bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Segmented layered bistable piezoelectric laminates for enhanced energy harvesting from wind‐induced vibration
Authors: Liu Xiaohui , Yan Tao , Dai Fuhong
Published: February 2024

In this study, a segmented layered bistable piezoelectric energy harvester (SBPEH) has been developed and thoroughly investigated for its wind energy harvesting capabilities. The SBPEH's performance was comprehensively evaluated through the creation of a detailed 3D finite element model using Abaqus and XFlow software, and further validated via rigorous wind tunnel experiments. The results of this research demonstrate the SBPEH's remarkable potential for wind energy harvesting. With a wide operational wind speed range, it achieved a maximum measured power output of 5.476 mW, coupled with an outstanding power density of 68.45 mW/cm3, both of which were realized at a wind speed of 13 m/s. It is worth noting that as the wind speed surpasses a specific threshold, the energy harvesting efficiency of the SBPEH experiences a decline, emphasizing the importance of identifying the optimal operational wind speed range for maximizing energy output. These findings offer valuable insights for the enhancement and application of SBPEHs, contributing to the advancement of renewable energy technologies and providing an eco‐friendly solution for power generation.

Highlights

The study introduces a new segmented layered bistable piezoelectric energy harvester (SBPEH) design for wind energy harvesting, addressing the limitations of traditional harvesters.

Performance is evaluated through 3D finite element modeling, ABAQUS, Xflow simulations, and wind tunnel experiments.

The SBPEH operates efficiently across a broad wind speed range (6–14 m/s), showcasing optimal output power of 5.476 mW at 13 m/s.
Enhancement of dielectric properties of acrylic resin elastomer‐based composites with SiO2 loaded carbon nanotubes
Authors: Ma Ying‐Jie , Wang Jing‐Wen , Yang Jian‐Bao , Zhang Zi‐Long , Zhang Yang , Zhang Ming‐Yue , Tao Liang
Published: February 2024

The inherent balance between dielectric constant and loss restricts the actual usage of dielectric elastomer actuators with high actuation strains, proposing a method that can break this trade‐off has been an urgent query. In this work, silica‐loaded carbon nanotubes (called SiO2@CNT) were prepared as dopants for acrylic resin elastomers (abbreviated as ARE) using the sol–gel method, and the obtained SiO2@CNT/ARE composites reached a dielectric constant of 282.5 at 100 Hz at a filler content of 3.22 vol%, which is 86 times higher than that of the pure ARE, whereas the dielectric loss remains at 0.17. The equilibrium between dielectric constant and loss is broken mainly based on the loading of SiO2 which inhibits the formation of carbon nanotube conductive network and concurrently reinforces the compatibility of the filler with ARE. Such a design offers a generalizable strategy for the subsequent preparation of polymer‐based composite films with excellent dielectric properties.

Highlights

Preparation of fillers with excellent dispersibility in the organic phase.

The ARE‐based composites exhibit excellent dielectric properties at 100 Hz.

The mechanism of increase in dielectric constant is explained using two models.
Assessment of E‐glass/epoxy prepreg aging via analytical, physical and mechanical techniques
Authors: Dobhal Saiyam , Das Supriya , Sharma Jagriti , Majee Swarup , Seetharaman S. , Rama Subba Reddy P. , Subrahmanyam Ch.
Published: February 2024

E‐glass/epoxy prepregs are undisputedly a great advancement in processing and fabrication technology. They offer immense advantages over conventional composite manufacturing processes in terms of waste reduction and efficient manufacturing times. These prepregs are used in several industries including but not limited to automobile, construction, defense and aerospace. Their versatility and wide applicability however is shadowed by intricate storage and handling requirements. Prepregs usually need to be stored at below freezing temperatures and hence lose their chemical integrity during transportation if not handled properly leading to a lot of wastage and scrap generation. Therefore, it is essential to develop a rigorous regime in order to determine the shelf‐life and usability of these prepregs. Hereby, we report an extensive experimental design for assessing shelf‐life of commercially available prepregs using techniques like DSC and IR and corelating the findings with mechanical data. The degree of pre‐cure increased to 30% as a result of exposure to moisture over prolonged time and a substantial decrease in mechanical strength was observed. The shelf‐life was found to be about 7 weeks and a strong agreement between analytical and mechanical data was observed.

Highlights

Analysis of prepreg aging under ambient and accelerated storage conditions.

Measurement of prepreg auto‐cure advancement using IR, Raman and DSC techniques.

Comprehensive assessment of effect of moisture and temperature on prepreg integrity and tackiness.

