bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Life Cycle Assessment support to environmental ambitions of EU policies and the Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Sanyé-Mengual Esther , Sala Serenella
Published: February 2022

The European Green Deal and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) ask for a more holistic approach to production and consumption along value chains. The role of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) in supporting policy design and monitoring is then pivotal to achieving policy ambitions. This paper explores the potential support of LCA to EU (European Union) policies and the SDGs, considering also the Planetary Boundaries (PBs) framework. The assessment focuses on (a) the relationship between LCA, the SDGs, and the European Green Deal; (b) the potential use of LCA in support of the monitoring of SDG12 and the environmental impacts of production and consumption; and (c) the relevance of an absolute sustainability dimension, including the integration of the PBs framework in EU policy and the SDGs. Results highlight that the interlinkages between LCA, EU policy, SDGs, and the PBs can be classified as existing, missing, or existing depending on the LCA framework. In general, LCA was identified to strengthen and further enable EU policies toward achieving the SDGs while remaining within the physical limits of the planet. This is because LCA can be a pivotal method to quantify and assess environmental impacts of value chains and consumption patterns, enabling the evaluation of their implication on environment-related SDGs and assessing them against the PBs. The example of the Consumption Footprint highlights that the concept and Life Cycle Impact Assessment method of an LCA framework can determine the linkage among EU policy, SDGs, and the PBs. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2022;18:1221–1232. © 2022 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).

KEY POINTS

Life cycle assessment might have a crucial role in addressing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in an integrated manner, linking the modeling of production and consumption with the environmental related goals of the SDGs. Qualitative interlinkages among SDGs could be quantified by implementing a life cycle assessment based framework. Life cycle based indicators resulting from combining product characteristics with consumption intensities are pivotal to monitor evolution of impacts over time.
Mapping oncogenic protein interactions for precision medicine
Authors: Sharifi Tabar Mehdi , Francis Habib , Yeo Dannel , Bailey Charles G. , Rasko John E. J.
Published: February 2022

Normal protein‐protein interactions (normPPIs) occur with high fidelity to regulate almost every physiological process. In cancer, this highly organised and precisely regulated network is disrupted, hijacked or reprogrammed resulting in oncogenic protein‐protein interactions (oncoPPIs). OncoPPIs, which can result from genomic alterations, are a hallmark of many types of cancers. Recent technological advances in the field of mass spectrometry (MS)‐based interactomics, structural biology and drug discovery have prompted scientists to identify and characterise oncoPPIs. Disruption of oncoPPI interfaces has become a major focus of drug discovery programs and has resulted in the use of PPI‐specific drugs clinically. However, due to several technical hurdles, studies to build a reference oncoPPI map for various cancer types have not been undertaken. Therefore, there is an urgent need for experimental workflows to overcome the existing challenges in studying oncoPPIs in various cancers and to build comprehensive reference maps. Here, we discuss the important hurdles for characterising oncoPPIs and propose a three‐phase multidisciplinary workflow to identify and characterise oncoPPIs. Systematic identification of cancer‐type‐specific oncogenic interactions will spur new opportunities for PPI‐focused drug discovery projects and precision medicine.
Clinical impact of central nervous system‐directed therapies on intravascular large B‐cell lymphoma: A single institution's experience
Authors: Takahashi Hiromichi , Nishimaki Haruna , Nakanishi Yoko , Hamada Takashi , Nakagawa Masaru , Iizuka Kazuhide , Uchino Yoshihito , Iriyama Noriyoshi , Miura Katsuhiro , Nakayama Tomohiro , Masuda Shinobu , Hatta Yoshihiro , Nakamura Hideki
Published: February 2022

Intravascular large B‐cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) is a rare subtype of B‐cell lymphoma characterized by aggressive disease progression with a high incidence of central nervous system (CNS) involvement. We retrospectively analyzed 16 patients with de novo IVLBCL treated at our hospital between 2004 and 2018 with either standard therapy plus CNS‐directed therapy or standard therapy alone. CNS‐directed therapy was associated with a significantly better 2‐year CNS‐free survival (100% vs. 63%, p = 0.0191), despite no significant effects on progression‐free or overall survival. Further studies should assess CNS‐focused treatment in patients with IVLBCL with or without primary CNS involvement.
Effects of climate change on major elements of the hydrological cycle in Aksu River basin, northwest China
Authors: Yang Peng , Wang Wenyu , Xia Jun , Chen Yaning , Zhan Chesheng , Zhang Shengqing , Wei Cai , Luo Xiangang , Li Jiang
Published: February 2022

