bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Going green for good: How sustainable economic development and green energy resources are driving carbon neutrality in G‐7 countries?
Authors: Mohsin Muhammad , Xuhua Hu , Sarfraz Muddassar , Naseem Sobia
Published: August 2023

The construction of a sustainable society in the present era is significantly based on green economic development, environmental sustainability, and ecological energy resources. It is now more difficult than ever for economists, environmentalists, and policymakers to achieve sustainable environmental development and economic growth while preventing environmental damage enhance the burden on the economy. It is worth mentioning that this research approach is leading CO2 emission resources in G‐7 countries as dependent variables and possibly CO2‐reducing determinants as independent variables from 1993 to 2020. The research data are extracted from the world development indicators, and these are secondary nature data. The stationarity of the data series is checked by employing a panel unit root and proceeds to the cointegration test. The cointegration, fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS), quantile regression, and wavelet coherence tests have confirmed the long‐run relationship among variables. Renewable energy and economic growth are aidant factors in reducing CO2 emissions from all resources. Low carbon energy is reduced CO2 from coal and gas while increasing the CO2 emission from oil. Renewable energy, low carbon energy, and rapid growth of gross domestic product (GDP) are environmentally friendly factors which can eliminate gas energy emissions. This research presents practical policy implications that address globalization trends, carbon emissions, and the overall energy structure and economic growth of G‐7 countries.
Uncovering dynamic complexity in annual reports: a methodological approach using resource mapping
Authors: Kunc Martin , Barnabè Federico , Giorgino Maria Cleofe
Published: August 2023

This study explores the role of qualitative system dynamics (SD) models in representing and analyzing the information of corporate annual reports by uncovering their hidden “dynamic complexity.” The study employs a specific qualitative SD technique, resource mapping, and outlines a methodology to apply it in practice. This study has several contributions. First, it provides methodological guidelines and practical insights on how to apply qualitative SD, using stock‐and‐flow diagrams, in the field of corporate reporting to represent visually and analyze the dynamic complexity implicit in businesses. Second, it underlines the performative role of accounting together with qualitative SD. Specifically, it provides useful insights into how to use qualitative SD in the accounting field to enhance both internal analysis and external communication, thereby supporting decision‐making processes. Third, it shows how to integrate different discipline‐related technical languages, thereby bridging differences in backgrounds, skills, and expertise that might characterize intended readers and users. © 2023 The Authors. System Dynamics Review published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of System Dynamics Society.
A comparison of Bayesian information borrowing methods in basket trials and a novel proposal of modified exchangeability‐nonexchangeability method
Authors: Daniells Libby , Mozgunov Pavel , Bedding Alun , Jaki Thomas
Published: August 2023

Recent innovation in trial design to improve study efficiency has led to the development of basket trials in which a single therapeutic treatment is tested on several patient populations, each of which forms a basket. In a common setting, patients across all baskets share a genetic marker and as such, an assumption can be made that all patients may have a homogeneous response to treatments. Bayesian information borrowing procedures utilize this assumption to draw on information regarding the response in one basket when estimating the response rate in others. This can improve power and precision of estimates particularly in the presence of small sample sizes, however, can come at a cost of biased estimates and an inflation of error rates, bringing into question validity of trial conclusions. We review and compare the performance of several Bayesian borrowing methods, namely: the Bayesian hierarchical model (BHM), calibrated Bayesian hierarchical model (CBHM), exchangeability‐nonexchangeability (EXNEX) model and a Bayesian model averaging procedure. A generalization of the CBHM is made to account for unequal sample sizes across baskets. We also propose a modification of the EXNEX model that allows for better control of a type I error. The proposed method uses a data‐driven approach to account for the homogeneity of the response data, measured through Hellinger distances. Through an extensive simulation study motivated by a real basket trial, for both equal and unequal sample sizes across baskets, we show that in the presence of a basket with a heterogeneous response, unlike the other methods discussed, this model can control type I error rates to a nominal level whilst yielding improved power.
Digital Recombinase Polymerase Amplification, Digital Loop‐Mediated Isothermal Amplification, and Digital CRISPR‐Cas Assisted Assay: Current Status, Challenges, and Perspectives
Authors: Yin Weihong , Zhuang Jianjian , Li Jiale , Xia Liping , Hu Kai , Yin Juxin , Mu Ying
Published: August 2023

Digital nucleic acid detection based on microfluidics technology can quantify the initial amount of nucleic acid in the sample with low equipment requirements and simple operations, which can be widely used in clinical and in vitro diagnosis. Recently, isothermal amplification technologies such as recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA), loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats‐CRISPR associated proteins (CRISPR‐Cas) assisted technologies have become a hot spot of attention and state‐of‐the‐art digital nucleic acid chips have provided a powerful tool for these technologies. Herein, isothermal amplification technologies including RPA, LAMP, and CRISPR‐Cas assisted methods, based on digital nucleic acid microfluidics chips recently, have been reviewed. Moreover, the challenges of digital isothermal amplification and possible strategies to address them are discussed. Finally, future directions of digital isothermal amplification technology, such as microfluidic chip and device manufacturing, multiplex detection, and one‐pot detection, are outlined.
Photoelectrochemical Engineering for Light‐Assisted Rechargeable Metal Batteries: Mechanism, Development, and Future
Authors: Bao Weizhai , Wang Ronghao , Liu Hongmin , Qian Chengfei , Liu He , Yu Feng , Guo Cong , Li Jingfa , Sun Kaiwen
Published: August 2023

