bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of stabilized organic amendments on biodegradability of poly-3-hydroxybutyrate, soil biological properties, and plant biomass
Authors: Brtnicky M. , Holatko J. , Hammerschmiedt T. , Mustafa A. , Kamenikova E. , Kintl A. , Radziemska M. , Baltazar T. , Malicek O. , Kucerik J.
Published: September 2024

Poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (P3HB) is a biodegradable polymer with a potential extensive use in agriculture. However, while P3HB biodegradation boosts microbial enzyme activity, it significantly reduces plant biomass due to nutrient competition. In this study, we test the hypothesis that these detrimental effects can be mitigated though the co-application of nutrient-rich organic amendments, such as compost and digestate. A pot experiment with lettuce (Lactuca sativa), grown in soil amended with P3HB lone or combined with either compost or digestate. Six variants were tested: Control, Compost, Compost + P3HB, Digestate, Digestate + P3HB, and P3HB alone. We evaluated degradation of the P3HB polymer, biological soil properties, and both the dry and fresh biomass of the lettuce. We observed that adding P3HB alone enhanced dehydrogenase and urease activities, as well as all types of respiration, except for L-arginine-induced respiration. However, it strongly and negatively affected the biomass of lettuce (both aboveground and root). The strong adverse effects of P3HB on plant growth were also observed when compost was co-applied, although this combination enhanced all enzyme activities except for suppressed β-glucosidase. Conversely, co-applying digestate with P3HB alleviated the negative effect of P3HB on both the dry and fresh biomass together lettuce. Additionally, this combination increased the activity of several enzymes (dehydrogenase, arylsulfatase, N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase, urease), and enhanced all types of respiration, except for L-arginine-induced respiration. The use of biodegradable plastics in agriculture is on rise, but it may be compromised, because their biodegradation my negatively impact plant growth. The results showed that co-application of digestate is an effective solution to alleviate these effects, while co-application of compost failed. Generally, organic amendments seem to be an option to alleviate the negative effects of bioplastics biodegradation, and offers options how to handle the treatment of waste bioplastics or their residues, but further investigation is needed to understand the underlaying mechanisms involved.

Graphical Abstract
Multiple Tin Compounds Modified Carbon Fibers to Construct Heterogeneous Interfaces for Corrosion Prevention and Electromagnetic Wave Absorption
Authors: Guo Zhiqiang , Lan Di , Jia Zirui , Gao Zhenguo , Shi Xuetao , He Mukun , Guo Hua , Wu Guanglei , Yin Pengfei
Published: September 2024

Currently, the demand for electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorbing materials with specific functions and capable of withstanding harsh environments is becoming increasingly urgent. Multi-component interface engineering is considered an effective means to achieve high-efficiency EMW absorption. However, interface modulation engineering has not been fully discussed and has great potential in the field of EMW absorption. In this study, multi-component tin compound fiber composites based on carbon fiber (CF) substrate were prepared by electrospinning, hydrothermal synthesis, and high-temperature thermal reduction. By utilizing the different properties of different substances, rich heterogeneous interfaces are constructed. This effectively promotes charge transfer and enhances interfacial polarization and conduction loss. The prepared SnS/SnS2/SnO2/CF composites with abundant heterogeneous interfaces have and exhibit excellent EMW absorption properties at a loading of 50 wt% in epoxy resin. The minimum reflection loss (RL) is − 46.74 dB and the maximum effective absorption bandwidth is 5.28 GHz. Moreover, SnS/SnS2/SnO2/CF epoxy composite coatings exhibited long-term corrosion resistance on Q235 steel surfaces. Therefore, this study provides an effective strategy for the design of high-efficiency EMW absorbing materials in complex and harsh environments.
Advances in Graphene-Based Electrode for Triboelectric Nanogenerator
Authors: Xie Bin , Guo Yuanhui , Chen Yun , Zhang Hao , Xiao Jiawei , Hou Maoxiang , Liu Huilong , Ma Li , Chen Xin , Wong Chingping
Published: September 2024

With the continuous development of wearable electronics, wireless sensor networks and other micro-electronic devices, there is an increasingly urgent need for miniature, flexible and efficient nanopower generation technology. Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) technology can convert small mechanical energy into electricity, which is expected to address this problem. As the core component of TENG, the choice of electrode materials significantly affects its performance. Traditional metal electrode materials often suffer from problems such as durability, which limits the further application of TENG. Graphene, as a novel electrode material, shows excellent prospects for application in TENG owing to its unique structure and excellent electrical properties. This review systematically summarizes the recent research progress and application prospects of TENGs based on graphene electrodes. Various precision processing methods of graphene electrodes are introduced, and the applications of graphene electrode-based TENGs in various scenarios as well as the enhancement of graphene electrodes for TENG performance are discussed. In addition, the future development of graphene electrode-based TENGs is also prospectively discussed, aiming to promote the continuous advancement of graphene electrode-based TENGs.
Additive manufacturing of continuous wave and pulsed wave L-PBF Ti64 thin cross sections
Authors: Arputharaj John Daniel , Nafisi Shahrooz , Ghomashchi Reza
Published: September 2024

