bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emaré / Egaré: Sanctuary and Exile, Law and Romance
Authors: Allen Elizabeth
Published: June 2024

ABSTRACT: Edward Said writes that exile produces the towering myth of the modern nation. But the medieval legal history of sanctuary and exile offers an alternative model of provisional survival and transition. In the Middle English lay Emaré , sanctuary and exile are romanced; legal predicament is rendered as adventure and opened for examination. Incest and exile in a rudderless boat, marriage, childbirth, and a second exile eventually achieve a happy ending, but as with legal sanctuary, romance remedy is uncertain and provisional by design. Medieval law and romance furnish a concept of sanctuary that frames exile as contrapuntal awareness of both mitigation and suffering.
Exile, Horizons, and Poetic Language
Authors: Saussy Haun
Published: June 2024

ABSTRACT: Exile or banishment has long been a professional liability of intellectuals in many cultures. For practical consequences, it matters whether an offender is exiled to another polity, becoming subject to its laws, or banished to a marginal area of a single world empire. Within the Roman and Chinese Empires, banished poets narrate their predicament in ways that reflect not only their personal histories but also the resources of poetic language whereby disgraced and demoted writers can revise the judgments applied to them.
Thomas Aquinas and the Logical Consistency of the Communication of Idioms
Authors: Birch Vincent
Published: June 2024

abstract: In response to recent interpretations of Thomas Aquinas’s account of the communication of idioms that have been advanced in the midst of conversation on the coherence of Chalcedonian Christology, this article seeks to show, first, that Thomas’s interpretation of the communication of idioms is at least internally consistent and, second, that his use of the medieval semantic distinction between signification and supposition, which has been given little attention in these recent interpretations, is the key to that consistency. By employing the distinction in correlation with his distinctions between essence and existence and between the intellectual operations of apprehension and judgment, Thomas is able to ensure that anything predicated of Christ (even predicated simpliciter ) applies to the one person of the Word as subsisting in either his human or his divine nature. Thus, I argue that Thomas’s semantic framework allows him to affirm, e.g., that Christ is mutable and Christ is immutable without contradiction, while it is the unique way in which this framework is applied to the Incarnation that lifts up the mystery.
Highway vehicle detection based on distributed acoustic sensing
Authors: Kou Xue-Wei , Du Qing-Guo , Huang Long-Ting , Wang Hong-Hai , Li Zheng-Ying
Published: June 2024

Distributed acoustic sensing systems can obtain the road vibration information caused by vehicle driving vibration on highways. By characterizing the vehicle driving vibration data, a distributed acoustic sensing system based highway vehicle driving vibration detection scheme is proposed. Firstly, the out-of-bag error criterion of random forest is used to select multiple features of the vibration signals to obtain the most suitable feature quantity to characterize the road vibration signals, then the root mean square value of the signal matched filtering is calculated and compared, and the threshold is used to distinguish between the vehicle vibration signals and the noise. Finally, the improved trajectory start algorithm is used to accurately detect the vehicles travelling on the highway to obtain the real-time information of the vehicles. The experiment verified that the method can effectively detect highway vehicles.
Background-free correlation spectroscopy using an infrared mode-locked laser
Authors: Fujiwara Kokoro , Song Wenqing , Morichika Ikki , Ashihara Satoshi
Published: June 2024

The recent advances in infrared laser technology are expanding the capabilities and applications of vibrational spectroscopy. A promising approach utilizing broadband infrared mode-locked lasers is background-free (BF) absorption spectroscopy. This method captures the free-induction decay (FID) of excited molecules while suppressing the background light. It is unique in that the signal strength increases with input optical power but eventually struggles with detector noise when targeting fewer molecules. In this paper, we present a novel method of multiplexed background-free spectroscopy using a spectral mask whose transmittance has a strong correlation with the absorption spectrum of a target molecule. We successfully demonstrate an order of magnitude increase in the sensitivity due to multiplexing as well as a high molecular contrast due to the spectral correlation. The presented results indicate the promising potential of the method for sensitive and selective detection of trace molecules.
Ensuring sexual and reproductive healthcare services amidst a pandemic: Experiences from health workers in Lima, Peru
Authors: Gianella Camila , Cortez Leonardo , Beran David , Pesantes Maria Amalia
Published: June 2024

Nowadays there is an emerging interest on health system resilience capacity during emergencies as the one created by the COVID-19 Pandemic. This article contributes to this emerging field of studies by analysing the impact of the state´s policy responses COVID-19 (as lockdowns) on the Peruvian health system, specifically on the delivery of non-covid services, sexual and reproductive health services, and describe the strategies deployed by health workers to adapt to the COVID-19 crisis in Peru, a country that have been dramatically impacted by the pandemic. The article, based on the analysis of depth interviews with 11 health workers and one health supervisor working at sexual and reproductive health services at public health services Lima during 2020 and 2021, describe how pre-existing conditions of the health system (as poor infrastructure and deficit of human resources) magnified the negative effects of the measures taken to control de pandemic, undermining the “resilience” of the health system.
The potential of X-ray computed tomography for xylological and dendrochronological analyses of Egyptian mummy labels
Authors: Blondel François , Bélot Gisela , Corona Christophe , Huebner Sabine R. , Stoffel Markus
Published: June 2024