Co‐relation of spectroscopic and calorimetric data with mechanical properties of laminates prepared from aged prepregs

Estimation of prepreg shelf‐life on exposure to room temperature simulating conditions.
Polyethylene terephthalate bottles with excellent oxygen, water vapor barrier and mechanical performances prepared by injection and blow molding
Authors: Zhang Penghui , Tong Zeming , Yang Mengjing , Gong Lei , Liu Zhenguo , Chen Yanhui
Published: February 2024

In this work, the oxygen barrier property of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) films was enhanced by optimizing the “active” and “passive” synergistic barrier approaches, that is, integration of high barrier material polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) and oxygen scavengers along with catalyst with PET before biaxially stretching the PET blended films. When the PEN content in the PET blended films reached 50 wt%, the oxygen permeability coefficient was significantly reduced to 0.9687 cc·mil·m−2·day−1·0.1 MPa−1, showing an enhancement of 117.4 times compared to the pure PET film. Furthermore, the water vapor permeability coefficient was reduced to 8.0208 g·mil·m−2·day−1, representing a 45.5% reduction in comparison to the pristine PET film. It also maintained a higher transverse and longitudinal tensile strength (110.5 and 127.2 MPa) than PET film only with oxygen scavengers and catalyst (53.5 and 78.0 MPa). This work presents a viable and practical approach to endow PET materials with simultaneously enhanced oxygen, water barrier performance, and mechanical property.

Highlights

The OPC of PET film was as low as 0.9687 cc·mil·m−2·day−1·0.1 MPa−1.

The “active” and “passive” barrier techniques together reduced the OPC of PET film.
Dual‐Emission Fluorescent Carbon Dots Grafted by Rhodamine‐B for Selective Detection of Iron Ion and Bioimaging in Cell
Authors: Hu Xiaoyan , Zou Hao , Zhuang Renjie , Cao Jun , Pan Jiaqi , Li Chaorong , Zheng Yingying
Published: February 2024

Rhodamine‐B grafted carbon dots (RhB‐CDs) with double emission fluorescence are developed , one of which has excitation dependence, while the other have not. The prepared RhB‐CDs have good dispersibility, uniform spherical shape, and excellent water solubility. They could be used to specifically detect Fe3+ ions in an aqueous solution with the detection limit of 1.1 × 10−6 m and with good anti‐interference ability, because Fe3+ ions are easier to combine with hydroxyl groups on the surface of RhB‐CDs to form aggregates (such as ferric hydroxide) than other metal ions, which lead to the fluorescence quenching of RhB‐CDs. Fe3+ ions not only quench the fluorescence intensity of both double emission peaks of RhB‐CDs, but also change the relative fluorescence intensity of these two fluorescence emission peaks. Therefore, two different fluorescence analysis methods are used to specifically identify iron ions and the results are consistent with each other. At the same time, the double emission fluorescent RhB‐CDs have low hemolysis rate and cytotoxicity, indicating that RhB‐CDs do little harm to cells and are further used to detect Fe3+ ions in cells through fluorescence bioimaging. All of the above indicates that the prepared RhB‐CDs would have potential application value in detecting iron ions in blood and cells.
Initial characteristics of cystic fibrosis in Algeria: Description of 34 pediatric cases
Authors: Bendoukha Imene , Boucherit‐Otmani Zahia , Baba Ahmed‐Kazi Tani Zahira Zakia , Seghir Abdelfettah , Madouni Mourad , Radoui Abdel Karim , Boucherit Kebir
Published: February 2024

Background

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a rare disease in Algeria, and its prognosis is poor in developing countries. The clinical and demographic knowledge of Algerian pediatric patients diagnosed with CF is incomplete due to the nonexistence of a national medical registry. Hence, the present study is the first Algerian multicentre study on CF.

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted in western Algeria. Over 1 year, the study included all pediatric patients with a confirmed diagnosis of CF in the pediatric hospital of Oran. Patient characteristics, clinical manifestations, and the prescribed treatment were reported.

Results

Thirty‐four children (16 boys and 18 girls) participated in this study. Only 15 were diagnosed before the age of 6 months. The sweat chloride test was positive in all patients. Respiratory manifestations were found in all patients, chronic diarrhoea in 29 of them, and growth retardation in 10. Moreover, 25 (73.5%) had low to low intermediate socioeconomic levels. After diagnosis, respiratory complications marked the evolution of the 34 patients, with bronchial congestion observed in 33 of them, while 10 (29.4%) patients presented severe bronchopneumonia and 4 (11.8%) were affected by asthma. Consequently,  three (8.8%) died at an average age of 9 years mainly because of respiratory failure.

Conclusion

The prognosis of CF is poor in Algeria compared to other developed countries due to the longer diagnostic delay and limited therapeutic alternatives. This representative subset of Algerian pediatric patients with CF will serve as a reference for future studies on CF in Algeria.
Singularity‐Free Charged Compact Star Model Under F(Q)$F(Q)$‐Gravity Regime
Authors: Maurya Sunil Kumar , Jasim Mahmood Khalid , Errehymy Abdelghani , Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy , Mahmoud Mona , Nag Riju
Published: February 2024

In this paper, the possibility of existing a novel class of compact charged spheres based on a charged perfect fluid within the realm of gravity theory is explored. The authors started by proposing physically meaningful explicit formulas for the potential, denoted , and the electric field to find a close‐form solution. More precisely, the change of the dependent variable approach by exploiting the transformation is applied. Successively, the field equations analytically are solved and generate the most general solution, which leads us to examine various significant aspects of the stellar system. These aspects comprise the regularity of gravitational potentials, energy density and pressure, electric charge, the mass‐radius relationship, subluminal sound velocities in the radial direction, and the adiabatic index for charged compact stars. For a more in‐depth system study, mass measurements using contour diagrams are carried out. This mainly involves varying the variable parameters and to distinguish their effect on the mass distribution within the stellar structure. What is more, the electric charge controls the stability of the stellar system is shown, which yields that a stable system can possess a maximum charge of order . The results strongly argue that charged stars could conceivably exist in nature and that such a deviation from traditional theories may be seen in future astrophysical observations.
Efficacy of tezepelumab against uncontrolled severe non‐type 2 asthma refractory to bronchial thermoplasty, benralizumab, dupilumab and mepolizumab
Authors: Kai Yoshiro , Suzuki Kentaro , Kataoka Ryosuke , Sato Ichiro , Tamaki Shinji , Muro Shigeo
Published: February 2024

