bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Resilience of Latin American Regionalism: A Neofunctionalist Perspective
Authors: Nolte Detlef , Weiffen Brigitte
Published: September 2024

Latin America has seen both recurrent crises and a surprising resilience of its regional organizations. This article explores how different approaches have attempted to explain this seemingly paradoxical record. Combining insights from European Union (EU) studies and comparative regionalism, we ask whether neofunctionalism as a theoretical approach developed for the study of the EU can travel across the Atlantic and enrich the analysis of Latin American regionalism. Neofunctionalist theorists posited that functional spillover could lead to politicization and subsequent deepening of regional integration. But while spillover has been the engine of European integration, it has never been a real option in Latin America. Past applications of neofunctionalist approaches to Latin American regionalism have therefore above all revealed its limitations. Comparative regionalism approaches fared better in that they identified characteristics that account for the repeated crises of Latin American regional organizations. However, this article suggests that the “second-best” strategies mentioned in neofunctionalist analyses, such as encapsulation, spill-around, or even spillback, can help explain the resilience of regionalism in Latin America. While those strategies posed an obstacle to deeper integration, as shown by classical neofunctionalist studies, we draw on a set of case studies to illustrate that Latin American regionalism survived through expansion (spill-around) rather than deepening (spillover), as well as through encapsulation and, in some cases, even spillback. A new reading of neofunctionalism therefore helps to explain the resilience of Latin American regionalism under adverse conditions.
Navigating sustainability: key factors in prioritising Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Asadikia Atie , Rajabifard Abbas , Kalantari Mohsen
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Prioritising sustainable development goals (SDGs) is one of the fundamental approaches to achieving global sustainability objectives, as it helps efficient resource allocation, addresses urgent needs, enhances policy coherence, and measures impact. Despite existing efforts, there remains an unclear understanding of the key factors needed for effective SDG prioritisation, presenting challenges for strategic planning and decision-making. This study provides an evidence-based analysis of these critical factors by examining relevant literature, conducting surveys, and employing Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP)-based Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA). The study identifies four primary factors for SDG prioritisation: SDG interrelations, performance, scope, and alignment. The findings confirm that national prioritisation have more priority compared to global, regional, and sub-national systems, and that prioritisation is more valuable at the indicator level rather than at the goal or target levels. Additionally, prioritisation should initially focus on off-track SDGs. Notably, academia ranks SDG prioritisation based on relationships and performance highly, while government officials emphasise alignment and relevance. Moreover, the results indicate that academia prefers target-level prioritisation, while government officials lean towards indicator level. However, both groups favour national scale over global and regional scales.
Failure Analysis of a Welded 316L Stainless-Steel Stack with Premature Damage Due to Stress-Corrosion Cracking
Authors: León-Henao H. , Morales-Galeano J. E. , Santa-Marín J. F. , Giraldo-Barrada J. E.
Published: September 2024

This study analyzed the premature failure of a stainless-steel stack obtained from a mining company. The stack was manufactured using ASTM A240 Type 316L stainless steel. After one year of its service, massive leakages and cracks were observed near the welds. Following a visual examination of the stack, a representative sample was extracted and analyzed using visual and radiographic inspection, metallographic examination, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectrometry, optical emission spectrometry, ferrite number analysis, and leak testing. Furthermore, corrosion mechanisms and the sequence of events leading to failure were determined. Two different mechanisms were identified: acid dew point corrosion caused by the condensation of H2SO4 and HCl at the inner walls of the chimney, followed by stress-corrosion cracking near the welded joints.
IMRA/SRS Delphi consensus on international standards for common core components of robotic surgical training design
Authors: Wynn Jessica , Costello Anthony , Larkins Kirsten , Costello Daniel , Ghazi Ahmed , Ryan Kieran , Barry Kevin , Gray Matthew , Gallagher Anthony , Hung Andrew , Heriot Alexander , Warrier Satish , Reeves Farleigh , Collins Justin , Dundee Phil , Peters Justin , Homewood David , Driscoll Dean , Niall Owen , Fay Tayla , Sachdeva Ajit , Woo Henry , Satava Richard , Mohan Helen
Published: September 2024

Robotic surgery has expanded internationally at pace. There are multiple local robotic training pathways but there is inconsistency in standardisation of core common components for curricula internationally. A framework is required to define key objectives that can be implemented across robotic training ecosystems. This Delphi consensus aimed to provide recommendations for core considerations in robotic training design across diverse training environments internationally. A literature search was performed and an international steering committee (AG, KL, JW, HM, TC) proposed key components for contemporary robotic training design and a modified Delphi approach was used to gather stakeholder opinion. The outcomes were then discussed at a face-to-face international expert consensus at the IMRA educational session at the Society of Robotic Surgery (SRS) meeting and final voting was conducted on outstanding items. Stakeholders included robotic surgeons, proctors, trainees and robotic surgical training providers. There was consensus achieved in 139 statements organised into 15 themes. There was 100% agreement that standardised themes in robotic curricula may improve patient safety. Key take-home messages include—training curricula should be multiplatform, non-technical skills are an important component of a robotic curriculum as well as console and bedside skills, clinically relevant performance metrics should be used for assessment where available, the reliance on cadaveric and live animal models should be reduced as high-fidelity synthetic models emerge, and stepwise component training is useful for advanced procedural training. These consensus recommendations are intended to guide design of fit for purpose contemporary robotic surgical curricula. Integration of these components into robotic training pathways internationally is recommended.
Temptation in Mengzi 1A7
Authors: Lee Joonho
Published: September 2024