X-ray computed tomography (XRCT) imaging allows non-destructive visualization of the structure of various materials. Applied to wooden objects, it allows determination of their morphologies or manufacturing techniques, but also measurement of growth ring widths. We have applied XRCT to a selection of 38 mummy labels. This funerary furniture, made up of endemic or imported tree species, has survived thanks to environmental conditions in very large quantities in regions in Middle and Upper Egypt and is featured now in museum collections across the globe. Mummy labels thus represent a unique and abundant data source to build floating or absolutely dated dendrochronological chronologies for this period. Here we discuss the possible contributions and limitations of XRCT for the analysis of these artifacts and show that the approach allows identification of discriminating markers for the identification of certain species on the transverse plane, but that the insufficient resolution of the tangential and radial planes normally prevents formal identification of species. By contrast, XRCT undeniably enhances the visibility of toolmarks (in terms of numbers and depth), and thereby allows highlighting marks that remain invisible to the naked eye; XRCT also provides key insights into cutting methods and the calibers used and yields new information on silvicultural practices and the knowhow of Egyptian craftsmen. Finally, the measurement of ring widths on XRCT imagery is also more accurate than what can be achieved by traditional dendrochronological measurements, especially in the case of cuts realized on a slab. The approach also confirms the limited potential of local broadleaved species for dendrochronological approaches due to unreadable or poorly visible tree rings and mostly short tree-ring sequences.
Career factors related to winning Olympic medals in swimming
Authors: Tchamkerten Aslan , Chaudron Paul , Girard Nicolas , Monnier Antoine , Pyne David B. , Hellard Philippe
Published: June 2024

To investigate associations between a swimmer’s career progression and winning a medal at the Olympic Games (OG) or World Championships (WC). A total of 4631 swimming performances of 1535 top swimmers (653 women, 882 men) from 105 nationalities since1973 were extracted from FINA rankings. A panel of 12 predictor variables including nationality, gender, competition, age, number and timing of competitions, pattern of progressions and regressions in performance, and medal outcomes was established. Linear logistic regression was used to study the association between winning a medal and predictor variables. Logistic regression coefficients were obtained by training on 80% of the database, and prediction accuracy evaluated on the remaining 20%. Using the training set, a selection of 9 most relevant features for prediction of winning a medal (target variable) was obtained through exhaustive feature selection and cross-validation: nationality, competition, number of competitions, number of annual career progressions (nb_prog), maximum annual career progression (max-progr), number of annual career regressions (nb_reg), age at maximum annual progression, P6 (the level of performance six months before the World Championships or Olympic Games), and P2 (the level of performance two months before the World Championships or Olympic Games). A logistic regression model was built and retrained on the entire training set achieved an area under the ROC curve of ~90% on the test set. The odds of winning a medal increased by 1.64 (95% CI, 1.39–1.91) and 1.44 (1.22–1.72) for each unit of increase in max-progr and n-prog, respectively. Odds of winning a medal decreased by 0.60 (0.49–0.72) for a unit increase in n-reg. In contrast, the odds increased by 1.70 (1.39–2.07) and 4.35 (3.48–5.42) for improvements in the 6 and 2 months before competition (P<0.001, for all variables). The likelihood of a swimmer winning an international medal is improved by ~40–90% with progressions from season-to-season, and reducing the number of regressions in performance. The chances of success are also improved 2- to 4-fold by substantial improvements in performance in the months before competition.
An integrated method for the leakage fault mode diagnosis and life prediction of the reactor coolant pump
Authors: Shao Yinghua , Kang Rui , Fu Jingwen , Liu Jie
Published: June 2024

The reactor coolant pump is a key equipment in a nuclear power plant. If the leakage exceeds a certain threshold, it may cause reactor overheating and shutdown. The reactor coolant pump leakage fault usually has two problems: corrosion and scaling. Accurately and efficiently diagnosing the leakage fault mode as early as possible and predicting its remaining useful life (RUL) are important for taking timely maintenance measures. In this paper, an integrated method is proposed. First, the cross-sectional area of the first seal is extracted as a fault indicator. The motivation is that corrosion may enlarge the cross-sectional area, and scaling may reduce the cross-sectional area. Based on the fluid mechanics theory, an integrated model with several uncertain parameters is established among the cross-sectional area, temperature, and leakage at the inlet and outlet of the first seal. In the diagnosing process, a modified change-detection method is proposed to detect the starting point of degradation. Then, the unknown parameters in the previous relation are estimated, and the degrading data before the starting point of degradation are used to diagnose the leakage fault mode. Second, a time-series model of the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) is established to predict the remaining useful life based on the degrading data after the starting point of degradation. Finally, the leakage degrading data from six reactor coolant pumps of a nuclear power plant is used to perform the leakage fault mode diagnosis and life prediction with degradation point detection error rates not exceeding 4%, fault mode diagnosis correction rates 100% and practical RUL predicting results, which proves that the proposed integrated method is accurate and efficient. The proposed integrated method combines the advantages of both the physical model diagnosis and the data-driven model diagnosis and innovatively make use of the quantity of flow from the output side of the primary pump as the monitoring indicator and the cross-sectional area as the characteristic index together to diagnose the leakage fault mode happened to the seal and predict its RUL, which can meet the needs of actual operation and maintenance to ensure a healthy and stable operation of the pump and prevent unexpected shutdowns of nuclear power plants and serious accidents.
Exploring the diagnostic performance of machine learning in prediction of metabolic phenotypes focusing on thyroid function
Authors: Ahn Hyeong Jun , Ishikawa Kyle , Kim Min-Hee
Published: June 2024