Water resources systems in arid regions are sensitive to climate change, which critically impacts the water cycle. In this study, we applied historical hydrometeorological data, CMIP5 data, and a large‐scale hydrological model (Community Land Model–Distributed Time‐Variant Gain Model [CLM–DTVGM]) to study the impact of climate change on the hydrological cycle (i.e., runoff, actual evapotranspiration (ETa), and terrestrial water storage [TWS]) under different scenarios at the Aksu River basin (ARB) located in the arid region of northwest China. The primary findings of this study: (a) As the determination coefficient (R2) and Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency coefficient (NSE) reached desirable levels (R2 ≥ 0.583, NSE ≥ 0.371, and root‐mean‐square error ≤ 155.727), the CLM–DTVGM achieved a better simulation of runoff in the ARB; under climate change, the runoff depth in the irrigation area became shallower and followed a decreasing trend, with a minimum depth of 0.5 mm and a significant decreasing trend of −8 mm·a−1. (b) Along with changes in the precipitation and temperature of the baseline period (i.e., 1980–2010), runoff, ETa, and TWS were predicted to change significantly in future scenarios. (c) Climate change significantly impacted the historical runoff from the Shaliguilanke and Xiehela hydrological stations, with correlation coefficients larger than 0.9; however, the runoff from the Alaer hydrological station was not affected. However, runoff, ETa, and TWS in the ARB were very closely correlated with climate change in the future scenarios, with correlation coefficients exceeding 0.9. Related research in the future would be important for guiding the sustainable development of the ARB.
Length of growing season is modulated by Northern Hemisphere jet stream variability
Authors: Hudson Amy R. , Smith William K. , Moore David J. P. , Trouet Valerie
Published: February 2022

Atmospheric circulations create regions of similar climate at the land surface across the Northern Hemisphere's mid‐latitudes, while climate controls on plant phenology phases (phenophases) can vary. Here, we quantify and classify the seasonal impacts of the Northern Hemisphere jet stream (NHJ) on vegetation phenophases using novel NHJ indices, designed to characterize latitudinal jet stream position, and satellite‐based vegetation phenology products of length, start, and end of season (LOS, SOS, EOS). We composited years of northern and southern NHJ anomalies in April–May and October–November from LOS, SOS, and EOS and classified ecosystem response based on: latitudinal location relative to the climatological mean (CM) latitude of the NHJ; climate; and land cover type. For nearly a third of the NH, LOS was modulated by NHJ position. The magnitude and direction of NHJ influence on LOS was dependent on the season of NHJ position anomaly. In spring, a northern NHJ, which typically corresponded with warmer temperatures, led to earlier SOS and longer LOS, especially in cold systems north of the NHJ's CM. Surprisingly, in fall, a northern NHJ led to shorter LOS and earlier EOS for most systems, which may be due to the interaction of temperature and water availability in this season when water is critical for sustained growth. Southern NHJ corresponded with similar but opposite effects on phenophases. Crop land cover was mixed in LOS response to NHJ, reflecting the added impact of land‐use and management. The NHJ can synchronize phenology across apparently disparate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Rather than simply lengthening or shortening seasons as the NHJ moves northward or southward, the influence of the NHJ on phenology at a given location depends on whether the NHJ is limiting resources—which vary relative to the climatological mean. We find that complex patterns in phenology emerge from a relatively simple contingency.
Cut‐conditions on sets of multiple‐alternative inferences
Authors: Hodes Harold T.
Published: February 2022

I prove that the Boolean Prime Ideal Theorem is equivalent, under some weak set‐theoretic assumptions, to what I will call the Cut‐for‐Formulas to Cut‐for‐Sets Theorem: for a set F and a binary relation ⊢ on , if ⊢ is finitary, monotonic, and satisfies cut for formulas, then it also satisfies cut for sets. I deduce the CF/CS Theorem from the Ultrafilter Theorem twice; each proof uses a different order‐theoretic variant of the Tukey‐Teichmüller Lemma. I then discuss relationships between various cut‐conditions in the absence of finitariness or of monotonicity.
Effect of a Dicycloaliphatic Epoxide on the Thermo‐Mechanical Properties of Alkyl, Aryl Epoxide Monomers Cured via UV‐Induced Cationic Frontal Polymerization
Authors: Malik Muhammad Salman , Wolfahrt Markus , Sangermano Marco , Schlögl Sandra
Published: February 2022

Radical induced cationic frontal polymerization (RICFP) is a promising route to achieve rapid curing of epoxy‐based thermosets, requiring only a localized exposure with UV light. In the presence of a diaryliodonium‐based photoinitiator and a thermal radical initiator, a self‐sustaining hot front cures epoxide monomer via a cationic mechanism. However, the cationic polymerization of diglycidyl ether derivatives is slow (in comparison with other epoxides with higher reactivity) and, as a consequence, frontal polymerization is sluggish because the heat loss is not compensated by the rate of heat release. Cycloaliphatic epoxies possess a higher ring strain than diglycidyl ether derivatives and can be blended with the latter to increase its rate of frontal polymerization. In the current work, a comprehensive study on the influence of 3,4 epoxycyclohexylmethyl 3,4‐epoxycyclohexane carboxylate (CE) on cure kinetics, viscosity, front velocity, mechanical, and thermo‐mechanical properties of frontally cured bisphenol A diglycidyl ether derivatives is presented. The results show a direct relationship between frontal velocity and amount of reactive diluent while an inverse relationship with the storage viscosity is observed. It is found that increasing the content of cycloaliphatic epoxide reduces the glass transition but increases mechanical properties of frontally cured bisphenol A diglycidyl ether derivatives.
Serum Neurofilament Light Chain as a Biomarker of Brain Injury in Wilson's Disease: Clinical and Neuroradiological Correlations
Authors: Ziemssen Tjalf , Akgun Katja , Członkowska Anna , Antos Agnieszka , Bembenek Jan , Kurkowska‐Jastrzębska Iwona , Przybyłkowski Adam , Skowrońska Marta , Smolinski Lukasz , Litwin Tomasz
Published: February 2022

Background

Clinical scales and neuroimaging are used to monitor nervous system injury in Wilson's disease, while data on serum markers are scarce.

