bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Micro- and nanostructure of additively manufactured, in-situ alloyed, magnetic spinodal Fe54Cr31Co15
Authors: Mairhofer T. , Arneitz S. , Hofer F. , Sommitsch C. , Kothleitner G.
Published: April 2023

Exploring the chemical micro- and nanostructure of metal alloys is essential to understand their physical properties, such as magnetism or hardness. Additively manufactured (AM) materials, e.g. via laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) followed by various heat treatments, can raise further questions concerning the printed material. For the in-situ alloyed, spinodal Fe54Cr31Co15 system, the macroscopic magnetic behaviour is greatly influenced by subsequent homogenisation and heat treatment steps. Here we show that the decomposition takes place on the nanometre scale, resulting in ferromagnetic FeCo-rich particles embedded in a Cr-rich matrix. By studying phenomena like chemical homogeneity, grain structure, and texture of the in-situ alloyed material at different scales, we reveal correlations between the heat treatment and the resulting nanostructure and its ferromagnetic properties. We found that the isothermal heating conditions determine the degree of phase segregation and that a homogenization step can be omitted for additively manufactured, in-situ alloyed FeCrCo alloys. The approach thereby offers insight and a path for also tailoring specific manufacturing parameters to provide the right quality printed materials with desired functionalities. For example, magnetic FeCrCo alloys are often used in electric motors or magnetic sensors, and the flexibility of the presented approach can lead to optimal use of the material.
Fully bio-based furan/maleic anhydride epoxy resin with enhanced adhesive properties
Authors: Faggio Noemi , Marotta Angela , Ambrogi Veronica , Cerruti Pierfrancesco , Gentile Gennaro
Published: April 2023

Epoxy resins are widely used in a variety of application fields, thanks to their good mechanical strength, chemical resistance and adhesion to several substrates. Nowadays, the quite majority of epoxy resins are based on derivatives of bisphenol A (BPA), which poses serious health concerns. This issue is pushing the research towards suitable bio-based alternatives to this product, being furan-based epoxies very promising in this respect. In a previous work, 2,5-bis[(oxiran-2-ylmethoxy)methyl]furan (BOMF) was cured with methyl nadic anhydride (MNA), and successfully used as tinplate coating. Herein, in a view of increasing the sustainability of these epoxy resins, we have replaced MNA with maleic anhydride (MA), which can be derived from vegetable feedstocks, thus obtaining a fully bio-based epoxy resin. This latter has then been used as adhesive for carbon fiber-reinforced thermosetting plastics (CFRP). The curing process of the resin was monitored by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and chemo-rheological analysis. The results highlighted the significantly higher reactivity of BOMF towards MA compared to the diglycidyl ether of BPA (DGEBA). The crosslinked samples were characterized in their thermal, mechanical and adhesive properties. In comparison to DGEBA/MA and BOMF/MNA, BOMF/MA showed higher ultimate strain and slightly lower glass transition temperature, tensile modulus and ultimate strength. Interestingly, BOMF/MA displayed outstanding adhesive strength on CFRP joints, outperforming the DGEBA-based counterpart by three times. Indeed, by properly selecting the anhydride curing agent, a highly ductile fully bio-based material was developed for high performance adhesive applications. The overall results demonstrate that the properties of BOMF-based epoxy resins can be tailored to meet technical and safety requirements of downstream applications, representing a sustainable alternative to traditional systems containing DGEBA.
Strengthening effect of NiAl and Ni3Ti precipitates in Co-free maraging steels
Authors: Zeisl Stefan , Van Steenberge Nele , Schnitzer Ronald
Published: April 2023

One class of maraging steels are strengthened by a combination of β-NiAl and η-Ni3Ti intermetallic phases which are precipitated during an aging heat treatment. To establish a meaningful structure-property relationship the precipitation strengthening effect from each phase must be isolated from the other strengthening mechanisms. To achieve this, a series of model alloys based on the Fe-12Ni alloy system were aged and characterized to determine the precipitation strengthening effect. In the course of this study, using a new approach, atom probe tomography was used to determine the spacing between precipitates and to calculate the individual strength contribution of the β and the η phase using a model describing the precipitate-dislocation interactions. It was found that the precipitation strengthening of the combined β and η phases is close to 1000 MPa and that the relative strengthening effect of each phase is sensitive to the Ti and Al concentration.
An autologous blood-derived patch as a hemostatic agent: evidence from thromboelastography experiments and a porcine liver punch biopsy model
Authors: Eskildsen Morten P. R. , Kalliokoski Otto , Boennelycke Marie , Lundquist Rasmus , Settnes Annette , Loekkegaard Ellen
Published: April 2023

Perioperative bleeding is a common complication in surgeries that increases morbidity, risk of mortality, and leads to increased socioeconomic costs. In this study we investigated a blood-derived autologous combined leukocyte, platelet, and fibrin patch as a new means of activating coagulation and maintaining hemostasis in a surgical setting. We evaluated the effects of an extract derived from the patch on the clotting of human blood in vitro, using thromboelastography (TEG). The autologous blood-derived patch activated hemostasis, seen as a reduced mean activation time compared to both non-activated controls, kaolin-activated samples, and fibrinogen/thrombin-patch-activated samples. The accelerated clotting was reproducible and did not compromise the quality or stability of the resulting blood clot. We also evaluated the patch in vivo in a porcine liver punch biopsy model. In this surgical model we saw 100% effective hemostasis and a significant reduction of the time-to-hemostasis, when compared to controls. These results were comparable to the hemostatic properties of a commercially available, xenogeneic fibrinogen/thrombin patch. Our findings suggest clinical potential for the autologous blood-derived patch as a hemostatic agent.