In this study, we employed various machine learning models to predict metabolic phenotypes, focusing on thyroid function, using a dataset from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2007 to 2012. Our analysis utilized laboratory parameters relevant to thyroid function or metabolic dysregulation in addition to demographic features, aiming to uncover potential associations between thyroid function and metabolic phenotypes by various machine learning methods. Multinomial Logistic Regression performed best to identify the relationship between thyroid function and metabolic phenotypes, achieving an area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.818, followed closely by Neural Network (AUROC: 0.814). Following the above, the performance of Random Forest, Boosted Trees, and K Nearest Neighbors was inferior to the first two methods (AUROC 0.811, 0.811, and 0.786, respectively). In Random Forest, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance, serum uric acid, serum albumin, gamma glutamyl transferase, and triiodothyronine/thyroxine ratio were positioned in the upper ranks of variable importance. These results highlight the potential of machine learning in understanding complex relationships in health data. However, it’s important to note that model performance may vary depending on data characteristics and specific requirements. Furthermore, we emphasize the significance of accounting for sampling weights in complex survey data analysis and the potential benefits of incorporating additional variables to enhance model accuracy and insights. Future research can explore advanced methodologies combining machine learning, sample weights, and expanded variable sets to further advance survey data analysis.
Challenges of biomedical research collaboration in India: Perceptions of Indian and international researchers
Authors: Deshmukh Vaishali , Agarwala Tanuja , Mohapatra Archisman , Kumar Sanjiv , Acquilla Sushma , Das Manoja K. , Dasgupta Rajib , Chaturvedi Sanjay , Sinha Subrata , Mukherjee Sharmila , Angolkar Mubashir , Wig Naveet , Dhamija Navneet K. , Arora Narendra Kumar ,   on behalf of the INCLEN Leadership Study Group
Published: June 2024

Biomedical research collaborations are to be contextualized in the larger global health agenda which also opens up new information pathways, expands research networks, and brings additional resources. A qualitative inquiry was employed to understand the perceived benefits and challenges of research collaborations by biomedical scientists from India (Global South [GS] country) and the Global North (GN). In-depth interviews were conducted with 47 biomedical scientists from India and 06 from the GN. The data was analyzed using the grounded theory approach. Complementarity of skills and resources, access to funds, improved quality of work, an opportunity to conduct multi-centric studies, development of collaborative networks, better and larger number of publications, mutual learning, opportunity to work with credible researchers, address common interests, leverage interpersonal and trusted relationships and larger societal good were some of the critical factors for eagerness of participants in joint scientific endeavors. However, the challenging aspects of dissent and disagreements were the power imbalance between the collaborators, the development of a trust deficit, and local administrative issues. The challenges reported in the current publication, also echoed in several previous publications can be surmounted and negotiated amicably when the rules of the game, law of the land, sharing of the credits, and interest of the collaborating parties are addressed and agreed up in a fair and just manner before the start of the collaboration. Overall biomedical partnerships are complex collaborations with its challenges, the processes are dynamic and outcomes are emergent. This requires constant and proactive evolution of the preparation, implementation and sustainability of the collaborative efforts be it national or international.
The analysis of the internet of things database query and optimization using deep learning network model
Authors: Ma Xiaowen
Published: June 2024

