bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing Your Reproducible Neuroimaging Workflow with Git
Authors: Garcia Mélanie , Kelly Clare
Published: December 2024

As a neuroimager working with open-source software and tools, you will quickly become familiar with the website GitHub, which is a (for profit) platform for storing, managing, and sharing code, software, and projects. Many of the open-source tools discussed in this book are hosted on GitHub. Although people are generally very familiar with GitHub (or GitLab), they are often less familiar with its foundation—Git. Better understanding Git will help you better manage your own projects and will also help you to better understand GitHub and how to use it optimally. In this chapter, we will first explain Git and how to use it, then we will turn to GitHub. A worked example—a clustering analysis—with open access neuroimaging data is provided, demonstrating utilities such as version control, branching, and conflict resolution.
Theoretische Grundlagen
Authors: Scheiding Christian Thomas
Published: December 2024

Die sinnhafte Beachtung und Darlegung von soliden theoretischen Grundlagen in der Wissenschaft sind essenziell für jegliche Form der Erkenntnisgenerierung, da sie eine gemeinsame Plattform für Verständnis und Diskussion bereitstellen und die Möglichkeit bieten, auf früheren Erkenntnissen und Theorien aufzubauen. Dieses Kapitel widmet sich explizit dieser Aufgabe mit dem Ziel, ein umfassendes theoretisches Fundament zu etablieren. Zunächst wird die grundlagentheoretische Rahmung gesetzt.
Methodologische Grundlagen und methodische Verfahren
Authors: Scheiding Christian Thomas
Published: December 2024

In diesem Kapitel werden die methodologischen Grundlagen und methodischen Verfahren, die für diese Forschungsarbeit verwendet werden, detailliert vorgestellt und deren Auswahl begründet. Zunächst wird auf das Erkenntnisinteresse, die Zielsetzung und die Fragestellung der Arbeit eingegangen, die den Rahmen für die nachfolgenden methodologischen und methodischen Betrachtungen abstecken und als Bindeglied zwischen der Theorie, dem aktuellen Stand der Forschung, den methodologischen Überlegungen und dem methodischen Forschungsdesign fungieren. Es wird auf das dialektische Verhältnis von Theorie, Methodologie und methodischen Verfahren Bezug genommen.
Conclusio
Authors: Scheiding Christian Thomas
Published: December 2024

In dieser Arbeit wurde der Themenkomplex der Nachhaltigkeit in den Organisationen des ÖD mit dem Fokus auf das nachhaltigkeitsrelevante Verhalten der Beschäftigten umfassend untersucht. Das Hauptziel der Untersuchung bestand darin, neue Theorie zum Verständnis und zur Klärung der Frage zu generieren, wie Angestellte des ÖD den wahrgenommenen Anforderungen des Konzepts der Nachhaltigkeit vor dem Hintergrund ihres beruflichen Alltags begegnen.
The terrestrial isopod Porcellionides pruinosus as a facultative ant guest along foraging trails and inside Messor ebeninus nests in the Negev Desert
Authors: Oxman K. , Kuabara K. M. D. , O’Donnell S.
Published: December 2024

We report field observations of the cosmopolitan terrestrial isopod species Porcellionides pruinosus both inside the nest and following foraging trails of the seed harvester ant Messor ebeninus in the spring of 2022 and 2023. The isopods inside the nest either traveled to deeper tunnels or joined foraging trails. The density of isopods along foraging trails was as high as 60 individuals along one 22-m foraging trail. The results from 12 preliminary homing assays revealed that the distance isopods were displaced did not affect whether they returned to the trail. Two of the four isopods introduced into a foraging trail of a new nest continued walking on the foreign trail. The isopods were met with minimal aggression from the ants along the trail, and there were no instances of nest guarding observed. The presence of P. pruinosus as a facultative associate inside M. ebeninus nests could be driven by a need for thermal refuge and access to subterranean granaries. The known ability of isopods to cue into ant pheromones is a plausible mechanism for allowing isopods to follow foraging trails. The benefit of trail following behavior needs further investigation. We hypothesize a benefit to walking on a path clear of obstacles, and efficient detection of patchy desert food sources.
Paleoproterozoic Mississippi Valley-type mineralization at Black Angel, Greenland: evidence from sulfide δ66Zn and rhenium-osmium geochronology
Authors: Saintilan Nicolas J. , Archer Corey , Szilas Kristoffer , Krüger Geertsen Kristina , Rosa Diogo , Spangenberg Jorge E.
Published: December 2024