The harmony thesis about a virtuous person, widely held by neo-Aristotelians, supposes that someone highly vulnerable to temptation is not virtuous at all. However, is that the only plausible picture of a virtuous person’s psychology? This essay aims to offer an alternative picture by discussing the account of virtue in the thought of Mengzi 孟子 and his conception of moral exemplars. First, I analyze the Mengzian moral exemplar as depicted in Mengzi 1A7—specifically, the susceptibility of the nobleman (junzi 君子) to compassion and the relevant temptation. Then, I explain how this differs from neo-Aristotelian virtue ethical theories. This passage shows that there is a certain price to being virtuous in Mengzi’s virtue theory. By examining various ways of addressing this challenge, I explore Mengzi’s solution to it, which will shed light on Mengzi’s own way of specifying virtue and its significant advantage as a potential alternative to certain other approaches.
The professional practice of designing tasks: how do pre-service early childhood teachers promote mathematical processes in early algebra?
Authors: Alsina Ángel , Pincheira Nataly , Delgado-Rebolledo Rosa
Published: September 2024

Spanish educational curriculum adopts a mathematical process-based approach, which encompasses problem solving, reasoning and proof, communication, connections and representation. A fundamental role in the integration of these processes in mathematics teaching is played by teachers’ professional practice of designing tasks. According to this, our aim is to analyze the ways in which pre-service early childhood teachers understand the mathematical processes in the professional practice of designing early algebra tasks and to identify how they intend to promote these processes through the tasks. Content analysis techniques were used to examine the designed tasks. To illustrate the data analysis and results, six tasks are presented. As a result, pre-service early childhood teachers associate problem solving with challenges and questions. They understand problems as unfamiliar situations but ignore the relationships between students and tasks. Moreover, they do not encourage exploration of phases of problem solving and tend to use strategies more suitable for routine tasks. Communication is identified in all the tasks designed, encouraging interaction and discussion. However, only one task explicitly promotes mathematical language. For reasoning and proof, pre-service teachers begin to use questions to elicit explanations and justifications, but do not encourage verification strategies and various modes of reasoning. The process of connections is only present in one task, reflecting the fragmented nature of mathematics teaching. We conclude that the professional practice of designing mathematical tasks is a powerful in teacher education. However, training programs should place greater emphasis on the meaningful use of mathematical processes.
Volatile organic compounds in regular and organic vaping liquids: a public health concern
Authors: Goodman Nigel , Nematollahi Neda , Weinberg Justine Lew , Flattery Jennifer , Kolev Spas D. , Tong Michael , Vardoulakis Sotiris , Steinemann Anne
Published: September 2024

Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are a growing public health concern. Vaping liquids used in e-cigarettes emit a range of chemicals, including potentially hazardous volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Exposure to VOCs is associated with adverse effects including asthma attacks, neurological disorders, and increased risk of cancer. This study investigated the VOCs emitted into the headspace of a gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer from e-cigarette vaping liquids, identified potentially hazardous compounds, and compared emissions between regular and organic versions. Vaping liquids (n = 25) were randomly selected from the market and analysed for their volatile emissions using headspace gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The products were available for sale in the US, Australia, and New Zealand, and included regular (flavoured and flavourless) and organic (flavoured) versions. Results revealed that the vaping liquids collectively emitted 162 VOCs with 47 classified as potentially hazardous. Notably, all of the flavoured vaping liquids (regular and organic) emitted one or more VOCs classified as potentially hazardous. Further, among the 47 VOC occurrences classified as potentially hazardous, none were listed on any vaping liquid label or related product website. We found no significant difference in VOCs emitted between the regular (flavoured) and organic (flavoured) vaping liquids, and 40% of the hazardous VOCs detected were the same among these regular and organic versions. This study adds to the growing body of evidence that vaping liquids are a source of exposure to numerous volatile compounds, including potentially hazardous VOCs such as benzene, toluene and xylene. Moreover, the long-term health effects of vaping liquids are not well understood, highlighting the need for improved information on ingredients and health risks.
Preliminary Study of Stone Sawing Sludges-based Alkali Activated Materials (AAMs) for the Conservation of Archaeological Ceramics
Authors: Portale Silvia , Felter Margrethe , Zisi Angeliki , Steindal Calin Constantin , de Ferri Lavinia , Mazzoleni Paolo , Barone Germana
Published: September 2024

