bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patterns of household electricity consumption in Norway as a function of psychological factors, socio-economic constellations and access to electric appliances
Authors: Habibi Asgarabad Mojtaba , Vesely Stepan , Klöckner Christian A.
Published: November 2024

To explore the complexity of household living conditions and their relation to electricity consumption, the socio-technical constellations they create for themselves and the perceived ease of saving electricity, we conducted a clustering analysis to categorise Norwegian participants in an electricity-saving programme based on environmental concerns, personal norms and socio-economic parameters. We also explored if the household clusters differed in perceived risk of energy poverty. A sample of 1,135 Norwegians participated in the study in 2023. A two-step cluster analysis resulted in five distinct clusters which we named: (1) older couples with moderate environmental concern; (2) eco-ease in midlife; (3) middle-aged females in medium-sized households; (4) growing families with moderate concerns; and (5) moderate advocates with adolescents. Analysis of variance indicated significant variations in mean scores of environmental concerns, access to energy appliances and perceived behavioural control implement energy-saving tips across clusters (p<0.01), but no difference in perceived risk of energy poverty. The results show that changes in the living situation, especially children moving out, seems to have strong effects on per capita electricity consumption, if the housing infrastructure is not adapted to the new family size. Lower environmental concern particularly impacts electricity consumption negatively in the time after children leave the household, and the same can be concluded for gender roles with females being more motivated to save electricity. Based on these results we recommend to more actively support these transitions of living situations, but also support existing sustainable energy use practices or connect electricity saving to other motivations (like supply security) for clusters where environmental concern is low.
Race, revival and revolution: Defining the Irish Celt
Authors: Brinkman-Schwartz Caitlyn
Published: November 2024

Abstract: This article considers how the idea of the 'Celt' came into being and how the term was leveraged both in service of racism and as a tool for constructing ethnic and political identities. 'Celt' is a broad category and this paper focuses specifically on Ireland. Definitions of Celticity came from both within and outside Irish culture and had a diversity of aims. This paper provides a necessary overview of the history of this broad and kaleidoscopic term. It will equip scholars with a better understanding of its use throughout history, particularly in the early twentieth century. After outlining the development of the 'Celt' as a racial and cultural category, the paper considers the meaning of Celticity as Ireland approached independence, with particular attention to the revolutionary era, c . 1913–23. The article examines the interplay between Anglo-Irish and revolutionary understandings of the 'Celt', and how the idea of a Celtic race was deployed selectively in diverse political and cultural contexts in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. In some contexts, the word emphasised solidarity with global independence movements and anti-racist struggles, whilst in others it bolstered the logic of white supremacy. Rather than focusing solely on new engagements with primary texts, one of the aims of this article is to synthesise existing research into a broader narrative of ever-changing classifications and identities. Examining the meanings and uses of this kaleidoscopic term enhances our understanding of Irish identity in a period of political transition.
ER = EPR: quantum entanglement perspective
Authors: Duarte Francisco
Published: November 2024

The conjecture ER = EPR is critically evaluated from a quantum entanglement perspective. The Google Sycamore quantum calculation designed to probe this conjecture is also considered. Beyond the immediate conclusion that the Google Sycamore effort was a computation and not an experiment, the path utilized to arrive at the ER = EPR conjecture is determined to be a misunderstanding.
Adiabatons in double tripod coherent atom-light coupling scheme
Authors: Hamedi Hamidreza , Kudriasov Viaciaslav , Ruseckas Julius
Published: November 2024

Optical adiabatons are specific shape-invariant pulse pairs propagating
at the reduced group velocity and without optical absorption in the
medium. The purpose of this study is to analyze and demonstrate adiabaton
formation in many level atomic systems. Here we focus on the analysis
of five level M-type and double tripod systems. It is found that M-type
atomic systems are prone to intensity dependent group velocity and
pulse front steepening which prevents the formation of long range
optical adiabatons. In contrast, the double tripod atomic system is
quite favorable for the formation of optical adiabatons leading to
two different optical field configurations propagating with invariant
shape.
Contrasting responses of commercially important Northwest Atlantic bivalve species to ocean acidification and temperature conditions
Authors: McMahon Teagan , Thatcher Diana , Williams Branwen , Wanamaker Alan , Jellison Brittany , Franklin Heidi , Guay Katherine , Whitney Nina M. , Stewart Joseph A. , LaVigne Michèle
Published: November 2024