We provide timestamps for the major zinc-lead (Zn-Pb) Mississippi Valley-type Black Angel deposit (Greenland) based on new pyrite rhenium-osmium (Re-Os) isotope geochemistry data: (1) a Re-Os isochron age 1,884 ± 35 million years ago (Ma – 2σ, 1.8%) for subhedral pyrite cemented by sphalerite ± galena in dolomitized clean limestone, and, (2) a Re-Os model age 1,828 ± 16 Ma (2σ, 0.9%) for epigenetic massive pyrite in siltstone/mudstone cap rock. Zinc-lead mineralization in evaporite-bearing carbonates in the Karrat Basin took place ca. 1,884 Ma at the time of far-field fluid flow associated with back-arc spreading ca. 1,900–1,850 Ma. Mineralization predates the development of the Rinkian foreland basin (ca. 1,850 – < 1,800 Ma) and a collisional stage (ca. 1,830 – < 1,800 Ma) in the context of the telescoping Rinkian and the Nagssugtoqidian Orogens. Replacement of clean carbonate and sustained acid neutralization led to significant sphalerite precipitation ca. 1,884 Ma. Conversely, precipitation of epigenetic massive pyrite in the cap rock ca. 1,828 Ma may signal (1) the lack of chemical reactivity of the cap rock for the pH-buffered conditions needed for Zn-Pb mineralization, and (2) the unfavorable impact of incipient regional Rinkian metamorphism (ca. 1,830–1,800 Ma) and tectonic compression on aquifer permeability and continued brine migration. The initial 187Os/188Os ratio (Osi-pyrite = 1.07 ± 0.32) from isochron regression identifies a crustal origin for Os and, by corollary, other metals in the ca. 1,884 Ma Zn-Pb mineralization. Although the Rae Craton basement rocks comprise the dominant source for metals (based on our Osi-pyrite and δ66Znpyrite/sphalerite data), we identify a complementary contribution in Zn (maximum 12–24%) from Paleoproterozoic sedimentary carbonate. This source of Zn in sedimentary calcite is deemed possible in the context of Paleoproterozoic seawater at high Na/Cl ratio and in the absence of Zn-based eukaryotic metabolism in shallow marine environment.
Topology optimization for 3D fluid diode design considering wall-connected structures
Authors: Sasaki Takamitsu , Furuta Kozo , Ishida Naoyuki , Li Hao , Kondoh Tsuguo , Izui Kazuhiro , Nishiwaki Shinji
Published: December 2024

This paper proposes a density-based topology optimization method for the three-dimensional design of fluid diodes considering wall-connected structures based on the fictitious physical modeling approach. The optimum design problem of fluid diodes is formulated as maximizing the energy dissipation in the reverse flow subject to the upper bound constraint of the energy dissipation in the forward flow. A fictitious physical model and a geometric constraint are constructed to detect and restrict the “floating” solid domains, which are not connected to the outer boundaries. The sensitivities of cost functions are derived and computed based on the continuous adjoint method. The finite volume method is employed to discretize the governing and adjoint equations to mitigate the huge computational costs of three-dimensional fluid analysis. Numerical investigations are presented to validate the fictitious physical model and the geometric constraint for excluding “floating” islands. Finally, topology optimization for fluid diodes with and without the geometric constraint is performed, and the result demonstrates that the proposed method is capable of generating fluid diodes with wall connectivity, while maintaining a good functional performance.
Tool pose measurement using shadow imaging sensors
Authors: Terlau Marina , von Freyberg Axel , Fischer Andreas
Published: December 2024

Due to the high positioning uncertainty and low stiffness of robots, significant geometrical deviations occur in robotic incremental sheet forming (ISF) which requires an optical in-process tool pose measurement. To achieve a measuring uncertainty of less than 50 $$\upmu $$
μ
m for the position components and less than 0.05$$^\circ $$

∘

for the orientation components in the machining volume, a multi-sensor system based on shadow imaging sensors is proposed. To calculate the six-degree-of-freedom tool pose, the sensor system measures the positions of three LEDs attached to the tool. The LEDs emit light with different colors, and the associated shadows are separately detected by using color filters. In addition, each sensor consists of a shadow-casting mask and a monochrome camera. Experimental results show that the systematic error dominates the measurement uncertainty budget and needs to be calibrated, while the random error is one order of magnitude smaller than the required measuring uncertainty. Furthermore, the color filters reduce the cross-sensitivities between the signals to an acceptable level. Final experiments on a robot demonstrate plausible pose measurements indicating the feasibility to apply the multi-sensor system in robotic ISF.
Vulva Self-Image and Sexual Function After Female External Genital Plastic Surgery
Authors: Turini Tatiana , Sant Ana Geisa , Imoto Aline Mizusaki , Martins Maria Eduarda Alves
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Female external genital plastic surgery (vulvoplasty) is among the most performed aesthetic surgeries in Brazil. Vulva self-image can be defined as women's perception of their vulva and is usually related to sexual function. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact and interrelationship of female external genital plastic surgery on self-image and sexual function.

Method

This quantitative longitudinal descriptive study includes a retrospective analysis of 48 medical records from June 2017 to July 2021. The sexual function questionnaire (SFQ-28) and female genital self-image scale (FGSIS) answered by the patients in the preoperative and six postoperative month were analyzed.

Result

The mean age of the operated patients was 36.25 years (range 18–59). The median FGSIS score was 13 in the preoperative and 27.5 in the six postoperative month, with a significant positive difference in all items. There was a significant positive difference in the following SFQ-28 domains: desire, arousal (cognitive), orgasm, enjoyment, and partner (p < 0.005)

Conclusion

In our cohort, female external genital plastic surgery (vulvoplasty) elicited a positive relationship between genital self-image and sexual function, in addition to improving orgasm.