This paper presents research into the feasibility of using stone sawing sludge-based Alkali Activated Materials (AAMs) for conservation of Cultural Heritage. Sawing sludges are a stone processing waste product resulting from the mixing of rock powder with the water used to cool down the cutting blades. The chemical composition of the sawing sludges, when aluminosilicatic, is suitable for acting as a precursor to produce AAMs. AAMs are known for their low environmental impact and versatility since their existence is drawn from recycling waste materials. One of their possible applications is in the conservation of Cultural Heritage objects. This work presents a preliminary investigation into three sawing sludge-based AAMs with different mineralogical compositions and contributes to formulating guidelines for applying them as fillers on modern and archaeological ceramic pottery based on the evaluation of their workability, appearance and physical properties over time from the moment of application and up to 30 days. Dynamic Vapor Sorption and X-Ray Diffraction results provided an overview of the structural and mineralogical changes under high RH conditions, where the tested AAMs showed a type II isotherm curve, as expected for concrete-like materials, as well as disappearance of thermonatrite after one isothermal cycle. Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity test demonstrated the general homogeneity of the AAMs despite the lower velocity exhibited by one of the formulations, probably due to its internal pore distribution and possible presence of microstratification. The Oddy tests, application tests and colourimetric measurements evidenced the advantages and weaknesses of the AAMs, with overall encouraging results ensuing investment in further in-depth studies of these innovative conservation materials in view of their future use in the field of conservation of Cultural Heritage as a result of a circular economy model.
Exploring the dynamics of allostery through multi-dimensional crystallography
Authors: Hatton C. E. , Mehrabi P.
Published: September 2024

By delving into the applications, methodologies, and case studies of multi-dimensional crystallography, whereby time and temperature are varied in the context of allostery, this review aims to elucidate the intricate interplay between structure, dynamics, and function in allosteric proteins. As the field of structural biology continues to advance, integrating multi-dimensional approaches promises to unlock new frontiers in our quest to decipher the molecular mechanisms governing life.
Pollution trends in a protected fluvial landscape located in a highly industrialized Ostrava urban agglomeration; Rezavka Nature Reserve, Czech Republic
Authors: Sedláček Jan , Kopecká Klára , Koukal Ondřej
Published: September 2024

Abandoned meanders and former river channels represent important depositional units of fluvial river systems, making them suitable sedimentary archives for assessing pollution trends. The objective of this study is to provide insight into temporal trends and spatial variability in pollution levels in the selected fluvial elements (an abandoned meander, a former river channel, and a semi-open meander) within the Rezavka Nature Reserve (part of the Poodří protected landscape area) along the Odra River and Mlýnka stream, located in the heavily polluted Ostrava urban agglomeration (Czech Republic). Initial stages of the abandoned meander evolution were characterised by high sediment accumulation rates and decelerated over time, while more regular sediment supply continued in sites close to the semi-open meander of the Mlýnka stream. Pollutants were effectively captured by abandoned meanders with fine-grained infill, while the coarser-grained infill of the former channel was less effective pollutant scavenger. A time frame for deposition was assigned using vertical trends in 137Cs mass activity and selected organic pollutants. The sedimentary record, covering the last ~ 70 years, reveals a distinct vertical pollution trend that reflects industrial development. Pollution levels have increased since the 1950s and will remain high at the end of the 20th century. The depth pattern of heavy metals, as well as their enrichment factors, shows an upward increase. Levels of persistent organic pollutants are typically low or under the limit of detection in the deepest strata, gradually or sharply rising upward.
A Flexible and Sustainable Analysis of Waste Efficiency at the European Level
Authors: D’Adamo Idiano , Daraio Cinzia , Di Leo Simone , Simar Léopold
Published: September 2024

This paper analyses the waste management efficiency of European Union countries using a flexible nonparametric methodology known as directional data envelopment analysis (DEA). The study evaluates performance at the macro (country) level, considering waste generated as input, landfilled and incinerated waste as bad output and recycled waste as output. The analysis incorporates the heterogeneity and specificities of each country, with respect to social and economic sustainability, establishing specific and realistic targets for each country to achieve efficiency. The research introduces a flexible and innovative method for assessing waste management efficiency and provides new empirical evidence on European waste management, considering economic and social sustainability. The results reveal a significant disparity among European countries in both waste generation and waste recycling. Countries are categorised into five groups according to their level of efficiency, and Central European nations are observed to exhibit generally better performance. A pragmatic approach, based on clear collaboration among countries, could optimise the unique waste management characteristics of individual nations to enhance the overall efficiency of the European waste management system, contributing to a circular economy and sustainable development.
Clinical and Cognitive Metacognition in Gaming and Gambling Disorder: A Narrative Review
Authors: van Holst Ruth J. , Cornelissen Katja , Bockting Claudi L. , Spada Marcantonio M.
Published: September 2024

Purpose of this review

To review and reconcile the methodologies and understandings of metacognition from both cognitive science and psychopathology in Gaming Disorder and Gambling Disorder to enhance interdisciplinary communication and methodological exchange.