Rechargeable battery devices with high energy density are highly demanded by  our  modern society. The use of metal anodes is extremely attractive for future rechargeable battery devices. However, the notorious metal dendritic and instability of solid electrolyte interface issues pose a series of challenges for metal anodes. Recently, considering the indigestible dynamical behavior of metal anodes, photoelectrochemical engineering of light‐assisted metal anodes have been rapidly developed since they efficiently utilize the integration and synergy of oriented crystal engineering and photocatalysis engineering, which provided a potential way to unlock the interface electrochemical mechanism and deposition reaction kinetics of metal anodes. This review starts with the fundamentals of photoelectrochemical engineering and follows with the state‐of‐art advance of photoelectrochemical engineering for light‐assisted rechargeable metal batteries where photoelectrode materials, working principles, types, and practical applications are explained. The last section summarizes the major challenges and some invigorating perspectives for future research on light‐assisted rechargeable metal batteries.
Structural and Interfacial Manipulation of Multifunctional Skeletons Enabled Shuttling‐Free and Dendrite‐Free Li–S Full Batteries
Authors: Zhang Miaomiao , Luo Rongjie , Guo Qifei , Tang Zihuan , Li Xingxing , Gao Biao , Zhang Xuming , Huo Kaifu , Zheng Yang
Published: August 2023

Li–S batteries are regarded as promising devices for energy storage systems owing to high energy density, low cost, and environmental friendliness. However, challenges of polysulfides shuttling in sulfur cathode and dendrite growth of lithium anode severely hinder the practical application. Developing advanced skeletons simultaneously regulating the cathode and anode is significant and challenging. Hence, a novel and scalable strategy combining spray drying and topological nitriding is proposed, and hierarchically assembled rGO hollow microspheres encapsulated highly porous nanospheres consisted of ultrafine Nb4N5‐Nb2O5 or Nb4N5 nanoparticles as multifunctional skeletons for S and Li are designed. In such unique architecture, a 3D highly porous structure provides abundant void space for loading of S and Li, and accommodates volume change during cycling. Moreover, Nb4N5‐Nb2O5 heterostructured interface promotes adsorption‐conversion process of polysulfides, while strong lithophilic Nb4N5 induces the selective infiltration of Li into the void of the skeleton and regulates the uniform deposition and growth. More interestingly, in situ generated Li3N@Nb ion/electron conducting interfaces induced by the reaction of Nb4N5 and Li reduce the nucleation overpotential and induce selective deposition of Li into the cavity. Consequently, the Li–S full cell exhibits superior cycling stability and impressive rate performance with a low capacity ratio of negative/positive.
Nucleation and Growth of Nanocrystals Investigated by In Situ Transmission Electron Microscopy
Authors: Ye Huanyu , Zhang Zhihong , Wang Rongming
Published: August 2023

Nanocrystals play a key role in the modern energy, catalysis, semiconductor, and biology industries due to their unique structures and performances. However, controllable fabrication of ideal nanocrystals with the desired structures and properties is still challenging, which needs a deep understanding of their nucleation and growth process. Here, the research on nucleation and growth of nanocrystals studied by in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is reviewed, mainly focusing on the atomic migration dynamics, interface evolution, and structure transformation. In addition, the challenges in the study of nanocrystal growth by TEM are discussed and the perspective on the future development of advanced in situ TEM techniques is provided. It is hoped that the review can give a deep insight into the nanocrystal nucleation and growth process, and further contribute to the rational design and precise fabrication of high‐performance functional nanocrystals.
Hierarchical MoN@NiFe‐LDH Heterostructure Nanowire Array for Highly Efficient Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Dang Yujian , Li Xu , Chen Zekun , Zhao Xudong , Ma Bo , Chen Yantao
Published: August 2023

The slow charge transfer and high energy barrier are the key restrictions of cost‐effective electrocatalysts for hydrogen production. A hierarchical heterostructure of MoN@NiFe‐layered double hydroxides (LDH) is developed, with NiFe‐LDH nanosheets supported on MoN nanowire arrays. The as‐prepared MoN@NiFe‐LDH exhibits a remarkably high performance on hydrogen production in alkaline medium, which is close to the benchmark Pt/C. The theoretical computations indicate that MoN@NiFe‐LDH has a metallic character inherited from MoN, which gives rise to the promoted charge transfer. Furthermore, the adsorption intensity of intermediates on MoN@NiFe‐LDH is optimized and thereby the energy barrier is diminished. This work demonstrates the significance of constructing heterostructure for boosting the charge transfer and reducing the energy barrier, which can shed light on the development of highly efficient and low‐cost electrocatalyst for hydrogen production.
Green Solvent Selection for All Solution‐Processed Inverted Quantum Dot Light Emitting Diode
Authors: Kim Hyo‐Bin , Yoo Jae‐In , Kang Sung‐Cheon , Song Jang‐Kun
Published: August 2023