Objective

To investigate whether serum concentrations of neurofilament light chain (sNfL) correlate with brain injury in Wilson's disease patients.

Methods

In 61 treatment‐naïve patients, the Unified Wilson's Disease Rating Scale and a validated semiquantitative brain magnetic resonance imaging scale were compared with concentrations of sNfL.

Results

Concentrations of sNfL were significantly higher in patients with neurological disease compared with patients presenting with other forms (39.7 ± 73.4 pg/mL vs. 13.3 ± 9.2 pg/mL; P < 0.01). Moreover, the sNfL concentration positively correlated with neurological severity scores and with acute and chronic brain damage based on the neuroimaging scale.

Conclusions

Neurofilament light chain concentrations may be used as a marker of brain injury in Wilson's disease, in addition to the clinical and neuroimaging disease severity scales. © 2022 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Numerical solution of fractional Dullin–Gottwald–Holm equation for solitary shallow water waves
Authors: Saha Ray Santanu , Sagar B
Published: February 2022

In this paper, a numerical scheme to solve the time‐fractional Dullin–Gottwald–Holm equation has been proposed. The proposed scheme is based on approximating the solution using multiquadric radial basis function. The fractional derivatives are described in the Caputo sense. The obtained numerical results are compared with exact solution to confirm the accuracy and effectiveness of the presented scheme.
How do foundations support (anti‐)racism? A critical race theory perspective on philanthropy and racial equity
Authors: Jung Seoeun , Eikenberry Angela , Webb Farley Kathryn , Brainard Lori
Published: February 2022

This research explores how philanthropic foundations responded to the killing of George Floyd and subsequent Black Lives Matter protests through a critical race theory perspective. Using qualitative content analysis of online statements, the study analyzed messages foundations conveyed about racism and anti‐racism and what commitments they made to address racial equity. The findings suggest half of foundations communicated racist ideas through assimilationist and non‐racist messages, and half expressed anti‐racist ideas by addressing systematic racism. Further, corporate, rather than family or community foundations, conveyed more racist messages and committed to providing funds rather than adjusting organizational orientation to address racial inequity.
A modified blister mixing element for generating extensional flow in a twin‐screw extruder: Process characterization and dispersion state of carbon nanotubes in cyclo‐olefin polymer
Authors: Matsumoto Koki , Tanaka Tatsuya
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to improve the dispersion state of single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) in a cyclo‐olefin polymer (COP) matrix by introducing extensional flow during the compounding through a twin‐screw extruder (TSE). A modified mixing element with multiple holes, called a fixed blister disc (XBD), was developed. To describe the mixing performance of XBD, the flow state was characterized via numerical simulation and acquisition of process data such as pressure drop () at XBD and specific mechanical energy (SME), while the operational conditions of TSE were varied. The dispersion state of SWCNTs was evaluated from the viewpoint of the melt viscoelastic property, surface resistivity of extruded samples and mechanical properties of injection molded samples. Furthermore, the dispersion morphology was observed via optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. As a result, the mixing performance of XBD was improved by increasing the ratio of throughputsQto screw speedNs(Q/Ns) since , which is related to extensional stress, was increased. However, the trade‐off relationship between and SME was confirmed versus Q/Ns. Although the dispersion state at the submicron level was markedly improved with higher SME inputs, higher reduced the largest agglomerate size and improved dispersion uniformity. Consequently, the mechanical properties were improved significantly.
Enhanced Performance of WS2 Field‐Effect Transistor through Mono and Bilayer h‐BN Tunneling Contacts
Authors: Phan Nhat Anh Nguyen , Noh Hamin , Kim Jihoon , Kim Yewon , Kim Hanul , Whang Dongmok , Aoki Nobuyuki , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Kim Gil‐Ho
Published: February 2022

Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) are of great interest owing to their unique properties. However, TMD materials face two major challenges that limit their practical applications: contact resistance and surface contamination. Herein, a strategy to overcome these problems by inserting a monolayer of hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) at the chromium (Cr) and tungsten disulfide (WS2) interface is introduced. Electrical behaviors of direct metal–semiconductor (MS) and metal–insulator–semiconductor (MIS) contacts with mono‐ and bilayer h‐BN in a four‐layer WS2 field‐effect transistor (FET) are evaluated under vacuum from 77 to 300 K. The performance of the MIS contacts differs based on the metal work function when using Cr and indium (In). The contact resistance is significantly reduced by approximately ten times with MIS contacts compared with that for MS contacts. An electron mobility up to ≈115 cm2 V‐1 s‐1 at 300 K is achieved with the insertion of monolayer h‐BN, which is approximately ten times higher than that with MS contacts. The mobility and contact resistance enhancement are attributed to Schottky barrier reduction when h‐BN is introduced between Cr and WS2. The dependence of the tunneling mechanisms on the h‐BN thickness is investigated by extracting the tunneling barrier parameters.
Global molecular epidemiology of microsporidia in pigs and wild boars with emphasis on Enterocytozoon bieneusi: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Taghipour Ali , Bahadory Saeed , Khazaei Sasan , Zaki Leila , Ghaderinezhad Sheida , Sherafati Jila , Abdoli Amir
Published: February 2022

Background

Microsporidia are spore‐forming intracellular pathogens with worldwide prevalence, causing emerging infections in humans and animals. Enterocytozoon bieneusi is a zoonotic species of microsporidia and is responsible for more than 90% of cases of microsporidiosis in humans and animals. Pigs and wild boars are important animal reservoirs of microsporidia. Hence, we aimed to estimate the global prevalence of microsporidia and genetic diversity of E. bieneusi in pigs and wild boars through a set of systematic review and meta‐analysis (PRISMA) guidelines.