Severe asthma affects approximately 5%–10% of patients with asthma. Herein, we describe a case of non‐type 2 asthma that progressively worsened over the years. An 80‐year‐old woman was diagnosed with asthma 11 years back. She experienced repeated exacerbations requiring treatment with systemic corticosteroid despite therapy with medications including high‐dose inhaled corticosteroids/long‐acting beta‐agonists plus long‐acting muscarinic antagonist. The patient presented with non‐eosinophilic asthma. Therefore, the patient was initially treated with bronchial thermoplasty, which was effective for 1 year only. Treatment with bronchial thermoplasty, benralizumab, dupilumab, and mepolizumab was ineffective. The fourth treatment, which included tezepelumab, was initiated. The patient's symptoms and quality of life improved significantly. This is the first case of a patient who did not respond to sequential bronchial thermoplasty, benralizumab, dupilumab, and mepolizumab but who presented with good clinical response to tezepelumab. Therefore, tezepelumab may be useful for patients with non‐type 2 asthma.
An autopsy case of acute fibrinous and organizing pneumonia with periorbital MRSA cellulitis and rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Hara Akihiro , Kishimoto Yutaro , Shirai Toshihiro , Murakami Akinori , Suzuki Makoto , Matsubara Osamu
Published: February 2024

This case report details a 78‐year‐old male with periorbital Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) cellulitis whose condition rapidly deteriorated despite treatment. An autopsy confirmed acute fibrinous and organizing pneumonia (AFOP), revealing fibrin ball formation and organizing pneumonia. While both idiopathic and secondary AFOP cases often exhibit bilateral consolidation on CT, our patient presented with ground‐glass opacities, which are frequently associated with secondary AFOP. Notably, secondary AFOP, linked to higher mortality, can result from various factors. In this case, well‐controlled rheumatoid arthritis and prolonged oral medication use suggest bilateral periorbital MRSA cellulitis as a significant factor. The study underscores AFOP's diagnostic challenges and the necessity for further research on effective treatments.
Impedance control for a Stewart‐structure‐based wheel‐legged robotic system in wheel motion
Authors: Liu Dongchen , Wang Junzheng , Shi Dawei
Published: February 2024

An impedance control scheme is proposed for a Stewart‐structure‐based wheel‐legged robotic system to strengthen the dynamic attitude adjustment stability in wheel motion. The wheel‐leg, which is driven by electrical cylinders in the Stewart structure, is analyzed in kinematics and dynamics. The rotation in the axial direction of every electric cylinder is calculated to improve the accuracy of the kinematic model. To fulfill the impedance demands, a passive structure with 6 degrees of freedom (DOF) is modeled. The mass of the mechanism has a coupling effect on the impedance model for each DOF, which is a nonlinear function. As motion decoupling in the workspace has been completed for the Stewart structure, an impedance control strategy with inner‐loop position tracking is employed. An extended state observer (ESO) is designed to estimate the disturbances arising from the nonlinear coupling effects. Based on the ESO observation outputs, an active disturbance rejection control that explicitly handles the workspace limit is designed with guaranteed practical stability. By reducing force interaction and body vibration, the wheel‐legged robotic system keeps wheel motion stability on uneven roads. Multiple comparative experimental results are presented to validate the stability and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Detecting changes in the transmission rate of a stochastic epidemic model
Authors: Huang Jenny , Morsomme Raphaël , Dunson David , Xu Jason
Published: February 2024

Throughout the course of an epidemic, the rate at which disease spreads varies with behavioral changes, the emergence of new disease variants, and the introduction of mitigation policies. Estimating such changes in transmission rates can help us better model and predict the dynamics of an epidemic, and provide insight into the efficacy of control and intervention strategies. We present a method for likelihood‐based estimation of parameters in the stochastic susceptible‐infected‐removed model under a time‐inhomogeneous transmission rate comprised of piecewise constant components. In doing so, our method simultaneously learns change points in the transmission rate via a Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm. The method targets the exact model posterior in a difficult missing data setting given only partially observed case counts over time. We validate performance on simulated data before applying our approach to data from an Ebola outbreak in Western Africa and COVID‐19 outbreak on a university campus.
Deep‐Ultraviolet and Helicity‐Dependent Raman Spectroscopy for Carbon Nanotubes and 2D Materials
Authors: Saito Riichiro , Hung Nguyen Tuan , Yang Teng , Huang Jianqi , Liu Hsiang‐Lin , Gulo Desman Perdamaian , Han Shiyi , Tong Lianming
Published: February 2024