Quantum‐dot light‐emitting diodes (QD‐LEDs) have gained attention as potential display technologies. However, the solvents used to dissolve a polymeric hole transport layer (HTL) are hazardous to both humans and the environment. Additionally, intermixing the HTL and QD layers presents a significant challenge when fabricating inverted QD‐LEDs. Here, a green solvent selection procedure to achieve good device performance and environmental safety in QD‐LEDs is established. This procedure utilizes Hansen solubility parameters and surface roughness to identify a set of solvents that do not lower the device performance by avoiding interlayer mixing or a rough interface. The CHEM21 solvent selection guide is used to screen for environmentally hazardous solvents. Finally, cyclopentanone (CPO) is selected as the optimal HTL solvent from among 16 candidates. Using CPO improves the maximum luminescence by ≈1.6 times and the maximum current efficiency by ≈12.6 times, compared to that of conventional devices using hazardous chlorobenzene. Solvent selection is critical for the fabrication of green and high‐performance inverted QD‐LEDs, particularly for large display panels that require n‐type oxide thin‐film transistors.
Biomimetic Metal‐Pyrimidine Nanoflowers: Enzyme Immobilization Platforms with Boosted Activity
Authors: Gong Changbao , Wang Denghao , Zhao Huimin
Published: August 2023

For the enzyme immobilization platform, enhancing enzyme activity retention while improving enzyme stability remains a challenge for sensitive sensing analysis. Herein, an in situ biomimetic immobilized enzyme carrier (metal‐pyrimidine nanoflowers, MPNFs) synthesized by the coordination of DNA base derivative (2‐aminopyrimidine) with Zn2+ in the aqueous phase at room temperature is developed. The biocompatibility of 2‐aminopyrimidine and the hydrophilicity and green synthetic conditions of MPNFs allows the immobilized enzymes to retain above 91.2% catalytic activity. On this basis, a cascade catalytic platform is constructed by simultaneously immobilizing acetylcholinesterase (AChE), choline oxidase (CHO), and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) in MPNFs (AChE/CHO/HRP@MPNFs) for organophosphorus pesticides (OPs) colorimetric biosensing detection. The assay could specifically detect parathion‐methyl within 13 min with a wider linear range (0.1–1000.0 nm) and a lower limit of detection (LOD) (0.032 nm). The remarkable stability of the immobilized enzymes is also achieved under harsh environments, room temperature storage, and recycling. Furthermore, a portable and cost‐effective biosensing platform is developed by integrating AChE/CHO/HRP@MPNFs with a smartphone‐assisted paper device for the on‐site detection of OPs. Overall, the high catalytic activity retention and the enhanced detection performance demonstrate that MPNF is a robust carrier in enzyme immobilization and holds great promise in biosensing and other field applications.
Effective Suppressing Phase Segregation of Mixed‐Halide Perovskite by Glassy Metal‐Organic Frameworks
Authors: Ghasemi Mehri , Li Xuemei , Tang Cheng , Li Qi , Lu Junlin , Du Aijun , Lee Jaeho , Appadoo Dominique , Tizei Luiz H. G. , Pham Sang T. , Wang Lianzhou , Collins Sean M. , Hou Jingwei , Jia Baohua , Wen Xiaoming
Published: August 2023

Lead mixed‐halide perovskites offer tunable bandgaps for optoelectronic applications, but illumination‐induced phase segregation can quickly lead to changes in their crystal structure, bandgaps, and optoelectronic properties, especially for the Br–I mixed system because CsPbI3 tends to form a non‐perovskite phase under ambient conditions. These behaviors can impact their performance in practical applications. By embedding such mixed‐halide perovskites in a glassy metal‐organic framework, a family of stable nanocomposites with tunable emission is created. Combining cathodoluminescence with elemental mapping under a transmission electron microscope, this research identifies a direct relationship between the halide composition and emission energy at the nanoscale. The composite effectively inhibits halide ion migration, and consequently, phase segregation even under high‐energy illumination. The detailed mechanism, studied using a combination of spectroscopic characterizations and theoretical modeling, shows that the interfacial binding, instead of the nanoconfinement effect, is the main contributor to the inhibition of phase segregation. These findings pave the way to suppress the phase segregation in mixed‐halide perovskites toward stable and high‐performance optoelectronics.
Superior Carrier Mobility Enabled by the Charge Channel Leads to Enhanced Thermoelectric Performance in BiCuSeO Composites
Authors: Yin Zhanxiang , Zhang He , Wang Yaqiang , Wu Yi , Xing Youbo , Deng Le , He Pan , Guo Xin
Published: August 2023