The additive manufacturing of titanium alloys, particularly Ti–6Al–4V (Ti64), via Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) techniques, has garnered significant attention due to the potential for creating complex geometries and reducing material waste. This study compares the Continuous Wave (CW) and Pulsed Wave (PW) L-PBF methods in fabricating thin Ti64 struts, essential for biomedical applications such as lattice-structured implants. The feasibility of manufacturing cylindrical struts with diameters ranging from 0.1 to 1.0 mm and angles of inclination between 10° and 90° has been explored. Findings indicate that CW L-PBF produces finer struts with consistent cross sections but tends to generate higher surface roughness due to heat accumulation and sintered particles. In contrast, in this case, PW L-PBF achieves better retention of the designed angles and smoother surfaces at higher inclinations but struggles with strut dimensions at lower angles due to contour scanning which helps improve shape retention at high angle of inclinations. Microstructural analysis reveals that PW L-PBF results in a bit finer α′ martensitic needles, attributed to higher cooling rates, generated due to the pulsed laser mode, while CW L-PBF shows coarser structures due to continuous heat input resulting in a prolonged thermal cycling effect.
Modeling of genetic algorithm tuned adaptive fuzzy fractional order PID speed control of permanent magnet synchronous motor for electric vehicle
Authors: Sime Tolcha Lemma , Aluvada Prashant , Habtamu Solomon , Tolosa Zewde
Published: September 2024

This study presents a novel Genetic Algorithm-optimized Adaptive Fuzzy Fractional Order Proportional Integral Derivative (GA-AFFFOPID) controller for enhancing the speed control performance of permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) drives in Electric Vehicles. The proposed GA-AFFFOPID controller, which combines the advantages of genetic algorithm optimization and adaptive fuzzy fractional-order PID control, represents a unique and innovative approach to address the control challenges associated with PMSM drives. Permanent magnet synchronous motor technology, known for its efficiency, compactness, reliability, and versatility in motion control applications, is increasingly adopted in electric vehicle drive systems. However, the inherent non-linearity, dynamics, and uncertainties of permanent magnet synchronous motors pose significant control challenges. The exceptional performance of the GA-AFFFOPID controller, demonstrated through its superior system dynamics, precise speed tracking, and robustness against parameter variations and sudden load disturbances, underscores the significant advancements enabled by the genetic algorithm optimization technique in improving the control performance of PMSM drives for electric vehicle applications. Comparative analysis with traditional control methods demonstrates the exceptional performance of the Genetic Algorithm-optimized Adaptive Fuzzy Fractional Order Proportional Integral Derivative controller. These findings highlight the significant performance improvements facilitated by the genetic algorithm optimization technique in enhancing the control performance of the adaptive fuzzy fractional order PID controller in PMSM drives for electric vehicle applications.
Combined effects of urban blue–green spaces on the thermal environment: a case study of Kobe, Japan
Authors: Zhang Yu , Uchiyama Yuta , Sato Masayuki
Published: September 2024

Global climate change has led to the deterioration of urban thermal environments, resulting in serious negative impacts on human well-being. As a countermeasure, the public sector has established ad hoc policies, but there are concerns about the financial sustainability of these policies. This study focuses on economic land-use policies for blue–green spaces, using Kobe City as a case study, and evaluates and discusses economic policies such as the Production Green Space Law by quantitatively assessing the combined effects of blue–green spaces. Using Landsat-8 remote-sensing images from the summers of 2014 and 2019, this study retrieved land surface temperatures (LST) by applying the Radiative Transfer Equation method. The results indicated that (1) the area with LST above 32 ℃ in 2019 showed a significant trend of expansion compared with that in 2014. (2) The LST in 2014 was ranked as follows: built-ups, bare land, farmland, water bodies, grassland, and forests. (3) The impact of landscape pattern metrics on LST varied by grid scale, and the correlation was validated at a grid scale of 1200 m. However, the correlation was not significant at a grid scale of 1500 m. (4) The higher the concentration and area of the forests, the better the cooling effect. Regression analysis revealed that water bodies had a mitigating effect on LST. Water bodies and forests exhibited a weak combined warming effect; however, the diminutive regression coefficients suggested that the overall combined effect was not notable. Moreover, the Law on Productive Green Areas is conducive to improving the urban thermal environmental effect, providing the necessary agricultural production support for the city, and improving the well-being of residents.
Susceptibility to Infection and Impact of COVID-19 Vaccines on Symptoms of Women with Endometriosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Available Evidence
Authors: Riemma Gaetano , Etrusco Andrea , Laganà Antonio Simone , Torella Marco , Vastarella Maria Giovanna , Della Corte Luigi , D’Amato Antonio , La Verde Marco , De Franciscis Pasquale , Cobellis Luigi
Published: September 2024