Modern calcifying marine organisms face numerous environmental stressors, including overfishing, deoxygenation, increasing ocean temperatures, and ocean acidification (OA). Coastal marine settings are predicted to become warmer and more acidic in coming decades, heightening the risks of extreme events such as marine heat waves. Given these threats, it is important to understand the vulnerabilities of marine organisms that construct their shells from calcium carbonate, which are particularly susceptible to warming and decreasing pH levels. To investigate the response of four commercially relevant bivalve species to OA and differing temperatures, juvenile Mercenaria mercenaria (hard shell clams), juvenile Mya arenaria (soft shell clams), adult and juvenile Arctica islandica (ocean quahog), and juvenile Placopecten magellanicus (Atlantic sea scallops) were grown in varying pH and temperature conditions. Species were exposed to four controlled pH conditions (7.4, 7.6, 7.8, and ambient/8.0) and three controlled temperature conditions (6, 9, and 12°C) for 20.5 weeks and then shell growth and coloration were analyzed. This research marks the first direct comparison of these species’ biological responses to both temperature and OA conditions within the same experiment. The four species exhibited varying responses to temperature and OA conditions. Mortality rates were not significantly associated with pH or temperature conditions for any of the species studied. Growth (measured as change in maximum shell height) was observed to be higher in warmer tanks for all species and was not significantly impacted by pH. Two groups (juvenile M. arenaria and juvenile M. mercenaria) exhibited lightening in the color of their shells at lower pH levels at all temperatures, attributed to a loss of shell periostracum. The variable responses of the studied bivalve species, despite belonging to the same phylogenetic class and geographic region, highlights the need for further study into implications for health and management of bivalves in the face of variable stressors.
Cautionary lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic: Healthcare systems grappled with the dual responsibility of delivering COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 care
Authors: Duggal Bhanu , Kapoor Anuva , Duggal Mona , Maria Kangan , Rayapati Vasuki , Chourase Mithlesh , Kumar Mukesh , Saunik Sujata , Gedam Praveen , Subramanian Lakshminarayanan
Published: November 2024

During the COVID-19 pandemic, hospitals were challenged to provide both COVID-19 and non-COVID treatment. A survey questionnaire was designed and distributed via email to hospitals empanelled under the Ayushman Bharat–Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana(AB-PMJAY), the world’s largest National Health Insurance Scheme. Telephonic follow-ups were used to ensure participation in places with inadequate internet. We applied support vector regression to quantify the hospital variables that affected the use vs. non-use of hospital services (Model-1), and factors impacting COVID-19 revenue and staffing levels (Model-2).We quantified the statistical significance of important input variables using Fisher’s exact test. The survey, conducted early in the pandemic, included 461 hospitals across 20 states and union territories. Only 55.5% of hospitals were delivering emergency care, 26.7% were doing elective surgery and 36.7% providing obstetric services. Hospitals with adequate supplies of PPE, including N95 masks, and separate facilities designated for COVID-19 patients were more likely to continue providing emergency surgeries and services effectively. Data analysis revealed that large hospitals (> 250 beds) with adequate PPE and dedicated COVID-19 facilities continued both emergency and elective surgeries. Public hospitals were key in pandemic management, large private hospital systems were more likely to conduct non-COVID-19 surgeries, with not-for-profit hospitals performing slightly better. Public and large private not-for-profit hospitals faced fewer staff shortages and revenue declines. In contrast, smaller hospitals (< 50 beds) experienced significant staff attrition due to anxiety, stress and revenue losses. They requested government support for PPE supplies, staff training, testing kits, and special allowances for healthcare workers. The inclusion of COVID-19 coverage under AB-PMJAY improved access to healthcare for critical cases. Maintaining non-COVID-19 care during the pandemic indicates healthcare system resiliency. A state-wide data-driven system for ventilators, beds, and funding support for smaller hospitals, would improve patient care access and collaboration.
“If diagnosed early, you will be stressed and die…” drivers for breast cancer screening services uptake among women in Dar es Salaam
Authors: Sirili Nathanael , Msami Khadija , Ruwaichi Thadeus , Nyamle Notikela
Published: November 2024

Worldwide, there has been an increase in the breast cancer mortality rate, with disproportionately high rates in low and middle-income countries. Addressing breast cancer starts with early detection through screening services. In Tanzania, despite being among countries with high rates of breast cancer, screening services uptake has remained low. This study aimed to explore the drivers for breast cancer screening among women accessing health care services at a specialized cancer treatment hospital in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. We adopted an exploratory case study employing qualitative techniques to analyze the drivers for breast cancer screening among women in Dar es Salaam. We interviewed four groups of respondents: women with breast cancer attending cancer treatment clinics, young women and old women without breast cancer attending cancer screening units, and older women who do not show up for breast cancer screening. From analysis of the in-depth interviews and focus group discussions we found that the drivers for breast cancer screening operate at different levels; individual as a centre of making the decision to be screened, family as an attribute to decide uptake of screening, the society drivers, the healthcare providers related drivers and health facility related drivers. These attributes were found to influence women’s decisions to screen, and the possibility of uptake of breast cancer screening was dependent on family and social motivation. In most instances, women were driven to utilize breast cancer screening when the services were readily available at their neighbouring health facilities. The findings from this study have enlightened that people’s decision about utilizing breast cancer screening services is based not only on perceptions of their risk but also on fellow community members who have survived the disease, the experiences of breast cancer screening services from their networks and the performance of healthcare institutions in delivery of such services. The use of breast cancer survivors’ support groups to promote breast cancer screening services is advocated from the findings of our study.
Long-term physical and mental health outcomes of Ebola Virus Disease survivors in Kenema District, Sierra Leone: A cross-sectional survey
Authors: Bates Jenna N. , Kamara Abdulai , Bereteh Mohamed Sheku , Barrera Denise , Moses Lina , Sheriff Allieu , Sesay Fudia , Yillah Mohamed S. , Grant Donald S. , Lamin Joseph , Anglewicz Philip
Published: November 2024