Recent progress of Raman spectroscopy on carbon nanotubes and 2D materials is reviewed as a topical review. The Raman tensor with complex values is related to the chiral 1D/2D materials without mirror symmetry for the mirror in the propagating direction of light, such as chiral carbon nanotube and black phosphorus. The phenomenon of complex Raman tensor is observed by the asymmetric polar plot of helicity‐dependent Raman spectroscopy using incident circularly‐polarized lights. First‐principles calculations of resonant Raman spectra directly give the complex Raman tensor that explains helicity‐dependent Raman spectra and laser‐energy‐dependent relative intensities of Raman spectra. In deep‐ultraviolet (DUV) Raman spectroscopy with 266 nm laser, since the energy of the photon is large compared with the energy gap, the first‐order and double resonant Raman processes occur in general k points in the Brillouin zone. First‐principles calculation is necessary to understand the DUV Raman spectra and the origin of double‐resonance Raman spectra. Asymmetric line shapes appear for the G band of graphene for 266 nm laser and in‐plane Raman mode of WS2 for 532 nm laser, while these spectra show symmetric line shapes for other laser excitation. The interference effect on the asymmetric line shape is discussed by fitting the spectra to the Breit–Wigner–Fano line shapes.
Validation of sorghum quality control (QC) markers across African breeding lines
Authors: Gimode Davis M. , Ochieng Grace , Deshpande Santosh , Manyasa Eric O. , Kondombo Clarisse P. , Mikwa Erick O. , Avosa Millicent O. , Kunguni Josephine Sarah , Ngugi Kahiu , Sheunda Patrick , Jumbo McDonald Bright , Odeny Damaris A.
Published: February 2024

Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] is a cereal crop of critical importance in the semi‐arid tropics, particularly in Africa where it is second only to maize (Zea mays L.) by area of cultivation. The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi‐Arid Tropics sorghum breeding program for Eastern and Southern Africa is the largest in the region and develops improved varieties for target agro‐ecologies. Varietal purity and correct confirmation of new crosses are essential for the integrity and efficiency of a breeding program. We used 49 quality control (QC) kompetitive allele‐specific PCR single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers to genotype 716 breeding lines. Note that 46 SNPs were polymorphic with the top 10 most informative revealing polymorphism information content (PIC), minor allele frequency (MAF), and observed heterozygosity (Ho) of 0.37, 0.43, and 0.02, respectively, and explaining 45% of genetic variance within the first two principal components (PC). Thirty‐nine markers were highly informative across 16 Burkina Faso breeding lines, out of which the top 10 revealed average PIC, MAF, and Ho of 0.36, 0.39, and 0.05, respectively. Discriminant analysis of principal components done using top 30 markers separated the breeding lines into five major clusters, three of which were distinct. Six of the top 10 most informative markers successfully confirmed hybridization of crosses between genotypes IESV240, KARIMTAMA1, F6YQ212, and FRAMIDA. A set of 10, 20, and 30 most informative markers are recommended for routine QC applications. Future effort should focus on the deployment of these markers in breeding programs for enhanced genetic gain.
Faecal incontinence with concurrent disorders of gut‐brain interaction: A worse outcome
Authors: Li Sarah G. , Mazor Yoav , Park Calvin Joomann , Jones Michael P. , Malcolm Allison
Published: February 2024

Background

Faecal incontinence is a common debilitating condition associated with poor quality of life that generates substantial economic strain on healthcare systems.

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate, in a tertiary referral population presenting with faecal incontinence, the impact of suffering additional disorders of gut‐brain interaction (DGBI) on symptom severity, anxiety, depression and quality of life.

Methods

Design: Retrospective cohort study. Setting: Tertiary referral Neurogastroenterology centre. Patients: All patients presenting with faecal incontinence from 2007 to 2020 were included. Main Outcome Measures: The results from structured medical and surgical questionnaires including Rome III Integrative Questionnaire, Faecal Incontinence Severity Index, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, SF‐36, and anorectal physiology were analysed using Stata version 17. Patients were categorised into 3 groups: 0–1 additional DGBI, 2 DGBIs, and 3+ DGBI. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05 (two‐tailed).

Key Results

Faecal incontinence patients (n = 249; mean age 63.4 ± 12.6 years; 93.6% female, 48.1% urge subtype) met diagnostic criteria for mean 2.2 additional DGBI each, mostly affecting bowel (n = 231, 42.4%) and anorectal (n = 150, 27.5%) regions. A greater number of DGBIs was associated with higher faecal incontinence symptom severity (p < 0.001), higher anxiety (p = 0.002) and depression (p = 0.003), and worse quality of life in areas of mental health (p = 0.037) and social effect (p < 0.001). Patients with a greater number of concurrent DGBI demonstrated a greater family history of gastrointestinal problems (p = 0.004). There were no associations found between a greater amount of DGBIs and anorectal physiology.

Conclusions and Inferences

A greater number of additional DGBIs in faecal incontinence patients was associated with worse faecal incontinence symptoms, higher anxiety and depression scores, and worse quality of life but was unrelated to physiology. This highlights the need to proactively search for comorbid DGBI in patients presenting with faecal incontinence.
Manometric identikit of a functioning and effective fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease in the high‐resolution manometry ERA
Authors: Salvador Renato , Capovilla Giovanni , Santangelo Matteo , Vittori Arianna , Forattini Francesca , Provenzano Luca , Nicoletti Loredana , Costantini Andrea , Moletta Lucia , Valmasoni Michele , Costantini Mario , Savarino Edoardo V.
Published: February 2024

Background

The pathophysiological and clinical value of performing High‐Resolution Manometry (HRM) after laparoscopic fundoplication (LF) for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is still unclear and debated.