Recent findings

While clinical metacognition research in gaming and gambling disorders is established, exploration into specific metacognitive mechanisms within these domains is still nascent.

This review delineates various forms of metacognition and clinical measurements of metacognition in Gaming Disorder and Gambling Disorder. The discussion presents a new integrated model of metacognition in behavioural addictions that generates a research agenda to understand and target these addictions with more effective interventions.
Exploring the Complexity of Energy Poverty in the EU: Measure it, Map it, Take Actions
Authors: Campagna Laura , Radaelli Lucio , Ricci Mattia , Rancilio Giuliano
Published: September 2024

Energy poverty presents a pressing challenge in the European Union (EU), worsened by recent geopolitical events and economic vulnerabilities, particularly highlighted by the COVID-19 crisis. This article explores the complexity of energy poverty within the EU context, emphasizing the necessity to define, measure, and monitor it comprehensively. It reviews the evolution of energy poverty definitions and causes, underlining the multifaceted nature of the issue influenced by factors such as low-income, high-energy prices, and building inefficiencies. Various measurement indexes are examined, and categorized into consensus, expenditure-income comparison, and direct/indirect measurement indicators, offering insights into their advantages and limitations. Furthermore, the work discusses mapping methodologies to pinpoint instances of energy poverty spatially. It also examines best regulatory practices employed by nations, including economic accessibility enhancements and structural interventions like investments in energy efficiency and renewable sources. Finally, the authors propose a novel approach to map energy poverty at municipal granularity in Italy, integrating economic vulnerability and building energy efficiency indices.
From Hesitation to Participation: Examining Behavioural Barriers to Engage Customers in Flexibility Markets
Authors: Stampatori Daniele , Rossetto Nicolò
Published: September 2024

Purpose of the Review

The increasing penetration of distributed energy sources into the electricity system requires greater customer engagement in providing new flexibility services. This article reviews the main behavioural barriers and existing gaps related to customer engagement in emerging flexibility markets.

Recent Findings

Greater attention should be put on collecting more experimental evidence from the field to finalise the development of appropriate engagement strategies that can avoid unexpected customer reactions, especially when different incentives and information are provided.

Based on an extensive review of the literature, we identified three overarching groups of behavioural barriers to customer engagement in flexibility markets, namely: (1) lack of awareness, (2) lack of skills to process information, and (3) inertia. Furthermore, there is still no consensus on the effectiveness of incentivisation mechanisms and information strategies that can enhance customer engagement.
Che cosa non sappiamo sugli SGLT-2 inibitori
Authors: Chiriacò Martina , Chatzianagnostou Kyriazoula , Emdin Michele , Del Prato Stefano
Published: September 2024

Sommario

Gli inibitori del co-trasportatore sodio-glucosio 2 (SGLT2i) sono farmaci utilizzati per il trattamento del diabete di tipo 2 che hanno dimostrato importanti benefici cardiorenali. Nonostante l’impiego crescente di questa classe di farmaci, ci sono dati limitati riguardanti l’efficacia e la sicurezza in patologie e popolazioni specifiche come i pazienti anziani, giovani, donne in gravidanza, e la combinazione con altre terapie. Questa rassegna affronta gli ambiti di impiego degli SGLT2i attualmente poco esplorati, analizzando i dati disponibili e fornendo prospettive per ricerche future.
Le forme non classiche di iperplasia surrenalica congenita nella donna: diagnosi e terapia
Authors: Campioni Lorenzo , Di Carlo Maria Chiara , Bergoglio Beatrice , Giordano Roberta
Published: September 2024

Sommario

L’iperplasia surrenalica congenita è una rara sindrome congenita causata da vari difetti enzimatici della steroidogenesi surrenalica, tra cui quello di 21-idrossilasi è il più frequente. La forma non classica si caratterizza per un deficit parziale di cortisolo e un incremento dei livelli di ACTH che è, a sua volta, responsabile di un incremento della sintesi di androgeni. Mentre i pazienti di sesso maschile sono generalmente asintomatici, nel sesso femminile compaiono segni e sintomi di iperandrogenismo. In questa Rassegna si descriveranno diagnosi e terapia della forma non classica nella donna adulta.
Beliefs of Undergraduate Mathematics Education Students in a Teacher Education Program about Visual Programming in Mathematics Classes
Authors: Dilling Frederik , Köster Jacqueline , Vogler Amelie
Published: September 2024