The 2013–2016 Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) epidemic in West Africa was the deadliest in history, with over 28,000 cases. Numerous physical and mental health symptoms have been reported in EVD survivors, although there is limited prior research on how the health of survivors compares to the general population. We conducted a survey of EVD survivors in Kenema District, Sierra Leone and a population-based sample of community members who lived in EVD-affected areas but were not diagnosed with EVD, and compared resulting data about self-reported symptoms, duration, and severity between EVD survivors and community members through multivariate regression models. This study found that more than six years after the epidemic, survivors were significantly more likely to experience both physical and mental health symptoms than community members, with respective adjusted incidence rate ratios (IRRs) of 2.65 (95% CI, 2.28–3.09), p < 0.001, and 11.95 (95% CI, 6.58–21.71), p < 0.001. The most highly reported physical health symptoms experienced by EVD survivors were joint pain (75.5%), headaches (67.3%), and vision problems (44.5%), and the most prevalent psychological symptoms were spells of terror and panic (25.5%) and difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep (20.0%). EVD survivors were significantly more likely than community members to report the symptoms as lasting for a longer period, a median of 6.0 (3.0–7.0) years, and with higher severity. The results indicated that six years after the epidemic, EVD survivors in Kenema District, Sierra Leone are experiencing worse physical and mental health than their peers. These findings of the long-term, debilitating health issues following EVD infection should be considered when designing and implementing future epidemic responses.
A single dose recombinant AAV based CHIKV vaccine elicits robust and durable protective antibody responses in mice
Authors: Zhu Qin-Xuan , Zhang Ya-Nan , Zhang Hong-Qing , Leng Chao , Deng Cheng-Lin , Wang Xin , Li Jia-Jia , Ye Xiang-Li , Zhang Bo , Li Xiao-Dan
Published: November 2024

Background

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a mosquito-borne alphavirus that is responsible for Chikungunya fever, which is characterized by fever, rash, and debilitating polyarthralgia. Since its re-emergence in 2004, CHIKV has continued to spread to new regions and become a severe health threat to global public. Development of safe and single dose vaccines that provide durable protection is desirable to control the spread of virus. The recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors represent promising vaccine platform to provide prolonged protection with a single-dose immunization. In this study, we developed a rAAV capsid serotype 1 vector based CHIKV vaccine and evaluated its protection effect against CHIKV challenge.

Methodology

The recombinant AAV1 encoding the full-length structural proteins of CHIKV (named as rAAV1-CHIKV-SP) was generated in vitro by transfecting the plasmids of AAV helper-free system into HEK-293T cells. The safety and immunogenicity of rAAV1-CHIKV-SP were tested in 4-week-old C57BL/6 mice. The antibody responses of the mice receiving prime-boost or single-dose immunization of the vaccine were determined by ELISA and plaque reduction neutralizing test. The immunized mice were challenged with CHIKV to evaluate the protection effect of the vaccine.

Conclusions

The rAAV1-CHIKV-SP showed remarkable safety and immunogenicity in C57BL/6 mice. A single dose intramuscular injection of rAAV1-CHIKV-SP elicited high level and long-lasting antibody responses, and conferred complete protection against a heterologous CHIKV strain challenge. These results suggest rAAV1-CHIKV-SP represents a promising vaccine candidate against different CHIKV clades with a simplified immunization strategy.
Multilevel attention mechanism for motion fatigue recognition based on sEMG and ACC signal fusion
Authors: Mu Dinghong , Wang Jian , Li Fenglei , Hu Wujin , Chen Rong
Published: November 2024

This study aims to develop a cost-effective and reliable motion monitoring device capable of comprehensive fatigue analysis. It achieves this objective by integrating surface electromyography (sEMG) and accelerometer (ACC) signals through a feature fusion strategy. The study introduces a multi-level attention mechanism for classification, leveraging convolutional neural networks (CNNs). The preprocessing phase involves a local feature attention mechanism that enhances local waveform features using the amplitude envelope. A dual-scale attention mechanism, operating at both channel and neuron levels, is employed to enhance the model’s learning from high-dimensional fused data, improving feature extraction and generalization. The local feature attention mechanism significantly improves the model’s classification accuracy and convergence, as demonstrated in ablation experiments. The model, optimized with multi-level attention mechanisms, excels in accuracy and generalization, particularly in handling data with pseudo-artifacts. Computational analysis indicates that the proposed optimization algorithm has minimal impact on CNN’s training and testing times. The study achieves recognition accuracies of 92.52%, 92.38%, and 92.30%, as well as F1-scores of 91.92%, 92.13%, and 92.29% for the three fatigue states, affirming its reliability. This research provides technical support for the development of affordable and dependable wearable motion monitoring devices.
Comparative analysis of whole exome sequencing kits for the canine genome
Authors: Jang Jinhee , Lee Yong-Jik , Ko Soohyun , Abd El-Aty A. M. , Gecili Ibrahim , Jeong Ji Hoon , Kwon ChangHyuk , Jung Tae Woo
Published: November 2024

