bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interferometric Measurement of Forward Reaction Rate Order and Rate Constant of a Dy(III)-PC88A-HCl Solvent Extraction System
Authors: Sun Fengzhi , Ortmann Kilian , Eckert Kerstin , Lei Zhe
Published: September 2024

A novel approach is reported for obtaining the forward rate law of a rare earth (RE) solvent extraction system. An immiscible water–oil system is studied with a Dy(III) laden aqueous phase and a PC88A laden organic phase with a 1:1 volume ratio, with a total volume of about 0.68 mL. The two phases are poured into a Hele-Shaw cell with a gap width of 1 mm. Hence, a stratified interface forms at the gravitational-perpendicular plane. The Dy(III) concentration boundary layer, as a result of cation exchange, is monitored in real time in the aqueous phase by means of a monochromatic laser-based Mach–Zehnder interferometer. With direct access to the mass concentration at the interface, after spatial integration, an interface mass flux at the initial time is quantitatively resolved for varying Dy(III) and PC88A concentrations. The system is found to be quasi-first order for Dy(III) and quasi-second order for dimeric PC88A. The method can be applied to a broad spectrum of reaction kinetics in systems that are transparent or translucent. The minimum sample volume is 2–3 orders smaller than that required in the conventional method using stirred cells in Lewis or AKUFVE apparatus.
Hematite Cubes
Authors: Brics M. , Petrichenko O. , Cēbers Andrejs
Published: September 2024

The methods of synthesis of hematite particles with different shapes are reviewed. Several experimental settings with suspensions of hematite particles are described considering their rolling, spinning in rotating (in vertical or horizontal plane) magnetic field. Gravity plays an important role since the hematite density is larger than the one of the carrier liquid. Equilibrium configurations of hematite cubes under the action of magnetic field and gravity are described. The change of morphology of chains of hematite cubes with increasing applied magnetic field and the formation of kinks are explained. Various regimes of hematite particle chains are observed in a rotating (in horizontal plane) magnetic field, more specifically synchronous with a field rotation, back-and-forth rotation in the plane of the rotating field, out of plane and periodic breaking and reassembly regimes.
The Synchronous to Exchange Transition in Magnetically Driven Colloidal Dimers
Authors: Ostinato Mattia , Ortiz-Ambriz Antonio , Tierno Pietro
Published: September 2024

Numerical simulations are used to investigate the collective dynamics of an ensemble of driven paramagnetic colloidal particles confined between two plates. The particles are subjected to an external precessing field and, depending on the field frequency and cell thickness, they can assemble into rotating dimers, up and down binary crystals or dynamic states characterized by particle exchange between nearest dimers. We characterize the transition between the synchronous and the exchange state by measuring the fraction of “active” particles, namely colloids that do not stroboscopically recover their original place in a Voronoi cell. We find that the relaxation time decreases algebraically with the reduced frequency and that the transition displays signatures of an absorbing phase transition.
Colonies under dysbiosis benefit from oxalic acid application: the role of landscape and beekeeping practices in microbiota response to treatment
Authors: Gorrochategui-Ortega June , Muñoz-Colmenero Marta , Galartza Egoitz , Estonba Andone , Zarraonaindia Iratxe
Published: September 2024

The Varroa destructor mite causes severe losses of Apis mellifera colonies, requiring recurring treatments. One such treatment is oxalic acid (OA), considered ecological. However, it is unclear whether OA affects the honey bee gut microbiota or other hive-associated microbiotas. Herein, we studied the effect of three OA treatments (trickling at 2.1% or 4.2%, and sublimation through Varrox®) upon microbial communities associated with workers’ gut, hive bee bread and pupae, sampled from conventionally or ecologically managed colonies under different anthropization levels (located in urban, rural or mountainous landscapes). We hypothesized that treatment with OA would impact the diversity and composition of bacteria and/or eukaryotic communities, and that the effect would be dose-dependent and specific to the beehive niche. Results showed that the microbiomes of apiaries under different anthropization levels and management strategies differed prior to OA application. Neither the bacterial nor the fungal communities of bee bread and pupae shifted due to OA treatment. Independent of the dosage and the application method (trickling or sublimation), OA induced slight compositional changes in the bacterial profiles of honeybee guts. Those changes were stronger the higher the anthropization (in colonies from urban areas under conventional management). OA treatment reduced the relative abundance of several pathogens, such as Nosema ceranae, and decreased the overall bacterial diversity down to values found in less anthropized colonies. Thus, our results suggest that, aside from managing Varroa infestations, OA could have beneficial effects for stressed colonies while not impairing honey bee resilience from a microbial point of view.
Pure and mixed Scots pine forests showed divergent responses to climate variation and increased intrinsic water use efficiency across a European-wide climate gradient
Authors: Assefa Shebeshe , Ventura Maurizio , Bravo Felipe , Giberti Giulia Silvia , Olivar Jorge , Bielak Kamil , Tonon Giustino , Wellstein Camilla
Published: September 2024