Methods

Four databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar) were searched between January 1, 2000 and April 30, 2021. Regarding meta‐analysis, the random‐effect model was employed by forest plot with 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

After exclusion of irrelevant articles and duplication removal, 33 papers, including 34 datasets (30 datasets for domestic pigs and 4 for wild boars) finally meet the inclusion criteria to undergo meta‐analysis. The pooled prevalence rates of microsporidia infection in domestic pigs and wild boars were 37.6% (95% CI: 30.8–44.9%) and 8.1% (95% CI: 2.1–26.8%), respectively. While, the pooled prevalence rates of E. bieneusi were 35% (95% CI: 28.4–42.2%) in domestic pigs and 10.1% (95% CI: 1.7–42.4%) in wild boars. The genotypes EbpA was the most reported genotype in domestic pigs and wild boars. Male animals had higher prevalence rates of microsporidia infection than females (27 vs. 17.4%, OR = 1.91; 95% CI, 0.77–4.71%).

Conclusion

This study indicates the important role of domestic pigs and wild boars as animal reservoir hosts of microsporidia. Thereby, strategies for control and prevention of these zoonotic pathogens should be designed in pigs and wild boars.
Betaretrovirus infections in dromedary camels in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Hemida Maged Gomaa , Alnaeem Abdelmohsen A.
Published: February 2022

Background

Retroviral infections have been reported in many species of animals, especially cattle, sheep and goats. However, there are no available reports about retrovirus infection in dromedary camels. Several dromedary camels showed visible tumor‐like lesions on and around the nostrils as well as around the eyes.

Objectives

Following are the objectives: to identify the causative agents of these identified tumours in dromedary camels and to perform molecular characterization of the detected strains of the causative agent.

Methods

We extracted the nucleic acids from some fresh lesions out of these animals, and then amplified some key retrovirus genes. We amplified several regions of the rotavirus genome using the PCR technique. The obtained sequences were assembled and the phylogenetic trees were conducted per each target retrovirus gene.

Results

Our results revealed a high degree of identity to some retroviruses of sheep. Phylogenetic analysis based on some retrovirus genes revealed that the causative agents of these lesions are closely related to sheep retroviruses, particularly the Jaagsiekte sheep Retrovirus (JSRV) and the ENTV.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of retrovirus infections in dromedary camels in the Arabian Peninsula. This highlights the possible species jump for the retrovirus from sheep and goats to the dromedary camels, which live in close proximity with these animals in many parts of the world, especially the Arabian Peninsula.
A novel, green strategy based on bicarbonate activated hydrogen peroxide system for triazine hindered amines nitroxide radicalization for halogen‐free flame retardants
Authors: Xu Wensheng , Wang Bowei , Yan Fanyong , Zeng Yuyao , Liu Shuai , Fang Wangwang , Chen Ligong , Yan Xilong , Li Yang
Published: February 2022

The triazine hindered amine (THA) nitroxide radicals are important to the preparation of halogen‐free flame retardants, but the traditional methods using peracetic acid was limited in further sustainable development in industry. In this work, the bicarbonate‐activated hydrogen peroxide system with ethyl acetate as the solvent (BAP‐EA system) was firstly employed in TH‐7 nitroxide radicalization, which exhibited excellent performance with 99% yield of TH‐7‐(NO·)2 at 30°C. To further explore the mechanism, the bicarbonate transformation, the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the effect of ROS were explored by LC–MS, 13C‐NMR, EPR, et al. The results indicated that HCO4− was generated in BAP system, and then further produced ROS (1O2, ·O2− and ·OH) to participate in the radicalization. ROS also exhibits synergistic effects in BAP‐EA system, and further enhanced the reactivity of ROS in TH‐7 nitroxide radicalization. Moreover, in the flame retardancy test, NOR 116 synthesized in BAP‐EA system displayed excellent flame retardant synergy with aluminum hypophosphite (AH) in polypropylene (PP). This work provides a novel insight in green process of THA nitroxide radicalization for halogen‐free flame retardants.
Kinematic regions in the e+e− → hX factorized cross section in a 2-jet topology with thrust
Authors: Boglione M. , Simonelli A.
Published: February 2022