Level of Evidence IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.
Einfluss des Behandlungssettings auf die Versorgung von Patient*innen mit rheumatoider Arthritis oder Psoriasisarthritis im Rahmen der Delegation an rheumatologische Fachassistenz — eine Post-hoc-Analyse der StärkeR-Studie
Authors: Shabani Rilind , Mai Anna , Denz Robin , Timmesfeld Nina , Braun Jürgen , Krause Dietmar
Published: December 2024

Hintergrund

Die StärkeR-Studie zeigte die Nichtunterlegenheit einer teambasierten Versorgungsform mit Delegation an rheumatologische Fachassistenz (RFA) gegenüber der Standardversorgung bei Patient*innen mit rheumatoider Arthritis (RA) oder Psoriasisarthritis (PsA).

Zielsetzung

Explorative Analysen hinsichtlich eines möglichen Einflusses des Behandlungssettings (Schwerpunktpraxis/Klinikambulanz) auf verschiedene Outcome-Parameter bei Patient*innen mit RA oder PsA im Rahmen der Delegation an rheumatologische Fachassistenz.

Material und Methoden

Patient*innen mit RA oder PsA und stabiler Einstellung bei geringer Krankheitsaktivität aus 3 Klinikambulanzen und 14 rheumatologischen Schwerpunktpraxen, die an der StärkeR-Studie teilgenommen hatten, wurden in diese Post-hoc-Analyse einbezogen. Die Effektivität der teambasierten Versorgungsform in Abhängigkeit vom Behandlungssetting wurde mittels Interaktionsanalysen in linearen Regressionsmodellen u. a. mit Blick auf Krankheitsaktivität, Funktionsfähigkeit, Schmerz und Müdigkeit untersucht.

Ergebnisse

Von 588 Patient*innen wurden 466 in Schwerpunktpraxen behandelt, 92 in Klinikambulanzen. Die Analysen ergaben bei einem von 9 untersuchten Endpunkten eine signifikante Interaktion: Die Funktionskapazität (Skala 0–1) zeigte in den Klinikambulanzen gegenüber der Standardversorgung gering niedrigere Werte (−0,07 [−0.12; −0.02]), während sich ein solcher Unterschied in den Praxen nicht darstellte. Bei anderen Endpunkten zeigte sich tendenziell ein Vorteil der teambasierten Versorgungsform im Praxissetting.

Diskussion

Diese explorativen Analysen weisen auf den möglichen Nutzen der Evaluation von verschiedenen Versorgungsformen wie der Delegation ärztlicher Leistungen an qualifizierte RFA im Sinne eines Benchmarkings hin.
Can wage changes solve the labour crisis in the National Health Service?
Authors: Zhou Xingzuo , Skordis Jolene , Yi Junjian , Li Yiang , Clarke Jonathan , Zhang Hongkun
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to examine the healthcare labour demand and supply elasticity regarding wage in the National Health Service (NHS) in England amid a labour crisis. A simultaneous error-correction regression analysis was conducted using secondary data from the NHS and Office for National Statistics from 2009 Q3 to 2022 Q1. Findings indicate both labour demand and supply of HCHS doctors in the NHS are highly inelastic with respect to real wages, with only a 0.1% decrease in NHS staff hiring and a 0.8% rise in NHS staff’s willingness to work as full-time equivalents per 10% wage increase. Approximately 22% of the wage disequilibrium adjusts quarterly, indicating moderate speed of wage adjustment. Our results suggest that wage setting is not a sufficient solution to the labour crisis. Innovative and sustainable solutions are needed to reduce the demand for skilled health labour and increase the supply of health labour.
Moderne Pharmakotherapie Erwachsener
Authors: Steinhoff Bernhard J.
Published: December 2024

Erfreulicherweise wurden im vergangenen Jahr nach langer Wartezeit die Leitlinien der Deutschen Gesellschaften für Neurologie und Epileptologie „Erster epileptischer Anfall und Epilepsien im Erwachsenenalter“ publiziert. Diese sorgfältig im Konsensverfahren erarbeiteten Ratschläge decken überwiegend die aktuelle Literatur und Praxisevidenz ab. Konsensbasierte Leitlinien haben den methodischen Nachteil, dass sie sich zwar nach der Evidenz richten, letztlich die Empfehlungen aber im Konsens gegeben werden, der in Würdigung der Sachlage und der Erfahrung der Experten richtig sein kann. Ein weiteres Problem von Leitlinien besteht darin, dass sie bei mäßiger Evidenzlage in der Literatur auch nur vage Empfehlungen ableiten kann, die in der Praxis wenig hilfreich sind. Die anfallssuppressive Pharmakotherapie stellt trotz aller Neuerungen auf den Gebieten der Epilepsiechirurgie, Neurostimulation und Diätbehandlung nach wie vor den Goldstandard der Epilepsietherapie dar. Neue Anfallssuppressiva und v.  a. hochrangige Studien zur Sicherheit und Verträglichkeit bereits vorhandener Medikamente haben die Möglichkeiten zu einer verbesserten Pharmakotherapie deutlich verbessert. Die hier vorgelegte Übersichtsarbeit fasst den aktuellen Stand der anfallssuppressiven Pharmakotherapie zusammen und kommentiert die sich hieraus ergebenden Praxisempfehlungen zum „state of the art“ in Ergänzung und im Lichte der Leitlinien.
On the Axial Symmetry of 2D Star-Shaped Sets
Authors: López-Díaz María Concepción , López-Díaz Miguel
Published: December 2024

