bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forward modelling low-spectral-resolution Cassini/CIRS observations of Titan
Authors: Wright Lucy , Teanby Nicholas A. , Irwin Patrick G. J. , Nixon Conor A.
Published: March 2024

The Composite InfraRed Spectrometer (CIRS) instrument onboard the Cassini spacecraft performed 8.4 million spectral observations of Titan at resolutions between 0.5–15.5 cm$$^{\varvec{-1}}$$

-
1

. More than 3 million of these were acquired at a low spectral resolution (SR) (13.5–15.5 cm$$^{\varvec{-1}}$$

-
1

), which have excellent spatial and temporal coverage in addition to the highest spatial resolution and lowest noise per spectrum of any of the CIRS observations. Despite this, the CIRS low-SR dataset is currently underused for atmospheric composition analysis, as spectral features are often blended and subtle compared to those in higher SR observations. The vast size of the dataset also poses a challenge as an efficient forward model is required to fully exploit these observations. Here, we show that the CIRS FP3/4 nadir low-SR observations of Titan can be accurately forward modelled using a computationally efficient correlated-$$\varvec{k}$$

k

method. We quantify wavenumber-dependent forward modelling errors, with mean 0.723 nW cm$$^{\varvec{-2}}\,$$

-
2

sr$$^{\varvec{-1}}$$

-
1

/cm$$^{\varvec{-1}}$$

-
1

(FP3: 600–890 cm$$^{\varvec{-1}}$$

-
1

) and 0.248 nW cm$$^{\varvec{-2}}\,$$

-
2

sr$$^{\varvec{-1}}\,$$

-
1

/ cm$$^{\varvec{-1}}$$

-
1

(FP4: 1240–1360 cm$$^{\varvec{-1}}$$

-
1

), that can be used to improve the rigour of future retrievals. Alternatively, in cases where more accuracy is required, we show observations can be forward modelled using an optimised line-by-line method, significantly reducing computation time.
Exploring Factors of Diagnostic Timing Among Black Autistic Youth
Authors: Onovbiona Harlee , Quetsch Lauren , Del Rosario Emily-Anne
Published: March 2024

The goal of the present study was to compare profiles among Black families of autistic youth who were identified Early (≤ 2 years of age), Mid (age 3 or 4), and Delayed (≥ 5 years of age) to better identify the characteristics that contribute to early ASD identification and delayed ASD identification. Black caregivers with autistic youth (N = 101) were divided into Early (N = 34), Mid (N = 39), and Delayed (N = 28) groups and compared on (a) the age at which signs of autism signs were first noticed, (b) wait times, (c) previous misdiagnoses rates, and (d) racial barriers experienced during the diagnostic process. The results revealed differences between the diagnostic profiles. Specifically, (a) Delayed families noticed the first signs of autism significantly later, (b) Early families had significantly smaller wait times between age of noticing signs of autism and age of receiving the diagnosis, (c) the odds of receiving a later or delayed autism diagnosis was nearly three times higher for caregivers who reported receiving a misdiagnosis, and (d) there were no significant differences in racial barriers experienced between Early, Mid, and Delayed families. Challenges in receiving a timely diagnosis remain for some Black autistic youth. To improve early identification for Black autistic youth who are at risk for receiving delayed diagnostic care, further research should examine factors and practices that improve autism knowledge among professionals and caregivers, enhance assessment practices, and integrate culturally responsive practices into assessment and screening procedures.
Comparison of different methods for extraction of phycocyanin from the cyanobacterium Arthrospira maxima (Spirulina)
Authors: Kuhnholz Jan , Glockow Till , Siebecke Verena , Le Anh Thu , Tran Long-Dinh , Noke Anja
Published: March 2024