In the digital age, the range of digital technologies used in mathematics education grows. Since beliefs are affective-cognitive elements that significantly determine teachers' behavior in the classroom, they are an interesting field of research in mathematics education. A review of previous research has identified different groups of beliefs about the use of digital technologies in mathematics classes. These studies are not focused on specific digital technologies. In an empirical case study that is presented in this paper, the aim was to figure out how beliefs that can be described specifically about the use of visual programming relate to general beliefs about the use of digital technologies in mathematics education. A qualitative content analysis of the reflection journals of seven undergraduate mathematics education students on their work with Scratch, a visual programming environment, in a university seminar led to the formation of ten belief categories about the use of visual programming in mathematics classes. Most of the beliefs are associated with a positive attitude towards visual programming in mathematics education. However, some beliefs could also be identified that refer to the limits and challenges of using visual programming and thus demonstrate rather negative associations. Only a few of the categories identified match the list of belief groups about digital technologies in mathematics education identified in previous research. Some possible reasons for these results are discussed and further research interests in the field of beliefs about the use of digital technologies are suggested.
Relaxed Stability and Non-weighted $$L_2$$-Gain Analysis for Asynchronously Switched Polynomial Fuzzy Systems
Authors: Bao Zhiyong , Lam Hak-Keung , Li Xiaomiao , Liu Fucai
Published: September 2024

This paper concerns the stability and non-weighted $$L_2$$

L
2

-gain analysis issues for the switched systems subject to asynchronous switching and external disturbance. By taking full advantage of the admissible edge-dependent average dwell time (AED-ADT) switching signal, a stability criterion of asynchronously switched systems is proposed to achieve a lower non-weighted $$L_2$$

L
2

-gain index than the existing results. Furthermore, the dynamics of switched systems are described by using the polynomial fuzzy model instead of the T-S fuzzy model, which can represent a wider range of nonlinear plants. For such asynchronously switched polynomial fuzzy systems, the relaxed conditions are derived through the membership-function-dependent (MFD) technique and novel high-order multiple Lyapunov functions (MLFs) construction method to guarantee less conservative stability and non-weighted $$L_2$$

L
2

-gain results. Finally, the superiority of the proposed approaches are verified through two simulation examples.
Investigations on the finite strain behavior of standard PVB: experiment and modeling
Authors: Pauli Alexander , Siebert Geralt
Published: September 2024

The numerical simulation of the residual load-bearing capacity of laminated glass is one of the most relevant topics of current research in structural glass engineering. The mechanical description of the behavior of the interlayer plays a crucial role. Several approaches and models already exist in automotive engineering and structural protection. Structural glass design assuming quasi-static loads misses a detailed model so far. The aim of this work is the mechanical description of the time-dependent behavior of Polyvinylbutyral (PVB) under large deformations considering quasi-static loading. The results of experiments on single-layer Standard PVB are presented, and a model of finite nonlinear viscoelasticity is derived. In particular, the formulation of phenomenologically motivated viscosity functions is described. Subsequently, the model parameters are calibrated on the experimental results, and the uniaxial stress state is simulated.
Monetising Digital Data in Higher Education: Analysing the Strategies and Struggles of EdTech Startups
Authors: Komljenovic Janja , Birch Kean , Sellar Sam
Published: September 2024

Digital data are a building block of postdigital higher education and, as such, are believed to be economically and socially valuable. However, data need to be made valuable via a complex set of political-economic and socio-technical arrangements. While universities and policymakers aim to derive social benefits from digital data, we turn our attention to the economic value of digital data in the EdTech industry. In this article, we analyse the strategies and struggles of EdTech startup companies as they seek to monetise the user data they collect. Startups experiment with generating value by datafying their products, developing ever new data outputs and analytics, controlling data for matching services, building large datasets via company acquisitions, and developing data products as a service. However, they face important generic and sector-specific challenges that include high costs, building large datasets and managing sophisticated data processes, convincing customers to pay, demonstrating use-value for universities, lack of transparency of the premises that underpin product operations and impact, and managing investor relations. Navigating the experimental construction of value from data while managing these challenges creates many unknowns for the sector.
A Developmental Psychobiologist’s Commentary on the Future of Affective Science
Authors: Michel George F.
Published: September 2024

A developmental psychobiologist commented on the role of dynamic systems theory in the future of affective science and proposed an alternative paradigm.
Liposome-based Freezing Medium Improves the Outcome of Mouse Prepubertal Testicular Tissue Cryopreservation
Authors: Dcunha Reyon , Mutalik Sadhana P. , Reji Reethu Ann , Mutalik Srinivas , Kalthur Sneha Guruprasad , Hegde Padmaraj , Murari M. S. , Raghu Shamprasad Varija , Banerjee Shreetama , Kumar Anujith , Adiga Satish Kumar , Zhao Yulian , Kannan Nagarajan , Kalthur Guruprasad
Published: September 2024