Graphical Abstract
A novel group recommender system for domain-independent decision support customizing a grouping genetic algorithm
Authors: Krouska Akrivi , Troussas Christos , Sgouropoulou Cleo
Published: April 2023

Group formation is a complex task requiring computational support to succeed. In the literature, there has been considerable effort in the development of algorithms for composing groups as well as their evaluation. The most widely used approach is the Genetic Algorithm, as, it can handle numerous variables, generating optimal solutions according to the problem requirements. In this study, a novel genetic algorithm was developed for forming groups using innovative genetic operators, such as a modification of 1-point and 2-point crossover, the gene and the group crossover, to improve its performance and accuracy. Moreover, the proposed algorithm can be characterized as domain-independent, as it allows any input regardless of the domain problem; i.e., whether the groups concern objects, items or people, or whether the field of application is industry, education, healthcare, etc. The grouping genetic algorithm has been evaluated using a dataset from the literature in terms of its settings, showing that the tournament selection is better to be chosen when a quick solution is required, while the introduced gene and group crossover operators are superior to the classic ones. Furthermore, the combination of up to three crossover operators is ideal solution concerning algorithm’s accuracy and execution time. The effectiveness of the algorithm was tested in two grouping cases based on its acceptability. Both the students participated in forming collaborative groups and the professors participated in evaluating the groups of courses created were highly satisfied with the results. The contribution of this research is that it can help the stakeholders achieve an effective grouping using the presented genetic algorithm. In essence, they have the flexibility to execute the genetic algorithm in different contexts as many times as they want until to succeed the preferred output by choosing the number of operators for either greater accuracy or reduced execution time.
Deduction, Abduction, and Creativity
Authors: Hanzal Tomáš
Published: April 2023

In a discussion of Sherlock Holmes’ “science of deduction” and the related “method of exclusion,” I show that Holmes’ claim that his inferences are deductive makes sense, if we consider his theoretical presuppositions. So, it is more accurate to say that he tries to reduce abduction to deduction than that he confuses them. His theoretical framework, albeit inadequate as a theory of empirical reasoning, can be seen as a basic model of classical (symbolic) AI. The main problems of this approach are surveyed, and abduction is brought into play as both a better characterization of Holmes’ inferences and a better guide for building AI systems. This is a good background for raising the question of creativity because, according to Peirce, it relates to abduction in a substantial way. Is Sherlock Holmes creative? Can machines be creative? An affirmative answer to the second question might be given by a “logic of discovery” but the problem remains that inventing such a logic already presupposes creativity.
In Conversation with Artificial Intelligence: Aligning language Models with Human Values
Authors: Kasirzadeh Atoosa , Gabriel Iason
Published: April 2023

Large-scale language technologies are increasingly used in various forms of communication with humans across different contexts. One particular use case for these technologies is conversational agents, which output natural language text in response to prompts and queries. This mode of engagement raises a number of social and ethical questions. For example, what does it mean to align conversational agents with human norms or values? Which norms or values should they be aligned with? And how can this be accomplished? In this paper, we propose a number of steps that help answer these questions. We start by developing a philosophical analysis of the building blocks of linguistic communication between conversational agents and human interlocutors. We then use this analysis to identify and formulate ideal norms of conversation that can govern successful linguistic communication between humans and conversational agents. Furthermore, we explore how these norms can be used to align conversational agents with human values across a range of different discursive domains. We conclude by discussing the practical implications of our proposal for the design of conversational agents that are aligned with these norms and values.
Microstructural Characteristics and Wear Behavior of Sintered Ni-Modified Ti–xTiB2 Composites
Authors: Falodun Oluwasegun Eso , Oke Samuel Ranti , Olubambi Peter Apata , Dirisu Joseph Osekhoghene , Sule Rasidi
Published: April 2023

Titanium matrix composites were manufactured using pulsed plasma sintering with the addition of 5 wt.% Ni and TiB2 (x = 5, 10, 15, 20 wt.%) particles at a sintering temperature of 1000 °C, a heating rate of 100 °C/min, and a holding time (300 s) at an applied pressure of 50 MPa. The study examines the densification, phase evolution, hardness, microstructure, and wear behavior of Ti–Ni alloys with different ceramic (TiB2) contents. The results show that increasing TiB2 content decreases relative density from 99 to 97% while increasing hardness from 229 to 586 HV0.1. The addition of Ni particles resulted in laminar α-Ti with well-defined β-Ti grain boundaries. Furthermore, the microstructural studies have revealed a dual-phase beta and alpha Ti phase with uniformly dispersed TiB2 content. As a result of the interactions between β-Ti and Ni during sintering, an intermetallic (Ti2Ni) eutectoid phase was formed. The presence of Ni and TiB2 particles reduces the average coefficient of friction, wear volume, and wear rate. Therefore, the reinforced titanium matrix composites wear track surfaces exhibited a combination of abrasive and adhesive wear modes.
Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) radioguided surgery in prostate cancer: An overview of current application and future perspectives
Authors: Muraglia Lorenzo , Mattana Francesco , Zuccotti Giulia , Collamati Francesco , Luzzago Stefano , Travaini Laura Lavinia , Musi Gennaro , Ceci Francesco
Published: April 2023