Objectives

As the public’s interest in companion dogs grows, health issues in these animals are also emerging, necessitating the optimization of whole exome sequencing (WES) as a valuable method for disease prediction. While WES targeting the human genome is well established, WES targeting the canine genome is understudied, and there is a need to find effective analysis kits.

Methods

We compared and analyzed the performance of three WES kits from Twist and Agilent using the canine genome as the target to perform genetic analysis of canine diseases effectively. The levels of total reads, the duplication rate, and variant calling in canine genomic DNA samples from seven healthy dogs (three beagles, one bichon fry, one maltese, one welsh corgi, and one mixed breed) without any interventions were examined through WES via Twist and Agilent kits.

Results

We found that while Twist had the lowest total read number, the number of reads in the SSXT series was significantly (P<0.05) greater. Twist showed low evenness and high standard deviation, but the SSXT series showed relatively high evenness. Compared with Twist, the SSXT series from a depth of 30× presented a significantly (P<0.05) greater target ratio. Among the four kits, the significantly lowest duplicate ratio was confirmed for SSXT (O/N) (30% lower than Twist).

Conclusion

The most important performance of the kit, the number of variants detected, was 48,302 for Twist and 130,506 for SSXT (O/N). On the basis of the performance comparison results, SSXT (O/N) was found to have the best performance.
Direct activation of HSF1 by macromolecular crowding and misfolded proteins
Authors: Simoncik Oliver , Tichy Vlastimil , Durech Michal , Hernychova Lenka , Trcka Filip , Uhrik Lukas , Bardelcik Miroslav , Coates Philip J. , Vojtesek Borivoj , Muller Petr
Published: November 2024

Stress responses play a vital role in cellular survival against environmental challenges, often exploited by cancer cells to proliferate, counteract genomic instability, and resist therapeutic stress. Heat shock factor protein 1 (HSF1), a central transcription factor in stress response pathways, exhibits markedly elevated activity in cancer. Despite extensive research into the transcriptional role of HSF1, the mechanisms underlying its activation remain elusive. Upon exposure to conditions that induce protein damage, monomeric HSF1 undergoes rapid conformational changes and assembles into trimers, a key step for DNA binding and transactivation of target genes. This study investigates the role of HSF1 as a sensor of proteotoxic stress conditions. Our findings reveal that purified HSF1 maintains a stable monomeric conformation independent of molecular chaperones in vitro. Moreover, while it is known that heat stress triggers HSF1 trimerization, a notable increase in trimerization and DNA binding was observed in the presence of protein-based crowders. Conditions inducing protein misfolding and increased protein crowding in cells directly trigger HSF1 trimerization. In contrast, proteosynthesis inhibition, by reducing denatured proteins in the cell, prevents HSF1 activation. Surprisingly, HSF1 remains activated under proteotoxic stress conditions even when bound to Hsp70 and Hsp90. This finding suggests that the negative feedback regulation between HSF1 and chaperones is not directly driven by their interaction but is realized indirectly through chaperone-mediated restoration of cytoplasmic proteostasis. In summary, our study suggests that HSF1 serves as a molecular crowding sensor, trimerizing to initiate protective responses that enhance chaperone activities to restore homeostasis.
Mythimna separata herbivory primes Coix resistance in systemic leaves
Authors: Fan Bo , Liu Yongkuan , Wen Rongkun , Kong Lanfen , Wang Xue , Zhang Jingxiong , Li Jing , Qin Yan
Published: November 2024

Coix lacryma-jobi L. belongs to family Poaceae, is widely cultivated in tropical Asian countries for its nutritional and medicinal values. Coix is often threatened by lepidopteran such as Mythimna separata during its life cycle, resulting in severe yield reduction. Insect feeding can trigger defense signaling and increased defense responses in many other crops, yet little is known about whether simulated armyworm feeding on Coix leaves could induce anti-herbivory responses and whether armyworm feeding could activate priming in systemic leaves. In this study, Mythimna separata simulated herbivory elicited increased jasmonic acid (JA) level, JA-Ile (JA-isoleucine conjugate) and altered transcriptome in the Coix leaves. Meanwhile, M. separata simulated herbivory in local leaves primed the systemic leaves for increased accumulation of jasmonic acid and enhanced resistance to M. separata. Consistently, transcriptome analysis showed the systemic leaves were primed, which were up- or down-regulated comparing with the non-primed systemic leaves. In this study, we first reported Mythimna separata simulated herbivory induced increased defense response in leaves of Coix, also Mythimna separata herbivory primed Coix resistance in systemic leaves. This study provides new insight into the regulation of defense responses of Coix against M. separata and the ecological function of priming in Coix.
Research on assessment method of maximum distributed generation hosting capacity in distribution system with high shares of renewables and power electronics
Authors: Wan Dai , Fan Kailun , He Jingyu , Zhang Haochong , Yang Gexing , Duan Xujin
Published: November 2024