An essential aspect of the study of shapes is the symmetry because of its importance from a theoretical point of view and its applicability in multiple real-life problems. In this manuscript, the axial symmetry of 2D star-shaped sets is analyzed. For such a purpose, different measures of axial symmetry of a star-shaped set are proposed and the concept of a best symmetry axis is also introduced. By means of them, families of symmetry measures for star-shaped sets quantifying the degree of symmetry of a set of that class are introduced. All of them are discussed in detail, providing their main properties and the existence of at least a best axis of symmetry, which could be not unique, for any star-shaped set. Some examples illustrate the concepts and results of the manuscript.
Cognitivism about religious belief in later Wittgenstein
Authors: Pichler Alois , Sunday Grève Sebastian
Published: December 2024

Wittgensteinian philosophy of religion has traditionally been grounded in non-cognitivism about religious belief. This paper shows that the Wittgensteinian tradition has wrongly neglected a significant movement towards cognitivism in Wittgenstein’s later writings. The argument proceeds on the basis of two main claims. First, Wittgenstein’s mature philosophy, as expressed in his Philosophical Investigations, clearly favours cognitivism over non-cognitivism with regard to certain linguistic facts about ordinary religious discourse. Second, during the last decade of his life Wittgenstein’s view of religious belief actually underwent a significant shift in the direction of cognitivism, which finds its most striking expression in the analogy he draws to the ‘honest religious thinker’.
Inertial measurement unit signal-based machine learning methods for frailty assessment in geriatric health
Authors: Amjad Arslan , Szczęsna Agnieszka , Błaszczyszyn Monika , Anwar Aamir
Published: December 2024

Frailty is a geriatric syndrome that may result in poor health outcomes such as hospitalization, disability, psychological distress, and reduced life satisfaction, and it is also associated with higher healthcare costs. The aim of this study is to classify frailty in elders at an early stage (pre-frail) to lower the risk of frailty and, hence, improve the quality of life. The other two classes in the classification task are frail and robust (non-frail). To achieve this, a dataset based on gait was utilized, which was recorded by an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensor, including gyroscope and accelerometer data. In this study, two approaches were assessed: the first used advanced Deep Learning (DL) algorithms to analyze raw IMU signals, and the second used conventional Machine Learning (ML) methods with hand-crafted features. The DL model, i.e., InceptionTime, beat the other algorithms in the DL approach with a remarkable test accuracy of 98%. On the ML side, Random Forest reported the most successful ML method, which achieved a test accuracy of 63.3%. For a careful assessment of the models, other evaluation metrics like Precision, Recall, and F1-score were also evaluated. The evaluation of both approaches produces research benefits for the classification of frailty in older people and allows for the investigation of new areas, promoting deeper comprehension and well-informed decision-making, particularly in healthcare systems.
Mueller matrix polarimetry for quantitative evaluation of the Achilles tendon injury recovery
Authors: Yang Huibin , Xu Minhui , He Honghui , Zeng Nan , Song Jiawei , Huang Tongyu , Liang Ziyang , Ma Hui
Published: December 2024

Achilles tendon injuries, as a widely existing disease, have attracted a lot of research interest. Mueller matrix polarimetry, as a novel label-free quantitative imaging method, has been widely used in various applications of lesion identification and pathological diagnosis. However, focusing on the recovery process of Achilles tendon injuries, current optical imaging methods have not yet achieved the label-free precise identification and quantitative evaluation. In this study, using Mueller matrix polarimetry, various Achilles tendon injury samples were characterized specifically, and the efficacy of different recovery schemes was evaluated accordingly. Experiments indicate that injured Achilles tendons show less phase retardance, larger diattenuation, and relatively disordered orientation. The combination of experiments with Monte Carlo simulation results illustrate the microscopic mechanism of the Achilles tendon recovery process from three aspects, that is, the increased fiber diameter, a more consistent fiber orientation, and greater birefringence induced by more collagen protein. Finally, based on the statistical distribution of polarization measurements, a polarization specific characterization parameter was extracted to construct a label-free image, which cannot only intuitively show the injury and recovery of Achilles tendon samples, but also give a quantitative evaluation of the treatment.

Graphical Abstract
Psychometric Properties and Factor Structure of the Swedish Version of the Self-Compassion Scale
Authors: Bratt Anna Sofia , Marcusson-Clavertz David , Ozolins Andrejs , Carlsson Rickard
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Research suggests that self-compassion, characterized by an open and caring attitude toward oneself during challenging situations, can serve as a protective factor against mental health challenges. In research and clinical practice, self-compassion is typically assessed using the Self-Compassion Scale (SCS). Although the short form of the SCS (SCS-SF) has been studied in Sweden, the full SCS remains relatively unexplored. The aim of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Swedish translation of the SCS in a university student population.

Method

We assessed internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and factor structure using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Exploratory Structural Equation Modeling (ESEM). Additionally, we assessed the concurrent validity of the SCS by correlating it with perceived stress and alcohol consumption.