Radical prostatectomy (RP) with or without pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) is the most frequent approach to treat men affected by prostate cancer (PCa), together with primary radiotherapy. Generally, patients performed computed tomography (CT) and bone scintigraphy to stage the disease prior to surgery. However, specific inhibitors directed to the prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) have been recently proposed as radiopharmaceutical for positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. PSMA-PET proved higher diagnostic accuracy to stage high-risk PCa compared to conventional imaging, even if its impact on overall survival is yet to be confirmed. One of the main limitations for PSMA-PET in staging PCa is represented by the low sensitivity in identifying metastatic lymph node, namely in case of nodes smaller than 4–5 mm. Radioguided surgery (RGS) is based on the intraoperative detection of radiation emitted by the specific radiopharmaceutical. Recently, the possibility of performing RGS using cancer-specific radiotracer with high diagnostic accuracy (e.g. PSMA inhibitors) gained attention. In this review, we aimed to explore the value of PSMA-RGS in PCa, aimed at improving the surgery accuracy to remove nodal metastasis. Furthermore, we evaluated different radiation detectors (gamma rays probes vs. beta positron probes) and the diagnostic accuracy of these probes compared to PSMA-PET. A comprehensive literature review was performed in December 2022 with a non-systematic approach. After the first literature screening, a total of 16 studies have been selected and a comprehensive qualitative narrative synthesis of the articles has been performed. First studies showed promising results for PSMA-RGS, and prospective trials demonstrated good concordance of in vivo PSMA-positive detected nodes with histopathology analysis of the specimens. High sensitivity and specificity of the RGS approach were found. Whilst gamma probes have been more broadly explored, the clinical use of beta probes has been tested in feasibility studies only. Finally, Cerenkov luminescence imaging, micro-image guidance and augmented reality/virtual reality approaches in surgery are currently rising attention and are generating future perspectives for PSMA-guided surgery in PCa.
Acculturation and eating disorders: a systematic review
Authors: Song Sarah , Stern Casey M. , Deitsch Tzivia , Sala Margaret
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Acculturation, or the dual process of cultural change that takes place due to the interaction between two or more cultural identities, may contribute to the susceptibility of developing an eating disorder (ED). We conducted a systematic review exploring the relationship between acculturation-related constructs and ED pathology.

Methods

We searched the PsychINFO and Pubmed/Medline databases up to December 2022. Inclusion criteria were: (1) having a measure of acculturation or related constructs; (2) having a measure of ED symptoms; and (3) experiencing cultural change to a different culture with Western ideals. 22 articles were included in the review. Outcome data were synthesized by narrative synthesis.

Results

There was variability in the definition and measure of acculturation in the literature. Overall, acculturation, culture change, acculturative stress, and intergenerational conflict were associated with ED behavioral and/or cognitive symptoms. However, the nature of the specific associations differed depending on the specific acculturation constructs and ED cognitions and behaviors measured. Furthermore, cultural factors (e.g., in-group vs. out-group preferences, generational status, ethnic group, gender) impacted the relationship between acculturation and ED pathology.

Discussion

Overall, this review highlights the need for more precise definitions of the different domains of acculturation and a more nuanced understanding of the specific relationship between various acculturation domains and specific ED cognitions and behaviors. Most of the studies were conducted in undergraduate women and in Hispanic/Latino samples, limiting generalizability of results.

Level of evidence

Level V, Opinions of respected authorities, based on descriptive studies, narrative reviews, clinical experience, or reports of expert committees.
Enhancing Resilience of Boreal Forests Through Management Under Global Change: a Review
Authors: Triviño María , Potterf Mária , Tijerín Julián , Ruiz-Benito Paloma , Burgas Daniel , Eyvindson Kyle , Blattert Clemens , Mönkkönen Mikko , Duflot Rémi
Published: April 2023

Purpose of Review

Boreal forests provide a wide range of ecosystem services that are important to society. The boreal biome is experiencing the highest rates of warming on the planet and increasing demand for forest products. Here, we review how changes in climate and its associated extreme events (e.g., windstorms) are putting at risk the capacity of these forests to continue providing ecosystem services. We further analyze the role of forest management to increase forest resilience to the combined effects of climate change and extreme events.

Recent Findings

Enhancing forest resilience recently gained a lot of interest from theoretical perspective. Yet, it remains unclear how to translate the theoretical knowledge into practice and how to operationalize boreal forest management to maintain forest ecosystem services and functions under changing global conditions. We identify and summarize the main management approaches (natural disturbance emulation, landscape functional zoning, functional complex network, and climate-smart forestry) that can promote forest resilience.