Objective

We sought to establish the HRM parameters indicative of functioning fundoplications, and whether HRM could distinguish them from tight or defective ones.

Methods

The study involved patients with GERD who underwent laparoscopic Nissen (LN) or Toupet (LT) fundoplication between 2010 and 2022. HRM and 24‐h pH monitoring were performed before and 6 months after surgery. The study population was divided into 5 groups: LN and LT patients with normal 24h‐pH findings (LNpH‐ and LTpH‐, respectively); LN and LT patients with pathological 24h‐pH findings (LNpH+ and LTpH + groups, respectively); and patients with a postoperative dysphagia intensity score >2 (Dysphagia group). The novel Hiatal Morphology (HM) classification was applied, envisaging 3 different subtypes: HM1 (normal), HM2 (intrathoracic fundoplication), and HM3 (slipped fundoplication).

Results

Among the 132 patients recruited during the study period, 46 were in the LNpH‐ group, 51 in the LTpH‐ group, 15 in the LNpH + group, 7 in the LTpH + group, and 5 in the Dysphagia group. In multivariate analysis, postoperative abdominal lower esophageal sphincter length (p = 0.001) and HM2 (p < 0.001) were both independently associated with surgical failure. Integrated relaxation pressure was significantly higher in the Dysphagia group than in the LNpH‐ group.

Conclusion

This study generated reference HRM values for an effective LF, and confirms that using HRM to assess the neo‐sphincter and HM improves the clinical assessment in cases of symptom recurrence.
Electrochemical degradation of methyl orange from wastewater by SS/PbO2‐TiO2‐SnO2 composite electrode with and without UV
Authors: Thi Tot Pham , Thuy Mai Thi Thanh , Binh Phan Thi
Published: February 2024

SS/PbO2‐TiO2‐SnO2 composite electrode was synthesized by cyclic voltammetry (CV) method. The morphological structure of the composite was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), element‐mapping and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). The photoelectrochemical and electrochemical properties were considered in 0.5 m H2SO4 solution with and without UV, respectively. The results indicated that the PbO2‐TiO2‐SnO2 composite had good photoelectrochemical properties due to anodic current and exchange current density increased (31.32% and 48.67%, respectively) under UV irradiation. The composite electrode was used as anode for methyl orange (MO) treatment reached 99.51% under UV irradiation. The kinetic of MO degradation followed the pseudo‐ first order with and without UV (R2 = 0.9528 and 0.9684, respectively). Therefore, TiO2 and SnO2 dopped into PbO2 layer, created a composite with good photoelectrocatalytic activity.
Modelling the surprising recolonisation of an understudied aquatic mammal in a highly urbanised area: fortune favoured the smooth‐coated otter in Singapore
Authors: Hughes Kilian , Travis Justin M. J. , Ponchon Aurore
Published: February 2024

Ever‐growing human activities present an active and continuing threat to many species throughout the world. Nevertheless, concerted conservation efforts in some regions have balanced these threats and allowed endangered species to recolonise former parts of their original ranges and reverse their decline. This is notably the case of the smooth‐coated otter Lutrogale perspicillata. In 1998, individuals returned to Singapore after more than a 20‐year absence. In 2017, 79 otters were counted throughout the heavily urbanized city. Despite this comeback, the future of the species in Singapore is unclear. By collating information on the species' life history traits, we implemented a spatially explicit individual based model with the aim of first replicating the original recolonisation of the species in Singapore and secondly, trying to predict its future population trend. The model demonstrated that successful establishment of Singapore population from the initial immigrants was highly uncertain. In 43% of cases, stochastic extinction occurred. From the 9% of model replicates that closely reproduced the observed colonisation history, projections showed that the population would reach close to 200 individuals in 50 years. This study successfully demonstrates the use of individual‐based modelling to simulate the inherently stochastic recolonisation dynamics of an endangered species and predict its longer‐term future. We discuss emerging issues that may arise from increasing negative interactions between otters and humans and the general challenges associated with rewilding highly urbanized environments. We stress the importance of long‐term monitoring surveys and education campaigns to mitigate human–wildlife conflicts. With species and natural habitats increasingly threatened by our ever‐growing human expansion, understanding the factors that allow human‐dominated landscapes to be compatible with biodiversity is of the utmost importance.
Local movements of farmed‐released versus wild mallards Anas platyrhynchos in fall
Authors: Söderquist Pär , Elmberg Johan , Einarson Daniel , Gunnarsson Gunnar
Published: February 2024