With the rapid development of distributed generation (DG) within the framework of modern power systems, accurately assessing the maximum DG hosting capacity in distribution networks is crucial for ensuring the safe and stable operation of the power grid. This paper first introduces an assessment model of maximum DG hosting capacity in distribution network based on optimal power flow (OPF). Then, a two-step method that combines the linearization method and the recursive method is proposed, which consists of two parts: firstly, using linearization method to quickly calculate the preliminary assessment value of maximum DG hosting capacity, and then using a recursive method to accurately correct the preliminary assessment value. Additionally, the proposed improved comprehensive sensitivity index and safety constraint verification method can enhance the computational efficiency and accuracy of the recursive algorithm. Finally, the proposed methods were simulated and validated on the IEEE 33-bus system.
Radiosurgery-induced early changes in peritumoral tissue sodium concentration of brain metastases
Authors: Ruder Arne Mathias , Mohamed Sherif A. , Hoesl Michaela A. U. , Neumaier-Probst Eva , Giordano Frank A. , Schad Lothar , Adlung Anne
Published: November 2024

Background

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is an effective therapy for brain metastases. Response is assessed with serial 1H magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Early markers for response are desirable to allow for individualized treatment adaption. Previous studies indicated that radiotherapy might have impact on tissue sodium concentration. Thus, 23Na MRI could provide early quantification of response to SRS.

Purpose

We investigated whether longitudinal detection of tissue sodium concentration alteration within brain metastases and their peritumoral tissue after SRS with 23Na MRI was feasible.

Study type

Prospective.

Population

Twelve patients with a total of 14 brain metastases from various primary tumors.

Assessment

23Na MRI scans were acquired from patients 2 days before, 5 days after, and 40 days after SRS. Gross tumor volume (GTV) and healthy-appearing regions were manually segmented on the MPRAGE obtained 2 days before SRS, onto which all 23Na MR images were coregistered. Radiation isodose areas within the peritumoral tissue were calculated with the radiation planning system. Tissue sodium concentration before and after SRS within GTV, peritumoral tissue, and healthy-appearing regions as well as the routine follow-up with serial MRI were evaluated.

Statistical tests

Results were compared using Student’s t-test and correlation was evaluated with Pearson’s correlation coefficient.

Results

We found a positive correlation between the tissue sodium concentration within the peritumoral tissue and radiation dosage. Two patients showed local progression and a differing tissue sodium concentration evolution within GTV and the peritumoral tissue compared to mean tissue sodium concentration of the other patients. No significant tissue sodium concentration changes were observed within healthy-appearing regions.

Conclusion

Tissue sodium concentration assessment within brain metastases and peritumoral tissue after SRS with 23Na MRI is feasible and might be able to quantify tissue response to radiation.
Comparing Discrete and Continuous Data: Concepts, Differences, and Applications.
Authors: Odvese Akpusugh Verse Ephraim , Tertsea Dekpoghol
Published: November 2024

Data is usually divided into two types: discrete and continuous, both of which play important roles in subjects such as statistics, mathematics, computer science, and data analysis. Understanding the distinctions between discrete and continuous data is critical for selecting proper data analysis techniques, statistical tests, and graphical representations. Discrete data shows countable values or separate categories that are often derived from a finite set, such as integers or category labels. This data type is distinguished by solitary points and is frequently found in survey replies, customer counts, or categorical variables (for example, colors types). Discrete data is commonly represented using bar charts or pie charts, and analysis are frequently performed using chi-square tests or other non-parametric approaches that account for discrete distributions. Continuous data, on the other hand, includes an infinite number of possible values within a specific range, and is frequently used to represent measurable quantities such as time, temperature, height, or distance. Continuous data points are on a continuum and can take any value within a certain interval, tailoring them for expressing phenomena that fluctuate smoothly across time or space. Continuous data, due to its mathematical qualities, can be evaluated with a variety of parametric tests, including t-tests and ANOVA, and is frequently represented using histograms or line charts to show data density or trends over time. Data processing, analysis techniques, and computational complexity are all radically altered by the distinction between discrete and continuous data. Because of its finite nature, discrete data frequently calls for simpler computing models and storage, whereas continuous data usually necessitates more intricate data handling and modeling procedures because of its infinite granularity. This paper explores the differences between discrete and continuous data in data science and machine learning, giving prominence to selecting appropriate algorithms for each type. It emphasizes the advantages and disadvantages of each type in various applications and provides recommendations for data handling and analysis techniques.
Can Historical Jurisprudence Inform the Artificial Intelligence and Law Debate?
Authors: Samuel Geoffrey
Published: November 2024