Women with endometriosis were deemed more prone to COVID-19 infection in some reports. Considering that endometriosis-related aberrant immune response, understanding how COVID-19 vaccination influences its clinical status is crucial. The aim of this meta-analysis was the evaluate the susceptibility to COVID-19 infection and modifications of symptoms following COVID-19 vaccination in women with endometriosis. Electronic searches on EMBASE, MEDLINE, Scopus, Cochrane at CENTRAL, Scielo.br, LILACS and other databases were searched from inception to March 2024. Studies were eligible if they analyzed the incidence of infection in endometriosis women or the changes in symptoms after two doses of COVID-19 vaccine and had a control group. Four studies (2249 women) were included. No increased susceptibility to COVID-19 infection due to presence or absence of endometriosis was retrievable (risk ratio (RR) 1.42 [95% CI 0.88 to 2.27]; I2 = 33%). Patients with endometriosis did not experience an overall worsening of symptomatology relative to controls (RR 1.58 [95% CI 0.67 to 3.75]; I2 = 94%). An increase in the risk of dysmenorrhea worsening was noted (RR 1.88 [95% CI 1.11 to 3.17]; I2 = 63%). No other differences regarding menstrual flow (RR 1.25 [95% CI 0.70 to 2.23]; I2 = 78%), intermenstrual bleeding (RR 1.14 [95% CI 0.83 to 1.56]; I2 = 39%) and pelvic pain (RR 2.55 [95% CI 0.65 to 10.05]; I2 = 80%) compared to controls was retrievable. Therefore, mRNA vaccines do not seem to lead to worsening of symptomatology in endometriotic women. However, a slight temporary increase in dysmenorrhea may be present. Moreover, endometriosis does not seem to increase the risk of contracting COVID-19.
Women Voters
Authors: Junn Jane , Masuoka Natalie
Published: September 2024

Women Voters documents and explains three important phenomena implicating gender, race, and immigration. The Element contributes to a better understanding of partisan candidate choice in US presidential elections. First, women are diverse and politically heterogenous, where white women are more likely to vote Republican and women of color are majority Democratic voters. Second, due to the unequal privileges and constraints associated with race, white women have greater agency to sort by partisan preference, whereas women of color have more limited choice in their partisan support. Finally, the authors emphasize compositional change in the electorate as an important explanation of electoral outcomes.
Cybersecurity in practice: The vigilant logic of kill chains and threat construction
Authors: Muller Lilly Pijnenburg
Published: September 2024

In this article, I critically examine the ‘Cyber Kill Chain’, a methodological framework for thought and action that shapes both contemporary cybersecurity practice and the discursive construction of security threats. The history and epistemology of the Cyber Kill Chain provide unique insight into the practice of contemporary cybersecurity, insofar as the Kill Chain provides cybersecurity practitioners with predetermined categories and indicators of threat that shape how threats are conceptualised and understood by defenders and suggests actions to secure against them. Locating the origins of the kill chain concept in US military operational logics, its transformation through the anticipatory inquiries of intelligence, and its automation in computational networks, this article argues that the Cyber Kill Chain is emblematic of a vigilant socio-technical logic of security, where human perception, technical sensing, and automation all respond to and co-produce the (in)security through which political security concerns are articulated. This practice makes politics; it excludes, includes, and shapes what is perceived to be dangerous and not, directly impacting the security constructed. Through a critical reading of the Cyber Kill Chain, this article provides insight into cybersecurity practitioners’ epistemic practice and as such contributes to discussions of cybersecurity expertise, threat construction, and the way in which cybersecurity is understood and practised as a global security concern.
Genistein inhibits Nlrp3/caspase-1 signalling to alleviate traumatic brain injury-induced anxiety-like behaviours in rats
Authors: Li Zhiguang , Li Yan , Zhao Jiankai , Pang Zhiyin , Guo Fei
Published: September 2024

Objective:

Traumatic brain injury (TBI)-induced anxiety is a common but under-investigated disorder, for which neuroinflammation is a significant contributor. Here we aim to investigate the protective effects of genistein, a plant-derived anti-inflammatory drug, against TBI-induced anxiety, and the underlying mechanisms.

Methods:

A rat model of TBI was constructed using the lateral fluid percussion injury method. Genistein at the doses of 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg were used to treat rats at 30 min, 12 h, 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h up to 14 days after TBI. The evaluation of neurological deficit was performed preoperatively, on days 1, 3, 7, and 14 after TBI. The elevated plus maze test was carried out to assess anxiety and explorative behaviours, and the open field test was performed to assess locomotive activities. Brain injury was assessed by measuring brain water content and TdT-mediated dUTP Nick-End Labeling staining. Inflammatory responses were examined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The mRNA and protein expression were analysed using real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot, respectively.

Results:

In the behavioural level, genistein treatment alleviated TBI-induced anxiety behaviours and neurological deficit in rats. In the meanwhile, brain oedema was also reduced by genistein treatment, showing alleviating effects of genistein at the pathological level. TUNEL staining also showed reduced apoptosis in rats treated with genistein. Genistein also inhibited Nlrp3/caspase-1 signalling, unveiling the effects of genistein in altering molecular pathways in brains with TBI.

