable, we examine the water balance closure, flux timing, and magnitude with a score derived from seven indicators expecting better scoring models to capture the latent heat flux more accurately. We find that the water budget is only closed in 57% of the model‐site combinations assuming closure when annual total incoming fluxes (precipitation and irrigation) fluxes are within 3% of the outgoing (all other) fluxes. Results show the timing is better captured than magnitude. No ULSM has passed all water balance indicators for any site. Models passing more indicators do not capture the latent heat flux more accurately refuting our hypothesis. While output reporting inconsistencies may have negatively affected model performance, our results indicate models could be improved by explicitly verifying water balance closure and revising runoff parameterizations. By expanding ULSM evaluation to the water balance and related to latent heat flux performance, we demonstrate the benefits of evaluating processes with direct feedback mechanisms to the processes of interest.