The present study examined Pinus sylvestris L. growth responses to climatic variations and its relationship with intrinsic water-use efficiency (iWUE) across a water availability gradient and also in pure P. sylvestris and P. sylvestris-Quercus species mixed forests. Study sites were selected in the Mediterranean, temperate, and temperate continental climates in Spain, Italy, and Poland, respectively. A combined tree-ring dendrochronological and stable carbon isotope analysis was used to assess the relationship between tree growth and climate variation. Results showed that P. sylvestris growth is critically affected by summer water availability, regardless of study site and species mixing. Warming temperatures during the early growing season benefit tree growth in Mediterranean and temperate continental climates, while no significant effect was observed in the temperate climatic conditions. At the Mediterranean site, trees in mixed stands showed enhanced growth during wet years when moisture is not limiting. At the temperate continental site, trees in the mixed stand grew at a lower rate than those in pure stands, which suggests that intense interspecific competition for water could overwhelm the benefits of species mixing. Also, we found a divergent growth-iWUE relationship of non-significant and significantly positive and significantly negative correlations at the Polish, Italian, and Spanish sites, respectively. Overall, the negative growth-iWUE relationship at the drier Mediterranean site signifies the risk of tree growth decline, particularly in drier climate conditions. Despite that, elevated iWUE levels would benefit tree radial growth when water is not limited and the admixing tree species have compatible light and water use strategies.
Discovering Novel Bioherbicides: The Impact of Hemp-derived Phytocannabinoid Applications on Zea mays L. and Relevant Weeds
Authors: Merkle Michael , Gerhards Roland
Published: September 2024

In addition to competition, phytotoxic plant metabolites contribute to the weed-suppressing properties of cover crops, which could be the basis for the development of novel bioherbicides. We investigated the impact of five Cannabis sativa L. -derived neutral phytocannabinoids and an aqueous C. sativa tissue extract (HE) at six concentrations on the germination rate (GR) and seedling root length (RL) of Zea mays L., two monocotyledonous and two dicotyledonous weed species in laboratory Petri dish bioassays. Additionally, the effect of pre-emergence applications of HE, cannabidiol (CBD), and cannabidivarin (CBDV) formulations on GR and shoot dry matter (SDM) were examined in greenhouse pot studies. The effects of phytocannabinoids and HE were analyzed in dose-response curves. For the highest rates, the effects on GR, RL and SDM were calculated by ANOVA and HSD test (p < 0.05). HE exhibited the greatest suppression on GR and RL for all plant species in the Petri dish bioassay, with RGR, RL exceeding −90%. Phytocannabinoids reduced mainly RL of all plants and decreased the GR of most weed species. Effects varied among plants and phytocannabinoids, with CBDV and CBD showing similar high inhibitory effects on RL as HE in the Petri dish bioassay. All pre-emergence applications resulted in a positive RGR across all studied plants and in a positive RSDM in Z. mays and Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) P. Beauv, whereas in the other weed species the RSDM was negative. In conclusion, phytocannabinoids play a major role in weed suppression of HEs. CBDV and CBD are the most promising candidates for bioherbicide development especially against annual dicotyledonous weed species.
Microstructure and topography of laterally confined porous anodic oxides produced with high growth rate in a maskless two-phase jet setup
Authors: Quitzke Susanne , Danilov Igor , Morgenstern Roy , Martin André , Lampke Thomas , Schubert Andreas
Published: September 2024

Maskless anodic oxidation with a continuous free jet of electrolyte can be used for the local surface functionalization and structuring of aluminum materials. In this study, a two-phase jet was applied with the aim of enhanced lateral confinement of the anodic oxide on the aluminum alloy EN AW-7075. The two-phase jet was realized by a coaxial arrangement. While the inner electrolyte nozzle with a diameter of 100 µm acted as the cathode and was used to provide the electrolyte with a flow rate of 10 ml min−1 resulting in an average jet velocity of approximately 21 m s−1, the outer nozzle with a diameter of 3000 µm was used to provide deionized water with a flow rate of 383 ml min−1 resulting in an average water jet velocity of 1 m s−1, which is sufficient to realize a continuous free two-phase jet. Process voltages from 10 to 60 V were investigated. The realized oxide layers were characterized by non-destructive as well as destructive methods to determine their microstructure and their thicknesses. Optically transparent anodic oxide layers were achieved in the voltage range between 10 and 25 V. Maximum total layer thicknesses between 1.1 µm and 16.9 µm were measured in these cases. Thicknesses of more than 50 µm were determined for higher voltages up to 60 V; however, burning effects and stronger discolorations were determined for voltages ranging from 30 to 60 V. Consequently, 25 V was derived as best suitable voltage for two-phase anodizing with high growth rate leading to oxide layers with low defects.