Conclusion:

Genistein alleviates anxiety-like behaviours in TBI rats, which may be mediated via inhibiting Nlrp/caspase-1 signalling pathway.
A NOTE ON -BINDING FUNCTIONS AND LINEAR FORESTS
Authors: LAN KAIYANG , LIU FENG , WU DI , ZHOU YIDONG
Published: September 2024

Let G and H be two vertex disjoint graphs. The join

$G+H$

is the graph with

$V(G+H)=V(G)+V(H)$

and

$E(G+H)=E(G)\cup E(H)\cup \{xy\;|\; x\in V(G), y\in V(H)\}$

. A (finite) linear forest is a graph consisting of (finite) vertex disjoint paths. We prove that for any finite linear forest F and any nonnull graph H, if

$\{F, H\}$

-free graphs have a

$\chi $

-binding function

$f(\omega )$

, then

$\{F, K_n+H\}$

-free graphs have a

$\chi $

-binding function

$kf(\omega )$

for some constant k.
A Monastery for the Sick
Authors: Henry A. M.
Published: September 2024

New ventures in religious life are b'eing called forth by the Holy Spirit within the Church. Among these the religious communities for the sick which have come into being during the past few years in Prance are not the least interesting.

At a time when illness has become to a great extent a social phenomenon—and paradoxically this is bound up with the great progress of medicine in prolonging the life of the sick —in a country which counts at least five hundred thousand tubercular cases, a very great number of cardiac cases, and more than a hundred thousand cases of paralysis; at a time, too, when great national movements for their protection and help are being organised, it is fitting that those for whom suffering and illness have a significance in the Cross of Christ should be united and brought together.
Age-related changes in lexical tones and intonation in Cantonese infant-directed speech: A longitudinal study
Authors: Wang Luchang , Wong Patrick C. M.
Published: September 2024

This longitudinal study investigated modifications in lexical tones and intonation in Cantonese infant-directed speech (IDS) to children aged 15 and 23 months. The results showed that to children at both ages, mothers increased intonational pitch height and pitch variability across utterances, and produced lexical tones with generally larger tonal space and greater intra-talker tone variation within categories in IDS compared to adult-directed speech. No significant changes were found in either lexical tones or intonation in IDS between the two ages. In addition, positive correlations were found between the degree of age-related changes in tonal space and intonational exaggerations in IDS as children grow older. The findings were discussed with a focus on the co-occurrence of an increase in tone variation along with tonal space expansion, the age-related changes in lexical tones and intonation, and the associations between the lexical and prosodic pitch modifications.
A longitudinal study on moral emotions and psychosocial functioning among preschool children with and without hearing loss
Authors: Li Zijian , Li Boya , Tsou Yung-Ting , Wang Liyan , Liang Wei , Rieffe Carolien
Published: September 2024

Moral emotions such as shame, guilt and pride are crucial to young children’s social-emotional development. Due to the restrictions caused by hearing loss in accessing the social world, deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) children may encounter extra difficulties in their development of moral emotions. However, little research so far has investigated the development trajectory of moral emotions during preschool years in DHH children. The present study used a longitudinal design to explore the development trajectories of shame, guilt, and pride, in a sample of 259 Chinese DHH and typically hearing (TH) preschoolers aged 2 to 6 years old. The results indicated that according to parent reports, DHH children manifested lower levels of guilt and pride compared to their TH peers, yet the manifested levels of shame, guilt, and pride increased throughout the preschool time at a similar pace in all children. Moreover, whilst guilt and pride contributed to increasing levels of psychosocial functioning over the preschool years, shame contributed to lower social competence and more externalizing behaviors in DHH and TH preschoolers. The outcomes imply that early interventions and adjustment to hearing loss could be useful to safeguard the social development of children with severe hearing loss, and cultural variances shall be taken into consideration when studying moral emotions in a Chinese cultural background.
“We don’t do any of these things because we are a death-denying culture”: Sociocultural perspectives of Black and Latinx cancer caregivers
Authors: Nwakasi Candidus , Esiaka Darlingtina , Nweke Chizobam , Chidebe Runcie C.W. , Villamar Wilson , de Medeiros Kate
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Cancer is an enormous public health burden among Black and Latinx cancer survivors, and they are at risk of facing barriers to accessing cancer treatment and support in the United States. This study explored the unique challenges and experiences faced by Black and Latinx cancer survivors through the lens of their caregivers, including the specific cultural, social, and systemic factors that influence cancer survivorship experience and quality of life within these communities in the United States.

Methods

We used a qualitative descriptive design for the study, and conducted 6 focus group discussions (3 Latinx and 3 Black groups) with a total of 33 caregivers of cancer survivors, (Mean age = 63 years). Data were analyzed using inductive content analysis.

Results

We identified 3 main themes: (1) families as (un)stressors in survivorship such as the vitality of social connections and families as unintended burden; (2) responses after diagnosis specifically whether to conceal or accept a diagnosis, and (3) experiencing health care barriers including communication gaps, biased prioritizing of care, and issues of power, trust, and need for stewardship.