Cryopreservation of testicular tissue holds an important role in the field of fertility preservation, particularly for prepubertal boys diagnosed with cancer. However, prepubertal testicular tissue cryopreservation is still considered to be in the experimental stage necessitating the refinement of cryopreservation protocol. Considering the fact that loss of membrane lipids is the primary cause of freeze–thaw-induced loss of testicular cell functions, in this study, we explored the beneficial properties of exogenous supplementation of membrane lipids in the form of liposomes in enhancing the cryosurvival of prepubertal testicular tissue. The freezing medium supplemented with liposomes (prepared from soy lecithin, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylserine, and cholesterol) was used for the experiments. Prepubertal testicular tissues from Swiss albino mice were cryopreserved in a liposome-containing freezing medium (LFM) composed of 0.25 mg/mL liposomes, 5% DMSO, and 30% FCS in the DMEM/F12 medium using a slow freezing protocol. The tissues were thawed and assessed for various testicular cell functions. Freezing in LFM mitigated the loss of viability, decreased malondialdehyde level (p < 0.05), and reduced apoptosis (p < 0.05) in the testicular cells compared to the testicular tissue cryopreserved in the control freezing medium (CFM). Further, DMSO (5%) appears to be the ideal penetrating cryoprotectant for prepubertal testicular tissue cryopreservation with liposome-based freezing medium. Similar enhancement in cryosurvival of cells was observed in adult human testicular tissue frozen with LFM. These findings highlight the translational value of liposome-based freezing medium in the cryopreservation of testicular tissue of prepubertal boys undergoing chemotherapy.
Studying the productivity of sewage sludge (SS) components for photocatalytic CO2 transformation to CO and methane
Authors: Zerga Abdelmoumin Yahia , Tahir Muhammad , Bouguerra Marouane Dhia Eddine , Alias Hajar
Published: September 2024

Energy-efficient photocatalytic CO2 conversion to sustainable solar fuels is a promising approach for simultaneously resolving energy and environmental concerns. The increased growth of sewage sludge necessitates research and innovation to propose more commercially viable options for lowering the socioeconomic and environmental complications associated with its current treatment. Sewage sludge can be applied to valuable products or used as a feedstock for energy production. According to the characterization results, the sewage sludge contains several metallic oxides (M), including Ni, Al, Mn, and Cu, and semiconductors (Fe2O3 and ZnO). According to the proposed mechanism, ZnO acts as an electron conductor between the Fe2O3 and the active sewage sludge due to forming an n–n type heterojunction. Under visible-light irradiation, photocatalytic CO2 reduction of sewage sludge was investigated using a fixed bed reactor. The CO2 reduction produced CO and CH4, with production rates of 9.76 and 4.20 µmol g−1 h−1, respectively, via the electrical conductivity in the sewage sludge elements. Furthermore, the impacts of photocatalyst loading, system reforming, light effect and pressure range were examined, where the methane yield at 0.1 g was 4.23 and 2.26 times significantly higher than at 0.05 and 0.2 g, correspondingly. With catalyst loadings of 0.1 and 0.2 g, the mono-oxide productivity was 1.69 and 2.58, notably greater, respectively. Moreover, the best yield of the CO and methane was obtained by using 0.3 bar as pressure and 10% methanol in H2O/CO2 as a reducing agent. Finally, using sewage sludge to produce a solar fuel based on the presence of active metallic oxide and semi-conductor heterojunctions provides novel insights from molecular and engineering perspectives into converting CO2 to a green fuel using wastewater sludge.

Graphical abstract
Hosoya polynomial method for the numerical solution of Volterra integral equations
Authors: Mundewadi Ravikiran A. , Jummannaver Raju B.
Published: September 2024

The numerical solution of Volterra integral equation using one of the graph theoretic polynomial is Hosoya polynomial. To reduce the VIEs to a system of algebraic equations by substituting collocation points. To simplify these system by the help of Matlab using Newton’s iteration technique, we get the Hosoya coefficients and substitute these coefficients in function approximation to get the required solutions as shown in tables and graphically represent the figures. The error analysis demonstrates the accuracy, stability, and consistency. The proposed method shows efficiency and validity as compared to the existing methods.
Sustainable approaches to landscape design through diverse environmental waste recycling practices
Authors: Mohamed Amany Saker , Malak Mina Nabil , Afifi Ahmed
Published: September 2024

In today’s context, sustainability serves as a pathway to meet current needs while safeguarding those of future generations, encompassing initiatives across various sectors. Whether environmental, social, or economic sustainability, governments, companies, and individuals are increasingly adopting it as a guiding principle to address global challenges like resource depletion and climate change. This paper explores the topic of sustainable landscaping with a focus on using demolition and construction waste into hardscape-like benches. Where waste materials are held for profitable use, particularly in manufacturing sustainable concrete for landscape elements. We address the urgent need for creative solutions to environmental problems, focusing on cooperation, policy changes, and technological improvements. We aim to support sustainable methods in landscape design by reusing resources such as broken ceramics, recycled aggregates, and granite powder. This Study presents a comprehensive methodology that includes application techniques, theoretical frameworks, and recommendations for successful execution. Our study emphasizes integrating sustainability concepts into landscape design, providing observable advantages, including waste reduction, resource conservation, and environmental preservation. We hope this study will help create a future where society and the environment coexist more sustainably.
Tracking the storage stability in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.): impact of accelerated storage on storability characteristics, seed quality, phytochemical content, and fatty acids
Authors: Elsafy Mohammed , Ekholm Anders , Elkhatim Khitma A. Sir , Hamid Manhal Gobara , Othman Mazahir H. , Abdelhalim Tilal Sayed , Rahmatov Mahbubjon , Johansson Eva , Hassan Amro B.
Published: September 2024