Graphical abstract
Advanced Methods for Analyzing in-Situ Observations of Magnetic Reconnection
Authors: Hasegawa H. , Argall M. R. , Aunai N. , Bandyopadhyay R. , Bessho N. , Cohen I. J. , Denton R. E. , Dorelli J. C. , Egedal J. , Fuselier S. A. , Garnier P. , Génot V. , Graham D. B. , Hwang K. J. , Khotyaintsev Y. V. , Korovinskiy D. B. , Lavraud B. , Lenouvel Q. , Li T. C. , Liu Y.-H. , Michotte de Welle B. , Nakamura T. K. M. , Payne D. S. , Petrinec S. M. , Qi Y. , Rager A. C. , Reiff P. H. , Schroeder J. M. , Shuster J. R. , Sitnov M. I. , Stephens G. K. , Swisdak M. , Tian A. M. , Torbert R. B. , Trattner K. J. , Zenitani S.
Published: September 2024

There is ample evidence for magnetic reconnection in the solar system, but it is a nontrivial task to visualize, to determine the proper approaches and frames to study, and in turn to elucidate the physical processes at work in reconnection regions from in-situ measurements of plasma particles and electromagnetic fields. Here an overview is given of a variety of single- and multi-spacecraft data analysis techniques that are key to revealing the context of in-situ observations of magnetic reconnection in space and for detecting and analyzing the diffusion regions where ions and/or electrons are demagnetized. We focus on recent advances in the era of the Magnetospheric Multiscale mission, which has made electron-scale, multi-point measurements of magnetic reconnection in and around Earth’s magnetosphere.
Cradle-to-gate life cycle assessment of cylindrical sulfide-based solid-state batteries
Authors: Rietdorf Chantal , De la Rúa Cristina , Kiemel Steffen , Miehe Robert
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Solid-state batteries (SSBs) are a current research hotspot, as they are safer and have a higher energy density than state-of-the-art lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). To date, their production only occurs on a laboratory scale, which provides a good opportunity to analyze the associated environmental impacts prior to industrialization. This paper investigates the environmental impacts of the production of cylindrical SSB, to identify environmental hotspots and optimization potentials.

Methods

Here, an attributional cradle-to-gate life cycle assessment (LCA) is performed, focusing on SSBs that use a NMC811/lithium germanium phosphorous sulfide (LiGPS) composite cathode, a sulfide-based solid separator electrolyte, and a lithium metal anode. The life cycle impact assessment (LCIA) is performed in Umberto 11 using the Environmental Footprint 3.1 method with primary and literature data and the Evoinvent 3.9 database for background data.

Results and discussion

The results show climate change impacts of 205.43 kg CO2 eq./kwh (for the base case), with hotspots primarily attributable to the electrolyte and cathode production, and more specifically to the LiPS and LiGPS synthesis as well as to the cathode active material. Additionally, the scenario analysis shows that an upscaling of the LiPS and LiGPS synthesis reduces environmental impacts across all assessed impact categories. In addition, it was shown that the use of an in situ anode further improves the overall environmental performance, while the use of alternative cathode active materials, such as NMC622 and LFP did not lead to any improvements, at least with reference to the storage capacity.

Conclusion

The article highlights the environmental hotspots of sulfide-based SSB production, namely electrolyte and catholyte synthesis. The results show that upscaling the synthesis reduces the environmental impact and that cells with higher energy density show a favorable environmental performance. However, SSBs are still in the development stage and no final recommendation can be made at this time.
Understanding the Role of Masculinity through the Perspectives of Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) Intervention Practitioners Engaged in Men’s (de)Radicalization
Authors: Stahl Garth , Adams Ben , Oberg Glenys
Published: September 2024

Within the field of Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) male clients are overwhelmingly represented, which reflects the key and complex significance ‘masculinity’ has for understanding susceptibility to violent extremism, processes of radicalisation and related issues. This article analyses the perspectives of 12 CVE Intervention Practitioners (n = 8 female, n = 4 male) in Australia and their views on the role gender plays in their work. We focus on the practitioners’ experiences with male clients and how they understood the relationship between gender, rapport building and (de)radicalization. The practitioners highlight how a common aspect of their clients’ ideology involved either explicit misogyny or quite rigid opinions regarding the roles of men and women in society. They often mentioned their male clients experienced difficulties in expressing and understanding their own masculinity. However, while it is important to identify commonalities within the gendered dynamics present in CVE work, the data suggest the interaction between practitioner and client continues to be quite varied. We argue that this highlights not only how masculinities are discursively produced, but how male clients may shift between identity positions during deradicalization depending on their interpersonal interactions.
Mathematical analysis of a norm-conservative numerical scheme for the Ostrovsky equation
Authors: Kawai Shuto , Sato Shun , Matsuo Takayasu
Published: September 2024

The target of this study is a norm-conservative scheme for the Ostrovsky equation, as its mathematical analysis has not been addressed. First, the existence and uniqueness of its numerical solutions are demonstrated. Subsequently, a convergence estimate in the two-norm is established. This, in turn, implies a convergence in the first-order Sobolev space using a supplementary sup-norm boundedness argument. Finally, this conservative scheme can be implemented in a differential form, which is considerably better than the integral form in terms of computational cost-effectiveness.
Virtual Waiting Room: The New Narrative of Waiting in Oncology Care
Authors: Světlák Miroslav
Published: September 2024