Significance of results

The findings align with previous research, highlighting the complex interplay between cultural, familial, and healthcare factors in cancer survivorship experiences within underserved communities. The study reiterates the need for culturally tailored emotional, physical, financial, and informational support for survivors and their caregivers. Also, to improve quality of life, the study highlights a need to strengthen mental health and coping strategies, to help address psychological distress and improve resilience among survivors and their caregivers.
“The Spanish Henri Dunant” of the Institut de Droit International, Nicasio Landa (1830–1891)
Authors: de la Rasilla Ignacio
Published: September 2024

This article examines the life and works of Dr Nicasio Landa, the co-founder of the Spanish Red Cross, known as the “Spanish Henri Dunant”. The article begins by discussing his seminal works in the field of international humanitarian law (IHL) and the institutions, notably including the International Committee of the Red Cross, with which he worked until the outbreak of the Franco-Russian War. The article then focuses on Dr Landa's pioneering contributions to the drawing up and application of international law instruments in the framework of the Institut de Droit International, paying special attention to his contribution to IHL and his pioneering codification efforts at the interface between epidemic diseases and international law. The conclusion highlights the seminal role that Dr Landa played in setting the course of an international humanitarian tradition which has largely outlived the memory we have of this hidden figure in the history of IHL.
Write like Cicero: integrating an AI-based classifier in ancient language teaching for idiom acquisition
Authors: Cavaleri Damien , Hersch Micha , Kolde Antje
Published: September 2024

We developed and trained a custom AI text classifier to assist Latin language learners in internalising idioms, with a focus on Ciceronian composition. Idioms are mostly language-, sometimes author-specific expressions that cannot be translated directly into another language. The classifier provides interactive feedback on learners' output, effectively gamifying the process of writing in Latin and motivating students to produce more linguistic output. This not only helps learners build confidence, but also acquire a ‘toolbox’ of idioms useful for both output- and input-based activities. We present the results of our experiment conducted across a number of secondary classes in Switzerland. Our tool is freely available at https://latin-ia.hepl.ch/classifier.
Corporate social responsibility and risk management: charting the course for a sustainable future of the fashion industry
Authors: Macchion Laura
Published: September 2024

Non-technical summary

This study explores how corporate social responsibility and risk management intersect in the fashion industry, aiming to promote sustainability. It emphasizes the importance of integrating responsible practices into business strategies to mitigate risks and enhance long-term profitability. By focusing on a multinational fashion supply chain, the study examines real-world examples to highlight the challenges and opportunities in balancing brand image with ethical supply chain management. The findings provide insights into how companies can safeguard their reputation, manage complex supply chains, and contribute positively to sustainability goals in the fashion sector.

Technical summary

This paper investigates the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and risk management within the fashion industry. It conducts an in-depth case study of a prominent multinational fashion supply chain, analyzing 11 suppliers through interviews, observations, and internal documents. The study underscores that integrating CSR principles into risk management strategies helps mitigate supply chain risks and capitalize on business opportunities. It addresses gaps in existing literature by presenting empirical evidence of CSR-driven transformations in the sector, rather than merely documenting unsustainable practices. The study contributes by offering practical insights for fashion businesses aiming to achieve long-term success through sustainable practices. Key implications include the necessity for strategic integration of CSR into operational frameworks to protect corporate image, manage risks effectively, and foster sustainable growth in the competitive fashion marketplace.

Social media summary

From risk management to sustainable success: how corporate social responsibility shapes the future of fashion.
Generative Künstliche Intelligenz
Authors: Buder Jürgen , Lindner Marlit , Oestermeier Uwe , Huff Markus , Gerjets Peter , Utz Sonja , Cress Ulrike
Published: September 2024

Zusammenfassung: Generative KI (Künstliche Intelligenz) hat mit der Veröffentlichung von Transformer-Modellen wie GPT enorme Entwicklungssprünge vollzogen. Dieses Positionspapier identifiziert zwei Kerneigenschaften generativer KI: die Breite der Einsatzfelder sowie die Fähigkeit, menschenähnlichen Output zu kreieren. Darauf aufbauend diskutiert dieser Beitrag mögliche Implikationen für die psychologische Forschung in drei Feldern. Erstens etabliert sich ein Forschungsfeld, welches die Eigenschaften von generativer KI aus psychologischer Sicht untersucht. Dieses Feld ist vor allem durch die Frage geprägt, inwieweit Output und Verhalten von generativer KI als „menschenähnlich“ zu betrachten sind. Zweitens kommt der Psychologie eine besondere Rolle zu, die Auswirkungen von generativer KI auf den Menschen einzuschätzen. Dies betrifft Fragen der Täuschung bei der Rezeption von Informationen, Zuschreibungen von Kompetenz und Wärme bei der menschlichen Bewertung von generativer KI, sowie die Potenziale von generativer KI, wissensbezogene Prozesse in der Interaktion mit Menschen zu fördern. Drittens schließlich wird generative KI wahrscheinlich auch den psychologischen Forschungsprozess selbst verändern. Wir diskutieren mögliche Einsatzbereiche, aber auch klare Limitationen (z. B. generative KI als vollständiges Surrogat für Versuchspersonen). In allen drei Forschungsfeldern ist der Dualismus zwischen dem Fehlen eines Verständnisses von Sprache, gekoppelt mit der verblüffenden Fähigkeit, menschenähnliche Sprache (re)‍produzieren zu können, zugleich Herausforderung und Anreiz für psychologische Forschung.
Pushing Towards Privacy
Authors: Dombrowski Jana , Lux Alexandra
Published: September 2024