BiCuSeO oxyselenides possess a highlighted thermoelectric performance among oxides, which originates from their intrinsically low thermal conductivity. However, intrinsic factors causing low thermal transport are also detrimental to carrier transport, leading to ultralow carrier mobility and relatively low electrical transport properties. Here, high‐conductivity single‐wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) are adopted as the charge channels to be embedded in a BiCuSeO‐based matrix, providing a transport pathway for charge carriers. The results show that carrier mobility is increased to 188 cm2 V−1 s−1 due to the SWCNTs composited, triggering an enhancement in electrical transport properties. Besides, the SWCNTs embedded in the matrix introduce abundant interfaces, suppressing phonon transport and depressing lattice thermal conductivity. With these achievements, a maximum zT of 0.84 at 818 K is realized in the composite with 0.1 wt% SWCNTs. The mechanical property of the composites is strengthened as well because of the SWCNTs. The work indicates that the SWCNTs, as the charge channels, propose an effective approach for enhancing carrier mobility in BiCuSeO‐based materials, finally optimizing the thermoelectric performance as well as the mechanical property.
Role of Ni Content on Microstructure, Mechanical Property, and In‐Site Local Corrosion Behavior of Welded Joints Produced by Laser Welding of Dual‐Phase Steel
Authors: Zhai Yang-Dong , Liu Zhen-Guang , Yu Wei , Wang Yi-Ming , Zhang Yong-Shi , Sun Hao , Zheng Chuan-Bo
Published: August 2023

Herein, the effects of Ni content on the microstructure, microhardness, and in‐site local corrosion behavior of laser‐welded joints in dual‐phase steel are investigated. The experimental results indicate that the microstructure of the fusion zone (FZ) changes from martensite to austenite as the Ni content increases. The FZ hardnesses of the 0Ni (no Ni foil addition) and 50Ni (50 μm Ni foil) welded joints are higher than that of the 100Ni (100 μm Ni foil) welded joints because of the austenite in the 100Ni welded joint. The welded joint without Ni shows severe pitting corrosion (more than 15 pitting sites in each zone of the welded joint) at the tested corrosion time. However, when immersed in the corrosion solution, the welded joints with added Ni exhibit slight pitting corrosion (less than five pitting sites). The Ni addition inhibits the pitting corrosion of the welded joints of high‐strength dual‐phase steel.
Effects of Residual Stress Induced by Laser Shock Peening on Fatigue Crack Propagation Behavior in Directed Energy Deposition Stainless Steel
Authors: Duan Chenghong , Shang Dazhi , Luo Xiangpeng , Hao Xiaojie , Cao Xiankun
Published: August 2023

To investigate the effect of laser shock peening (LSP) on the fatigue crack propagation behavior of 316L stainless steel fabricated by directed energy deposition (DED), three‐dimensional finite element models of DED and compact tensile specimens before and after LSP are developed. The residual stress fields induced by DED and LSP are simulated, as well as the effects of different residual stresses on the stress intensity factor and effective stress ratio based on the contour integral method are also analyzed. The microstructure of the LSP region is observed by scanning electron microscope. When the crack length increases from 12 to 22.5 mm, the average effective stress ratio of the DED specimen is 0.133, and the average effective stress ratio of the DED specimen after LSP decreases to 0.110, which decreases by 17.3%. The fatigue lives of the DED specimen before and after LSP are 62.7% and 105.2% of that of the hot‐rolled plate. After LSP treatment, the fatigue life of the DED specimen is increased by about 1.68 times. The fracture morphology in the transient fracture zone changes from ductile and brittle mixed fracture to ductile fracture.
Toxicological effects of meloxicam on physiological and antioxidant status of common carp (Cyprinus carpio)
Authors: Sheikhlangi Zeynab , Gharaei Ahmad , Mirdar Harijani Javad , Davari Seyedeh Ayda , Hassanein Parisa , Rahdari Abdolali
Published: August 2023

Background

Fish in aquatic environments are end consumers of the food chain and are widely used for the evolution effects of environmental pollution and their interactions in aquatic ecosystem.

Objective

In the present study, common carp (Cyprinus carpio) fingerlings were selected to assess the potential risk and aquatic toxicity of meloxicam as a non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory and a commonly used pharmaceutical drug.

Methods

In order to evaluate meloxicam toxicological effect on haematological, antioxidant status, enzymological and histological parameters, based on its LC50 24 h acute toxicity (10.05 mg L−1), fish fingerlings were exposed to four doses of meloxicam including; 0 (control), 0.1 (low), 1 (medium) and 2 mg L−1 (high) under static bioassay method for 28 days.

Results

The results showed that sublethal doses of meloxicam significantly decreased alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) levels in comparison with the control group after 28 days (p < 0.05). However, red blood cell, haematocrit, haemoglobin and malondialdehyde values in fish exposed to meloxicam significantly increased alongside its concentration (p < 0.05) more than the control group after 28 days. SOD, CAT and GPX mRNA expression levels in gill, liver, kidney and brain organ of fish under meloxicam treatment were significantly down‐regulated compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Histopathological assessment showed the increased vacuolation in hepatocytes in liver of fish exposure to medium and high doses of meloxicam.