To explore the application effect of the deep learning (DL) network model in the Internet of Things (IoT) database query and optimization. This study first analyzes the architecture of IoT database queries, then explores the DL network model, and finally optimizes the DL network model through optimization strategies. The advantages of the optimized model in this study are verified through experiments. Experimental results show that the optimized model has higher efficiency than other models in the model training and parameter optimization stages. Especially when the data volume is 2000, the model training time and parameter optimization time of the optimized model are remarkably lower than that of the traditional model. In terms of resource consumption, the Central Processing Unit and Graphics Processing Unit usage and memory usage of all models have increased as the data volume rises. However, the optimized model exhibits better performance on energy consumption. In throughput analysis, the optimized model can maintain high transaction numbers and data volumes per second when handling large data requests, especially at 4000 data volumes, and its peak time processing capacity exceeds that of other models. Regarding latency, although the latency of all models increases with data volume, the optimized model performs better in database query response time and data processing latency. The results of this study not only reveal the optimized model’s superior performance in processing IoT database queries and their optimization but also provide a valuable reference for IoT data processing and DL model optimization. These findings help to promote the application of DL technology in the IoT field, especially in the need to deal with large-scale data and require efficient processing scenarios, and offer a vital reference for the research and practice in related fields.
Prevalence and risk factors of Hepatitis C virus infection in the Upper East Region of Ghana; a community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Siaw Ampem Darko Jnr , Amugsi James , Owusu-Konadu Maame Adwoa Agyeman , Drah Samuel Teye , Imbeah Emmanuel Gustav , Oduro-Donkor Dominic , Duah Amoako , Nartey Yvonne Ayerki
Published: June 2024

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remains a major cause of liver related morbidity and mortality worldwide. Epidemiologic data on seroprevalence, viremia prevalence and risk factors remain limited in sub-Saharan Africa. In Ghana, HCV-related deaths are estimated to have increased since 2015. Risk factors associated with HCV infection in Ghana are not well described. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of, and risk factors associated with hepatitis C virus infection in the Upper East Region located in the northern part of Ghana. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in 9 communities in the Upper East region of Ghana. A total of 1,769 participants aged ≥12 years were screened for HCV antibody (anti-HCV) using rapid diagnostic testing (RDT). Seventy-four participants undertook HCV RNA testing after a positive anti-HCV result. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine risk factors associated with HCV seropositivity. The anti-HCV prevalence was 8.4%, with 149 out of 1,769 testing anti-HCV positive. Mean age (±SD) of seropositive persons was 45.4 (±16.3) years. The highest anti-HCV seroprevalence was amongst persons aged 60 years and above. Forty-four out of 74 (59.5%) seropositive cases had viremic infection and the estimated viremic prevalence in the screened population was 5.0%. Predictors of HCV seropositivity were age (OR 1.03 95% CI 1.01–1.04), history of female genital mutilation or circumcision (OR 1.63 95% CI 1.04–2.55), sexual activity (OR 2.57 95% CI 1.38–4.79), positive maternal HCV status (OR 10.38 95% CI 4.13–26.05) and positive HIV status (OR 4.03 95% CI 1.35–12.05). In conclusion, the Upper East Region demonstrates a high Hepatitis C antibody prevalence. Almost 60% of individuals have viremic infection, however the cost of RNA testing is a barrier to virological diagnosis. There is a need to educate the population about HCV-associated risk factors to reduce HCV transmission and burden of disease.
Experience of living with chronic pain in conjunction with surgery for ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow—A qualitative study
Authors: Giöstad Alice , Carlsson Ingela K. , Dahlin Lars B. , Nyman Erika
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Pain in conjunction with surgery for ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow is seldom highlighted in the literature. This study aimed to explore patients’ experiences of living with chronic pain (≥3 months duration) in conjunction with surgery for ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow, the consequences and the coping strategies applied.

Material and methods

In-depth interviews were conducted with 10 participants aged 18–60 years. The narratives were analyzed using an inductive approach and content-analysis.

Results

The analysis revealed seven main categories: “Physical symptoms/impairments” and “Mood and emotions”comprise symptoms caused by ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow and chronic pain; “Consequences in daily life” includes challenges and obstacles in every-day life, impact on leisure activities and social life; “Struggling with self-image” embraces experiences closely related to identity; “Coping strategies” covers adaptive resources; “Experience of relief “describes perceived improvements; “Key message for future care” comprises important aspects for healthcare providers to consider.

Conclusions

The results clarify the need for healthcare personnel to adopt a biopsychosocial approach when treating patients with ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow. Emotional symptoms and sleep disturbances should be identified and treated properly since they contribute to the heavy burden experienced by the individual.
The effects of major dietary patterns on patients with type 2 diabetes: Protocol for a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Hongyu , Wang Yuanyuan , Ge Song , Li Wanyang , Li Jing , Chen Wei
Published: June 2024

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) represents a significant worldwide health issue, experiencing an increasing incidence rate. Effective dietary strategies are vital for T2DM management, but the optimal dietary patterns remain debated due to inconsistent research outcomes and single-outcome reporting. Network Meta-Analysis (NMA) provides a powerful approach for integrating data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs), enabling a detailed evaluation of the impact of different dietary patterns. This document presents our strategy for a systematic review and network meta-analysis, aimed at assessing the influence of key dietary patterns on glycemic control, lipid profiles, and weight management in individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM).

Materials and methods

Adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P) and network meta-analyses guidelines, we conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library, without language or date restrictions. Our objective is to assess the efficacy of various dietary interventions in managing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). We used standardized mean differences for pairwise comparisons and a Bayesian framework for ranking interventions via Surface Under the Cumulative Ranking Curve (SUCRA). Key analyses include heterogeneity, transitivity, and sensitivity assessments, along with quality and risk evaluations using the Cochrane Collaboration’s tool and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system.