Abstract: The use of privacy-enhancing technologies (PETs) to protect online privacy is a promising preventive measure. However, many users lack knowledge of their existence and application. This study reports the results of a pre-registered longitudinal experiment aimed at encouraging Internet users to install and use Tor, which enables anonymous browsing. The study compares two soft-paternalistic interventions: a social norm nudge and an educational boost, each with positive and negative framing. The data ( N T1 = 1,450; N T2 = 1,171) were based on a sample representative of German online users. The study finds that targeting users’ literacy and framing Tor as a PET, rather than as a darknet technology, increases users’ motivation to install and use the browser. However, the effects are only observed in the short-term and do not translate into actual behavior. We discuss implications for theory and practice regarding the effectiveness of interventions encouraging PET adoption.
Controlling Factors of Chorus Spectral Gaps
Authors: Li Jinxing , Bortnik Jacob , Li Wen , An Xin , Lyons Larry R. , Kurth William S. , Hospodarsky George B. , Hartley David P. , Reeves Geoffrey D. , Funsten Herbert O. , Blake J. Bernard , Spence Harlan , Baker Daniel N.
Published: September 2024

The present study compares a single‐band chorus wave against a banded chorus wave observed by Van Allen Probes at adjacent times, and demonstrates that the single‐band chorus wave is associated with an anisotropic electron population over a broad energy range, while the banded chorus wave is accompanied by an electron phase space density plateau and an electron anisotropy reduction around Landau resonant energies. We further compare banded chorus waves with different spectral gap widths, and show that a wider spectral gap is associated with electron isotropization extending to higher energies with respect to the equatorial Landau resonant energy. We suggest that early generated chorus waves isotropize electrons via Landau resonant acceleration, and the waves that propagate to higher latitudes isotropize electrons at higher energies. The isotropization extending to higher energies leads to a larger spectral gap of new chorus waves after electrons bounce back to the equator.
Do Subsampling Strategies Reduce the Confounding Effect of Errors in Bispectral Retrievals on Estimates of Aerosol Cloud Interactions?
Authors: Loveridge J. R. , Di Girolamo L.
Published: September 2024

Bi‐spectral retrievals of droplet effective radius and cloud optical depth are widely utilized to estimate aerosol cloud interactions (ACI) in warm clouds in the marine boundary layer. Here, we assess the effect of retrieval errors due to the neglect of 3D radiative transfer during the retrieval process on this analysis of ACI. We use an ensemble of stochastically‐modeled cloud fields and 3D radiative transfer simulations to study the retrieval errors at a solar zenith angle of 30°. Simulated retrieval biases in droplet number concentration (Nd) for all three MODIS channels vary systematically from +35% to −80% as cloud heterogeneity increases. Pixel‐level errors can be much larger. Commonly utilized subsampling strategies do not reduce the systematic variation in retrieval error. Negative error correlations between optical depth and droplet effective radius produce spuriously negative slopes between the logarithm of liquid water path and Nd (−1.0 to −0.3). Pixels at the center of (8 km)2 patches that are not overcast have a relative bias in Nd of −50%. The relative frequency of these biased pixels varies linearly with the clear fraction in MODIS data and form the basis for a simple parameterization of Nd bias that varies with cloud fraction (CF). Using this parameterization, synthetic data experiments indicate that estimates of the first indirect effect in the tropical ocean can be overestimated by up to 30%, and the effect of aerosol on CF is overestimated by 50%, due to neglecting the correlation between retrieval errors and cloud microphysics.
Spatial Simulation and Optimization of Cropping Structure Under Climate and Land Use Change Conditions Considering Synergistic Economic Benefits and Carbon Reduction in Crop Growth Processes
Authors: Li Mo , Li Haiyan , Zhou Zhaoqiang , Chen Yingshan , Wang Yijia , Li Tianxiao , Fu Qiang
Published: September 2024

The climate and land use changes caused by the natural environment and socioeconomic development have potential impacts on the green and sustainable development of agriculture. To accommodate agricultural production under multiple scenarios of future climate and land‐use change, this study proposes a “simulation–optimization” modeling approach based on a crop growth model with a synergistic “carbon emission–economic benefit” approach. This approach is based on climate change conditions and it accurately simulates future land use changes and crop growth processes, establishes a carbon emission intensity optimization model, and generates a spatial planting structure optimization and regulation scheme based on intelligent optimization algorithms under changing scenarios. The results of the model application show that the planting structure option in the future scenario can increase economic benefit by up to 14.8% compared to the current scenario while simultaneously reducing total greenhouse gas emissions by 6.77%. Correlation analysis of planting area, irrigation water volume, carbon intensity value and unilateral water use efficiency can be used to obtain the coordination level of each county under different regulation scenarios. This “simulation–optimization” modeling approach provides an effective approach to achieve synergistic and coordinated development of regional agricultural benefits and carbon reduction by fine‐tuning the planting structure, which promotes low‐carbon and high‐quality development of regional agriculture.
These Five Craters May Have Birthed a Third of Martian Meteorites
Authors: Kornei Katherine
Published: September 2024