Phycocyanin is an interesting alternative to synthetic food colorants. Various methods to obtain phycocyanin from Arthrospira (Spirulina) biomass have been described in the literature, including ultrasonication, glass bead extraction and freeze-thawing. In this study, three optimized procedures were implemented to assess their efficacy in obtaining phycocyanin from Arthrospira maxima biomass, facilitating a comparative analysis of their effectiveness. After harvesting the biomass, extraction processes were conducted utilizing ultrasonication followed by flocculation with chitosan in various organic acid solutions, as well as glass bead extraction and freeze-thawing techniques, each followed by centrifugation. The obtained extracts were analyzed spectrophotometrically across the wavelength range of 280 to 800 nm. The freeze-thawing method yielded the highest C-PC contents at 17.03 ± 0.53%, followed closely by the ultrasonication method at 15.21 ± 0.41%. The highest purity of 2.02 ± 0.01 was attained through ultrasonication and subsequent flocculation with chitosan in acetic acid. Conversely, employing chitosan dissolved in citric or lactic acid for flocculation resulted in greenish extracts containing high amounts of chlorophyll.
The effects of freezing and thawing on Alaria esculenta
Authors: Sund Randi , Rustad Turid , Duinker Arne , Skipnes Dagbjørn
Published: March 2024

Seaweeds must be stabilised shortly after harvesting to avoid rapid deterioration. To handle large amounts harvested during a short period, freezing and frozen storage until utilisation or further processing is one of the methods used industrially. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of different freezing and thawing procedures on Alaria esculenta by analysis of the chemical composition of the seaweed and the drip loss expelled during thawing. Thawing of industrially frozen A. esculenta resulted in a drip loss of 57% of wet weight. The drip loss had a dry matter content of 7% of wet weight, of which 71% was mineral content. Analysis showed that, of the dry matter excluding ash, alanine, aspartic acid, and mannitol were the main components lost to the drip loss. Experiments with a second batch of A. esculenta looking at quick and slow freezing and thawing showed that quick freezing resulted in a significantly lower drip loss than slow freezing; 20% compared to up to 42% of wet weight. Dry matter and mineral content of the drip loss of these samples were all around 6% of wet weight and 31% of dry weight. For some applications it might be of interest to reduce the concentration of potentially toxic elements such as iodine and heavy metals, but due to a high loss of other biomass this was not very effectively done by freezing and thawing. For preservation purposes, quick freezing is the best alternative to retain seaweed biomass.
Investigating and Reducing the Architectural Impact of Transient Faults in Special Function Units for GPUs
Authors: Rodriguez Condia Josie E. , Guerrero-Balaguera Juan-David , Patiño Núñez Edwar J. , Limas Robert , Sonza Reorda Matteo
Published: March 2024

Ensuring the reliability of GPUs and their internal components is paramount, especially in safety-critical domains like autonomous machines and self-driving cars. These cutting-edge applications heavily rely on GPUs to implement complex algorithms due to their implicit programming flexibility and parallelism, which is crucial for efficient operation. However, as integration technologies advance, there is a growing concern regarding the potential increase in fault sensitivity of the internal components of current GPU generations. In particular, Special Function Unit (SFU) cores inside GPUs are used in multimedia, High-Performance Computing, and neural network training. Despite their frequent usage and critical role in several domains, reliability evaluations on SFUs and the development of effective mitigation solutions have yet to be studied and remain unexplored. This work evaluates the impact of transient faults in the main hardware structures of SFUs in GPUs. In addition, we analyze the main overhead costs and benefits of developing selective-hardening mechanisms for SFUs. We focus on evaluating and analyzing two SFU architectures for GPUs (’fused’ and ’modular’) and their relations to energy, area, and reliability impact on parallel applications. The experiments resort to fine-grain fault injection campaigns on an RTL GPU model (FlexGripPlus) instrumented with both SFUs. The results on both SFU architectures indicate that fused SFUs (in commercial-grade devices) require lower area overhead (about 27%) for their integration in GPUs but are more vulnerable to transient faults (in up to 47% for the analyzed cases) and less power efficient (in up to 36.6%) than modular SFUs. Moreover, the reliability estimation shows that Modular SFUs are structurally more resilient than Fused ones in up to one order of magnitude. Similarly, selective-hardening mechanism based on Triple-Modular Redundancy (TMR) shows that coarse-grain strategies might increase the reliability of the overall SFUs under feasible overhead costs.
The spider fauna of Danish coastal dune habitats revisited after 25 years: evidence of faunistic impoverishment
Authors: Toft Søren , Gajdoš Peter
Published: March 2024