Releasing farmed mallards into the wild is a common practice in wildlife management worldwide, involving millions of birds annually, and is mainly carried out to increase hunting opportunities. Ringing and previous research show that released mallards have low survival also outside the hunting season, and that survivors may compromise migration habits, morphology, and adaptations of the wild population. Detailed local movements of released mallards have not been studied before, despite the importance of spatiotemporal patterns for understanding the impact of releases and their utility for hunting. We studied local movements in August–October of 11 wild and 44 released mallards caught in the same wetland in southern Sweden and provided with GPS tags. Wild mallards moved longer distances than farmed, over the whole diel cycle, as well as during three out of four separate periods of the day (dawn, day, and dusk). Mallards of both origins moved the longest distances during dusk and dawn, and the shortest during the night. Males and females did not differ significantly in distance moved, regardless of origin (wild versus farmed). Our study demonstrates large differences in spatiotemporal movement patterns between wild and farmed mallards. The typical day of wild mallards included movements between wetlands in the landscape, likely to foraging sites known from previous experience. However, wild mallards frequently returned to the study wetland, probably attracted by supplementary bait. On the other hand, farmed mallards seldom left the study wetland, despite the possibility of accompanying wild birds to other sites. The sedentary behavior of farmed mallards and the fact that wild birds come to join them are both beneficial for hunting purposes. Limited movements of farmed mallards, together with their low survival, could also be positive as they limit hybridization between wild and farmed mallards, as well as dispersal of nutrients.
The Importance of Location for Coworking Spaces and the Timed City Concept. Experiences, Perceptions, and Reality in Malta
Authors: Bajada Thérèse , Satariano Bernadine , Chavoshi Seyed Hossein
Published: February 2024

In this chapter we aim to unravel the importance of the link between three themes: location, Coworking Spaces (CSs), and the timed city concept. We argue that location, CSs, and timed cities are interdependent and complement each other. To do this, we use Malta as a case study, a small high densely populated, car dependent island state that has only been exposed to CSs in the previous decade. To support our argument, we conducted semi-structured interviews with two CS owners, four traditional employers, and an entity representing employers. The former provided their experiences of having CSs in Malta and the latter two discussed their perceptions of CSs. The reality and the importance of location are represented through Geographic Information Systems, by which we analyzed walkable areas within the catchment of the CSs. The findings highlight that location unravels the importance of micro-geography in the context of an island state when considering the applicability of CSs and the timed city concept. Furthermore, the research resonates with the literature with regard to issues associated with mobility, accessibility, job type, and peripherality.
The Localization of Different Types of New Working Spaces in Central Europe
Authors: Rafaj Oliver , Danko Lukáš , Zhang Shifu , Belvončíková Eva
Published: February 2024

This chapter deals with the emergence of six different types of working spaces in Central European cities. Coworking spaces (CSs), makerspaces, fab labs, hackerspaces, living labs, and corporate labs are legal entities that in scientific literature are referred to as new working spaces (NeWSps). This chapter provides a summary overview of the emergence of individual types of NeWSps for in 138 selected cities of Central Europe—specifically in Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, and Slovakia—over the last 15 years. The results of our research showed that between 2007 and 2021, a total of 712 NeWSps entities were established in V4 countries, with CSs being the most represented (approximately 85% of the total number of NeWSps are coworking paces) and living labs the least represented. Our results further showed that the larger the number of inhabitants in cities and countries, the greater the number of established NeWSps in them. In the final part of the chapter we present examples of good practice for individual types of NeWSps from selected cities of the V4 countries.
The (re)location of Coworking Spaces in Ukraine During the Russian Invasion
Authors: Zhurbas Vika , Mariotti Ilaria , Orel Marko
Published: February 2024

A significant part of all firms tends to remain in the same location throughout their lives. Firm birth, death, and relocation are part of firm demography. Firm location, birth, and death are driven by several pull and push factors which also include exogenous shocks such as a foreign invasion. This paper aims to present and discuss the location of coworking spaces in Ukraine during the first year of the Russian Invasion. Several coworking spaces closed down in the Kyiv region, and others have opened in the western part of the country. The motivations driving the choice of location of three new coworking spaces in western areas are presented through interviews with the coworking spaces managers, and the role played by the coworking spaces community discussed.
The Evolution of Non-traditional Workplaces: From Third Places to Hybrid Places
Authors: Tomaz Elisabete , Tabrizi Helyaneh Aboutalebi
Published: February 2024

Recent socioeconomic and technological developments with significant impacts on work organization and labor relations, along with changes in the work/life relationship, have driven the emergence and rapid growth of new working spaces (NeWSps). Starting with a review of the multidisciplinary literature, we seek to identify and understand the various categories and related concepts arising from non-traditional workspaces and their evolution. Concepts such as “third place” as an alternative to home (“first place”) and workplaces of production (“second place”) refer to environments that facilitate informal social relations and provide a sense of community. Alongside the emergence of third places for work, discussions about hybrid places are arising as a spatial concept that combines two or more predefined NeWSps typologies, either with each other or with inherently tourism and hospitality infrastructure. The typologies presented serve as analytical tools to improve the understanding of this growing phenomenon, foster its diversity and integration, and contribute to future research on NeWSps and their socioeconomic implications.
A Taxonomy of New Working Spaces
Authors: Micek Grzegorz , Baycan Tüzin , Lange Bastian
Published: February 2024