Results

The results of the CFA and ESEM analyses indicated adequate fit for the 6-factor model, whereas the 1-factor and 2-factor models showed inadequate fit. The 1-bifactor and 2-bifactor ESEM analyses also indicated adequate fit, but the corresponding CFA analyses did not converge. As expected, self-compassion correlated negatively with perceived stress and alcohol consumption.

Conclusion

Our findings support the reliability of the Swedish version of the SCS. These psychometric properties are comparable to those of the original version. This validation is essential for its use in Swedish research and clinical contexts.

Preregistration

This study was not preregistered.
Kalman filter framework for a regional mass change model from GRACE satellite gravity
Authors: Wöhnke Viviana , Eicker Annette , Weigelt Matthias , Reich Marvin , Güntner Andreas , Kvas Andreas , Mayer-Gürr Torsten
Published: December 2024

In this study a regional modelling framework for water mass changes is developed. The approach can introduce geodetic observation types of varying temporal and spatial resolution including their correlated error information. For this purpose a Kalman filter process was set up using a regional parameterisation by space-localising radial basis functions and a process model based on stochastic prediction. The feasibility of the approach is confirmed in a closed-loop simulation experiment using gridded water storage estimates derived from simulated monthly solutions of the GRACE satellite gravimetry mission and considering realistic error patterns. The resulting mass change time series exhibit strongly reduced noise and a very high agreement with the reference model. The modelling framework is designed to flexibly allow a future extension towards combining satellite gravimetry with other geodetic observations such as GNSS station displacements or terrestrial gravimetry.
An Integrated Seismic Assessment Method for Urban Buildings and Roads
Authors: Zhang Siwei , Li Shuang , Zhai Changhai , Xiao Jia
Published: December 2024

Seismic simulation of urban buildings and roads is significant for regional pre-disaster mitigation and post-disaster recovery. To consider the interrelated influences of buildings and roads, an integrated seismic assessment method for urban buildings and roads is proposed. The seismic damages of buildings were assessed using various methods based on structural characteristics and different degrees of available building information. Both physical and topological characteristics of the road network are considered in the proposed method to determine post-earthquake road network traffic capacity. To quantitatively evaluate post-earthquake road network traffic capacity, we comprehensively considered the seismic damage to roads, blockages caused by earthquake-induced debris, and the potential risk of falling debris from damaged buildings. The proposed integrated seismic assessment method was applied to a real earthquake event to demonstrate its feasibility and effectiveness, and also applied to a real city, of which information on buildings and roads was based on open-source data and statistical data, to demonstrate its applicability. The proposed method provides a solid prediction on the seismic performance of urban buildings and road networks, serving as a reference for urban earthquake disaster rescue and relief.
A City-Level Integrated Case Base Design for Systemic Disaster Risk Management
Authors: Yu Feng , Yao Chen , Dengzheng Chaoxiong , Deng Qing , Li Xiangyang
Published: December 2024

Urban disaster risks show multi-stage evolution and interconnected coupling features. Under time pressure, case-based reasoning (CBR) has emerged as a critical method for risk management decision making. Case-based reasoning tackles target case problems by leveraging solutions from similar historical cases. However, the current case base is inadequate for storing systemic risk cases, thus impeding CBR efficacy. This article presents a city-level integrated case base with a nested cross structure to facilitate the use of CBR in systemic risk management. It comprises a multi-layer vertical dimension and a multi-scale horizontal dimension. The vertical dimension is optimized to a four-layer (environment-hazard-object-aftermath) risk scenario classification system with taxonomy and fuzzy clustering analysis. The horizontal dimension is improved to a three-scale (network-chain-pair) risk association mode using event chain theory and association analysis. Hazard acts as the pivotal link between the two dimensions. An illustrative example displays the use process of the proposed case base, along with a discussion of its CBR-supported applications. Through the digital transformation, the suggested case base can serve government decision making with CBR, enhancing the city’s capability to reduce systemic risk.
Improving Complex Problem-Solving in Emergency Response: A Study of the Fire and Rescue Service in Sweden
Authors: Vylund Lotta , Jacobsson Joel , Frykmer Tove , Eriksson Kerstin
Published: December 2024

This study explored how the Swedish Fire and Rescue Service identifies problems and implements necessary actions during complex problem-solving in emergencies, aiming to increase our understanding of this process. Primary and secondary data from large-scale fire events were analyzed, including semistructured interviews and incident reports. The concept of “possibility space” is applied to identify factors affecting complex problem-solving. This refers to the scope of action available at a specific point in time for a particular operation. The study identified eight factors, including problem identification, incident development, capability, collaboration, management, legal framework, logistics, and time available, that could either decrease or increase the scope of action. The findings contribute to an increased understanding of complex problem-solving in real-world environments and suggest that the possibility space could be a valuable tool for practitioners in enhancing problem-solving during emergency response.
A governability lesson for the Blue Economy: the collapse of mobile salmon aquaculture in the Norwegian coastal zone
Authors: Jensen Daniel , Sønvisen Signe A. , Johnsen Jahn Petter
Published: December 2024