This conceptual study introduces the “virtual waiting room,” an innovative, interactive, web-based platform designed to enhance the waiting experience in oncology by providing personalized, educational, and supportive content. Central to our study is the implementation of the circular entry model, which allows for non-linear navigation of health information, empowering patients to access content based on their immediate needs and interests. This approach respects the individual journeys of patients, acknowledging the diverse pathways through which they seek understanding and manage their health. The virtual waiting room is designed not only to support patients but also to facilitate stronger communication and shared understanding between patients, caregivers, and families. By providing a shared digital space, the platform enables caregivers and family members to access the same information and resources, thereby promoting transparency and collective knowledge. This shared access is crucial in managing the emotional complexities of oncology care, where effective communication can significantly impact treatment outcomes and patient well-being. Furthermore, the study explores how the circular entry model within the virtual waiting room can enhance patient autonomy and engagement by offering customized interactions based on user feedback and preferences. This personalized approach aims to reduce anxiety, improve health literacy, and prepare patients more effectively for clinical interactions. By transforming passive waiting into active engagement, the virtual waiting room turns waiting time into a meaningful, informative period that supports both the psychological and informational needs of patients and their support networks.
On the glow of cremated remains: long-lived green photo-luminescence of heat-treated human bones
Authors: Schut Emma , Breedijk Ronald M. P. , Hilbers Michiel F. , Hink Mark A. , Krap Tristan , Aalders Maurice C. G. , Williams René M.
Published: September 2024

The long-lived green luminescence of human bone (that has been heated to 600 °C for a short duration) is attributed to a carbon quantum dot material (derived from collagen) encapsulated and protected by an inorganic matrix (derived from bone apatite) and is more intense in dense rigid and crystalline parts of (healthy) human bones. The strong collagen-apatite interaction results (upon decomposition) in a protective inorganic environment of the luminescent centers allowing long-lived triplet-based emission of a carbon (quantum) dot-like material at room temperature, as well as resilience against oxidation between 550 and 650 °C. The graphitic black phase (obtained upon heating around 400 °C) is a precursor to the luminescent carbon-based material, that is strongly interacting with the crystalline inorganic matrix. Human bone samples that have been heated to 600 °C were subjected to steady-state and time-resolved spectroscopy. Excitation-emission matrix (EEM) luminescence spectroscopy revealed a broad range of excitation and emission wavelengths, indicating a heterogeneous system with a broad density of emissive states. The effect of low temperature on the heat-treated bone was studied with Cryogenic Steady State Luminescence Spectroscopy. Cooling the bone to 80 K leads to a slight increase in total emission intensity as well as an intensity increase towards to red part of the spectrum, incompatible with a defect state model displaying luminescent charge recombination in the inorganic matrix. Time-resolved spectroscopy with an Optical Multichannel Analyzer (OMA) and Time Correlated Single Photon Counting (TCSPC) of these samples showed that the decay could be fitted with a multi-exponential decay model as well as with second-order decay kinetics. Confocal Microscopy revealed distinct (plywood type) structures in the bone and high intensity—fast decay areas as well as a spatially heterogeneous distribution of green and (fewer) red emissive species. The use of the ATTO 565 dye aided in bone-structure visualization by chemical adsorption. Conceptually our data interpretation corresponds to previous reports from the material science field on luminescent powders.

Graphical abstract
Unleashing the power of advanced technologies for revolutionary medical imaging: pioneering the healthcare frontier with artificial intelligence
Authors: Chauhan Ashish Singh , Singh Rajesh , Priyadarshi Neeraj , Twala Bhekisipho , Suthar Surindra , Swami Siddharth
Published: September 2024

This study explores the practical applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in medical imaging, focusing on machine learning classifiers and deep learning models. The aim is to improve detection processes and diagnose diseases effectively. The study emphasizes the importance of teamwork in harnessing AI’s full potential for image analysis. Collaboration between doctors and AI experts is crucial for developing AI tools that bridge the gap between concepts and practical applications. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of machine learning classifiers, such as forest algorithms and deep learning models, in image analysis. These techniques enhance accuracy and expedite image analysis, aiding in the development of accurate medications. The study evidenced that technologically assisted medical image analysis significantly improves efficiency and accuracy across various imaging modalities, including X-ray, ultrasound, CT scans, MRI, etc. The outcomes were supported by the reduced diagnosis time. The exploration also helps us to understand the ethical considerations related to the privacy and security of data, bias, and fairness in algorithms, as well as the role of medical consultation in ensuring responsible AI use in healthcare.
AraTSum: Arabic Twitter Trend Summarization Using Topic Analysis and Extractive Algorithms
Authors: Monir Enas , Salah Ahmad
Published: September 2024

Twitter’s trending topics enable users to view the topics currently being discussed on the platform. Users can stay up to date with news, events, and conversations. However, the platform’s method of sorting tweets by time can make it hard to gather semantic information. To fully comprehend the various dimensions of trends and the diverse opinions surrounding them, users need to sift through a substantial number of results. Traditional techniques for content summarization, such as multi-document summarization, can facilitate information aggregation, categorization, and visualization of events, but there are two challenges. First, they fail to consider the topic’s polarity, which is essential to covering all aspects of the subject and incorporating less popular opinions. Second, some techniques only provide summaries at the topic level, potentially leaving out crucial dimensions that require representation in this summary. This research developed a novel summarization approach on Twitter which is known as ARAbic Trending SUMmarization (AraTSum). The proposed system generates the summary based on the extracted topics and aspects from the trend. The approach involves a topic sentiment-based technique that combines generative statistical Latent Dirichlet Allocation with a pre-trained model to automatically reflect the sentiments (negative or positive) of tweets in each topic; followed by extractive summarization algorithms in each cluster. The AraTSum was evaluated through several experiments on five different X datasets. The obtained results showed that AraTSum outperformed existing approaches on the ROUGE evaluation metric compared to state-of-the-art Twitter event summarizing algorithms. To ensure a comprehensive and accurate evaluation, three human experts were tasked with manually summarizing the utilized five datasets. The results demonstrated that the proposed AraTSum method is dependent on sentiment topical aspect analysis, and it enhances the summarization's performance.
Fuzzy Logic-Based Quantitative Development Model for Job Satisfaction in College Graduates
Authors: Cheng Yuqi
Published: September 2024