Researchers have homed in on five craters on the Red Planet that are the likely sources of Martian meteorites.
The Unexpected Role of Magnetic Microbes in Deep-Sea Mining
Authors: Sidder Aaron
Published: September 2024

A new study highlights the co-occurrence of magnetic bacteria and polymetallic nodules and may offer insights into how the mineral-rich nodules form on the ocean floor.
Higher Onshore Wind Energy Potentials Revealed by Kilometer‐Scale Atmospheric Modeling
Authors: Chen Shuying , Goergen Klaus , Hendricks Franssen Harrie‐Jan , Winkler Christoph , Poll Stefan , Houssoukri Zounogo Wahabou Yoda , Linssen Jochen , Vereecken Harry , Stolten Detlef , Heinrichs Heidi
Published: September 2024

Reliable and highly resolved information about onshore wind energy potential (WEP) is essential for expanding renewable energy to eventually achieve carbon neutrality. In this pilot study, simulated 60 m wind speeds (ws60m) from a km‐scale, convection‐permitting 3.3 km‐resolution ICON‐LAM simulation and often‐used 31 km‐resolution ERA5 reanalysis are evaluated at 18 weather masts. The estimated ICON‐LAM and ERA5 WEPs are then compared using an innovative approach with 1.8 million eligible wind turbine placements over southern Africa. Results show ERA5 underestimates ws60m with a Mean Error (ME) of −1.8 m s−1 (−27%). In contrast, ICON‐LAM shows a ME of −0.1 m s−1 (−1.8%), resulting in a much higher average WEP by 48% compared to ERA5. A combined Global Wind Atlas‐ERA5 product reduces the ws60m underestimation of ERA5 to −0.3 m s−1 (−4.7%), but shows a similar average WEP compared to ERA5 resulting from the WEP spatial heterogeneity.
The High Latitude Ionospheric Response to the Major May 2024 Geomagnetic Storm: A Synoptic View
Authors: Themens David R. , Elvidge Sean , McCaffrey Anthony , Jayachandran P. T. , Coster Anthea , Varney Roger H. , Galkin Ivan , Goodwin Lindsay V. , Watson Chris , Maguire Sophie , Kavanagh Andrew J. , Zhang Shun‐Rong , Goncharenko Larisa , Bhatt Asti , Dorrian Gareth , Groves Keith , Wood Alan G. , Reid Ben
Published: September 2024

The high latitude ionospheric evolution of the May 10‐11, 2024, geomagnetic storm is investigated in terms of Total Electron Content and contextualized with Incoherent Scatter Radar and ionosonde observations. Substantial plasma lifting is observed within the initial Storm Enhanced Density plume with ionospheric peak heights increasing by 150–300 km, reaching levels of up to 630 km. Scintillation is observed within the cusp during the initial expansion phase of the storm, spreading across the auroral oval thereafter. Patch transport into the polar cap produces broad regions of scintillation that are rapidly cleared from the region after a strong Interplanetary Magnetic Field reversal at 2230UT. Strong heating and composition changes result in the complete absence of the F2‐layer on the eleventh, suffocating high latitude convection from dense plasma necessary for Tongue of Ionization and patch formation, ultimately resulting in a suppression of polar cap scintillation on the eleventh.
Giant infrared bulk photovoltaic effect in tellurene for broad-spectrum neuromodulation
Authors: Wang Zhen , Tan Chunhua , Peng Meng , Yu Yiye , Zhong Fang , Wang Peng , He Ting , Wang Yang , Zhang Zhenhan , Xie Runzhang , Wang Fang , He Shuijin , Zhou Peng , Hu Weida
Published: September 2024

Given the surpassing of the Shockley-Quiesser efficiency limit in conventional p-n junction photovoltaic effect, bulk photovoltaic effect (BPVE) has garnered significant research interest. However, the BPVE primarily focuses on a narrow wavelength range, limiting its potential applications. Here we report a giant infrared bulk photovoltaic effect in tellurene (Te) for broad-spectrum neuromodulation. The generated photocurrent in uniformly illuminated Te excludes other photoelectric effects and is attributed to the BPVE. The bulk photovoltaic wavelength in Te spans a wide range from the ultraviolet (390 nm) to the mid-infrared (3.8 µm). Moreover, the photocurrent density of 70.4 A cm−2 under infrared light simulation outperforms that in previous ultraviolet and visible semiconductors as well as infrared semimetals. Te attached to the dendrites or somata of the cortical neurons successfully elicit action potentials under broad-spectrum light irradiation. This work lays the foundation for the further development of infrared BPVE in narrow bandgap materials.
Unveiling the tradeoff between device scale and surface nonidealities for an optimized quality factor at room temperature in 2D MoS2 nanomechanical resonators
Authors: Zhang Pengcheng , Jia Yueyang , Yuan Shuai , Xie Maosong , Liu Zuheng , Jia Hao , Yang Rui
Published: September 2024