Inspired by governability and evolutionary governance theory, this paper studies innovative aquaculture technologies that aim to contribute to the transition toward a sustainable blue economy. By tracing path, inter-, and goal dependencies, we explore a case related to developing new production systems in the Norwegian salmon aquaculture industry. As further development using conventional production systems is deemed unsustainable, the government has incentivised technological innovation to alleviate environmental and spatial pressures limiting industry expansion. We describe the work behind enrolling one innovative technology into the coastal governance system. As we find, there are conflicts between the conditions in governance that technological innovations depend on for realisation versus the conditions the governance system depends on for governability. Through our relational approach, we display how innovation challenges governability and that achieving Blue Economy objectives may require considerable political and administrative reorganisation of the existing governance setup.
Optimisation of LPBF process parameters and residual stress analyses of Invar-10wt% TiC and Invar-10wt% TiN metal matrix composites
Authors: Oyedeji Ayodeji Nathaniel , Sacks Natasha , Venter Andrew Michael , Marais Deon , Pötschke Johannes
Published: December 2024

To enhance the mechanical properties of Invar (Fe–36Ni) for a broader range of applications, reinforcement with Titanium Carbide (TiC) and Titanium Nitride (TiN) was investigated. Laser powder bed fusion was used to manufacture the Invar metal matrix composites with TiC and TiN respective additions. Optimization of the process parameters was conducted using response surface methodology. The optimal parameters for Invar-TiC are 180 W laser power with a scanning speed of 450 mm/s, while for Invar-TiN, the optimal parameters are 190 W laser power with a scanning speed of 400 mm/s. High densities (> 99%) and significant improvements in hardness were achieved. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy analyses confirmed the uptake of TiC and TiN into the Invar matrix, leading to the enhanced properties. Residual stress evaluation through non-destructive neutron diffraction (ND) measurements and inherent strain modelling (ISM) simulations was done. The addition of TiC and TiN to the Invar matrix influenced the stress distribution, with Invar-TiC showing higher tensile stresses due to its thermal conductivity properties, and higher compressive stresses due to grain refinement. Close agreement was found between the ISM simulation and ND-measured results, indicating predominantly compressive stresses in the interior and tensile stresses on the sample surfaces. These findings demonstrate the potential for developing Invar-based MMCs with enhanced mechanical properties through LPBF. Due to the enhancement in hardness and, thus, wear resistance, the investigated compositions offer applications in parts and tools used in rough and demanding conditions, such as mouthpieces for extrusion or turbine blades in water turbines.
Die Landtagswahlen in Brandenburg, Sachsen und Thüringen 2024: Neue Formen des Regierens als Antwort auf die Wahlergebnisse
Authors: Völkl Kerstin
Published: December 2024

Im September 2024 fanden in drei ostdeutschen Bundesländern Landtagswahlen statt. Am 1. September 2024 waren die Bürgerinnen und Bürger in Sachsen und Thüringen aufgerufen, ein neues Landesparlament zu wählen. Drei Wochen später, am 22. September 2024, folgte die Landtagswahl in Brandenburg. Nach diesen Wahlen stehen die Parteien vor der Herausforderung, Koalitionen zu bilden, die stabile Regierungen gewährleisten, ohne ihre inhaltlichen Grundpositionen und Beschlüsse zur Zusammenarbeit mit bestimmten Parteien aufgeben zu müssen. Angesichts der Wahlergebnisse stellt sich die Frage, ob alternative Regierungsmodelle, wie eine Minderheitsregierung, eine mögliche Lösung für eines, zwei oder sogar alle drei der Bundesländer bieten könnten.
Policies, politics or participation? Exploring the political understanding of non-voters in the 2022 North Rhine-Westphalian election
Authors: Rakers Julia
Published: December 2024

Abstention has long been treated as a residual category in electoral research. However, a research interest in understanding non-voters emerged in the 1990s following declines in turnout in the 1980s. Existing research on non-voters largely focusses on socio-economic attributes (e.g. education), demographic characteristics (e.g. age) and political attitudes (e.g. political apathy) to explain abstention. This study explores how non-voters understand politics and the political process. It draws inspiration from studies of political culture, such as those by Fuchs (2002) and Rohe (1984), and uses data from eight focus group discussions conducted with 52 total participants who reported not voting during the 2022 North Rhine-Westphalian state elections. The analysis reveals that participants focus primarily on the output dimension of the political process and that input dimensions are secondary. At the same time, participants report a lack of representation by political decision-makers and display limited political knowledge.
Iron-carbonate concretions with inverse magnetic fabrics; a record of environmental changes in the middle Eocene marine marls of the Southern Pyrenees?
Authors: Oliva-Urcia B. , Larrasoaña J. C. , Travé A. , Garcés M. , Sierra-Campos P. , Pueyo E. L. , Calvín P.
Published: December 2024