Arthropod faunas have become impoverished in recent years in abundance as well as in diversity, but so far little evidence exists concerning spiders. In 2022, we repeated pitfall trap collections of spider assemblages completed 25 years previously in coastal dune habitats of the Hanstholm Reserve of National Park Thy, Denmark. Traps were placed approximately at the same spots, i.e. the habitats (white dune, grey dune, dry dune heathland, wet dune heathland, low pine plantation) were represented approximately as before. Contrary to most previous reports of insect decline, we found only weak evidence of reduction in abundance, but strong indications of reductions in faunistic value based on changes in ecological traits. Within the same period of spring and with the same number of traps, we collected 12% fewer spider individuals and 13% fewer species; rarefaction indicated that the lowered species richness was real. Species diversity had decreased and dominance increased. Changes in indices of ecological traits showed that the fauna had changed into decreased contribution of habitat specialists and species of restricted Danish distribution; the proportion of aeronauts had increased; the average body size had decreased. Indices of assemblage microclimatic niche positions and niche widths showed increased representation of shade and humidity loving species. Most of these changes were repeated in each of the habitats. Finally, we found evidence of a phenological shift towards activity earlier in spring in some species.

Implications for insect conservation

We discuss possible management measures to counteract the observed trend towards reduced faunistic value.
Performance Guarantee for Autonomous Robotic Missions using Resource Management: The PANORAMA Approach
Authors: Lambert Philippe , Godary-Dejean Karen , Lapierre Lionel , Jaiem Lotfi , Crestani Didier
Published: March 2024

This paper proposes the PANORAMA approach, which is designed to dynamically and autonomously manage the allocation of a robot’s hardware and software resources during fully autonomous mission. This behavioral autonomy approach guarantees the satisfaction of the mission performance constraints. This article clarifies the concept of performance for autonomous robotic missions and details the different phases of the PANORAMA approach. Finally, it focuses on an experimental implementation on a patrolling mission example.
Role of the plasticizers on the crystallization of PLA and its composites with mesoporous MCM-41
Authors: Blázquez-Blázquez Enrique , Barranco-García Rosa , Díez-Rodríguez Tamara M. , Cerrada María L. , Pérez Ernesto
Published: March 2024

Several materials were prepared by melt extrusion, based on an L-rich polylactide (PLA), as polymeric matrix, acetyl tri-n-butyl citrate (ATBC) or trioctyl trimellitate (TOTM), as plasticizer, and mesoporous MCM-41 particles, playing a nucleant role. Influence of the addition of these nucleating particles, together with the comparative effect of the two plasticizers, has been thoroughly evaluated on the features of the several phase transitions existing in the PLA polymeric matrix (glass transition, cold crystallization, α′ to α transition, melting processes and melt crystallization) as well as on the rate of PLA crystallization. The window where this ordering process can take place is shifted down to lower temperatures for these binary and ternary systems and the range of temperatures at which the α′ and α polymorphs crystallize under isothermal crystallization from the glassy state significantly changes in the materials containing ATBC as plasticizer, either the binary or ternary ones. Type of the major crystalline lattice developed at 85 and 110 °C has been confirmed, additionally to the DSC experiments, by FTIR spectroscopy.

Graphical abstract
Exploring the morphological surface resistance and optical absorption of thin black carbon nanotube films for electronic and optoelectronic devices
Authors: Abdellatif Sameh O. , Khalifa Ziad
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the optical and electrical properties of thin black films of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) fabricated under various conditions to explore their potential integration as either a perfect broadband absorber or enhanced counter electrode. The study involves SEM measurements, surface resistance measurements, and UV–Vis. spectrometer analysis. The results show that the CNT thin films exhibit high electrical conductivity and strong light absorption across various wavelengths. Optically, we investigated the impact of varying the growth temperature and catalyst temperature on the absorption profile of the thin films. The fabricated and deposited CNTs showed broadband absorption spectra, reaching 92.8% of the commercial reference sample, covering both visible and near-infrared spectra. Alternatively, the morphological surface resistance for the CNT thin films recorded agonist commercial CNT samples and FTO-coated glass. An average surface resistance of 20.5 Ω/Sq.
Non-invasive technology for brain monitoring: definition and meaning of the principal parameters for the International PRactice On TEChnology neuro-moniToring group (I-PROTECT)
Authors: Romagnoli Stefano , Lobo Francisco A. , Picetti Edoardo , Rasulo Frank A. , Robba Chiara , Matta Basil
Published: March 2024