Abstract

Factorization theorems allow to separate out the universal, non-perturbative content of the hadronic cross section from its perturbative part, which can be computed in perturbative QCD, up to the desired order. In this paper, we derive a rigorous proof of factorization of thee+e−→hXcross section, sensitive to the transverse momentum of the detected hadron with respect to the thrust axis, in a completely general framework, based on the Collins-Soper-Sterman approach. This procedure naturally leads to a partition of thee+e−→hXkinematics into three different regions, each associated to a different factorization theorem. In one of these regions, which covers the central and widest range, the factorization theorem has a new structure, which shares the features of both TMD and collinear factorization schemes. In the corresponding cross section, the role of the rapidity cut-off is investigated, as its physical meaning becomes increasingly evident. An algorithm to identify these three kinematic regions, based on ratios of observable quantities, is provided.
Renormalon subtraction in OPE using Fourier transform: formulation and application to various observables
Authors: Hayashi Yuuki , Sumino Yukinari , Takaura Hiromasa
Published: February 2022

Abstract

Properly separating and subtracting renormalons in the framework of the op- erator product expansion (OPE) is a way to realize high precision computation of QCD effects in high energy physics. We propose a new method (FTRS method), which enables to subtract multiple renormalons simultaneously from a general observable. It utilizes a property of Fourier transform, and the leading Wilson coefficient is written in a one-parameter integral form whose integrand has suppressed (or vanishing) renormalons. The renormalon subtraction scheme coincides with the usual principal-value prescription at large orders. We perform test analyses and subtract the $$ \mathcal{O}\left({\Lambda}_{\mathrm{QCD}}^4\right) $$
O

Λ
QCD
4

renormalon from the Adler function, the $$ \mathcal{O}\left({\Lambda}_{\mathrm{QCD}}^2\right) $$
O

Λ
QCD
2

renormalon from the B → Xul$$ \overline{\nu} $$

ν
¯

decay width, and the $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(ΛQCD) and $$ \mathcal{O}\left({\Lambda}_{\mathrm{QCD}}^2\right) $$
O

Λ
QCD
2

renormalons from the B, D meson masses. The analyses show good consistency with theoretical expectations, such as improved convergence and scale dependence. In particular we obtain $$ \overline{\Lambda} $$

Λ
¯

FTRS = 0.495 ± 0.053 GeV and ($$ {\mu}_{\pi}^2 $$

μ
π
2

)FTRS = −0.12 ± 0.23 GeV2 for the non-perturbative parameters of HQET. We explain the formulation and analyses in detail.
Maternal differences for the reaction to ergot in unfertilized hybrid rye (Secale cereale)
Authors: Kodisch Anna , Schmiedchen Brigitta , Eifler Jakob , Gordillo Andres , Siekmann Dörthe , Fromme Franz Joachim , Oberforster Michael , Miedaner Thomas
Published: February 2022

Claviceps purpurea causing ergot maintains to be a problem in commercial cytoplasmic male sterile (CMS)-based hybrid rye growing. The fungal spores compete with pollen during flowering and ergot incidence is reduced in highly pollen-shedding stands. This study was carried out to identify maternal differences in ergot infection in the absence of pollen. Ten male-sterile single crosses were tested by needle and spray inoculation and kept unfertilized in up to four field sites (Germany, Austria) and three greenhouse experiments, respectively, in two years. A medium to high correlation was observed between field (needle inoculation) and greenhouse (spray inoculation) experiments. The environments (=location × year combinations) differed in their ergot severity and ergot incidence. Significant (P ≤ 0.05) genotypic and genotype × environment interaction variances were detected for the unfertilized male-sterile single crosses in both test systems for both traits. The single cross K_4 showed a significantly lower ergot severity averaged across all environments, thus being more resilient to ergot than the other genotypes. In conclusion, spray and needle inoculation are suitable for testing unfertilized male-sterile rye materials, testing across several environments (locations, years) is definitely necessary. Selection of specific females might give the potential for further reducing ergot contamination in hybrid rye in future. The frequency of such genotypes within larger breeding populations needs to be analyzed.
Application of Line of Sight and Potential Audience Analysis to Unravel the Spatial Organization of Palaeolithic Cave Art
Authors: Intxaurbe Iñaki , Garate Diego , Arriolabengoa Martin , Medina-Alcaide Mª Ángeles
Published: February 2022

The endokarst landscape is the result of long erosion and sedimentation processes that have modelled an environment in which capricious forms abound. Despite being a hostile environment for human life, these caves must have attracted the attention of human groups from as early as the Palaeolithic. It is striking that many examples of rock art appear to be closely symbiotic with their natural support; nevertheless, it is difficult to confirm any relationship in the distribution of the decorated spaces, based on their morphology. Moreover, if we start from the hypothesis—widely accepted, but not demonstrated—that Palaeolithic cave art is a system of visual communication, the visibility of the art or the number of people who could be accommodated in the decorated sectors should be determining factors. In order to avoid making subjective appraisals when analysing these factors, we have designed a Python script with a workflow to work directly with 3D models of caverns using GISs, which can be easily replicated and edited by other researchers. Application of this script in the Magdalenian caves of Atxurra, Santimamiñe and Altxerri (Northern Spain) has allowed us to compare them accurately based on their visibility features. This has shown that in some cases, there may have been prior planning to enhance the visibility of some figures. In all cases, the groups of figures are located in deep and hidden parts of the caves, usually in sectors with limited capacity to accommodate people, which would be consistent with a system of restricted communication.
Metal fused filament fabrication of the nickel-base superalloy IN 718
Authors: Thompson Yvonne , Zissel Kai , Förner Andreas , Gonzalez-Gutierrez Joamin , Kukla Christian , Neumeier Steffen , Felfer Peter
Published: February 2022