Ethics and dissemination

This systematic review and network meta-analysis involve aggregate data from previous trials, obviating the need for additional ethical approval. The search strategy will be executed starting October 2023, with all searches completed by December 2023, to encompass the most current studies available. Findings will be shared through academic conferences and peer-reviewed journals focused on diabetes care and nutrition.

Trial registration

PROSPERO registration number CRD42023465791.
The Diabetes Remission in India (DiRemI) study: Protocol for a prospective matched-control trial
Authors: Tripathi Pramod , Kadam Nidhi , Tiwari Diptika , Kathrikolly Thejas , Vyawahare Anagha , Sharma Baby , Ganla Malhar , Saboo Banshi
Published: June 2024

Background

The global rise in diabetes, particularly in India, poses a significant public health challenge, with factors such as limited awareness, financial strain, and cultural considerations hindering its effective management. Although lifestyle changes have shown promising results, their consistent implementation and maintenance continue to pose challenges. Most studies have focused primarily on dietary modifications, overlooking other essential aspects of lifestyle intervention. The DiRemI study aims to address these gaps by evaluating the efficacy of a comprehensive one-year program that combines diet, exercise, psychological support, and medical management to achieve weight loss, diabetes remission, and improved glycemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in India, while also considering the unique needs of the Indian population.

Methods

The DiRemI study is a prospective, open-label, matched-group trial aimed at assessing the impact of a one-year online integrated intensive lifestyle intervention (ILI) comprising dietary modifications, physical activity, psychological support, and medical management on weight loss and remission in adult T2D patients (aged 30–70 years), with a body mass index (BMI) between 25 and 35 kg/m2, and disease duration of <15 years. ILI will be compared with routine medical care (RMC). Participants will be recruited from three clinics: one providing ILI and two others providing RMC. The co-primary outcome will be weight loss and remission at 12 months, with a follow-up at 18 months. The proposed sample size is 360 participants (180 each in intervention and control group).

Discussion

The DiRemI study represents the first large-scale remission study in India to show the effectiveness of an integrated approach in the remission and management of T2D and its complications. The findings of this study hold the potential to report evidence-based strategies for managing T2D both in India and globally, thus alleviating the substantial burden of diabetes on public health systems.

Trial registration

Clinical Trials Registry, India (Registered Number: CTRI/2023/06/053885).
Fruit flavors in electronic cigarettes (ECIGs) are associated with nocturnal dry cough: A population longitudinal analysis
Authors: Quinones Tavarez Zahira , Croft Daniel P. , Li Dongmei , Gill Steven R. , Wojtovich Andrew P. , Rahman Irfan , Ossip Deborah J.
Published: June 2024

Evidence from in vitro and animal models has identified the pulmonary toxicity of flavors in electronic cigarettes (ECIGs); however, less is known from epidemiological studies about the effects of flavors in the respiratory health. This study examined the longitudinal association between exposure to ECIGs flavors and nocturnal dry cough among ECIGs users. A secondary analysis of data from the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study (2014–2019) was conducted. The study population included adults who provided information (n = 18,925) for a total of 38,638 observations. Weighted-incidence estimates and weighted- generalized estimating equation models were performed to assess unadjusted and adjusted associations. The weighted incidence proportion (WIP) of nocturnal dry cough was significantly higher among current (WIP:16.6%; 95%CI 10.5, 21.2) and former fruit flavored ECIGs users (WIP:16.6%; 95%CI 11.3, 21.9) as compared to non-ECIGs users (WIP:11.1%; 95%CI 10.6, 11.6). Current ECIGs users of fruit flavors showed 40% higher risk of reporting cough than non-ECIGs users (aRR:1.40, 95%CI 1.01, 1.94). Former ECIGs users of multiple flavors and other flavors had 300% and 66% higher risk to develop cough, respectively (aRR:3.33, 95%CI 1.51, 7.34 and aRR:1.66, 95%CI 1.0.9, 2.51), relative to non-ECIGs users. We observed a significantly higher risk of developing nocturnal dry cough in the past 12 months in current and former ECIGs users of fruit flavors and in former ECIGs users of multiple flavors. To the extent that cough may serve as an early indicator of respiratory inflammation and potential disease risk, the association between ECIGs use and cough raises potential concerns.
A life-cycle approach highlights the nutritional and environmental superiority of agroecology over conventional farming: A case study of a Mediterranean farm
Authors: Pelman Alik , De Vries Jerke W. , Tepper Sigal , Eshel Gidon , Carmel Yohay , Shepon Alon
Published: June 2024