Technologies for monitoring organ function are rapidly advancing, aiding physicians in the care of patients in both operating rooms (ORs) and intensive care units (ICUs). Some of these emerging, minimally or non-invasive technologies focus on monitoring brain function and ensuring the integrity of its physiology. Generally, the central nervous system is the least monitored system compared to others, such as the respiratory, cardiovascular, and renal systems, even though it is a primary target in most therapeutic strategies. Frequently, the effects of sedatives, hypnotics, and analgesics are entirely unpredictable, especially in critically ill patients with multiple organ failure. This unpredictability exposes them to the risks of inadequate or excessive sedation/hypnosis, potentially leading to complications and long-term negative outcomes. The International PRactice On TEChnology neuro-moniToring group (I-PROTECT), comprised of experts from various fields of clinical neuromonitoring, presents this document with the aim of reviewing and standardizing the primary non-invasive tools for brain monitoring in anesthesia and intensive care practices. The focus is particularly on standardizing the nomenclature of different parameters generated by these tools. The document addresses processed electroencephalography, continuous/quantitative electroencephalography, brain oxygenation through near-infrared spectroscopy, transcranial Doppler, and automated pupillometry. The clinical utility of the key parameters available in each of these tools is summarized and explained. This comprehensive review was conducted by a panel of experts who deliberated on the included topics until a consensus was reached. Images and tables are utilized to clarify and enhance the understanding of the clinical significance of non-invasive neuromonitoring devices within these medical settings.
Solving Minimal Residual Methods in $$W^{-1,p'}$$ with Large Exponents p
Authors: Storn Johannes
Published: March 2024

We introduce a numerical scheme that approximates solutions to linear PDE’s by minimizing a residual in the $$W^{-1,p'}(\Omega )$$

W

-
1
,

p
′

(
Ω
)

norm with exponents $$p> 2$$

p
>
2

. The resulting problem is solved by regularized Kačanov iterations, allowing to compute the solution to the non-linear minimization problem even for large exponents $$p\gg 2$$

p
≫
2

. Such large exponents remedy instabilities of finite element methods for problems like convection-dominated diffusion.
Entrepreneurial universities and the third mission paradigm shift from economic performance to impact entrepreneurship: Germany’s EXIST program and ESG orientation
Authors: Lehmann Erik E. , Otto Jonah M. , Wirsching Katharine
Published: March 2024

The proliferation and intensity of modern grand challenges, and the current broad public awareness of them, has resulted in a demand for entrepreneurship with an eye toward environmental, social and governance (ESG) matters, not just profits and economic gain. When it comes to economic applications, this realigned focus on impact-oriented entrepreneurship has significantly altered the way in which entrepreneurial universities address their third mission of service to society. The overall paradigm shift toward an ESG orientation drives these entrepreneurial universities to structure their efforts in technology transfer and creating academic spinoffs to produce startups which heavily employ impact entrepreneurship and ESG principles. This paper finds that governments can assist with this transition by creating funding programs, or updating existing funding programs, which favor the selection of impact entrepreneurship focused spinoffs that make use of ideas and knowledge from the university sphere. The EXIST program from the German government serves as a prime example of just such a financial mechanism that has evolved across multiple decades to more heavily incentivize academic spinoffs that place ESG at the core of what they do, in addition to the original goals of producing economic and technological development and increasing local, regional and national competitiveness. These findings bear implications for government and university leaders in regard to technology transfer policy and academic spinoffs at entrepreneurial universities.
Modified Barnacles Mating Optimizing Algorithm for the Inversion of Self-potential Anomalies Due to Ore Deposits
Authors: Ai Hanbing , Ekinci Yunus Levent , Balkaya Çağlayan , Alvandi Ahmad , Ekinci Rezzan , Roy Arka , Su Kejia , Pham Luan Thanh
Published: March 2024