College graduates’ job satisfaction is validated via their feedback, experiences and personal developments during their career progression. Validation is accomplished to ensure the students’ job satisfaction and retain them for a prolonged time. The traditional validation models have difficulties in analyzing the individual satisfaction level. The research issue is addressed by introducing the Quantitative Assessment Method (QAM) using Fuzzy Logic to validate the job satisfaction level of different newly placed students. The QAM approach assesses the student experience and personal development across various quarters. The fuzzy optimization uses two factors differentially using partial derivatives. The partial derivatives are extracted using the min–max functions of the fuzzification process such that the derivatives are halted after the maximum factors. The proposed method optimizes the validation using individual satisfaction levels and cumulative experience shared by the students. The available derivatives identify the best-afford job satisfaction level for different progression levels. This best-fit feature is handled using multiple min and max derivatives to extract optimal outputs. This proposed method is valid for improving satisfaction levels and experience analysis.
Against causal arguments in metaphysics
Authors: Vaassen Bram
Published: September 2024

Traditionally, causal arguments for physicalism have been taken to favour a ‘reductive’ brand of physicalism, according to which all the mental stuff is identical to some of the physical stuff. Many flaws have been found with these traditional causal arguments. Zhong (Asian Journal of Philosophy,
2(2), 1–9, 2023) develops a new causal argument that avoids these flaws and favours a milder, non-reductive brand of physicalism instead. The conclusion is that all mental stuff is metaphysically necessitated by some of the physical stuff. I argue that neither the traditional nor the new causal argument holds much sway over non-physicalism. The problem is that causation just does not run that deep. It is a fairly superficial relationship and a poor guide to the metaphysically weighty facts of our world, such as what is identical to what, and what metaphysically necessitates what.
Design and optimization of a high thrust density air-breathing pulsed plasma thruster array
Authors: Adkins Cameron , Belcher Dante , Akhter Mirza , Duggleby Andrew , Cardwell Nicholas D. , Staack David
Published: September 2024

For satellites in Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) or the upper atmosphere, Air-Breathing Electric Propulsion (ABEP) can be used to counteract the drag effects of the atmosphere or provide attitude control without the need for onboard propellant storage. The Dense Plasma Focus (DPF) inspired the design of an ABEP Pulsed Plasma Thruster (TAMU PPT) which takes advantage of the simplicity, scalability, and high energy density of the DPF. This work details the design and testing of a PPT for use on satellites in the upper atmosphere. Testing was conducted at a variety of pressures and pulsing energies to determine which conditions provide maximum thrust and thrust to power ratios (TPR). It was found through single pulse experiments that a pressure of 6.3 hPa (corresponding to an altitude of about 35 km) and an energy per pulse of 9 J yield a TPR of 21 mN/kW. High frequency operation at 20 Hz in similar conditions showed a TPR of up to 28 mN/kW with a corresponding thrust of 4.8 mN. High speed imaging of the plasma plume found plasma velocities in excess of 2 km/s and identified metal ejecta with velocities up to 350 m/s. The pinching phenomenon associated with a DPF was also observed and a plasma jet velocity up to 50 km/s was recorded. The TPR of the TAMU PPT demonstrated in this work is comparable to that of other ABEP thrusters, however the TAMU PPT has an advantage when comparing thrust density. The TAMU PPT has a thrust density between 4.8 and 19 mN/cm2 while other ABEP thrusters have thrust densities between 0.019 and 0.36 mN/cm2.
Enhancing Agricultural Productivity: A Machine Learning Approach to Crop Recommendations
Authors: Prity Farida Siddiqi , Hasan MD. Mehadi , Saif Shakhawat Hossain , Hossain Md. Maruf , Bhuiyan Sazzad Hossain , Islam Md. Ariful , Lavlu Md Tousif Hasan
Published: September 2024