The publication of a monograph by Dr Luca Siliquini-Cinelli on the history of scientia iuris in which he argues that law is a constructed form of knowledge that differs from experience is not just an important and very learned contribution to historical jurisprudence. The book’s thesis is also making an important contribution to the debate about the impact, and probable future impact, of artificial intelligence (AI) on law, legal thought and legal reasoning. In critically reviewing the book, this essay will briefly indicate how and why Dr Siliquini-Cinelli’s book is establishing a fundamental relationship between historical jurisprudence (understood as the history of legal thought) and AI.
Keywords: artificial intelligence (AI); epistemology; legal singularity; map; model; philosophy; rule-theorist; territory.
Symposium on Scientia Iuris
Authors: Siliquini-Cinelli Luca
Published: November 2024

In this reply, I express my gratitude to Amicus Curiae for hosting a symposium on my new book—Scientia Iuris: Knowledge and Experience in Legal Education and Practice from the Late Roman Republic to Artificial Intelligence (Springer, 2024)—as well as to the symposium’s guest authors for their insightful contributions. In so doing, I also engage with their comments on my analysis and argument.
Keywords: scientia iuris; knowledge; experience; legal education; legal practice.
The Need to Update the Equality Act 2010
Authors: Krupiy Tetyana (Tanya)
Published: November 2024

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) to produce decisions about individuals can result in discrimination. Despite the fact that the employment of AI as part of the decision-making process is growing in the United Kingdom, there is limited literature examining gaps in legal protection in the Equality Act 2010 that the employment of AI gives rise to. This article identifies what assumptions contained within a number of provisions of the Equality Act 2010 result in this legislation having gaps in legal protection in the context of the use of AI. It proposes a number of solutions.
Keywords: Equality Act 2010; discrimination; artificial intelligence; digital; algorithmic; decision-making.
The Advocate Lecture
Authors: Knowles Sir Robin
Published: November 2024

Given on 14 March 2024 at Lincoln’s Inn
What’s in a Name? Children’s Rights and Legal Voice within Administrative and Juridical Procedures of Recognition of Same-Sex Filiation
Authors: Sarcinelli Alice Sophie , Weissensteiner Monika
Published: November 2024

This performative text, consisting of writing and visualizations, explores children’s voices within court proceedings connected to the legal recognition of intended mothers within lesbian-parented families. The research used long-term ethnographic observations and biographical interviews focused on French and Italian families from the “activist generation” who devoted their efforts to obtaining reproductive and family rights. The article provides a critical account of the implementation of Article 12.2 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child 1989 (UNCRC)—that is the right to be listened to in judicial and administrative proceedings affecting children. Our main argument is that, in contrast to the intention of Article 12.2 of the UNCRC, children are given a more symbolic than substantial voice in court proceedings and administrative procedures. The text situates children’s voices both in the wider context and in everyday life. Drawing on ethnographic research data, we show where and to what extent children’s voices emerge or, on the contrary, are silenced.
Keywords: same-sex parenting; filiation; children’s rights; ethnography; creative writing; visual methods; performative text; Euro-American kinship; Italy; France.
O estudo da toponímia baiana em línguas orais e línguas de sinais
Authors: Barreiros Liliane Lemos Santana
Published: November 2024

A partir dos resultados alcançados com o projeto de pesquisa “Estudo bilíngue da toponímia de Feira de Santana-BA: Português-Libras” (CONSEPE-UEFS 044/2018), apresenta-se nesse trabalho uma proposta metodológica para o estudo da toponímia baiana, numa perspectiva bilíngue – línguas orais e línguas de sinais. Este projeto, vinculado a Universidade Estadual de Feira de Santana (UEFS), busca catalogar, analisar e classificar os topônimos de natureza física e humana para criar ferramentas que possibilitem acessibilidade e inclusão social para surdos. Os dados da pesquisa são coletados nas Folhas Cartográficas do IBGE, no Instituto do Patrimônio Artístico e Cultural da Bahia (IPAC), nas Prefeituras, no Centro de Documentação e Pesquisa da UEFS e nas Associações de Surdos. A pesquisa fundamenta-se nos referenciais teóricos e metodológicos relacionados aos estudos linguísticos da Libras (Felipe, 1983; 2006; Ferreira, 1995; Quadros; Karnopp, 2004; Souza Júnior, 2012; Quadros, 2019; Sousa, 2020), aos estudos toponímicos (Dauzat], 1926; Dick, 1980; 1990; 1992 [1986]; 1992; 1999; Isquerdo, 1996; Lima, 1997; Francisquini, 1998; Seabra, 2004; 2006; Souza Júnior, 2012; Sousa; Quadros, 2019; Sousa, 2022), aos estudos históricos e culturais da Bahia (Poppino, 1968; Andrade, 1990; Risério, 2004; Tavares, 2008; Vasconcelos, 2012) entre outros. A análise dos topônimos tem evidenciado os aspectos linguísticos e históricos da origem dos lugares estudados, considerando o processo político-cultural que envolve a nomeação de uma localidade, uma vez que, nesse campo, trabalha-se com um léxico que conserva antigos estágios denominativos.
Expanding student access to higher education: Examining the strategic processes for enhancing access to higher education from TVET colleges to universities of technology
Authors: Norodien-Fataar Najwa
Published: November 2024