The self-potential method (SP) has been used extensively to reveal some model parameters of various ore deposits. However, estimating these parameters can be challenging due to the mathematical nature of the inversion process. To address this issue, we propose here a novel global optimizer called the Modified Barnacles Mating Optimizer (MBMO). We improved upon the original approach by incorporating a variable genital length strategy, a novel barnacle offspring evolving method, and an out-of-bounds correction approach. The MBMO has not been previously applied to geophysical anomalies. Prior to inversion of real data sets, modal and sensitivity Analyzes were conducted using a theoretical model with multiple sources. The Analyzes revealed that the problem is modal in nature, model parameters have varying levels of sensitivity, and an algorithm that can well balance global exploration with local exploitation is required to solve this problem. The MBMO was tested on theoretical SP anomalies and four real datasets from Türkiye, Canada, India, and Germany. Its performance was compared to the original version under equal conditions. Uncertainty determination studies were carried out to comprehend the reliability of the solutions obtained via both algorithms. The findings indicated clearly that the MBMO outperformed its original version in estimating the model parameters from SP anomalies. The modifications presented here improved its ability to search for the global minimum effectively. In addition to geophysical datasets, experiments with 11 challenging benchmark functions demonstrated the advantages of MBMO in optimization problems. Theoretical and field data applications showed that the proposed algorithm can be used effectively in model parameter estimations from SP anomalies of ore deposits with the help of total gradient anomalies.
Literary theory between contingency and contiguity: Yakov Druskin’s “Law of Heterogeneity”
Authors: Strätling Susanne
Published: March 2024

The notion of chance epitomizes the limits and challenges of any theory’s struggle for control over itself as well as over its objects. Although contemporary literary theory has adapted its terminology and conceptual framework in line with the emergence of dynamic, “open forms” (Wölfflin in Principles of art history: The problem of the development of style in later art, Dover Publications Inc, New York, 1986), chance has nevertheless remained a highly problematic category to come to terms with. How can literary theory embrace chance? The paper approaches this question in three steps. First, it reconstructs three basic poetological propositions against whose backdrop contingency gains profile: the proposition of causal connections as a means to transform literature into a realm of necessity, the proposition of form as means to reduce arbitrariness, and the proposition of control as a means to protect the aesthetic object against the risks of external intrusions. The second part of the paper discusses a largely forgotten but highly relevant approach to the problem of contingency by Yakov Druskin. Druskin links the function of contingency in theoretical investigation with concepts of contiguity and proximity, first of all touch. His fragmentary sketch of a “law of heterogeneity” represents a paradoxical attempt to theorize contingent obstruction as a privileged systematic device to establish physical contact. The third part of this paper unpacks the implicit urge to rethink the traditions of theory formation itself through the “law of heterogeneity.” It argues that Druskin’s law introduces a different type of theory, one which is deeply indebted to the tactile, thus challenging the ocularcentrism of theoría.
Optimizing flood susceptibility assessment in semi-arid regions using ensemble algorithms: a case study of Moroccan High Atlas
Authors: Bammou Youssef , Benzougagh Brahim , Igmoullan Brahim , Ouallali Abdessalam , Kader Shuraik , Spalevic Velibor , Sestras Paul , Billi Paolo , Marković Slobodan B.
Published: March 2024