This paper deals with the detailed analyses of magnetic fabrics, accompanied by stable isotopic composition and microscopic observations, in centimetric and metric scale authigenic carbonate concretions embedded in the Eocene flysch deposits of the Southwestern Pyrenees. Sampling was focused in the carbonate concretions, (in both metric and centimetric scale), in the marls lateral and nearby to the concretions and in the marls located several meters away from the concretions. The inverse magnetic fabrics (kmax axes cluster perpendicular to bedding plane) detected in these concretions constitute a fast methodology to uncover the presence of iron-carbonate minerals and the paleoenvironmental significance of their authigenic origin. The subfabric analyses indicate that magnetite is present in all four types of samples with normal magnetic fabric (kmin axes perpendicular to bedding). Paramagnetic fabric (low temperature anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility when magnetic susceptibility increases ~ 3.8 times the one at room temperature) overlaps the room temperature magnetic fabric. The microscope observations reveal that iron-enriched dolomite is the main carrier of the inverse fabric in the carbonate concretions at room temperature. The stable isotopic composition indicates minor differences between the Eocene marls and the carbonate concretions and, when compared with previous data, they suggest a marine pore water origin due to bacterial activity during burial. We relate the early diagenetic growth of the concretions to an enhancement in bacterial activity driven by the increased terrigenous and terrestrial organic matter supply during the Middle Eocene Climate Optimum (MECO), a period of global warming.
Drill and Blast in Gypsum Quarries: Optimization of Technical, Economic, and Safety Aspects in “Monte Tondo” Mid-mountain Case Study
Authors: Casertano Daniele , Tinti Francesco , Kasmaeeyazdi Sara , Cellini Vanessa , Bruno Roberto
Published: December 2024

Drilling and blasting operations are one of the common deals in open pit mining. Recently, mathematical rigorous patterns are on attention and digitalization and optimization of mining operations are highly suggested. In this work, drilling and blasting operations are modeled and various scenarios are simulated. The usual result of numerical simulations is the fragmentation curve caused by blasting. It is defined as a function of the blasting geometric pattern, the explosives’ type and quantity, and the rock-mechanics characteristics. The aim of this work is to improve the blasting efficiency in quarrying, through proper understanding of the fracture mechanisms and optimization of blasting alternatives. The analysis was developed over the Monte Tondo gypsum quarry, owned by Saint-Gobain (joint-stock company in Italy). The case study was modeled by O-Pitsurface®. After model calibration using the in situ quarry data, several optimization hypotheses were developed, starting from the original blasting scheme. Two fragmentation thresholds were applied. First, the minimum dimension of fragmentation to avoid additional breaking, and secondly, the limit of fragmentation dimension for the crushing feed. For each hypothesis, the appropriate parameters were defined. The optimized best hypothesis was finally selected, based on time saving of 145 h/year of work related to drilling and breaking; economic saving of €24,150/year, due to the blastholes numbers’ reduction; and finally, improvement of safety conditions by 12%, thanks to lower dimension of fragments which leads to an easier and safer management.
Impact of Eccentric Exercises on Soccer Players’ External Load, Muscle Soreness and Physical Performance: A Comparative Study of Pre and Post-Training Routines
Authors: Abade Eduardo , Gonçalves Bruno , Figueira Bruno , Santos Sara , Coutinho Diogo
Published: December 2024

This study examined the impact of integrating eccentric bodyweight exercises (Nordic Hamstring and Single Leg Deadlift) into soccer training, before and after training sessions, on players’ well-being, external load and physical performance over two successive training sessions. Twenty-one male trained players (23.6 ± 3.7 years, playing experience of 13.3 ± 4.01 years) participated in the study. The study spanned two days of the microcycle (MD-4 and MD-3) over four consecutive weeks, during which the players were subjected to two conditions: eccentric training before or after the MD-4 training (pre-strength and post-strength, respectively). The players’ wellness, external load and physical performance (CMJ, 10 m and 30 m-sprint) were assessed in all training sessions. In pre-strength condition, players exhibited a decrease in the CMJ following the eccentric intervention (P = 0.02). For the 30 m-sprint, a decline in performance was noted after the soccer training compared to the moments immediately before (P = 0.04) and after the eccentric intervention (P = 0.002). In the post-strength condition, players reported increased muscle soreness in the following day (MD-3, P = 0.03). Additionally, a reduced number of high-intensity accelerations were observed on MD-3 when the eccentric training was performed after MD-4 (P = 0.04). The study reveals that jumping and sprinting performance may decrease immediately after eccentric routines. However, while jumping performance may recover after the training, sprinting remains affected. Conversely, conducting eccentric routines after training may influence players’ muscle soreness and physical performance on the following day. This study offers valuable insights for optimizing soccer training schedules that incorporate eccentric routines either before or after regular training sessions.
Hydrogels in wearable neural interfaces
Authors: Yao Mengmeng , Hsieh Ju-Chun , Tang Kai Wing Kevin , Wang Huiliang
Published: December 2024

The integration of wearable neural interfaces (WNIs) with the human nervous system has marked a significant progression, enabling progress in medical treatments and technology integration. Hydrogels, distinguished by their high-water content, low interfacial impedance, conductivity, adhesion, and mechanical compliance, effectively address the rigidity and biocompatibility issues common in traditional materials. This review highlights their important parameters—biocompatibility, interfacial impedance, conductivity, and adhesiveness—that are integral to their function in WNIs. The applications of hydrogels in wearable neural recording and neurostimulation are discussed in detail. Finally, the opportunities and challenges faced by hydrogels for WNIs are summarized and prospected. This review aims to offer a thorough examination of hydrogel technology’s present landscape and to encourage continued exploration and innovation. As developments progress, hydrogels are poised to revolutionize wearable neural interfaces, offering significant enhancements in healthcare and technological applications.