Agriculture constitutes the foundational pillar of the global economy, engaging a substantial segment of the workforce and making a considerable contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, agricultural productivity faces numerous challenges, including varying climatic conditions, soil types, and limited access to modern farming practices. Developing intelligent agricultural systems becomes imperative to address these challenges and enhance agricultural productivity. Therefore, this paper aims to present a Machine Learning (ML) based crop recommendation system tailored for the farming landscape. The proposed system utilizes historical data on climatic conditions, soil properties, crop yields, and farmer preferences to provide personalized crop recommendations. The goal of this study is to appraise the efficacy of nine distinct ML models—Logistic Regression (LR), Support Vector Machine (SVM), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Decision Tree (DT), Random Forest (RF), Bagging (BG), AdaBoost (AB), Gradient Boosting (GB), and Extra Trees (ET) to generate practical recommendations for crop selection. Numerous preprocessing methods are employed to cleanse and normalize the data, thereby ensuring its appropriateness for model training. The ML models are trained using historical data sets, including temperature, rainfall, humidity, soil pH, and nutrient levels, where crop yields are correlated with environmental and agronomic factors. The models undergo fine-tuning through methods such as cross-validation to enhance their performance and ensure robustness. Among those models, Radom Forest has achieved the highest accuracy (99.31%). The proposed Machine Learning-based crop recommendation system offers a promising approach to addressing the challenges faced by the farmers. By leveraging advanced data analytics and artificial intelligence techniques, the system empowers farmers with timely and personalized recommendations, ultimately leading to improved agricultural productivity, food security, and economic prosperity.
Haemorrhagic cholecystitis: a case report—focus on the optimal diagnosis and management algorithm
Authors: Treballi Francesca , Bicci Eleonora , Danti Ginevra , Boccioli Sofia , Miele Vittorio
Published: September 2024

Haemorrhagic cholecystitis refers to an inflammatory process of the gallbladder, complicated by bleeding into the gallbladder or biliary system (haemobilia). Approximately 10–15% of adults have cholelithiasis, but most patients do not develop symptoms. Acute cholecystitis occurs in about 10% of symptomatic patients. Among the recognized complications of acute cholecystitis, the haemorrhagic form occurs uncommonly. Underlying risk factors include a bleeding diathesis or treatment with anticoagulants, aneurysm rupture of colecystic artery and trauma. It is often associated with cholelithiasis. The presenting feature is right upper quadrant pain, which is a dominant feature and may mimic non-haemorrhagic acute cholecystitis. Haemorrhagic cholecystitis is diagnosed by radiographic imaging. The first-choice exam is ultrasonography. However, ultrasound does not appear to be ideal for differentiating between acute and haemorrhagic cholecystitis. Computed tomography (CT) scan is the gold standard in the diagnosis of haemorrhagic cholecystitis. MRI may show breakdown products of blood and can be used to estimate the age of the haemorrhage. Surgical resection or embolization of a cystic artery pseudoaneurysm should be considered the treatment of choice, due to the high risk of fatality associated with this condition. We describe a case of haemorrhagic cholecystitis in an 80-year-old male with secondary haemophilia and cholelithiasis who presented to our department of radiology with right upper quadrant pain.
Socio-demographic factors influencing locals’ responses to human-wildlife conflicts in societies living adjacent to Swagaswaga Game Reserve, Tanzania
Authors: Mbise Franco P. , Senkondo Neema F.
Published: September 2024

Understanding the factors that shape local people responses is essential for developing effective strategies to mitigate and manage conflicts between humans and wildlife while safeguarding the well-being of both. This study assessed the factors that influence the locals’ responses regarding human wildlife conflicts (HWCs) in villages surrounding Swagaswaga Game Reserve in Tanzania, where human population growth has led to increased competition for natural resources between humans and wildlife. We found a substantial majority (71%) of respondents having experienced HWCs, while others (29%) have not encountered such conflicts. A logistic regression analysis tested various independent variables to determine their significance in predicting locals’ responses to HWCs. Our results indicated that the district of residence and the age category of respondents significantly influenced their reactions to HWCs, with district identity being the most significant predictor of these responses. Additionally, the study presents pairwise comparisons of measures taken by local people to mitigate HWCs, showing preferences for non-lethal strategies such as guiding (patrol) and growing alternative crops over lethal control. Moreover, the construction of physical barriers, such as fences and steel bars, was favored over lethal control methods. Unlike previous studies, this research provides targeted guidance for conservation and management strategies that are tailored to the unique needs and preferences of the local communities surrounding Swagaswaga Game Reserve and other areas globally with similar contexts. Therefore, this study extends our understanding of HWC in Tanzania by offering detailed insights into the specific factors that shape local responses and their preferences for mitigation measures.
Power Over Presence: Women’s Representation in Comprehensive Peace Negotiations and Gender Provision Outcomes
Authors: GOOD ELIZABETH
Published: September 2024

The Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) sector assumes increasing the number of women involved in peace negotiations drives better outcomes for local women. However, empirical support for this assumption is inconsistent. This article tests how power alters the relationship between women’s formal (Track 1) involvement in peace negotiations and the inclusion of women-specific provisions in peace agreements. Using an original dataset comprised of 2,299 Track 1 delegates involved in 116 comprehensive peace agreements finalized between 1990 and 2021, I find women’s involvement in peace negotiations is positively correlated to comprehensive agreements containing provisions for women. However, this correlation is dependent on women holding positions of power—simply having women in the room is insufficient. This article offers a novel quantitative approach to WPS studies, provides nuance to theories linking descriptive and substantive representation, and casts doubt on the longstanding assumption that increasing women’s involvement inherently enhances gender equality.
A Physical‐Informed Neural Network for Improving Air‐Sea Turbulent Heat Flux Parameterization
Authors: Zhou Shuyi , Shi Ruizi , Yu Hao , Zhang Xueyang , Dai Jinhui , Huang Xiaomeng , Xu Fanghua
Published: September 2024