This study demonstrates metal fused filament fabrication (MF3) as an alternative additive and highly flexible manufacturing method for free-form fabrication of high-performance alloys. This novel processing, which is similar to Metal injection molding (MIM), enables a significant reduction in manufacturing costs for complex geometries, since expensive machining can be avoided. Utilizing existing equipment and reducing material expense, MF3 can pave the way for new and low-cost applications of IN 718, which were previously limited by high manufacturing costs. Iterative process optimization is used to find the most suitable MF3 process parameters. High relative density above 97% after pressureless sintering can be achieved if temperature profiles and atmospheres are well adjusted for thermal debinding and sintering. In this study, the influence of processing parameters on the resulting microstructure of MF3 IN 718 is investigated. Samples sintered in vacuum show coarse-grained microstructure with an area fraction of 0.36% NbC at grain boundaries. Morphology and composition of formed precipitates are analyzed using transmission electron microscopy and atom probe tomography. The γ/γ″/γ′ phases’ characteristics for IN 718 were identified. Conventional heat treatment is applied for further tailoring of mechanical properties like hardness, toughness and creep behavior. Fabricated samples achieve mechanical properties similar to MIM IN 718 presented in literature.

Graphical abstract
Coupled Variational Inequalities: Existence, Stability and Optimal Control
Authors: Liu Jinjie , Yang Xinmin , Zeng Shengda , Zhao Yong
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we introduce and investigate a new kind of coupled systems, called coupled variational inequalities, which consist of two elliptic mixed variational inequalities on Banach spaces. Under general assumptions, by employing Kakutani-Ky Fan fixed point theorem combined with Minty technique, we prove that the set of solutions for the coupled variational inequality (CVI, for short) under consideration is nonempty and weak compact. Then, two uniqueness theorems are delivered via using the monotonicity arguments, and a stability result for the solutions of CVI is proposed, through the perturbations of duality mappings. Furthermore, an optimal control problem governed by CVI is introduced, and a solvability result for the optimal control problem is established. Finally, to illustrate the applicability of the theoretical results, we study a coupled elliptic mixed boundary value system with nonlocal effect and multivalued boundary conditions, and a feedback control problem involving a least energy condition with respect to the control variable, respectively.
Trajectories of Symptom Change in School-Based Prevention Programs for Adolescent Girls with Subclinical Depression
Authors: Bossenbroek Rineke , Poppelaars Marlou , Creemers Daan H. M. , Stikkelbroek Yvonne , Lichtwarck-Aschoff Anna
Published: February 2022

Effectiveness research on depression prevention usually compares pre- to post-intervention outcomes across groups, but this aggregation across individuals may mask heterogeneity in symptom change trajectories. Hence, this study aimed to identify subgroups of adolescents with unique trajectories of change in a school-based depression prevention trial. It was also examined how trajectory membership was associated with the intervention conditions, depressive symptoms at 12-month follow-up, and baseline predictors. Hundred-ninety adolescent girls (Mage = 13.34; range = 11–16 years) with subclinical depression at screening (M = 57 days before pre-test) were allocated to four conditions: a face-to-face, group-based program (OVK), a computerized, individual program (SPARX), OVK and SPARX combined, and a monitoring control condition. Growth Mixture Modeling was used to identify the distinct trajectories during the intervention period using weekly depressive symptom assessments from pre-test to post-test. Analyses revealed three trajectories of change in the full sample: Moderate-Declining (62.1% of the sample), High-Persistent (31.1%), and Deteriorating-Declining (6.8%) trajectories. Trajectories were unrelated to the intervention conditions and the High-Persistent trajectory had worse outcomes at follow-up. Several baseline factors (depression severity, age, acceptance, rumination, catastrophizing, and self-efficacy) enabled discrimination between trajectories. It is concluded that information about likely trajectory membership may enable (school) clinicians to predict an individual’s intervention response and timely adjust and tailor intervention strategies as needed.
The influence of landscape context on the production of cultural ecosystem services
Authors: Zoeller Kim C. , Gurney Georgina G. , Cumming Graeme S.
Published: February 2022

Context

Recent efforts to apply sustainability concepts to entire landscapes have seen increasing interest in approaches that connect socioeconomic and biophysical systems. Evaluating these connections through a cultural ecosystem services lens clarifies how different spatiotemporal scales and levels of organisation influence the production of cultural benefits. Currently, however, the effects of multi-level and multi-scale ecological variation on the production of cultural benefits have not yet been disentangled.

Objectives

To quantify the amount of variation in cultural ecosystem service provision by birds to birders that is due to landscape-level attributes.

Methods

We used data from 293 birding routes and 101 different birders in South African National Parks to explore the general relationships between birder responses to bird species and environmental conditions, bird-related observations, the biophysical attributes of the landscape and their effect on bird-related cultural benefits.

Results

Biophysical attributes (particularly biome, vegetation type, and variance in elevation) significantly increased the percentage of variance explained in birder benefits from 57 to 65%, demonstrating that birder benefits are derived from multi-level (birds to ecosystems) and multi-scale (site to landscape) social and ecological interactions.