In this article, the vexed issue of expanding access to higher education in South Africa is explored by investigating the pathways between technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges and universities of technology (UoTs). Central to this examination is the Unfurling Post-School Education and Training (UPSET) project, which seeks to formalise these pathways and establish a more inclusive and adaptable higher education system. Drawing on Hall’s (1996) theory of articulation and the concept of relational autonomy, the article highlights the transformative potential of strategic collaborations between TVET colleges and UoTs. Using a qualitative case study conducted at a university of technology in the Western Cape province, South Africa, the article describes the complexities of developing jointly offered higher certificates (HCs) in the post-school sector. It emphasises the strategic role of the UPSET project in revitalising existing practices and cultivating deliberate processes and practices to expand access to vocational education. The article contends that UoTs are ideally positioned to facilitate jointly offered HCs based on their integration of theoretical and practical knowledge and their robust industry affiliations. Furthermore, the article highlights various epistemological approaches to developing HCs in UoTs. It argues for a more integrated higher education system that values both vocational and academic pathways and contributes to social justice and economic empowerment in South Africa.
Analysing the continuing education needs of Swiss in-company trainers: An approach based on the latent class analysis
Authors: Wenger Matilde , Lamamra Nadia
Published: November 2024

In the Swiss dual vocational education and training (VET) system, access to continuing ‘extra-professional’ education for in-company trainers remains relatively limited, despite their acknowledged pedagogical role. Accordingly, this study examined the continuing education needs of in-company trainers by analysing their postures in relation to different continuing-education offerings. Hence, an online questionnaire was completed by in-company trainers (n = 5 295) across Switzerland. The survey questions focused on a number of varied themes and characteristics of continuing education programmes. Latent class analyses enabled us to identify four classes of in-company trainer, distinguished by their relationship with continuing education (‘thirsty for continuing education’ vs ‘indifferent for continuing education’), on the one hand, and by their relationship with the trainer’s function (‘apprentices’ caretaker’ vs ‘dedicated to the trainer’s function’), on the other. Several differences were highlighted regarding the socio-demographic characteristics and preferences for practical courses between the four classes. Our study provides an insight into this population’s heterogeneity and a finer distinction between attitudes existing among in-company trainers about continuing education. In addition, these findings reflect the challenge of recognising in-company trainers as pedagogical figures for apprentices, and not merely as ‘occupation transmitters’. Based on the results, some practical implications for the field are also raised.
The Way Forward in the Energy Transition; Good Practices and Challenges at Wageningen University & Research
Authors: Maters Erna , Vaas Django Milner , Luttik Joke , Leeuwen Wouter Van
Published: November 2024

Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions due to changes in energy used in buildings is the most successful part of Wageningen University & Research’s (WUR) climate policy. In this article the authors evaluate sustainable energy measures and identify key success factors, based on internal documents, discussions with stakeholders, and relevant literature. The role of government and stakeholders has been important, as were the technical possibilities to take a major step with constructing the heat and cold storage on campus. Geopolitical factors also played a role, in particular the war in Ukraine, which increased energy prices, acutely reinforcing the need for energy savings. In addition to saving energy, WUR aims to contribute to the energy transition by generating green electricity with wind turbines and solar panels. Furthermore, electricity used from the grid is offset with wind energy through Dutch guarantees of origin (GVOs), allowing us to offset GHG emissions for electricity at zero. Yet, there are other reasons to save as much as possible on electricity use. In addition to environmental considerations, congestion of the electricity grid plays a role, which is largely associated with the energy transition. Looking ahead, we describe further potential energy reduction opportunities and related challenges. As described in the Rough Outline of WUR Energy Transition 2050 [1], WUR provides clear targets and possible sets of measures to achieve these targets. Challenges include the uncertainty surrounding technological solutions and the availability of funding. We recently expanded our carbon footprint to include Scope 3 emissions of purchased goods and services. An additional challenge is the reduction of implicit energy use through the purchasing chain.
Automated Monitoring System for Rainwater Harvesting Tank at Telkom University
Authors: Sugesti Erna Sri , Hartaman Aris , Adam Kharisma Bani , Dewanata Deni Wahyu , Latief Noval Ramadhana , Sularto Rafi Fadyan Ananda , Marbun Jeremia Jordan , Umbara Taufan
Published: November 2024