In this chapter, we present a definition of new working spaces (NeWSps). We then delve into the unique characteristics of different types of NeWSps. We propose a typology that classifies these spaces based on the primary needs of their users, distinguishing between two approaches: “do it together” and “do it yourself”. Drawing from our literature review, we introduce the concepts of coworking spaces, creative hubs, living labs, corporate labs, makerspaces, fab labs, open worklabs and hackerspaces. We argue that while these types of NeWSps share some similarities, there are important differences between them, and they may overlap in certain dimensions. To capture the wide range of new working spaces, we present two perspectives on makerspaces and creative hubs: lato sensu and stricto sensu.
New Working Spaces Typologies Beyond Core Cities
Authors: Gato Maria Assunção , Haubrich Gislene
Published: February 2024

Technological development, global economic restructuring and the changing nature of work are three main factors prompting new working spaces (NeWSps). In this text, we explore the phenomenon of NeWSps beyond the core cities in the European context. We aim to understand how new ways of working spur NeWSps, focusing on their spread and impact on peripheral and rural areas. We organize the chapter into two parts. First, we present a brief overview of typologies and characteristics of new working spaces beyond core cities. Second, we introduce two case studies conceived in rural areas of Portugal. Beyond their distinct features, the success of these examples relies on the virtuosity of the networks and connections that have evolved around these spaces so as to root them in the territory and local communities.
Machine Learning
Authors: Breiding Paul , Kohn Kathlén , Sturmfels Bernd
Published: February 2024

One of the principal goals of machine learning is to learn in an automated way functions that represent the relationship between data points.
Critical Equations
Authors: Breiding Paul , Kohn Kathlén , Sturmfels Bernd
Published: February 2024

The following optimization problem arises in many applications, and we shall revisit it again and again throughout this book.
Wasserstein Distance
Authors: Breiding Paul , Kohn Kathlén , Sturmfels Bernd
Published: February 2024

A fundamental problem in metric algebraic geometry is distance minimization.
Reach and Offset
Authors: Breiding Paul , Kohn Kathlén , Sturmfels Bernd
Published: February 2024

In this chapter, we study the medial axis, bottlenecks, and offset hypersurfaces. These notions are intuitive and important for many applications. They will also lead to a better understanding of the geometry of the reach, which was introduced in Definition 6.19. The last section is devoted to the offset discriminant of a variety. This offers a direct link between the ED problem in Chapter 2 and differential geometric concepts we saw in the previous chapter, namely the second fundamental form (6.9) and the Weingarten map (6.10).
Voronoi Cells
Authors: Breiding Paul , Kohn Kathlén , Sturmfels Bernd
Published: February 2024

Every real algebraic variety X determines aVoronoi decomposition of its ambient Euclidean space $$\mathbb{R}^{n}$$ . This is a partition of $$\mathbb{R}^{n}$$ into Voronoi cells, one for each point in X.
Condition Numbers
Authors: Breiding Paul , Kohn Kathlén , Sturmfels Bernd
Published: February 2024

The concept of a condition number has its origin in numerical analysis. It measures how much the output value of a function we wish to evaluate can change for a small change in the input argument. In this chapter, we discuss condition numbers in the context of metric algebraic geometry. In the first section, we offer an introduction to the relevant notions for assessing errors in numerical computations.
Overarching Patterns of Ancient Transformation in Europe
Authors: Müller Johannes , Kirleis Wiebke , Kneisel Jutta , Rabbel Wolfgang
Published: February 2024

Collating insights from preceding chapters, and adding in further data from CRC 1266 research, this final chapter synthesises elements to initiate an understanding of transformation as a general phenomenon across the region. Notably, the identified 14 European transformation phases exhibit diverse regional and local impacts, reflected in the regional transformations studied in this research project.

This chapter aims to bring together the ideas presented thus far in this volume in order to spark further development in integrative archaeology by highlighting the nuanced nature of transformations, transcending the conventional categorisation of European prehistory into Stone, Bronze, and Iron Ages. This traditional division based primarily on technological advancements overlooks the multifaceted changes occurring concurrently across various societal forms in diverse environments. Instead, this study emphasises the necessity of considering multiple facets of human-environmental interactions for a comprehensive understanding of transformations. We conclude that comprehensive evaluation of European data to decipher transformation process across social, temporal and spatial scales requires holistic consideration, in order to be able to further develop an anatomy of transformation, which can contribute significantly to refining interpretations and models in archaeological understanding.
Indicators of Transformation Processes: Change Profiles as a Method for Identifying Indicators
Authors: Engelbogen Franziska , Nakoinz Oliver , Knitter Daniel , Zeviani Camilla , Stoddart Simon , Strohm Steffen , Günther Gerrit , Alliata Victoria , Löptien Ulrike
Published: February 2024

The sound interpretation and convincing detection of transformations require dense data from different domains. This chapter aims to develop some rather simple indicators that can be used to identify and characterise transformations using change profiles. This chapter concentrates on location-based indicators that are applied to case studies from the Iron Age in Central Italy and South-West Germany. We focus on rather well-known transformations characterising them with location-based parameters and validating those indicators with additional information, such as data on climate, technology, and society. The additional parameters also help to gain decent interpretations of the transformations. The requirement of the multi-proxy approach is satisfied on two levels. First, each domain is represented by different indicators, and second, different domains are considered for interpretation and evaluation. This chapter results in a set of simple location-based indicators, change profiles, and the description and interpretation of the Iron Age transformations from the case studies. Furthermore, with the case study of South-West Germany for instance, we revealed two interrelated transformation processes. The first process focuses on the formation of the elites, which supports and accelerates technical developments. That prepared the ground for the second process, which affects the whole society and includes a kind of social consolidation. After the Hallstatt-Latène transition, the intensity of the transformations seems to decrease.
Patterns of Socio-economic Cultural Transformations in Neolithic and Bronze Age Societies in the Central Northern European Plain
Authors: Brozio Jan Piet , Kneisel Jutta , Schaefer-Di Maida Stefanie , Laabs Julian , Feeser Ingo , Ribeiro Artur , Schultrich Sebastian
Published: February 2024