Summary

We review the concept of resilience in forest sciences, how extreme events may put boreal forests at risk, and how management can alleviate or promote such risks. We found that the combined effects of increased temperatures and extreme events are having negative impacts on forests. Then, we discuss how the main management approaches could enhance forest resilience and multifunctionality (simultaneous provision of high levels of multiple ecosystem services and species habitats). Finally, we identify the complementary strengths of individual approaches and report challenges on how to implement them in practice.
Psychological Flow Scale (PFS): Development and Preliminary Validation of a New Flow Instrument that Measures the Core Experience of Flow to Reflect Recent Conceptual Advancements
Authors: Norsworthy Cameron , Dimmock James A. , Miller Daniel J. , Krause Amanda , Jackson Ben
Published: April 2023

In this study, we sought to develop—and provide preliminary validity evidence for scores derived from—a new Psychological Flow Scale (PFS). We propose a parsimonious model of three core dimensions of flow, reflecting the findings from a recent scoping review that synthesised flow research across scientific disciplines. The validation process for the PFS addressed recent conceptual criticisms of flow science regarding construct validity, theoretical compatibility, relational ambiguity, and definitional inconsistency. An initial review and analysis of the many flow measurements that exist found that these instruments either assess one, some, or none of the three core-dimensions of flow; often measuring similar dimensions that may bear resemblance to one of the three-dimensions but differ in dimensional meaning. PFS item development involved a phase of theoretical scrutiny, review of existing instruments, item generation, and expert review of items. Subsequently, 936 participants were recruited for scale development purposes, which included sample testing, exploratory factor analysis, and confirmatory factor analysis. This factor analytic process showed evidence for three distinguishable dimensions ‘under’ a single general or higher-order factor (i.e., global flow). With respect to external aspects of validity, flow scores correlated positively with perceptions of competence, self-rated performance, autotelic personality, and negatively with anxiety and stress scores. In conclusion, we present preliminary evidence for the theoretical and operational suitability of the PFS to assess the flow state across scientific disciplines and activity domains that be useful for experimental research and enable comparative flow research in the future.
Analyse zur Verankerung des Themas Klimawandel in zugelassenen Sachunterrichtsbüchern für Grundschulen in Deutschland
Authors: Moelter-Reich Anna Margarete , Stemmann Jennifer , Carrapatoso Astrid
Published: April 2023

Dem Sachunterricht kommt aufgrund seiner naturwissenschaftlich-technischen und sozio-kulturellen Anteile eine besondere Rolle bei der Umsetzung von Bildung für Nachhaltige Entwicklung (BNE) und Klimabildung (KB) zu. Sachunterrichtsbücher bieten als inhaltlich fundierte und didaktisierte Materialien Orientierung bzgl. der Implementierung der Thematik im Unterricht. Der folgende Beitrag widmet sich der Frage, inwieweit KB bereits in den Sachunterrichtsbüchern in Deutschland verankert ist. Es zeigt sich, dass sich Klimawandel als eigenes Thema kaum in den Sachunterrichtsbüchern findet, was auf mehrere Gründe zurückzuführen ist. Jedoch bieten bereits existierende Themen wie Wetter oder Energie Anknüpfungspunkte für die KB und können entsprechend weiterentwickelt werden.
Determinants of organic tunisian purchasing behaviour: an application of the consumption values theory
Authors: Kifaya Raja , Rama Daniele
Published: April 2023

Based on the theory of consumption values, which include epistemic, social, emotional, conditional, and functional values, this study aims to investigate consumer choice behavior for organic products in Tunisia. Furthermore, it examines the moderating influence of environmental knowledge. Data from 645 Tunisian consumers were analyzed using structural equation modeling. The results revealed that emotional, epistemic, functional value (price), and social values were among the main factors influencing consumer choice behavior. As a moderator, environmental knowledge has a significant effect on the role of epistemic, social, conditional, and emotional values. This contributes to the literature on organic consumer behavior and helps marketers develop new organic strategies to foster organic consumption and increase sales volumes in the Tunisian market.
The value creation in communities of inquiry: a systematic synthesis
Authors: Gao Lanlan , Ward Rupert , Fabricatore Carlo
Published: April 2023

The Community of Inquiry (COI) has become increasingly popular as a practical framework that promotes critical thinking and improves learning skills in online environments. In order to encourage the COI, this study proposes to investigate learning VALUEs based on teaching presence (TP), social presence (SP), and cognitive presence (CP), applying a VALUE creation framework as an assessment tool. A quantitative research approach was used to analyse 16 research works. Firstly, this investigation reviewed the activities of COIs as the vital link between COI and VALUE creation. Secondly, these activities were evaluated using Wenger et al.'s framework. The related results show that COI activities generate immediate, potential, and applied VALUEs, however, it does not positively promote reframing. The activities of TP positively promote immediate VALUE, especially its categories of promoting discourse and direct instruction. Most activities of SP promote both immediate and potential VALUEs, whose indicator of open communication positively creates immediate VALUE whereas the activities of CP promote multiple VALUEs. These findings address the research gap regarding how COI contributes VALUE by improving learning experiences in virtual environments and what determines the generation of the VALUEs. The benefits of this study will guide practitioners (teachers, online course developers, and instructional designers) who aim to design and match related activities of COI to maximise the VALUE creation.
Interval Type Interval and Cognitive Uncertain Information in Information Fusion and Decision Making
Authors: Jin Le Sheng , Chen Zhen-Song , Yager Ronald R. , Langari Reza
Published: April 2023