Conclusions

Landscape attributes influence people’s perceptions of cultural ecosystem service provision by individual species. Recognition of the complex, localised and inextricable linkage of cultural ecosystem services to biophysical attributes can improve our understanding of the landscape characteristics that affect the supply and demand of cultural ecosystem services.
Specific predictors of length and frequency effects in German beginning readers: testing component processes of sublexical and lexical reading in the DRC
Authors: Hasenäcker Jana , Schroeder Sascha
Published: February 2022

Reading a word requires several component processes. The dual route cascaded (DRC) model provides a characterization of these component processes and their involvement in different reading routes. We tested how relevant precursor skills associated with these component processes predict the use of the sublexical and lexical route in beginning readers of a transparent orthography. More than 100 German first graders performed a battery of tasks tapping into precursor skills associated with the DRC components. Using factor analysis, we first verified that the tasks can be attributed to three sets of skills, capturing visual, sublexical, and lexico-semantic components, as the DRC suggests. We then used these sets of skills to predict differences in the reliance on sublexical and lexical reading in second grade as indicated by length and frequency effects. Results show that the set of sublexical skills in first grade especially predicts differences in the recognition of long frequent words at the end of second grade, whereas the set of lexico-semantic skills predicts differences in the reading of long infrequent words. The findings corroborate the attribution of specific precursor skills to the sublexical and lexical route and reveal their distinct impact on sublexical and lexical reading in beginning readers. The work thus empirically informs the developmental version of the DRC, especially regarding variability in trajectories of reading acquisition.
A Three-Dimensional Homogenization Approach for Effective Heat Transport in Thin Porous Media
Authors: Scholz Lena , Bringedal Carina
Published: February 2022

Heat transport through a porous medium depends on the local pore geometry and on the heat conductivities of the solid and the saturating fluid. Through upscaling using formal homogenization, the local pore geometry can be accounted for to derive effective heat conductivities to be used at the Darcy scale. We here consider thin porous media, where not only the local pore geometry plays a role for determining the effective heat conductivity, but also the boundary conditions applied at the top and the bottom of the porous medium. Assuming scale separation and using two-scale asymptotic expansions, we derive cell problems determining the effective heat conductivity, which incorporates also the effect of the boundary conditions. Through solving the cell problems, we show how the local grain shape, and in particular its surface area at the top and bottom boundary, affects the effective heat conductivity through the thin porous medium.
Lifetime prolongation of a wireless charging sensor network using a mobile robot via linear Diophantine fuzzy graph environment
Authors: Prakash Karthikeyan , Parimala Mani , Garg Harish , Riaz Muhammad
Published: February 2022

Edge networking plays a major part in issues with computer networks and issues with the path. In this article, in linear Diophantine fuzzy (LDF) graphs, we present special forms of linear Diophantine fuzzy bridges, cut-vertices, cycles, trees, forests, and introduce some of their characteristics. Also, one of the most researched issues in linear Diophantine fuzzy sets (LDFS) and systems is the minimum spanning tree (MST) problem, where the arc costs have linear Diophantine fuzzy (LDF) values. In this work, we focus on an MST issue on a linear Diophantine fuzzy graph (LDFG), where each arc length is allocated a linear Diophantine fuzzy number (LDFG) rather than a real number. The LDFN can reflect the uncertainty in the LDFG’s arc costs. Two critical issues must be addressed in the MST problem with LDFG. One issue is determining how to compare the LDFNs, i.e., the cost of the edges. The other question is how to calculate the edge addition to determine the cost of the LDF-MST. To overcome these difficulties, the score function representation of LDFNs is utilized and Prim’s method is a well-known approach for solving the minimal spanning tree issue in which uncertainty is ignored, i.e., precise values of arc lengths are supplied. This technique works by providing more energy to nodes dependent on their position in the spanning tree. In addition, an illustrated example is provided to explain the suggested approach. By considering a mobile charger vehicle that travels across the sensor network on a regular basis, charging the batteries of each sensor node.
Engaging with Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review of Participatory Methods and Approaches in Research Informing the Development of Health Resources and Interventions
Authors: Freire Kate , Pope Rod , Jeffrey Kate , Andrews Kristen , Nott Melissa , Bowman Tricia
Published: February 2022

In research, participatory approaches involve engaging in the research with people and empower co-researchers to have a voice. The aim of this review was to synthesize the methods and approaches used to enable children, adolescents, and families to be involved in a participatory approach in research conducted to inform development of health resources and interventions aimed at children and adolescents. Key databases were searched systematically using key word and subject heading searches and included studies were appraised for both methodological quality and sufficiency of reporting of their participatory approach. Findings were synthesized using a critical narrative approach. Among 26 eligible studies, commonly reported participatory approaches involved community-based participatory research, codesign, participatory design, coproduction, and user-centred design. A need was identified to involve co-researchers more in the later stages of participatory approaches. Most studies were of low to moderate methodological quality. A wide variety of methods and activities were used in the studies to enable children to participate in the research, but few studies provided sufficient evidence of their participatory approach. This review concludes that reporting of participatory approaches might benefit from the guidelines that acknowledge the dual nature of participatory approaches as both a research method and an approach that enables action and change.
Advantages and disadvantages of nuclear reactions used in reactors or cyclotrons, in addition to a theoretical study based on photodisintegration on natural indium for 111Ag production
Authors: El-Azony Khaled M. , Mohamed Nader M. A. , Aloraini Dalal A.
Published: February 2022