Does history repeat itself? What causes and mechanisms of action are at work in prehistoric societies? These are two questions we want to tackle in a longue durée perspective. In order to do so we bring together two main epochs in human history in the central northern European Plain: the Neolithic and the Bronze Age of northern Germany. In this timeframe we want to identify patterns of socio-economic cultural transformations.

Consequently, the reconstruction of the causes and mechanisms of action in prehistoric societies are essential. In order to increase our knowledge of potential triggers and drivers of transformations, different economic, demographic, and socio-cultural data as well as climate data will be combined for a timeline of about 3500 years. As a new approach the concept of capitals by Bourdieu will be applied to construct comparable diachronic measurements for our different data sets of Material Culture. This allows for the first-time statistical analyses and quantitatively tested combinations of driving factors and socio-environmental responses. This will allow the identification of comparable patterns of transformation and how differently organised societies in the Neolithic and the Bronze Age reacted to comparable changes.
Introduction
Authors: Middelburg Jack J.
Published: February 2024

This chapter introduces the macroscopic approach to matter and defines thermodynamic systems and their exchange with the surroundings. The state variables temperature and pressure are presented and linked via the ideal gas law (an equation of state for gas).
The Gibbs Free Energy
Authors: Middelburg Jack J.
Published: February 2024

This chapter introduces the Gibbs free energy and its relevance for the direction of phase changes and reactions. The dependence of Gibbs free energy on temperature and pressure is presented and used to derive the (Clausius-)Clapeyron relation. One-component phase diagrams and Gibb’s phase rule are presented.
Introduction to Equilibrium
Authors: Middelburg Jack J.
Published: February 2024

This chapter defines equilibrium in mixtures and ideal solutions and introduces the equilibrium constant, its relationship with the Gibbs free energy and its dependence on temperature. Homogenous and heterogenous equilibria are distinguished and solid–gas, liquid–gas and mineral-solution equilibria are presented, including Henry’s law and the solubility product.
Acid-Base Equilibria
Authors: Middelburg Jack J.
Published: February 2024

This chapter presents acid-base equilibria and simple methods to calculate the pH of solutions. The inorganic carbon system in water is introduced, including the concept of alkalinity, and methods to solve carbon dioxide equilibria in water are discussed. Earth system science relevant examples such as rainwater, surface waters in equilibrium with calcium carbonate minerals, soda lakes and the physical chemistry of karst systems are presented.
Redox Equilibria
Authors: Middelburg Jack J.
Published: February 2024

This chapter focuses on equilibria involving electron transfers (redox reactions). A systematic approach to identify electron transfers and to balance redox reactions is introduced. Redox potential and the Nernst equation are linked to the Gibbs free energy.
MicroRNA-9 promotes axon regeneration of mauthner-cell in zebrafish via her6/ calcium activity pathway
Authors: Shen Yueru , Chen Xinghan , Song Zheng , Yao Huaitong , Han Along , Zhang Yawen , Cai Yuan , Hu Bing
Published: February 2024

MicroRNA (miRNA), functioning as a post-transcriptional regulatory element, plays a significant role in numerous regulatory mechanisms and serves as a crucial intrinsic factor influencing axon regeneration. Prior investigations have elucidated the involvement of miRNA-9 in various processes, however, its specific contribution to axon regeneration in the central nervous system (CNS) remains uncertain. Hence, the zebrafish Mauthner axon regeneration model was employed to manipulate the expression of miRNA-9 in single cells, revealing that upregulation of miRNA-9 facilitated axon regeneration. Additionally, her6, a downstream target gene of miRNA-9, was identified as a novel gene associated with axon regeneration. Suppression of her6 resulted in enhanced Mauthner axon regeneration, as evidenced by the significantly improved regenerative capacity observed in her6 knockout zebrafish. In addition, modulation of her6 expression affects intracellular calcium levels in neurons and promoting her6 expression leads to a decrease in calcium levels in vivo using the new NEMOf calcium indicator. Moreover, the administration of the neural activity activator, pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) partially compensated for the inhibitory effect of her6 overexpression on the calcium level and promoted axon regeneration. Taken together, our study revealed a role for miRNA-9 in the process of axon regeneration in the CNS, which improved intracellular calcium activity and promoted axon regeneration by inhibiting the expression of downstream target gene her6. In our study, miRNA-9 emerged as a novel and intriguing target in the intricate regulation of axon regeneration and offered compelling evidence for the intricate relationship between calcium activity and the facilitation of axon regeneration.

Graphical Abstract

miRNA-9 can promote intracellular calcium activity in neurons by inhibiting the expression of its downstream target gene her6, which in turn promotes axonal regeneration.