Conclusion

In conclusion, meloxicam induces oxidative stress in common carp which results a disruption of physiological and health status of this species based on our current findings.
Suspected pregnancy‐associated meningoencephalitis of unknown origin in a dog
Authors: Aguilera‐Padros Albert , Kelley Molly , Dancer Sumari , Khan Zohra , Suñol Anna
Published: August 2023

A 1‐year 5‐month‐old, female, entire Parson Russell terrier was referred for investigations of focal epileptic seizures and behavioural changes. The clinical signs started 4 days after whelping its first litter. On presentation, the neurological examination was unremarkable. Neuroanatomical localisation was the forebrain. A brain magnetic resonance imaging showed bilateral, asymmetric, intra‐axial, T2‐weighted and fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery hyperintense, T1‐weighted hypointense, mildly to non‐contrast‐enhancing lesions in the piriform cortex. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis was within normal limits, and main infectious diseases were ruled out. Based on the presentation, findings and progression of clinical signs, a meningoencephalitis of unknown origin was suspected. In the present case, a positive response to immunosuppressive medication was observed. A well‐established link between pregnancy and immune‐mediated diseases, including meningoencephalitis, has been described in humans. This connection could have been the reason of the clinical signs, and this is supported by the recent pregnancy, presentation and positive response to immunosuppressive medication.
Living virus‐based nanohybrids for biomedical applications
Authors: Jin Lulu , Mao Zhengwei
Published: August 2023

Living viruses characterized by distinctive biological functions including specific targeting, gene invasion, immune modulation, and so forth have been receiving intensive attention from researchers worldwide owing to their promising potential for producing numerous theranostic modalities against diverse pathological conditions. Nevertheless, concerns during applications, such as rapid immune clearance, altering immune activation modes, insufficient gene transduction efficiency, and so forth, highlight the crucial issues of excessive therapeutic doses and the associated biosafety risks. To address these concerns, synthetic nanomaterials featuring unique physical/chemical properties are frequently exploited as efficient drug delivery vehicles or treatments in biomedical domains. By constant endeavor, researchers nowadays can create adaptable living virus‐based nanohybrids (LVN) that not only overcome the limitations of virotherapy, but also combine the benefits of natural substances and nanotechnology to produce novel and promising therapeutic and diagnostic agents. In this review, we discuss the fundamental physiochemical properties of the viruses, and briefly outline the basic construction methodologies of LVN. We then emphasize their distinct diagnostic and therapeutic performances for various diseases. Furthermore, we survey the foreseeable challenges and future perspectives in this interdisciplinary area to offer insights.

This article is categorized under:

Biology‐Inspired Nanomaterials > Protein and Virus‐Based Structures

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies
Scanning macro x‐ray fluorescence spectroscopy maps for matching 17th century paintings color areas to different earth pigments uses and for investigating attribution issues
Authors: Colombo Marco , Münch Falk , Hoffmann Peter , Sander Jochen , Ensinger Wolfgang
Published: August 2023

Fe and/or Mn‐containing yellow ochre, red ochre, and umber earth pigments are omnipresent in 17th century paintings. Less common in the materials used in historical paintings of this period is the Fe and Mn‐rich earth pigment sienna. Different uses of historical pigments in one painting by Georg Flegel (1566–1638) and another version of the same painting but of disputed attribution were recently uncovered by means of macro‐x‐ray fluorescence (MA‐XRF) scanning and other non‐invasive analytical techniques. In this paper, an approach solely based upon the correlation of Fe and Mn MA‐XRF maps with the optical image of the painting is compared to the use of Mn/Fe correlation plots. The identification of clusters within a plot of the Fe counts vs. the Mn counts can aid to infer whether an area with a certain color matches with the use of the earth pigments found in the two paintings and to ultimately shed light on the different usage of these pigments. The analytical thresholds found in the Mn/Fe correlation plots allowed to identify clusters differing in composition, which matched an area of a certain color with the earth pigments used therein. This highlighted the differences and similarities between the two paintings, ultimately ascertaining the lower value of the painting of disputed attribution. The analysis of single‐pixel spectra allowed refining the interpretation of specific Mn/Fe correlation plots. The purpose of these data evaluation steps is presented and the limitations of the proposed methodology are also discussed.
Ending the ‘Perpetual Menace’ of Nuclear Weapons: The Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty
Authors: Rauf Tariq
Published: August 2023

On 16th July 1945, at 05:29 AM, the secrets of the atom were unlocked by detonating the world’s first nuclear explosive device dubbed “The Gadget”.
Conclusions. An Overview of Population Dynamics in the Mediterranean
Authors: Doignon Yoann , Blöss-Widmer Isabelle , Ambrosetti Elena , Oliveau Sébastien
Published: August 2023

This book has made it possible to review the main demographic developments of the last 70 years. Above all, it has made it possible to highlight the rapid global homogenisation of several demographic behaviours in the Mediterranean, to point out certain exceptions and to identify the global challenges that await Mediterranean populations.
The Mediterranean Migration System
Authors: Doignon Yoann , Blöss-Widmer Isabelle , Ambrosetti Elena , Oliveau Sébastien
Published: August 2023