Graphical Abstract
Rationalizing the crosslinking reaction of an α,β unsaturated carbonyl of clovamide from Adansonia digitata L. and the cysteine residue of HIV-1 integrase enzyme
Authors: Moyo Babra , Kabanda Mwadham M. , du Preez Louis L. , Lobb Kevin , Madala Ntakadzeni E.
Published: December 2024

In this study, clovamide was identified for the first time in Adansonia digitata L. fruit pulp using the UHPLC-q-TOF-MS. The inhibition potential of the naturally occurring clovamide, specifically in the SE and SZ configurations and their yet to be identified enantiomers (RE and RZ) on HIV-1 integrase (HIV-1 INT) were investigated using molecular docking studies. The results revealed that all the four stereoisomers of clovamide bind to key residues crucial for the catalytic activity of HIV-1 INT (ASP64, ASP116 and GLU152) as well as other significant residues including, LYS152 and LYS159. This indicates that clovamide has the potential to inhibit this enzyme and possibly slow down HIV-1 replication. Interestingly, the docking results showed that CYS65 was in close proximity to ASP64, allowing nearly all isomers of clovamide to interact with this residue. This suggested a potential crosslinking reaction via Michael addition between clovamide and CYS65. The consistent proximity of all ligands to CYS65 in the studied protein throughout the entire molecular dynamics simulation period also showed the potential of permanent covalent bonds formation via a Michael addition reaction. Density functional theory modelling confirmed that the α,β-unsaturated carbonyl group of clovamide and cysteine interact, forming a clovamide-integrase adduct, potentially leading to irreversible inhibition of HIV-1 INT. This study not only highlighted the potential of clovamide as an inhibitor of HIV-1 INT but also demonstrated that clovamide possesses various functional groups that can be exploited in different biological activity studies. Findings of this study suggest that clovamide and its stereoisomers could be valuable candidates for the development of new antiretroviral therapies, offering a novel approach to overcoming drug resistance through multiple inhibition mechanisms.
The Problem of God in Jewish Thought
Authors: Gellman Jerome , Turner Joseph (Yossi)
Published: December 2024

The Hebrew Bible contains two quite different divine personae. One is quick to anger and to exact punishment while the other is a compassionate God slow to anger and quick to forgive. One God distant, the other close by. This severe contrast posed a theological challenge for Jewish thought for the ages. This Element follows selected views in rabbinic literature, medieval Jewish philosophy, Jewish mystical thought, the Hasidic movement, modern Jewish theology, response to the Holocaust, and Jewish feminist theology. In the history of Jewish thought there was often a tendency to identify closely with the God of compassion.
Stronger Issues, Weaker Predispositions
Authors: Goren Paul
Published: December 2024

Political psychologists have long theorized that authoritarianism structures the positions people take on cultural issues and their party ties. Authoritarianism is durable; it resists the influence of other political judgments; and it is very impactful-in a word, it is strong. By contrast, researchers characterize the attitudes most people hold on most issues as unstable and ineffectual-in a word, weak. But what is true of most issues is not true of the issues that have driven America's long running culture war-abortion and gay rights. This Element demonstrates that moral issue attitudes are stronger than authoritarianism. With data from multiple sources over the period 1992-2020, it shows that (1) moral issue attitudes endure longer than authoritarianism; (2) moral issues predict change in authoritarianism; (3) authoritarianism does not systematically predict change in moral issues; and (4) moral issues have always played a much greater role structuring party ties than authoritarianism.
Evaluating enrichment use in group-housed rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta): A machine learning approach
Authors: Ciminelli Giulia , Witham Claire , Bateson Melissa
Published: December 2024

Environmental enrichment programmes are widely used to improve welfare of captive and laboratory animals, especially non-human primates. Monitoring enrichment use over time is crucial, as animals may habituate and reduce their interaction with it. In this study we aimed to monitor the interaction with enrichment items in groups of rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta), each consisting of an average of ten individuals, living in a breeding colony. To streamline the time-intensive task of assessing enrichment programmes we automated the evaluation process by using machine learning technologies. We built two computer vision-based pipelines to evaluate monkeys’ interactions with different enrichment items: a white drum containing raisins and a non-food-based puzzle. The first pipeline analyses the usage of enrichment items in nine groups, both when it contains food and when it is empty. The second pipeline counts the number of monkeys interacting with a puzzle across twelve groups. The data derived from the two pipelines reveal that the macaques consistently express interest in the food-based white drum enrichment, even several months after its introduction. The puzzle enrichment was monitored for one month, showing a gradual decline in interaction over time. These pipelines are valuable for assessing enrichment by minimising the time spent on animal observation and data analysis; this study demonstrates that automated methods can consistently monitor macaque engagement with enrichments, systematically tracking habituation responses and long-term effectiveness. Such advancements have significant implications for enhancing animal welfare, enabling the discontinuation of ineffective enrichments and the adaptation of enrichment plans to meet the animals’ needs.