This study explores and compares the predictive capabilities of various ensemble algorithms, including SVM, KNN, RF, XGBoost, ANN, DT, and LR, for assessing flood susceptibility (FS) in the Houz plain of the Moroccan High Atlas. The inventory map of past flooding was prepared using binary data from 2012 events, where “1” indicates a flood-prone area and “0” a non-flood-prone or extremely low area, with 762 indicating flood-prone areas. 15 different categorical factors were determined and selected based on importance and multicollinearity tests, including slope, elevation, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, Terrain Ruggedness Index, Stream Power Index, Land Use and Land Cover, curvature plane, curvature profile, aspect, flow accumulation, Topographic Position Index, soil type, Hydrologic Soil Group, distance from river and rainfall. Predicted FS maps for the Tensift watershed show that, only 10.75% of the mean surface area was predicted as very high risk, and 19% and 38% were estimated as low and very low risk, respectively. Similarly, the Haouz plain, exhibited an average surface area of 21.76% for very-high-risk zones, and 18.88% and 18.18% for low- and very-low-risk zones respectively. The applied algorithms met validation standards, with an average area under the curve of 0.93 and 0.91 for the learning and validation stages, respectively. Model performance analysis identified the XGBoost model as the best algorithm for flood zone mapping. This study provides effective decision-support tools for land-use planning and flood risk reduction, across globe at semi-arid regions.
Cultural Threat, Outgroup Discrimination, and Attitudes toward Transgender Rights
Authors: Lewis Daniel C. , Flores Andrew R. , Haider-Markel Donald P. , Miller Patrick R. , Taylor Jami K.
Published: March 2024

Scholars often highlight the roles that group threat and intergroup solidarity play in shaping attitudes toward outgroups. Competition among social groups, including over values and culture, can underlie negative attitudes toward outgroups. Meanwhile, perceptions of discrimination against outgroups can drive feelings of solidarity, sympathy, or empathy, which may foster more positive attitudes. These social identity concepts are often studied in the context of racial, ethnic, and religious prejudice, with less attention to how they apply to attitudes toward transgender and gender diverse people. Using a 2022 national survey, we assess how respondents’ perceptions of cultural threat from the LGBTQ community and perceptions of discrimination among a range of outgroups are related to attitudes about transgender rights policies, including access to public restrooms, participation in school sports, and medical transition care. We find that cultural threat is consistently associated with support for policies that restrict the rights of transgender people, but perceived outgroup discrimination tends not to show a significant relationship with these attitudes.
Minoritized pupils’ reflections on their student-teacher relationship in mainstream and supplementary schools
Authors: Steenwegen Julia , Clycq Noel , Vanhoof Jan
Published: March 2024

This paper investigates the student-teacher relationship among minoritized primary school pupils in Flanders, Belgium, who attend both mainstream and supplementary schools, educational initiatives organized by their communities in the weekend. Despite the recognized significance of this relationship, research often overlooks the experiences of students with migration backgrounds, and especially those of primary school pupils. This study aims to comprehensively understand the student-teacher dynamic by exploring both the academic and the affective side of the relationship from the perspective of the children. While prior research mainly focuses on secondary school students and mainly uses quantitative data, this qualitative study delves into the primary school context. Minoritized pupils, who attend supplementary schools in addition to their mainstream schools, provide a unique opportunity to examine student-teacher relationships across varied educational settings. Through 13 open ended in-depth interviews with a total of 29 pupils aged 9 to 12 attending both types of schools, the study uncovers which aspects of their student-teacher relationships the pupils perceive as supportive, in each setting. The findings reveal both shared and distinct experiences within different contexts, shedding light on the intricate interplay of expectations, teacher attitudes, and relationships. By investigating affective and academic dimensions of the student-teacher relationship from the experience of minoritized pupils, this paper adds to our understanding of the student teacher relationship. The insights emphasize the need to support the diverse needs of minoritized pupils in complex educational environments, offering recommendations for policymakers and suggesting future research directions.
Parallelization with load balancing of the weather scheme WSM7 for heterogeneous CPU-GPU platforms
Authors: Jakobs Thomas , Klöckner Oliver , Rünger Gudula
Published: March 2024