Providing equitable food security for a growing population while minimizing environmental impacts and enhancing resilience to climate shocks is an ongoing challenge. Here, we quantify the resource intensity, environmental impacts and nutritional output of a small (0.075 ha) low-input subsistence Mediterranean agroecological farm in a developed nation that is based on intercropping and annual crop rotation. The farm provides one individual, the proprietor, with nutritional self-sufficiency (adequate intake of an array of macro- and micro-nutrients) with limited labor, no synthetic fertilizers or herbicides, and zero waste, effectively closing a full farm-table-farm cycle. We find that the agroecological farm outperforms conventional farming as practiced in the same country in terms of both lower environmental burdens, across all examined environmental metrics (63% lower on average) per kg produce, and higher nutritional score (66% higher on average). Per equal farmland, the environmental lopsidedness was even higher (79% lower than conventional farming on average), with nearly the same nutritional score (3% lower on average). Moreover, when considering total land area, which includes farmland and supporting non-agricultural lands, as well as postgate impacts and food losses, the advantage of the agroecological system over conventional farming is even more pronounced. Situated within a Mediterranean region that is undergoing rapid climate change, this food system is a unique case study of nutrition- and environment-oriented food production system. While its deployment potential is limited by lack of supportive policies, it nonetheless represents one of the most starkly bold alternatives to current food systems.
La aplicación de las ciencias bioforenses a la investigación del bioterrorismo y biocrimen
Authors: Ordoño Ballesteros Desiderio José
Published: June 2024

En los últimos años las técnicas de biología molecular han experimentado un avance enorme en todos sus campos. Esto hace que las capacidades de análisis cualitativo, cuantitativo y de tiempos de procesamiento hayan mejorado mucho, en especial con la aplicación de programas informáticos para el tratamiento de datos. Estos avances pueden ayudar en gran medida en el trabajo de la ciencia forense y en particular en la bioforense. El conocimiento de estas disciplinas y técnicas, así como lo que pueden aportar a las investigaciones sobre delitos de bioterrorismo o biocriminales, constituyen una gran herramienta para los policías dedicados a tareas de investigación, en especial para aquellos encargados de la elaboración de los informes periciales. Este conocimiento adquiere mayor importancia en la investigación de delitos terroristas donde el tiempo de respuesta policial puede ser clave para salvar vidas. En este trabajo se dan a conocer las últimas técnicas existentes, demostrando con los datos publicados en investigaciones científicas las grandes posibilidades que ofrecen.
Multiple solutions for a fractional $p$-Kirchhoff system with singular nonlinearity
Authors: Wu Zijian
Published: June 2024

This paper examines a class of fractional p-Kirchhoff systems driven by a nonlocal integro-differential operator with singular nonlinearity. By making use of Nehari manifold techniques, the existence of two nontrivial solutions is established. Our results extend those in Xiang et al. [Nonlinearity 29(2016), 3186–3205] for the corresponding subcritical case.
Existence of solution for a generalized Schrödinger–Poisson system via bifurcation theory
Authors: Alves Ricardo
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we study a generalized Schrödinger–Poisson system in a bounded domain of

R

3

and involving an asymptotically linear nonlinearity. We prove the existence of positive solutions using bifurcation theory.
De cómo un pueblo se volvió masacrable. Un abordaje de la estigmatización, el odio y la venganza en el caso de El Salado
Authors:   How a Town Became Massacrable. An Approach to Stigmatization, Hatred and Revenge in the Case of  El Salado, Santamaría Jaime
Published: June 2024

Cuando se mira la masacre de El Salado, es difícil no preguntarse por los factores que llevaron a esta comunidad de los Montes de María, en el contexto de la guerra rural que vivía Colombia a finales del siglo XX, a volverse un objetivo militar por parte de las A.U.C. (Autodefensas Unidas de Colombia), es decir, a recibir la marca o estigma de ‘pueblo guerrillero’; en otras palabras, a convertirse en un pueblo masacrable. El presente artículo intenta abordar esta cuestión y para ello analiza las consecuencias de la ocupación de las FARC desde su ingreso a la región en los noventa. Los modos como este poder fareano dispuso de lógicas guerreristas y dejó poco margen de maniobra y libertad para los pobladores de El Salado; los saladeros no tuvieron opción ni libertad, y la cohabitación se confundió con la colaboración, la pasividad con la pertenencia. En una segunda parte, revisa los efectos de la arremetida brutal de las FARC contra cierto grupo de pobladores (en especial, ganaderos y fuerza pública); de algún modo, la masacre del 2000, ejecutada por las AUC, fue una respuesta impulsada por un odio desmedido frente a una violencia también excesiva por parte de las FARC en los años anteriores a la masacre. En este apartado, se habla acerca del odio y la venganza que se constituyen en afectos que contribuyeron decisivamente —entre otros más— a la masacre del año 2000. Las elaboraciones sobre la economía del odio de Sara Ahmed (2015) y las de Laura Quintana sobre los afectos (2020 y 2021) serán fundamentales.
Using eye tracking to study reading landscape: a systematic review
Authors: Měkota Tomáš
Published: June 2024