Production routes were recorded on available reactions for 111Ag production from nuclear reactors or cyclotrons using a natural palladium target based on 110Pd(n, γ) and 110pd(d, n) reactions, respectively. natCd(γ, x) based on 110Cd(γ, p) has also been studied as a prospective reaction for the production of 111Ag. Unfortunately, these nuclear reactions are difficult to utilize because, in some cases, they reduce the specific activity of 111Ag. This is a consequence of the stable silver isotopes produced in high concentrations. These isotopes include 107, 109Ag and, in other cases, the high impurity of silver radioisotopes, such as 110m, 106m, 105Ag, that are produced during parallel nuclear reactions. Due to a scarcity of data regarding the (γ, α) reaction, the gamma reaction on natural indium for 111Ag production based on the 115In(γ, α) reaction was calculated. The natIn(γ, α) reaction satisfies the criteria as a possible reaction to produce 111Ag with a sufficient yield and purity as consequence of the high 115In (95.7%) abundance as an enriched form and a relatively soft background caused by the parallel nuclear reactions.
Comparison of EUV Photomask Metrology Between CD-AFM and TEM
Authors: Dai Gaoliang , Hahm Kai , Sebastian Lipfert , Heidelmann Markus
Published: February 2022

Accurate metrology of extreme ultraviolet (EUV) photomask is a crucial task. In this paper, two different methods for reference EUV photomask metrology are compared. One is the critical dimension atomic force microscopy (CD-AFM). In the measurements, the contribution of its AFM tip geometry is usually the dominant error source, as measured AFM images are the dilated results of measured structures by the AFM tip geometry. To solve this problem, a bottom-up approach has been applied in calibrating the (effective) AFM tip geometry where the result is traceably calibrated to the lattice constant of silicon crystals. The other is transmission electron microscopy (TEM). For achieving measurement traceability, structure features are measured in pairs in TEM images; thus the distance between the structure pair calibrated by a metrological AFM in prior can be applied to determine the magnification of the TEM image. In this study, selected photomask structures are calibrated by the CD-AFM, and then sample prepared and measured by high-resolution TEM nearly at the same location. The results are then compared. Of six feature groups compared, the results agree well within the measurement uncertainty, indicating excellent performance of the developed methodology. This research supports the development of a photomask standard, which is applied as a “reference ruler” with improved low measurement uncertainty in photomask fabs.
Augmented Reality (AR) Supporting Citizen Engagement in Circular Economy
Authors: Katika Tina , Karaseitanidis Ioannis , Tsiakou Dimitra , Makropoulos Christos , Amditis Angelos
Published: February 2022

Improving the public’s awareness of and engagement with sustainable practices is essential for transitioning from a linear to a circular economy (CE). This task is not trivial; however, research into new ways of effectively supporting awareness and engagement, especially in view of digitalization trends, is still missing. In this study, we investigate the ability of augmented reality (AR) technology to improve awareness of CE practices and to engage citizens, inclusively, in the CE approach. Specifically, we report on the development of a novel AR engagement tool and present the results of two studies undertaken using this tool to assess the reliability and validity of this engagement practice. The first study focuses on the citizens of a municipality in Greece, and the second focuses on the general public outside the municipality boundaries. Attributes related to user engagement, such as novelty, aesthetics, perceived usability, endurability, focused attention, self-efficacy, perceived learning, and interest in the topic, were assessed, as were factors affecting these attributes related to the participants’ knowledge of CE principles and exposure to similar technologies. The two studies indicate that the AR engagement tool increased social inclusion and community cohesion and was able to successfully bring CE principles and benefits to the public’s attention. Higher engagement levels were observed in participants who had limited exposure to the concept of CE prior to using the AR tool, and its use was found to improve their confidence and interest in CE. This study aspires to contribute to the ongoing discourse on the use of mobile AR and to support further evidence-based development of digital tools for public awareness and engagement.
Ecohydrology
Authors: Porporato Amilcare , Yin Jun
Published: February 2022

Ecohydrology is a fast-growing branch of science at the interface of ecology and geophysics, studying the interaction between soil, water, vegetation, microbiome, atmosphere, climate, and human society. This textbook gathers the fundamentals of hydrology, ecology, environmental engineering, agronomy, and atmospheric science to provide a rigorous yet accessible description of the tools necessary for the mathematical modelling of water, energy, carbon, and nutrient transport within the soil-plant-atmosphere continuum. By focusing on the dynamics at multiple time scales, from the diurnal scale in the soil-plant-atmospheric system, to long-term stochastic dynamics of water availability responsible for ecological patterns and environmental fluctuations, it explains the impact of hydroclimatic variability on vegetation and soil microbial systems through biogeochemical cycles and ecosystems under different socioeconomical pressures. It is aimed at advanced students, researchers and professionals in hydrology, ecology, Earth science, environmental engineering, environmental science, agronomy, and atmospheric science.