Together with the border between the US and Mexico, the Mediterranean is the largest migration area in the world. The stock of migrants resident in the Mediterranean countries was 42.6 million in 2020. About 2/3 of these international migrants are found in 4 countries (France, Spain, Italy, Turkey) and 20% in the rest of the Near East (Jordan, Lebanon, Israel, Syria, Palestine). The absolute number of these international migrants can vary greatly from one country to another; the migrants can thus represent a significant share of the overall population. The Mediterranean Basin has been historically characterised by a regular circulation of people within the region. The period after World War II till today (1948–2022) has been characterised by several changes in the Mediterranean migration system, which were largely driven by economic and political factors. Through a chronological approach, we can identify five periods that synthetise the evolution of migration in the Mediterranean region during this period.
(Re)theorisation of More-Than-Parental Involvement: New Directions and Hopes
Authors: Sadownik Alicja R. , Višnjić Jevtić Adrijana
Published: August 2023

When engaging in the re-theorisation of parental involvement (PI), we searched for theories that would (1) embrace more-than-parents as potential collaboration partners, (2) recognise the role of the family in the child’s (educational) life, and (3) allow for the possibility of overcoming the “democratic deficit” (Van Laere et al., Eur Early Childhood Educ Res J 26(2):187–200. , 2018, p. 189), by which we mean the possibilities for families to co-create the modalities of their engagement with ECEC settings. The literature review presented in Chap. 2 mapped out the theories employed in research on PI and showed that those theories and models born out of interpretivist aims (i.e. to understand) and critical objectives (i.e. to challenge unjust power relations) have the potential to capture the increasing diversity of families and embrace the unfolding modalities of their engagement in diverse social, cultural, and material contexts. Based on the review, particular theories were chosen and explored in later chapters of this book. In this concluding chapter, we provide a theoretical overview by pointing to new directions for the theoretisation of more-than-parental involvement that are relevant to the ECEC field and the creation of sustainable futures.
Mapping the Theoretical Landscape of More-Than-Parental Involvement
Authors: Sadownik Alicja R.
Published: August 2023

This chapter presents an overview of the conceptual toolkits used to theorise relationships between ECEC settings and families in academic journal articles, published in English, between the years 2000–2010 and 2021–2022. The reconstructed overview of the theories employed by researchers from different regions of the world creates a base for classification of the theories aspositivistic(i.e., interested in measuring PI for prediction and control of academic achievement),interpretative(i.e., aiming at deeper contextual understandings of the perspectives of all social actors that have a part PI), orcritical(i.e., delving into the socio-economic conditions and power relations constituting diverse understandings of the world of PI, in conjunction with the desire for change). The chapter concludes with an outline of the theories discussed in further chapters, which are of an interpretive and critical nature and embrace the understanding of more-than-parental involvement presented in Chap.1.
Bronfenbrenner: Ecology of Human Development in Ecology of Collaboration
Authors: Sadownik Alicja R.
Published: August 2023

This chapter begins with a short presentation of the historical and biographical context of Bronfenbrenner’s research, which is followed by a description of his theory of an ecology of human development. This idea is presented both as a theory of child development and a theory of collaboration, as it is often the latter form that is applied in research on cooperation between early childhood education and care (ECEC) and parents/caregivers. The discussion addresses the ways in which Bronfenbrenner’s theory is currently applied in research on ECEC-family cooperation. In concluding remarks, the applications of the theory in relation to the understanding of more-than-parental involvement are presented in Chap. 1.
Collaboration Theory: ECEC Leading Families to Lead Their Own Partnerships with ECEC
Authors: Višnjić Jevtić Adrijana
Published: August 2023

This chapter gathers collaboration theories together into a discussion of how a partnership between ECEC and families is possible. It starts with a description of such a partnership, followed by the presentation of the collaboration theory. The emerging question of what constitutes a leader and a follower in the partnership between ECEC and families is answered with the help of the concept of pedagogical leadership and an empirical example of ECEC’s work with migrant and refugee children in the United States. The chapter concludes with an outline of ECEC’s responsibility for guiding parents to become leaders of the ECEC-home collaboration.
Parental Involvement (Mis)recognised by Bourdieu’s Conceptual Toolkit: Illusio, Doxa, Habitus, and Capitals
Authors: Sadownik Alicja R.
Published: August 2023

This chapter presents Bourdieu’s theoretical toolkit, which allows to look at the early childhood education and care (ECEC) settings’ collaboration with families through concepts embracing both objective/societal conditions and individual characteristics. These concepts are illusio, doxa, habitus, and capital. The empirical example presented in the chapter shows how the power of the parents’ economic, cultural, and social capital can negotiate and tailor the modes of involvement into parental needs and illusios. The analytical potential of Bourdieu’s theory is also discussed in relation to the established pre-school and social pedagogy traditions, which imply different practices of parental involvement.
Finite charges from the bulk action
Authors: McNees Robert , Zwikel Céline
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Constructing charges in the covariant phase space formalism often leads to formally divergent expressions, even when the fields satisfy physically acceptable fall-off conditions. These expressions can be rendered finite by corner ambiguities in the definition of the presymplectic potential, which in some cases may be motivated by arguments involving boundary Lagrangians. We show that the necessary corner terms are already present in the variation of the bulk action and can be extracted in a straightforward way. Once these corner terms are included in the presymplectic potential, charges derived from an associated codimension-2 form are automatically finite. We illustrate the procedure with examples in two and three dimensions, working in Bondi gauge and obtaining integrable charges. As a by-product, actions are derived for these theories that admit a well-defined variational principle when the fields satisfy boundary conditions on a timelike surface with corners. An interesting feature of our analysis is that the fields are not required to be fully on-shell.
Tree-level UV completions for NRSMEFT d = 6 and d = 7 operators
Authors: Beltrán Rebeca , Cepedello Ricardo , Hirsch Martin
Published: August 2023