More studies have understood landscape as a perceived entity since the European Landscape Convention was approved in 2004. This article adopts a systematic review approach in line with the PRISMA statement to delineate the utilization of eye tracking in studying landscapes. A comprehensive analysis of 55 studies sourced from the Web of Science and Scopus databases was conducted. Various aspects were scrutinized, encompassing landscape attributes, media employed for landscape representation, eye tracking data visualizations, and eye tracking metrics. The prevalence of eye tracking usage in landscape studies has notably increased since 1998, with research conducted across all continents. The most studied aspects of the landscape are saliency and specifics of particular types of landscape. Amongst the varied media used to represent landscape, photographs reign supreme, while heatmaps prominently feature as a means to visualize eye tracking data. The spectrum of metrics applied is extensive, showcasing distinct suitability for specific landscape attributes. Drawing from this review, recommendations for prospective research directions are outlined. The insights garnered from this review stand to serve as a valuable overview for researchers delving into the realm of reading landscape.
Biografia naukowa Profesora Aleksandra Lichorowicza
Authors: Kremer Elżbieta , Truszkiewicz Zygmunt
Published: June 2024

Biografia naukowa Profesora Aleksandra Lichorowicza.
Renesans dzierżawy rolnej
Authors: Czechowski Paweł , Niewiadomski Adam
Published: June 2024

The article discusses the challenges facing agricultural lease in European and national regulations. It presents the rich achievements of the initiator of the research on lease, Professor Aleksander Lichorowicz. The authors emphasised the traditional role of lease and its peculiar civil law character, and highlighted the dualism of the regulation of the lease of private agricultural real estate and the agricultural real estate of the State Treasury. An assessment of the new function and challenges of lease in the context of the challenges of agricultural real estate turnover and the leaseholder’s statutory right of first refusal has also been made and then followed by a discussion of the issues related to the social security of farmers, direct subsidies to the leased land, or other aid measures from public tributes. In conclusion, as de lege ferenda conclusions, the authors formulated proposals for legislative changes concerning agricultural lease.
Ewolucja zadań Wspólnej Polityki Rolnej – przeszłość, teraźniejszość, przyszłość
Authors: Jurcewicz Alina , Włodarczyk Beata , Tomkiewicz Elżbieta
Published: June 2024

The aim of this article is to present the tasks of the Common Agricultural Policy. The historical context and conditions of the treaty provisions defining the tasks of this policy are presented. Against this background, the evolution of the CAP from the past, through the present and the future is characterised. The conclusions state, among other things, that the CAP will remain one of the most important sectoral policies of the EU in the future, although there is a visible tendency to reduce expenditure on agriculture. The need to subsidise agriculture heavily is no longer justified and socially legitimised as before. The agricultural sector will undoubtedly become subject to processes leading to the use of innovative farming methods. Consequently, the interpretation of the tasks of the CAP should continue to take place in the light of the development of agriculture and the economy as a whole.
Communicating the cultural other: trust and bias in generative AI and large language models
Authors: Jenks Christopher J.
Published: June 2024

This paper is concerned with issues of trust and bias in generative AI in general, and chatbots based on large language models in particular (e.g. ChatGPT). The discussion argues that intercultural communication scholars must do more to better understand generative AI and more specifically large language models, as such technologies produce and circulate discourse in an ostensibly impartial way, reinforcing the widespread assumption that machines are objective resources for societies to learn about important intercultural issues, such as racism and discrimination. Consequently, there is an urgent need to understand how trust and bias factor into the ways in which such technologies deal with topics and themes central to intercultural communication. It is also important to scrutinize the ways in which societies make use of AI and large language models to carry out important social actions and practices, such as teaching and learning about historical or political issues.
Growing new types of building materials: mycelium-based composite materials
Authors: Saeidi Nazanin , Javadian Alireza , Hebel Dirk E.
Published: June 2024

In the coming decades, the use of finite and ever-scarcer primary materials will become more and more difficult, and especially more expensive. In the EU Taxonomy, the European Union stipulates that, in order to benefit from public funding, buildings must reduce their primary-materials footprint by 50 % by the year 2030 and even by 75 % by the year 2050. The intention is to replace these sources of primary raw materials with so-called secondary materials, especially with renewable raw materials. However, because land within the EU is already being used very intensively for forestry and food production, increasing scrutiny is falling on other fields involving production independent of location using organic waste materials and fungi to grow new types of building materials. This type of growth requires few resources and can take place without use of land in existing, repurposed facilities of all kinds, such as old industrial buildings or infrastructure facilities like mining shafts.
Building with renewable materials
Authors: Korjenic Azra , Teichmann Florian
Published: June 2024