Storage stability under non-optimal conditions is an essential characteristic of Sudanese sesame. To understand opportunities to improve storage stability in sesame, seed quality, storability characteristics, content of fatty acids and phytochemicals, and antioxidant capacity were evaluated in ten Sudanese genotypes subjected to high temperature (55 °C) and humidity (60% RH) for 16 and 32 days. The accelerated storage increased seed color, linoleic acid, fungal growth, and peroxide value, while oil content, oleic acid, water activity, phytochemicals, and antioxidant capacity decreased (P < 0.05). The germination rate and content of saturated fatty acids were retained despite the storage (P > 0.05). The landrace Abusundoug showed better storage stability than the other genotypes due to generally low fatty acids and high phytochemical contents. The differences in storage stability in the Sudanese genotypes underscore the need for their further evaluation and use in breeding programs to improve sesame shelf life and quality.
Assessing the impact of social trust on attitudes towards immigrants: evidence from Brazil
Authors: dos Santos Wagner Martins , Steiner Andrea Quirino , Alves Elia Elisa Cia , do Vale Caio Vinício Malaquias
Published: September 2024

Since the 2000s, the number of immigrants has been growing in Brazil, as well as the cases of xenophobia. There are multiple explanations in the literature on the drivers of attitudes towards immigrants, which vary at the individual, regional and national analytical levels. We discuss and situate the argument of societal integration within the debate on whether social trust can reduce negative attitudes towards immigrants. We argue that social trust is key to reducing negative perceptions towards immigrants and a good predictor of attitudes in environments with strong perceived threat and prejudice, as is the case in Brazil. We empirically test whether greater generalized trust and trust in foreigners are related to a more positive attitude towards immigrants. Although this relationship has already been studied in other countries, to the best of our knowledge no study has yet been applied to the Brazilian case. Using data from the World Values Survey wave 7, and applying a logit model, our results corroborate that social trust has a positive impact on perceptions towards immigrants.
A marker-based method for visual-inertial initialization
Authors: An Kang , Fan Hao , Dong Junyu
Published: September 2024

Accurate and robust initialization is significant for visual-inertial simultaneous localization and mapping (VI-SLAM). Existing methods solve VI-SLAM initialization based on visual information. However inertial measurement unit (IMU) parameter estimation performed underwater is subject to two major limitations. First, IMU preintegration error accumulates over time, resulting in reduced accuracy. Second, it is difficult for robots to achieve sufficient movement underwater, which affects the reliability of initialization results. For a better balance between the efficiency and accuracy of VI-SLAM initialization, this study proposes a VI-SLAM initialization method using a designed marker calibration device. First, we utilize both marker points and ORB feature points for a fast and robust visual trajectory estimation with real motion scale, and we estimate the gravity direction using the marker calibration device. Second, the IMU trajectory is aligned with the trajectory, and the IMU parameters are solved using the initial gravity direction. Experiments verify the effectiveness of our developed method for improving the accuracy and efficiency of the VI-SLAM initialization. The code is available at https://gitee.com/litseaak/mmorb.
Decoding the genetic blueprint: regulation of key agricultural traits in sorghum
Authors: Liu Fangyuan , Wodajo Baye , Xie Peng
Published: September 2024

Sorghum, the fifth most important crop globally, thrives in challenging environments such as arid, saline-alkaline, and infertile regions. This remarkable crop, one of the earliest crops domesticated by humans, offers high biomass and stress-specific properties that render it suitable for a variety of uses including food, feed, bioenergy, and biomaterials. What’s truly exciting is the extensive phenotypic variation in sorghum, particularly in traits related to growth, development, and stress resistance. This inherent adaptability makes sorghum a game-changer in agriculture. However, tapping into sorghum’s full potential requires unraveling the complex genetic networks that govern its key agricultural traits. Understanding these genetic mechanisms is paramount for improving traits such as yield, quality, and tolerance to drought and saline-alkaline conditions. This review provides a comprehensive overview of functionally characterized genes and regulatory networks associated with plant and panicle architectures, as well as stress resistance in sorghum. Armed with this knowledge, we can develop more resilient and productive sorghum varieties through cutting-edge breeding techniques like genome-wide selection, gene editing, and synthetic biology. These approaches facilitate the identification and manipulation of specific genes responsible for desirable traits, ultimately enhancing agricultural performance and adaptability in sorghum.
Controlled Grazing as a Pathway for Enhancing Investment in Multipurpose Trees and Welfare
Authors: Tadesse Tewodros , Hadera Amanuel , Yeabiyo Gebremariam , Birhane Emiru , Rannestad Meley Mekonen , Berhe Melaku
Published: September 2024