Abstract

We study ultra-violet completions for operators in standard model effective field theory extended with right-handed neutrinos (NRSMEFT). Using a diagrammatic method, we generate systematically lists of possible tree-level completions involving scalars, fermions or vectors for all operators at d = 6 and d = 7, which contain at least one right-handed neutrino. We compare our lists of possible UV models to the ones found for pure SMEFT. We also discuss how the observation of LNV processes via NRSMEFT operators at the LHC can be related to Majorana neutrino masses of the standard model neutrinos.
Variance–covariance analysis of two high-resolution regional least-squares quasi-geoid models
Authors: Klees R. , Slobbe D. C.
Published: August 2023

This paper investigates the full variance–covariance (VC) matrix of two high-resolution regional quasi-geoid models, utilizing a spherical radial basis function parameterization. Model parameters were estimated using weighted least-squares techniques and variance component estimation (VCE) for data weighting. The first model, known as the “RCR model,” is computed through the remove–compute–restore method, incorporating various local gravity and radar altimeter datasets. The second model, the “combined model,” includes the GOCO05s satellite-only global geopotential model as an additional dataset with a full-noise VC matrix. Validation of the noise VC matrix scaling for each quasi-geoid model is achieved by comparing observed and formal noise standard deviations of differences between geometric and gravimetric height anomalies at GPS height markers in the Netherlands. Analysis of the noise VC matrix of height anomalies at grid nodes reveals significantly smaller formal noise standard deviations for the RCR model compared to the combined model. This difference is attributed to VCE assigning larger weights to the GOCO05s dataset, which exhibits greater noise standard deviations for the specific spatial scales used. Additionally, the formal noise standard deviations of height anomaly differences, relevant for GNSS-heighting, favor the RCR model. However, the disparity between the two models is smaller than implied by the height anomaly noise standard deviations. This is due to the combined model’s noise autocorrelation function displaying a longer correlation length (67 km) in contrast to the RCR model’s (17 km). Consequently, the combined model exhibits a greater reduction in noise variance for height anomaly differences relative to white noise compared to the RCR model.
Basic concepts of mixture toxicity and relevance for risk evaluation and regulation
Authors: Bloch Denise , Diel Patrick , Epe Bernd , Hellwig Michael , Lampen Alfonso , Mally Angela , Marko Doris , Villar Fernández María A. , Guth Sabine , Roth Angelika , Marchan Rosemarie , Ghallab Ahmed , Cadenas Cristina , Nell Patrick , Vartak Nachiket , van Thriel Christoph , Luch Andreas , Schmeisser Sebastian , Herzler Matthias , Landsiedel Robert , Leist Marcel , Marx-Stoelting Philip , Tralau Tewes , Hengstler Jan G.
Published: August 2023

Exposure to multiple substances is a challenge for risk evaluation. Currently, there is an ongoing debate if generic “mixture assessment/allocation factors” (MAF) should be introduced to increase public health protection. Here, we explore concepts of mixture toxicity and the potential influence of mixture regulation concepts for human health protection. Based on this analysis, we provide recommendations for research and risk assessment. One of the concepts of mixture toxicity is additivity. Substances may act additively by affecting the same molecular mechanism within a common target cell, for example, dioxin-like substances. In a second concept, an “enhancer substance” may act by increasing the target site concentration and aggravating the adverse effect of a “driver substance”. For both concepts, adequate risk management of individual substances can reliably prevent adverse effects to humans. Furthermore, we discuss the hypothesis that the large number of substances to which humans are exposed at very low and individually safe doses may interact to cause adverse effects. This commentary identifies knowledge gaps, such as the lack of a comprehensive overview of substances regulated under different silos, including food, environmentally and occupationally relevant substances, the absence of reliable human exposure data and the missing accessibility of ratios of current human exposure to threshold values, which are considered safe for individual substances. Moreover, a comprehensive overview of the molecular mechanisms and most susceptible target cells is required. We conclude that, currently, there is no scientific evidence supporting the need for a generic MAF. Rather, we recommend taking more specific measures, which focus on compounds with relatively small ratios between human exposure and doses, at which adverse effects can be expected.
Danish translation and linguistic validation of the LIMB-Q, a PROM for traumatic lower limb injuries and amputations
Authors: Simonsen Nina Vestergaard , Rölfing Jan Duedal , Mundy Lily R. , Breitkopf Trisia , Poulsen Lotte , Hansen Rehne Lessman , Klassen Anne F. , Pusic Andrea L. , Sørensen Jens Ahm
Published: August 2023

Background

The LIMB-Q is a newly developed patient-reported outcome measure (PROM), applicable for lower extremity trauma patients requiring fracture treatment, soft tissue debridement, reconstruction, and/or amputation. The aim of this study was to translate and linguistically validate the LIMB-Q from English to Danish.