A high quality (Q) factor is essential for enhancing the performance of resonant nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS). NEMS resonators based on two-dimensional (2D) materials such as molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) have high frequency tunability, large dynamic range, and high sensitivity, yet room-temperature Q factors are typically less than 1000. Here, we systematically investigate the effects of device size and surface nonidealities on Q factor by measuring 52 dry-transferred fully clamped circular MoS2 NEMS resonators with diameters ranging from 1 μm to 8 μm, and optimize the Q factor by combining these effects with the strain-modulated dissipation model. We find that Q factor first increases and then decreases with diameter, with an optimized room-temperature Q factor up to 3315 ± 115 for a 2-μm-diameter device. Through extensive characterization and analysis using Raman spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy, we demonstrate that surface nonidealities such as wrinkles, residues, and bubbles are especially significant for decreasing Q factor, especially for larger suspended membranes, while resonators with flat and smooth surfaces typically have larger Q factors. To further optimize Q factors, we measure and model Q factor dependence on the gate voltage, showing that smaller DC and radio-frequency (RF) driving voltages always lead to a higher Q factor, consistent with the strain-modulated dissipation model. This optimization of the Q factor delineates a straightforward and promising pathway for designing high-Q 2D NEMS resonators for ultrasensitive transducers, efficient RF communications, and low-power memory and computing.
Longitudinal changes in DNA methylation associated with clozapine use in treatment-resistant schizophrenia from two international cohorts
Authors: Gillespie Amy L. , Walker Emma M. , Hannon Eilis , McQueen Grant A. , Sendt Kyra-Verena , Avila Alessia , Lally John , Okhuijsen-Pfeifer Cynthia , van der Horst Marte , Hasan Alkomiet , Dempster Emma L. , Burrage Joe , Bogers Jan , Cohen Dan , Boks Marco P. , Collier David A. , Egerton Alice , Luykx Jurjen J. , Mill Jonathan , MacCabe James H.
Published: September 2024

The second-generation antipsychotic clozapine is used as a medication for treatment-resistant schizophrenia. It has previously been associated with epigenetic changes in pre-clinical rodent models and cross-sectional studies of treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Cross-sectional studies are susceptible to confounding, however, and cannot disentangle the effects of diagnosis and medication. We therefore profiled DNA methylation in sequential blood samples (n = 126) from two independent cohorts of patients (n = 38) with treatment-resistant schizophrenia spectrum disorders who commenced clozapine after study enrolment and were followed up for up to six months. We identified significant non-linear changes in cell-type proportion estimates derived from DNA methylation data - specifically B-cells - associated with time on clozapine. Mixed effects regression models were used to identify changes in DNA methylation at specific sites associated with time on clozapine, identifying 37 differentially methylated positions (DMPs) (p < 5 × 10-5) in a linear model and 90 DMPs in a non-linear quadratic model. We compared these results to data from our previous epigenome-wide association study (EWAS) meta-analysis of psychosis, finding evidence that many previously identified DMPs associated with schizophrenia and treatment-resistant schizophrenia might reflect exposure to clozapine. In conclusion, our results indicate that clozapine exposure is associated with changes in DNA methylation and cellular composition. Our study shows that medication effects might confound many case-control studies of neuropsychiatric disorders performed in blood.
Co-creation: a collaborative odyssey in dental education with students at the helm
Authors: Campbell Faith , Rogers Helen
Published: September 2024

Co-creation may be described as collaborative innovation towards a shared goal. It is increasingly being applied in education to develop interventions to support the development of various aspects of educational programmes, including dental education. Students are valuable partners in the process and their unique perspective allows for relevant and novel curricular developments. Other stakeholders within an institution, such as educators, subject experts and programme leads, are also frequently involved. The co-creation process has been reported to be mutually beneficial for all parties.

Benefits of co-creation for students include the development of personal and professional skills that are not conventionally taught within a curriculum. Staff can feel more inspired and engaged. The process can lead to more inclusive and socially relevant curricula. There are also associated challenges, such as gaining adequate support and buy-in from stakeholders to ensure success. This paper explores the concept of co-creation and its application in education, providing recommendations on how it may be successfully applied within the context of dental education.
Organoid modeling meets cancers of female reproductive tract
Authors: Li Jiao , Zhou Mengting , Xie Jun , Chen Jiani , Yang Mengni , Ye Changjun , Cheng Shihu , Liu Miao , Li Rui , Tan Ruirong
Published: September 2024

Diseases of the female reproductive system, especially malignant tumors, pose a serious threat to women’s health worldwide. One of the key factors limiting research progress in this area is the lack of representative models. Organoid technology, especially tumor organoids, has been increasingly applied in the study of female reproductive system tumors due to their high heterogeneity, close resemblance to the physiological state, easy acquisition and cultivation advantages. They play a significant role in understanding the origin and causes of tumors, drug screening, and personalized treatment and more. This article reviews the organoid models for the female reproductive system, focusing on the cancer research advancements. It discusses the methods for constructing tumor organoids of the female reproductive tract and summarizes the limitations of current research. The aim is to offer a reference for future development and application of these organoid models, contributing to the advancement of anti-tumor drugs and treatment strategies for female reproductive tract cancer patients.