Research into sustainable construction is increasingly focusing on the use of renewable materials in construction. These materials represent a promising alternative to conventional building materials as they are derived from renewable sources and are usually more environmentally friendly in terms of production, transport and end-of-life treatment. The Department of Ecological Building Technologies at the Vienna University of Technology has been investigating the hygrothermal behaviour and applicability of renewable materials for many years. Not only traditional building materials such as straw, wood, sheep’s wool and hemp have been investigated, but also innovative materials such as mushroom fabric. The research covered various aspects such as moisture protection, fire protection, thermal insulation, durability and resistance to external influences. The overall aim was to deepen the understanding of ecological building materials, overcome barriers to their use, and develop damage-tolerant constructions from them. The robust properties of wheat straw, sheep’s wool, hemp, cellulose and other materials underline their potential as efficient and environmentally friendly building materials. The data and insights gained will not only help to prove the effectiveness of these materials in the construction industry, but also to address concerns and uncertainties about their functionality.
Binomial rings and homotopy theory
Authors: Horel Geoffroy
Published: June 2024

We produce a fully faithful functor from finite type nilpotent spaces to cosimplicial binomial rings, thus giving an algebraic model of integral homotopy types.
As an application, we construct an integral version of the Grothendieck–Teichmüller group.
Evaluating the interaction for embedded H-steel section in normal concrete under monotonic and repeated loads
Authors: Al-Jafal Alaulddin A. , Al-Darzi Suhaib Y.
Published: June 2024

This article presents an experimental investigation into alternative strategies for enhancing the interaction of H-shaped steel sections embedded in normal reinforced concrete. Utilizing 12 push-out specimens subjected to monotonic and repeated loading, the study examines the natural bond-effecting parameters and shear transfer mechanisms facilitated by studs. Key parameters under investigation include embedded length, confinement stirrups, concrete cover, and variations in stud welding configurations, specifically welding to the flange and both the flange and web. In summary, a mathematical model for bond slip was proposed. In enhancing steel‒concrete interaction, adding 10-mm-diameter studs to both flanges and the web of the steel section is more effective than increasing the embedded depth by 67%. The second most effective method is doubling the concrete cover, followed by increasing the stirrups ratio by 40%. However, adding studs just to flanges outperforms solely increasing the stirrups ratio under repeated loading but does not match the effectiveness of other enhancement parameters. Yet notable shift from brittle to ductile behavior by introducing shear studs attached to flanges. The study also explores the influence of loading type on natural bond, noting lower values (13–18%) in ultimate load and (8–18)% in residual load capacities under repeated loading compared to monotonic loading, this drop is effectively mitigated by shear stud connections, particularly on the flange.
Effects of biochar on ambrosia beetle attacks on redbud and pecan container trees
Authors: Monterrosa Alejandra , Acebes Angelita L. , Blaauw Brett , Joseph Shimat V.
Published: June 2024

Mitigating tree stress can be a valuable strategy to combat ambrosia beetles, such as the granulate ambrosia beetle, Xylosandrus crassiusculus (Motschulsky; Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Scolytinae) under nursery conditions. Biochar and kaolin clay are known for their stress-relieving properties but their indirect effects on ambrosia beetle in ornamental or pecan (Carya spp.) trees have not been determined. Although entomopathogenic fungi, Beauveria bassiana (Bals.-Criv.) Vuill. (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae) and Trichoderma spp. (Hypocreales: Hypocreaceae) have shown effectiveness against adult ambrosia beetles, their role in reducing tree attacks is unclear. Thus, the objective was to determine the effects of biochar, kaolin clay, permethrin (industry standard), and entomopathogenic fungi on reducing ambrosia beetle attacks on young redbud (Cercis canadensis L.; Fabaceae) and pecan trees. The treatments were biochar, kaolin clay, permethrin, biochar + permethrin, kaolin clay + permethrin, B. bassiana, Trichoderma spp., and a nontreated control. Compared to the nontreated trees, biochar and biochar + permethrin treatments significantly reduced ambrosia beetle attacks on redbud trees. Kaolin clay, permethrin, B. bassiana, and Trichoderma spp. did not significantly reduce the number of ambrosia beetle attack holes when compared with the nontreated trees. This suggests that biochar can reduce ambrosia beetle attacks on ornamental trees and should be further evaluated for longer-term effects for multiple seasons.
Skill Supply, Technology Diffusion and the Labour Market
Authors: Stepanok Ignat , Tesfaselassie Mewael F.
Published: June 2024

We analyze the short and long-run effects of an increase in the skill supply on skill-specific wages and unemployment in a model with endogenous, nonlinear diffusion of a general purpose technology (GPT) and labour market frictions. We calibrate and simulate the model using the trend rise in relative skill supply in the U.S. over two decades starting in the early 1970s. The transitional dynamics of the model show (i) an initial slump and long-run rise in the relative wage of high-skill labour and (ii) a long-run rise in the relative level of unemployment of low-skill versus high-skill labour. An increase in the number of skilled individuals reduces hiring costs and increases the incentive for firms to engage in the costly adoption of a new GPT. Stronger labour market rigidity and higher worker bargaining power are shown to have similar effects on relative wages and unemployment: changes in relative wages are more pronounced, whereas the response of relative unemployment is muted. The exact opposite effects are found in the case of a higher degree of substitution between products.