Method

The translation and linguistic validation were performed by combining guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR). This approach involved 2 forward translations, a backward translation, an expert panel meeting, and 2 rounds of cognitive patient interviews. The main goal of these steps was to achieve a conceptual translation with simple and clear items. Feedback from the Danish translation was used in combination with psychometric analyses for item reduction of the final international version of LIMB-Q.

Results

In the forward translation, 6 items were found difficult to translate into Danish. The two translations were harmonized to form the backward translation. From the backward translation, 1 item was identified with a conceptually different meaning and was re-translated. The revised version was presented at the expert panel meeting leading to revision of 10 items. The cognitive patient interviews led to revision of 11 items. The translation process led to a linguistically validated and conceptually equivalent Danish version of the LIMB-Q.

Conclusion

The final Danish LIMB-Q version consisting of 16 scales is conceptually equivalent to the original and ready for field-testing in Denmark.

Level of evidence: Not gradable.
Explicit harmonic morphisms and p-harmonic functions from the complex and quaternionic Grassmannians
Authors: Ghandour Elsa , Gudmundsson Sigmundur
Published: August 2023

We construct explicit complex-valued p-harmonic functions and harmonic morphisms on the classical compact symmetric complex and quaternionic Grassmannians. The ingredients for our construction method are joint eigenfunctions of the classical Laplace–Beltrami and the so-called conformality operator. A known duality principle implies that these p-harmonic functions and harmonic morphisms also induce such solutions on the Riemannian symmetric non-compact dual spaces.
Incorporating causal modeling into data envelopment analysis for performance evaluation
Authors: Fukuyama Hirofumi , Tsionas Mike , Tan Yong
Published: August 2023

The risk factors in banking have been considered an undesirable carryover variable by the literature. Methodologically, we consider the risk factor using loan loss reserves as a desirable carryover input with dynamic characteristics, which provides a new framework in the dynamic network Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) modelling. We substantiate our formulation and results using novel techniques for causal modelling to ensure that our dynamic network model admits a causal interpretation. Finally, we empirically examine the impact of risk from various economic sectors on efficiency. Our results show that the inefficiencies were volatile in Chinese banking over the period 2013–2020, and we further find that the state-owned banks experienced the highest levels of inefficiency and volatility. The findings report that credit risk derived from the agricultural sector and the Water Conservancy, Environment and Public Facilities management sector decreases bank efficiency, while credit risk derived from the wholesale and retail sector improves bank efficiency. The results of our innovative causal modelling show that our pioneering modelling on the role of loan loss reserves is valid. In addition, from an empirical perspective, our second-stage analysis regarding the impact of risk derived from different economic sectors on bank efficiency can be applied to other banking systems worldwide because of our successful validation from causal modelling. Our attempt to incorporate causal inference into DEA can be generalized to future studies of using DEA for performance evaluation.
Control of post-harvest gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) on grape (Vitis vinifera) and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) using volatile organic compounds produced by Xenorhabdus nematophila and Photorhabdus laumondii subsp. laumondii
Authors: Vicente-Díez Ignacio , Moreira Xoaquín , Pastor Victoria , Vilanova Mar , Pou Alicia , Campos-Herrera Raquel
Published: August 2023

Post-harvest fruit and vegetable rot produced by Botrytis cinerea (Helotiales: Sclerotiniaceae) causes significant reductions in food availability and drastically increases economic losses. The use of microbial-based tools for pathogen management holds promise. In particular, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by microbes (e.g., bacterial compounds) are becoming increasingly more frequent as an alternative to chemical and physical treatments. In this study, we performed three laboratory experiments to investigate the effects of VOCs emitted by two gram-negative entomopathogenic bacteria, Xenorhabdus nematophila, and Photorhabdus laumondii subsp. laumondii, on the infection and growth of the pathogenic mold B. cinerea on post-harvest red grapes and tomatoes. In addition, we evaluated the preventive effects of these bacterial VOCs against pathogens in post-harvest wounded and intact grapes. Overall, VOCs emitted by X. nematophila and P. laumondii limited the lesion area of B. cinerea to 0.5% and 2.2%, respectively, on the grapes. Similarly, VOCs emitted by X. nematophila and P. laumondii limited the lesion area of B. cinerea to 0.5% and 0.02%, respectively, in tomatoes. In addition, the emission of VOCs by both bacteria showed strong preventive fungal effects. In particular, VOCs emitted by P. laumondii reduced to 13% B. cinerea incidence in damaged grapes exposed to VOCs. Moreover, intact grapes exposed to VOCs emitted by X. nematophila and P. laumondii decreased B. cinerea incidence by 33%. This study provides insightful information about a potential novel bacteria-based tool that can be used as an alternative in the integrated control of post-harvest diseases.