In Africa, rangeland ecosystems have been exploited due to heavy and unsustainable grazing. Policy and institutional mechanisms such as integrating silvopastoral systems with sustainable grazing practices have been devised to mitigate the negative effects. In this study, we investigated whether the uptake of sustainable grazing management in the form of controlled grazing spurs investment in multipurpose trees (MPTs) and enhances income. Using instrumental variable regression, we find that controlled grazing increases not only the propensity to plant MPTs but also the number of tree species. More importantly, IV and treatment effect results indicate that controlled grazing enhances income from MPTs.
Dye tracing of upward brine migration in snow
Authors: Mallett Robbie , Nandan Vishnu , Stroeve Julienne , Willatt Rosemary , Saha Monojit , Yackel John , Veysière Gaëlle , Wilkinson Jeremy
Published: September 2024

Salt is often present in the snow overlying seasonal sea ice, and has profound thermodynamic and electromagnetic effects. However, its provenance and behaviour within the snow remain uncertain. We describe two investigations tracing upward brine movement in snow: one conducted in the laboratory and one in the field. The laboratory experiments involved the addition of dyed brine to the base of terrestrial snow samples, with subsequent wicking being measured. Our field experiment involved dye being added directly (without brine) to bare sea-ice and lake ice surfaces, with snow then accumulating on top over several days. On the sea ice, the dye migrated upwards into the snow by up to 5 cm as the snow's basal layer became more salty, whereas no migration occurred in our control experiment over non-saline lake ice. This occurred in relatively dry snowpacks where brine took up

$< 6\%$

of the snow's calculated pore volume, suggesting pore saturation is not required for upward salt transport. Our results highlight the potential role of microstructural parameters beyond those currently retrievable with penetrometry, and the potential value of longitudinal, process-based field studies of young snowpacks.
“My Army Family”: Civil-Military Representation in Military-Sponsored Television Content in Pakistan
Authors: Haider Syed Eisar
Published: September 2024

Sinf-e-Aahan (2021) and Ehd-e-Wafa (2019) are two scripted television shows produced by Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), the public relations wing of the Pakistan Armed Forces. Both shows merge the national, military spheres with domestic, civil spheres within its narrative universe, albeit in contrasting ways. This is a departure from military-sponsored scripted television made under the monopolistic state control of television. How do military-sponsored shows maintain the domestic and military spheres in their visual landscape? With attention to visual representation in the serials and using secondary data available on the production team’s choices, I argue that the conventions of domestic serial content force military characters to engage in issues of domesticity, such as marital conflict and reputation scandals. Military and familial logics meld together in instances where the military inserts itself into the domestic sphere within these shows, without embracing the messiness and moral ambiguity of such spaces.
Healthcare worker attitudes on routine non-urological preoperative urine cultures: a qualitative assessment
Authors: Friberg Walhof Julia E. , Schweizer Marin L. , Gupta Kalpana , Brown Madisen , Suh Daniel , Strymish Judith , O’Brien William J. , Chan Jeffrey , Miell Kelly , Au Vanessa , Trautner Barbara W. , Dukes Kimberly C.
Published: September 2024

Objective:

Many preoperative urine cultures are of low value and may even lead to patient harms. This study sought to understand practices around ordering preoperative urine cultures and prescribing antibiotic treatment.

Design:

Open-ended, semi-structured qualitative interviews

Setting:

5 Veterans Affairs hospitals.

Participants:

Interviews with 14 surgeons (9 surgeons, 5 surgical leaders), 7 infectious disease physicians, 8 surgical advanced practice providers (APPs), 1 surgical nurse manager, 3 infectious disease pharmacists, 1 hospitalist, and 1 lab manager.

Methods:

We interviewed participants using a qualitative semi-structured interview guide. Collected data was coded inductively and with the Dual Process Model (DPM) using MAXQDA software. Data in the “Testing Decision-Making” code was further reviewed using the concept of perceived risk as a sensitizing concept.

Results:

We identified themes relating to surgeons’ concerns about de-implementing preoperative urine cultures to detect asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) in patients undergoing non-urological procedures: (1) anxiety and uncertainty surrounding missing infection signs spanned surgical specialties, (2) there were perceived risks of negative consequences associated with omitting urine cultures and treatment prior to specific procedure sites and types, and additionally, (3) participants suggested potential routes for adjusting these perceived risks to facilitate de-implementation acceptance. Notably, participants suggested that leadership support and peer engagement could help improve surgeon buy-in.

Conclusions:

Concerns about perceived risks sometimes outweigh the evidence against routine preoperative urine cultures to detect ASB. Evidence from trusted peers may improve openness to de-implementing preoperative urine cultures.