More uncertainty can be obtained when real numbers are extended to intervals. The two new concepts proposed in this work are the natural extensions of cognitive interval information and cognitive uncertain information with real numbered values replaced by interval values. Hence, interval type cognitive interval information and interval type cognitive uncertain information with some characteristics, structures, uncertainty degree functions and score functions of them are analyzed. Two special usages of the two uncertain information types in group decision making show that they have much more algorithmic variations, flexibility and applicability than the mere formal extensions or changes.
Contrastive Intentions
Authors: PEET ANDREW
Published: April 2023

This paper introduces and argues for contrastivism about intentions. According to contrastivism, intention is not a binary relation between an agent and an action. Rather, it is a ternary relation between an agent, an action, and an alternative. Contrastivism is introduced via a discussion of cases of known but (apparently) unintended side effects. Such cases are puzzling. They put pressure on us to reject a number of highly compelling theses about intention, intentional action, and practical reason. And they give rise to a puzzle about rather-than constructions such as ‘I intend toϕrather thanψ’: In side effect cases it can seem wrong to claim that the subject intends toϕyet acceptable to claim that they intend toϕrather thanψ. This cries out for explanation. Contrastivism provides a unified response to all of these problems.
The CDC antimicrobial use measure is not ready for public reporting or value-based programs
Authors: Shively Nathan R. , Morgan Daniel J.
Published: April 2023

The standardized antimicrobial administration ratio (SAAR) is the metric for reporting antimicrobial use that hospitals will be mandated to use in 2024. We highlight limitations of the SAAR and caution against efforts to use it for public reporting and financial reimbursement. Before the SAAR is ready for public reporting, it needs to include patient-level risk adjustment and antimicrobial resistance data as well as improved hospital location options and revised antimicrobial agent groupings to appropriately reflect and incentivize important stewardship work.
Choosing more aggressive commitment contracts for others than for the self
Authors: Brimhall Craig I. , Tannenbaum David , VanEpps Eric M.
Published: April 2023

Commitment contracts are a strategy for binding self-control failures, such as skipping a gym visit or breaking a dieting regime, to monetary penalties. Despite evidence that commitment contracts with stronger penalties improve self-control, they are relatively underused. Across 5 experiments, we find that decision makers are less likely to select commitment contracts with more severe penalties (i.e., anti-charity contracts) for themselves than they are for others. This self-other difference in contract choice arises because decision makers believe anti-charity contracts will be more effective for others than for themselves. Our results suggest that people recognize the potential effectiveness of using more aggressive commitment contracts to overcome self-control problems, but view themselves as an exception to that general rule.
Displacement speed, flame surface density and burning rate in highly turbulent premixed flames characterized by low Lewis numbers
Authors: Lee H.C. , Dai P. , Wan M. , Lipatnikov A.N.
Published: April 2023

Direct numerical simulation data obtained from four pairs of turbulent, lean hydrogen–air, complex-chemistry flames are analysed to explore the influence of molecular diffusion on flame surface density, displacement speed

$S_d$

and the flame surface density transport equation terms. Each pair involves (i) a flame where mixture-averaged molecular diffusivities are adopted and Lewis number

$Le$

is significantly less than unity and (ii) an equidiffusive flame where all molecular diffusivities are set equal to molecular heat diffusivity of the mixture and

$Le=1$

, with other things being equal. Reported results show that significantly higher turbulent burning rates simulated in the former flames result mainly from an increase in the local fuel consumption rate, whereas an increase in flame surface area plays a secondary role, especially in more intense turbulence. The rate increase stems from (i) an increase in the peak local fuel consumption rate and (ii) an increase in a width of a zone where the rate is significant. The latter phenomenon is of more importance in richer flames and both phenomena are most pronounced in the vicinity of the flame leading edges, thus indicating a crucial role played by the leading edge of a premixed turbulent flame in its propagation. Moreover, mean displacement speed differs significantly from the laminar flame speed even in the equidiffusive flames, varies substantially across flame brush and may be negative at the leading edges of highly turbulent flames.
Deontological sceptical theism proved
Authors: Hendricks Perry
Published: April 2023

In this article, I argue that sceptical theists have too narrow a focus: they consider only God's axiological reasons, ignoring any non-axiological reasons he may have. But this is a mistake: predicting how God will act requires knowing about his reasons in general, and this requires knowing about both God's axiological and non-axiological reasons. In light of this, I construct and defend a kind of sceptical theism – Deontological Sceptical Theism – that encompasses all of God's reasons, and briefly illustrate how it renders irrelevant certain charges of excessive sceptical and how it evaporates equiprobability objections. Furthermore, I put forth a simple argument in favour of Deontological Sceptical Theism, which shows that everyone (at least currently) ought to endorse it.
The Promise and Pitfalls of Government Guidance Funds in China
Authors: Wei Yifan , Ang Yuen Yuen , Jia Nan
Published: April 2023