The parameterizations of air‐sea turbulent heat flux are one of the major bottlenecks in atmosphere‐ocean coupled model development, which play a crucial role in sea surface temperature (SST) prediction. Recently, neural networks start to be applied for the development of parameterizations of interface turbulent heat flux. However, these new parameterizations are primairily developed for specific regions and have not been tested in real atmosphere‐ocean coupled models. In this study, we propose a new air‐sea heat flux parameterization using a physical‐informed neural network (PINN) based on multiple observational data sets worldwide. Evaluated with an independent observation data set, it is shown that the PINN can significantly reduce the RMSE of latent heat flux by at least about 48.6% compared to three traditional bulk formulas. Moreover, the PINN can be flexibly updated with new observational data by transfer learning. To test the performance of the new parameterization in realistic application, we implement the PINN into a global ocean‐atmosphere coupled model and make seasonal forecasts for the first time. The PINN markedly reduce the errors of equatorial SST forecast, indicating a good performance of the PINN‐based air‐sea turbulent heat flux scheme. Noticeably, due to limited observational data, the NN‐based parameterizations tend to underestimate heat flux at high wind speeds compared with bulk formula‐based parameterizations. With more data available at extreme conditions, the PINN can be improved via transfer learning and need to be futher evaluated. This study suggests that PINN‐based air‐sea heat flux parameterization is promising to improve SST simulation.
Observational Evidence for the Neutral Wind Responses in the Mid‐Latitude Lower Thermosphere to the Strong Geomagnetic Activity
Authors: Li Yaxian , Chen Gang , Zhang Shaodong , Huang Kaiming , Gong Wanlin , Zhang Min
Published: September 2024

Based on two meteor radars in mid‐latitudes of China, the mid‐latitude lower thermospheric neutral wind responses to the 2015 St. Patrick's Day great storm are investigated. The AE and PCN indices presented the similar quasi‐5‐hour oscillations during the storm. Interestingly, the analogous and close‐correlated storm‐time quasi‐5‐hour oscillations were also observed in both the meridional wind differences at 90–102 km derived from meteor radars. The meridional wind disturbances in the lower thermosphere also showed the extension toward the lower latitudes. It has been found that the enhanced equatorward wind disturbances at 250 km estimated by the Horizontal Wind Model‐14 and Fabry‐Perot Interferometer (FPI) emerged accordingly with the increases of AE and PCN with a time delay. And the enhancements of equatorward (poleward) wind disturbances at 250 km were accompanied by the increments of equatorward (poleward) wind disturbances at 94 km with a time lag of a few hours. It is thus suggested that the multiple intensified Joule heating events with quasi‐5‐hour time intervals were triggered by the successive substorm expansions during the storm. Then the Joule heating events led to the vertical wind and temperature disturbances in the mid‐latitude lower thermosphere via disturbing the thermospheric meridional circulation, which consequently induced the quasi‐5‐hour meridional wind disturbances therein.
A New Method for the Detection of Siliceous Microfossils on Sediment Microscope Slides Using Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Godbillot Camille , Marchant Ross , Beaufort Luc , Leblanc Karine , Gally Yves , Le Thang D. Q. , Chevalier Cristele , de Garidel‐Thoron Thibault
Published: September 2024

Diatom communities preserved in sediment samples are valuable indicators for understanding the past and present dynamics of phytoplankton communities, and their response to environmental changes. These studies are traditionally achieved by counting methods using optical microscopy, a time‐consuming process that requires taxonomic expertise. With the advent of automated image acquisition workflows, large image data sets can now be acquired, but require efficient preprocessing methods. Detecting diatom frustules on microscope images is a challenge due to their low relief, diverse shapes, and tendency to aggregate, which prevent the use of traditional thresholding techniques. Deep learning algorithms have the potential to resolve these challenges, more particularly for the task of object detection. Here we explore the use of a Faster Region‐based Convolutional Neural Network model to detect siliceous biominerals, including diatoms, in microscope images of a sediment trap series from the Mediterranean Sea. Our workflow demonstrates promising results, achieving a precision score of 0.72 and a recall score of 0.74 when applied to a test set of Mediterranean diatom images. Our model performance decreases when used to detect fragments of these microfossils; it also decreases when particles are aggregated or when images are out of focus. Microfossil detection remains high when the model is used on a microscope image set of sediments from a different oceanic basin, demonstrating its potential for application in a wide range of contemporary and paleoenvironmental studies. This automated method provides a valuable tool for analyzing complex samples, particularly for rare species under‐represented in training data sets.
Activity in the dorsal hippocampus-mPFC circuit modulates stress-coping strategies during inescapable stress
Authors: Yoon Sang Ho , Song Woo Seok , Chung Geehoon , Kim Sang Jeong , Kim Myoung-Hwan
Published: September 2024