The use of ground tank constructed by Telkom University for Rainwater Harvesting (RWH), is limited to environmental maintenance due to concerns regarding the quality of water in the underground tank. Therefore, this research aims to develop a remote monitoring device that uses Internet of Things (IoT) technology to monitor the pH, water surface, submerged materials, and water clarity levels in ground tank. To achieve the requirements, pH, ultrasonic-based volume, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), and Turbidity sensors were selected due to the IoT connectivity. The enabling device, namely the ESP 32 microcontroller and Blynk platform were installed on monitoring dashboard on a tablet computer with 4GB of RAM. The result showed that calibration of each sensor had good accuracy, except for the Turbidity sensor due unavailable materials. In conclusion, the RWH monitoring system is suitable for use.
Digital Governance and Electronic Waste Management at Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul – Brazil
Authors: Costa Joao Vitor , Montera Luciana , Gonda Luciano , De Carvalho Leonardo Chaves , Turine Marcelo Augusto Santos , Itavo Camila Celeste Brandao Ferreira
Published: November 2024

The Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul (UFMS) has the Information and Communication Technology Master Plan (PDTIC) to guide and monitor the performance of the Information Technology (IT) area within the institution. The IT area at UFMS has the Digital Governance Committee (CGD), responsible for drafting the Information Security Policy (PSI); the Information and Communication Technology Procurement Plan (PCTIC); the Open Data Plan (PDA); and the University's PDTIC. In addition to the Information and Communication Technology Agency (AGETIC), which is responsible for coordinating, guiding, supervising, executing, and controlling the organization's IT activities. This work aims to demonstrate that sustainability is part of both Digital Governance and the curriculum of UFMS students, focusing on the management of Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) within the University. The UFMS Solid Waste and Health Services Management Plan (PGRS/PGRSS) outlines guidelines for the management of these materials, and annually, since 2017, the Faculty of Computing (FACOM) at UFMS organizes the Electronic Waste Collection Week, a project aimed at raising awareness among the academic community about disposal, reuse, and recycling, helping to conserve the environment. This action assists in the education of these students by making them protagonists in this initiative. In each edition hundreds of electronic devices have been reused by students and community, serving as an example of socio-environmental impact action. The methodology employed by UFMS to organize and advance electronic waste management efforts involved the establishment of digital governance regulations, along with sustainability management and governance practices, in order to structure and promote electronic waste management actions at UFMS.
The Importance of Energy Management in Public University Campuses
Authors: Battista Davide Di , Rosso Emanuele Del , Tozzi Anna
Published: November 2024

Energy consumption has gained great attention in recent years, particularly due to the changes in the geopolitics situation and the difficulty in ensuring security in energy sources supply. Several national and international governments set new and more stringent targets to reduce fossil fuel consumption, also proposing specific short-term and mid-term actions. For instance, the Italian Government emanates the Italian National Plan to Reduce Natural Gas consumption in 2022, particularly focused on residential, commercial and public buildings. University of L’Aquila takes inspiration from this planning, to revise its energy management and promote technical actions and a communication campaign aimed at reducing energy consumption. The short-term actions are related to the HVAC plants management of its building: a) shortening the heating days and reducing the daily hours HVAC switching on; b) slight reduction of the indoor comfort temperature; c) reduction of lighting time and intensity. Moreover, virtuous behavior has been encouraged with a communication campaign addressed to employees and students. Results obtained in only one year are very exciting: the natural gas consumption has been reduced more than 20% in academic year 2022/2023, with respect to average values of previous years, with an estimated GHG emissions avoided close to 140 tCO2 for the specific faculty considered. These results are very positive in the GreenMetric perspective, and they boost the importance also of a quite simple but effective energy management strategy and diffusion of awareness on energy and environmental issues.
Circular Economy Approach for Sustainable Tree Litters Waste Management, study case in Universitas Diponegoro
Authors: Ariyanti Dessy , Ambariyanto Ambariyanto , Utama Yos Johan , Sugianto Denny Nugroho , Hapsari Farida Diyah
Published: November 2024

Universitas Diponegoro, with an open forest area and planted vegetation of 30 – 40%, produced vast amounts of organic waste, especially tree litter. Piles of tree litter are everywhere if it is not properly managed. Universitas Diponegoro has taken a comprehensive approach to handling leaf and tree litter by converting it into economically valuable and beneficial products to meet the objectives of SDGs 12, which are focused on Responsible Consumption and Production. Through the Technical Implementation Unit for Occupational Safety, Health, and Environment (UPT K3L) Universitas Diponegoro has pyrolyzed tree branches to create liquid smoke and anaerobically converted leaf waste into compost. Later, the liquid smoke produced by pyrolysis and compost can achieve the consumer demand standard. In addition, from the policy approach, it is mandatory for every building to handle tree litter surrounds into compost using composting pits and composting bags. The circular economy idea has been incorporated into waste management at Universitas Diponegoro.