In 2005, the Chinese government deployed a new financial instrument to accelerate technological catch-up: government guidance funds (GGFs). These are funds established by central and local governments partnering with private venture capital to invest in state-selected priority sectors. GGFs promise to significantly broaden capital access for high-tech ventures that normally struggle to secure funding. The aggregate numbers are impressive: by 2021, there were more than 1,800 GGFs, with an estimated target capital size of US$1.52 trillion. In practice, however, there are notable gaps between policy ambition and outcomes. Our analysis finds that realized capital fell significantly short of targets, particularly in non-coastal regions, and only 26 per cent of GGFs had met their target capital size by 2021. Several factors account for this policy implementation gap: the lack of quality private-sector partners and ventures, leadership turnover and the inherent difficulties in evaluating the performance of GGFs.
Soil environmental DNA metabarcoding in low-biomass regions requires protocol optimization: a case study in Antarctica
Authors: Olmedo-Rojas Pamela , Jeunen Gert-Jan , Lamare Miles , Turnbull Johanna , Terauds Aleks , Gemmell Neil , Fraser Ceridwen I.
Published: April 2023

Environmental DNA is a powerful tool for monitoring biodiversity. Although environmental DNA surveys have successfully been implemented in various environments, protocol choice has been shown to affect results and inferences. Thus far, few method comparison studies for soil have been undertaken. Here, we optimized the workflow for soil metabarcoding through a comparative study encompassing variation in sampling strategy (individual and combined samples), DNA extraction (PowerSoil®, NucleoSpin® Soil, PowerSoil® + phosphate buffer and NucleoSpin® Soil + phosphate buffer) and library preparation (one-step and two-step quantitative polymerase chain reaction methods). Using a partial 18S rRNA marker, a total of 309 eukaryotic taxa across 21 phyla were identified from Antarctic soil from one site in the Larsemann Hills. Our optimized workflow was effective with no notable reduction in data quality for a considerable increase in time and cost efficiency. The NucleoSpin® Soil + phosphate buffer was the best-performing extraction method. Compared to similar studies in other regions, we obtained low taxonomic coverage, perhaps because of the paucity of Antarctic terrestrial organisms in genetic reference databases. Our findings provide useful methodological insights for maximizing efficiency in soil metabarcoding studies in Antarctica and other low-biomass environments.
Antarctic science in Chile: a bibliometric analysis of scientific productivity during the 2009–2019 period
Authors: González-Aravena Marcelo , Krüger Lucas , Rebolledo Lorena , Jaña Ricardo , Aguayo-Lobo Anelio , Leppe Marcelo , Rondon Rodolfo , Santa-Cruz Francisco , Salinas Carla , Trevisan Cristine , Cárdenas César A.
Published: April 2023

The changes implemented in 2005 in the development strategies of Antarctic science carried out by Chile have had a positive impact on the scientific productivity of the Chilean Antarctic Science Program (PROCIEN). We analysed scientometric indicators from between 2009 and 2019. The bibliographic data were extracted from the Web of Science database using search query keywords. We used multiple correspondence analysis to identify specific trends and also network analyses of international collaboration in VOSviewer. The number of Antarctic science publications in Chile has gradually increased from 21 in 2009 to 95 in 2019. The rise in the number of articles was higher in journals for the first impact factor quartile. Research lines showing increased first-quartile impact factor papers corresponded to Antarctic ecosystems, biotechnology and geosciences. The main geographical domains in which such research activities have been carried out corresponded to in the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. Fieldwork data are the main sources for the production of scientific articles, and there are three science platforms within which most of these papers concentrate. The diversification of funding sources, the implementation of improvements in the selection process and Chile's alignment with Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research programmes have contributed to improving the science that Chile has developed in Antarctica.
Holocene volcanic eruptions of the Malpaís de Zacapu and its pre-Hispanic settlement history
Authors: Reyes-Guzmán Nanci , Siebe Claus , Chevrel Magdalena Oryaëlle , Pereira Grégory , Mahgoub Ahmed Nasser , Böhnel Harald
Published: April 2023

The Michoacán-Guanajuato volcanic field (MGVF) hosts >1,400 monogenetic structures younger than 5 Ma. Here we focus on the Malpaís de Zacapu Late Holocene cluster located in the western part of the Zacapu lacustrine basin, situated in the heart of native Purepecha province. The Malpaís de Zacapu comprises four distinct eruptions: the Infiernillo lava flow emitted at ~1450 b.c.; Malpaís Las Víboras, a purely effusive eruption at ~1000 b.c.; the Capaxtiro compound lava flow at ~150 b.c.; and the most recent eruption, the Malpaís Prieto lava flow at ~a.d. 900. Although these lava flows are not inhabited today, they were densely populated in pre-Hispanic times (before a.d. 1521), especially during the Milpillas phase (a.d. 1200–1450). Volcanological studies (geochemical studies and detailed mapping using high-resolution DEM from LiDAR) allowed us to characterize these eruptions in terms of their magma source (rock chemical composition, mineral assemblage), age (radiocarbon and paleomagnetic dating), magnitude and dynamics (volume, morphology of the deposits), as well as lava flow emplacement duration. The findings allow us to infer the potential impact that these eruptions had on the pre-Hispanic settlement history of the area.
Nueva perspectiva sobre el sistema de organización territorial epiclásico en la región de Zacapu, Michoacán
Authors: Pereira Grégory , Dorison Antoine , Quezada Ramírez Osiris , Gillot Céline , Michelet Dominique
Published: April 2023