Anatomical connectivity and lesion-deficit studies have shown that the dorsal and ventral hippocampi contribute to cognitive and emotional processes, respectively. However, the role of the dorsal hippocampus (dHP) in emotional or stress-related behaviors remains unclear. Here, we showed that neuronal activity in the dHP affects stress-coping behaviors in mice via excitatory projections to the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). The antidepressant ketamine rapidly induced c-Fos expression in both the dorsal and ventral hippocampi. The suppression of GABAergic transmission in the dHP-induced molecular changes similar to those induced by ketamine administration, including eukaryotic elongation factor 2 (eEF2) dephosphorylation, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) elevation, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation. These synaptic and molecular changes in the dHP induced a reduction in the immobility time of the mice in the tail-suspension and forced swim tests without affecting anxiety-related behavior. Conversely, pharmacological and chemogenetic potentiation of inhibitory neurotransmission in the dHP CA1 region induced passive coping behaviors during the tests. Transneuronal tracing and electrophysiology revealed monosynaptic excitatory connections between dHP CA1 neurons and mPFC neurons. Optogenetic stimulation of dHP CA1 neurons in freely behaving mice produced c-Fos induction and spike firing in the mPFC neurons. Chemogenetic activation of the dHP-recipient mPFC neurons reversed the passive coping behaviors induced by suppression of dHP CA1 neuronal activity. Collectively, these results indicate that neuronal activity in the dHP modulates stress-coping strategies to inescapable stress and contributes to the antidepressant effects of ketamine via the dHP-mPFC circuit.
Blockade of STING activation alleviates microglial dysfunction and a broad spectrum of Alzheimer’s disease pathologies
Authors: Chung Sunwoo , Jeong June-Hyun , Park Jong-Chan , Han Jong Won , Lee Yeajina , Kim Jong-Il , Mook-Jung Inhee
Published: September 2024

Abnormal glial activation promotes neurodegeneration in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common cause of dementia. Stimulation of the cGAS-STING pathway induces microglial dysfunction and sterile inflammation, which exacerbates AD. We showed that inhibiting STING activation can control microglia and ameliorate a wide spectrum of AD symptoms. The cGAS-STING pathway is required for the detection of ectopic DNA and the subsequent immune response. Amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau induce mitochondrial stress, which causes DNA to be released into the cytoplasm of microglia. cGAS and STING are highly expressed in Aβ plaque-associated microglia, and neuronal STING is upregulated in the brains of AD model animals. The presence of the APOE ε4 allele, an AD risk factor, also upregulated both proteins. STING activation was necessary for microglial NLRP3 activation, proinflammatory responses, and type-I-interferon responses. Pharmacological STING inhibition reduced a wide range of AD pathogenic features in AppNL-G-F/hTau double-knock-in mice. An unanticipated transcriptome shift in microglia reduced gliosis and cerebral inflammation. Significant reductions in the Aβ load, tau phosphorylation, and microglial synapse engulfment prevented memory loss. To summarize, our study describes the pathogenic mechanism of STING activation as well as its potential as a therapeutic target in AD.
Mesocorticolimbic circuit mechanisms of social dominance behavior
Authors: Choi Tae-Yong , Jeong Sejin , Koo Ja Wook
Published: September 2024

Social animals, including rodents, primates, and humans, partake in competition for finite resources, thereby establishing social hierarchies wherein an individual’s social standing influences diverse behaviors. Understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of social dominance is imperative, given its ramifications for health, survival, and reproduction. Social dominance behavior comprises several facets, including social recognition, social decision-making, and actions, indicating the concerted involvement of multiple brain regions in orchestrating this behavior. While extensive research has been dedicated to elucidating the neurobiology of social interaction, recent studies have increasingly delved into adverse social behaviors such as social competition and hierarchy. This review focuses on the latest advancements in comprehending the mechanisms of the mesocorticolimbic circuit governing social dominance, with a specific focus on rodent studies, elucidating the intricate dynamics of social hierarchies and their implications for individual well-being and adaptation.
Spatial variability in Arctic–boreal fire regimes influenced by environmental and human factors
Authors: Scholten Rebecca C. , Veraverbeke Sander , Chen Yang , Randerson James T.
Published: September 2024

Wildfire activity in Arctic and boreal regions is rapidly increasing, with severe consequences for climate and human health. Regional long-term variations in fire frequency and intensity characterize fire regimes. The spatial variability in Arctic–boreal fire regimes and their environmental and anthropogenic drivers, however, remain poorly understood. Here we present a fire tracking system to map the sub-daily evolution of all circumpolar Arctic–boreal fires between 2012 and 2023 using 375 m Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite active fire detections and the resulting dataset of the ignition time, location, size, duration, spread and intensity of individual fires. We use this dataset to classify the Arctic–boreal biomes into seven distinct ‘pyroregions’ with unique climatic and geographic environments. We find that these pyroregions exhibit varying responses to environmental drivers, with boreal North America, eastern Siberia and northern tundra regions showing the highest sensitivity to climate and lightning density. In addition, anthropogenic factors play an important role in influencing fire number and size, interacting with other factors. Understanding the spatial variability of fire regimes and its interconnected drivers in the Arctic–boreal domain is important for improving future predictions of fire activity and identifying areas at risk for extreme events.