El período de aproximadamente tres siglos (600–900 d.C.), que corresponde al epiclásico, fue el escenario de una notable expansión de los asentamientos en la cuenca de Zacapu y sus alrededores. Si bien la zona parecía carecer de núcleos monumentales mayores equivalentes a los que se conocían en las regiones vecinas del Bajío o del sur de las tierras altas michoacanas, los trabajos recientes en la parte noroeste del Malpaís de Zacapu cambian esta concepción. Los datos proporcionados por medio del LiDAR y nuevos trabajos de campo revelaron complejos monumentales de dimensiones inéditas para la zona que estructuran una red de asentamientos menores distribuidos en un amplio territorio. Estos descubrimientos ofrecen nuevos datos sobre la arquitectura pública y doméstica de la época. La distribución de estos asentamientos y su relación con áreas dedicadas a la explotación de recursos agrícolas y mineros permiten vislumbrar un sistema más complejo e integrado, el cual pudo tener elementos comunes al de un altepetl. El objetivo de este artículo es presentar esta nueva información y reevaluar, a partir de ella, la organización territorial del período considerado.
Evaluation of dose calculation accuracy of a commercial radiotherapy treatment planning system for adjacent radiation fields
Authors: Rasouli Ali , Naraqi Arani Mahmud , Aliasgharzadeh Akbar , Farhood Bagher
Published: April 2023

Background:

Adjacent radiation fields are applied in some radiotherapeutic cases. When using these radiation fields, considerable dose errors across the junction of radiation fields are possible. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate the accuracy of the dose calculated by treatment planning system (TPS) when using the adjacent radiation fields. The present study aimed to quantify the dose calculation accuracy of ISOgray TPS for the photon-photon adjacent fields.

Materials and methods:

To assess the accuracy of dose calculations, the dose profiles were first measured by a Semiflex ionization chamber at 1, 1·5, 5 and 10 cm depths for different field sizes (6 × 6, 10 × 10 and 20 × 20 cm2), source to surface distances (SSDs) (90, 100 and 110 cm) and beam angles (0º, 15º, 30º and 45º). In the second step, the data at corresponding depths were extracted from the ISOgray TPS. Finally, the dosimetric performance of TPS was evaluated using a gamma index analysis.

Results:

The overall dose calculation accuracy of ISOgray TPS was within the acceptable range for the build-up region (with acceptance criteria of dose difference (DD) = 15% and distance to agreement (DTA) = 3 mm) and the depths after the build-up region (with acceptance criteria of DD = 5% and DTA = 3 mm). Moreover, the overall accuracy of dose calculations was not affected by the field size and the SSD. It was also shown that the accuracy of dose calculations was similar for the adjacent radiation fields with beam angles of 0º, 15 º and 30 º, while a considerable decrease in the pass rate values is obtained for the adjacent radiation field with 45 º beam angle. A more detailed analysis of the findings revealed that the accuracy of dose calculations in the match line regions of the adjacent radiation fields for 1 cm beam profiles was within the acceptable range; however, it declined for other depths.

Conclusions:

The findings showed that the overall dose calculation accuracy of ISOgray TPS was acceptable for evaluated adjacent radiation fields. However, the accuracy of dose calculations in the match line regions of the adjacent radiation fields for the depth after build-up was not within the acceptable range.
A survey inquiry into behavioral foundations of hate speech regulations: evidence from Japan
Authors: Hirose Kentaro , Kim Hae , Kohno Masaru
Published: April 2023

This paper highlights the concept of dignity as the cornerstone that justifies hate speech regulations in democratic societies. In political theory and constitutional law, the primacy of dignity as the moral and legislative justification for regulating hate speech has already been addressed by dignitarianism, especially in the course of debate with free speech advocates. We aim to augment this important claim in the normative literature with empirical data. Specifically, based on our survey conducted in Japan, where its first national anti-hate speech law had only recently been enacted and ordinary citizens were thus less predisposed of the debate, we show that citizens' concerns about the dignity of a targeted victim lead them to support regulations. Our analysis further clarifies the possible mechanisms of the dignitarian rationale, revealing not only the people's public-centered expectation regarding the societal consequences of hate speech, which dignitarians emphasized, but also the importance of more individual-based judgments regarding morality and justice, in shaping their regulatory attitudes.
Psychological First Aid–Informed Guidelines for Mental Health Professionals Working With Central American Unaccompanied Minors in Transitional Settings
Authors: Mendez Priscilla , Celada-Dalton Teresa , Quebles Irina
Published: April 2023

Abstract. News of unaccompanied minors (UMs) from Central America entering the United States–Mexico border have inundated political and social platforms as policies are discussed to address this crisis. The hope for a future away from violence, poverty, and fear drives these minors into embarking on an uncertain journey to the United States. The dangers these children encounter on their long travels along with previous distressing experiences from their home country put a devastating toll on their psychological and overall well-being. Their anguish continues as these youth are placed in transitional settings (i.e., shelters) while awaiting to be released into their new communities. While psychological care is often available at these settings, the complex realities of these children call for culturally and trauma-responsive guidelines to address their unique psychosocial needs. This conceptual paper reviews existent literature on the mental health needs of Central American youth in the United States–Mexico border as well as relevant theories and principles, such as the evidence-informed psychological first aid (PFA), which has shown to help Central American youth in the immediate aftermath of disasters and other crises. The aim of this manuscript was to adapt and expand on the core elements of PFA and utilize its theoretical basis to (1) enhance the psychological health of Central American UMs in transitional settings and (2) equip mental health professionals working in the United States–Mexican border or other US mental health professionals to address the immediate psychological needs of UMs from a culturally sensitive and trauma-informed approach.
Ten Rivers Facing Pollution, Development, and Climate Change—And Policies That Can Help
Authors: Sidik Saima
Published: April 2023

An annual report highlights 10 waterways that have arrived at forks: where public support could determine whether they receive protection.
Blood pressure surveillance in cancer patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Tan Sean , Spear Ella , Sane Nikhita , Nelson Adam J. , Nerlekar Nitesh , Segelov Eva , Nicholls Stephen J.
Published: April 2023

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) are cancer therapies that have been associated with increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Blood pressure (BP) measurements are routinely performed during day oncology center visits for administration of ICI therapy but are often not assessed temporally to screen and monitor hypertension, which could independently increase the risk of ASCVD in cancer survivorship. This study reports the feasibility of using serial BP measurements from routine visits to day oncology center to diagnose and monitor hypertension control in cancer patients receiving ICIs.
Near-field terahertz nonlinear optics with blue light
Authors: Pizzuto Angela , Ma Pingchuan , Mittleman Daniel M.
Published: April 2023

The coupling of terahertz optical techniques to scattering-type scanning near-field microscopy (s-SNOM) has recently emerged as a valuable new paradigm for probing the properties of semiconductors and other materials on the nanoscale. Researchers have demonstrated a family of related techniques, including terahertz nanoscopy (elastic scattering, based on linear optics), time-resolved methods, and nanoscale terahertz emission spectroscopy. However, as with nearly all examples of s-SNOM since the technique’s inception in the mid-1990s, the wavelength of the optical source coupled to the near-field tip is long, usually at energies of 2.5 eV or less. Challenges in coupling of shorter wavelengths (i.e., blue light) to the nanotip has greatly inhibited the study of nanoscale phenomena in wide bandgap materials such as Si and GaN. Here, we describe the first experimental demonstration of s-SNOM using blue light. With femtosecond pulses at 410 nm, we generate terahertz pulses directly from bulk silicon, spatially resolved with nanoscale resolution, and show that these signals provide spectroscopic information that cannot be obtained using near-infrared excitation. We develop a new theoretical framework to account for this nonlinear interaction, which enables accurate extraction of material parameters. This work establishes a new realm of possibilities for the study of technologically relevant wide-bandgap materials using s-SNOM methods.
Reversal of the diabetic bone signature with anabolic therapies in mice
Authors: Marino Silvia , Akel Nisreen , Li Shenyang , Cregor Meloney , Jones Meghan , Perez Betiana , Troncoso Gaston , Meeks Jomeeka , Stewart Scott , Sato Amy Y. , Nookaew Intawat , Bellido Teresita
Published: April 2023

The mechanisms underlying the bone disease induced by diabetes are complex and not fully understood; and antiresorptive agents, the current standard of care, do not restore the weakened bone architecture. Herein, we reveal the diabetic bone signature in mice at the tissue, cell, and transcriptome levels and demonstrate that three FDA-approved bone-anabolic agents correct it. Diabetes decreased bone mineral density (BMD) and bone formation, damaged microarchitecture, increased porosity of cortical bone, and compromised bone strength. Teriparatide (PTH), abaloparatide (ABL), and romosozumab/anti-sclerostin antibody (Scl-Ab) all restored BMD and corrected the deteriorated bone architecture. Mechanistically, PTH and more potently ABL induced similar responses at the tissue and gene signature levels, increasing both formation and resorption with positive balance towards bone gain. In contrast, Scl-Ab increased formation but decreased resorption. All agents restored bone architecture, corrected cortical porosity, and improved mechanical properties of diabetic bone; and ABL and Scl-Ab increased toughness, a fracture resistance index. Remarkably, all agents increased bone strength over the healthy controls even in the presence of severe hyperglycemia. These findings demonstrate the therapeutic value of bone anabolic agents to treat diabetes-induced bone disease and suggest the need for revisiting the approaches for the treatment of bone fragility in diabetes.