This article provides an enhanced parallelization of the WSM7 microphysics scheme for the Weather Research and Forecasting Model (WRF). The parallelization is designed to maximize the utilization of a heterogeneous computing system consisting of CPUs, GPUs or both. Therefore the reference implementation of the WSM7 scheme is re-implemented for the heterogeneous execution model. For each time step, a dynamic load distribution is introduced which balances the computational load between the two components aiming for an overall minimum execution time. The evaluation of the parallelized implementation is done for a specific weather situation. Specifically, the precipitation of the low-pressure zone “Bernd” from July 2021 is simulated using an Intel Core i7-7700 CPU and a NVIDIA GTX 1070 GPU. The results show a speedup of up to 28.51 for the GPU version in comparison with the reference implementation. The heterogeneous dynamic load balancing increases the speedup achieved even further by introducing a distribution factor that is updated for each time step.
Shaping Social Media Minds: Scaffolding Empathy in Digitally Mediated Interactions?
Authors: Mossner Carmen , Walter Sven
Published: March 2024

Empathy is an integral aspect of human existence. Without at least a basic ability to access others’ affective life, social interactions would be well-nigh impossible. Yet, recent studies seem to show that the means we have acquired to access others’ emotional life no longer function well in what has become our everyday business – technologically mediated interactions in digital spaces. If this is correct, there are two important questions: (1) What makes empathy for frequent internet users so difficult? and (2) What can we do to alleviate the negative consequences? Correspondingly, the aim of this paper is twofold. First, we identify structural differences between offline and technologically mediated interactions that can explain why digital empathy is harder to achieve. Second, drawing on the literature on ‘situated affectivity,’ we consider the idea of modifying digital spaces in ways specifically designed to ‘scaffold’ empathy where our evolved mechanisms fail. Section 2 argues that empathy is requires interpreting the behavior of embodied subjects. Section 3 identifies three factors that are crucial for this interpretative endeavor: the empathizer’s affective repertoire, their perceptual input, and their background knowledge. Section 4 argues that technologically mediated interactions differ from face-to-face interactions with regard to these factors in ways which render our evolved empathy mechanisms less effective in the digital world. Section 5 introduces the idea that situational factors can serve as ‘empathic scaffolds,’ i.e., as ‘tools’ that can ‘shape’ people’s empathic reactions. Section 6 wraps up the main line of reasoning, responds to objections and invites further scholarship.
Adsorption of azo dye by biomass and immobilized Yarrowia lipolytica; equilibrium, kinetic and thermodynamic studies
Authors: Hassan Ibrahim Amal Hajo , Cihangir Nilüfer , Idil Neslihan , Aracagök Y. Doruk
Published: March 2024

One of the major environmental problems we have today is dye pollution, primarily caused by the textile industry. This pollution has detrimental effects on aquatic life, soil fertility, and human health. Many microbial biosorbents have been documented in the literature for the removal of a wide range of azo dyes commonly employed in the textile industry. However, Yarrowia lipolytica NBRC1658 is firstly used as both free and immobilized sorbents for the removal of Reactive yellow 18 (RY18), acid red 18 (AR18) and basic blue 41 (BB41) in this study. The effect of experimental conditions such as pH, biosorbent quantity, dye concentration, contact time, and temperature on dye removal capacity are examined. The research findings demonstrate that the adsorption capacity is higher in biomass compared to immobilized cells. The highest adsorption capacities are observed at pH 2 for RY18 and AR18, while pH 9 is optimal for BB41. Increasing the adsorbent dosage and initial concentration significantly improves the adsorption capacity. The Langmuir model best describes the adsorption process, indicating that the dye attaches to the biosorbent in a single layer, with a uniform biosorbent surface. The removal of the dye occurs through a chemical process on the biosorbent surface, as evidenced by the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. According to thermodynamic analysis, higher temperatures promote greater adsorption of dyes. Our study shows the effectiveness of Yarrowia lipolyica NBRC1658 as a biosorbent in the removal of a wide range of industrial dyes.

Graphical Abstract
Non-enzymatic reactions in biogenesis of fungal natural products
Authors: Kishimoto Shinji
Published: March 2024

Fungi have long been regarded as abundant sources of natural products (NPs) exhibiting significant biological activities. Decades of studies on the biosynthesis of fungal NPs revealed that most of the biosynthetic steps are catalyzed by sophisticated enzymes encoded in biosynthetic gene clusters, whereas some reactions proceed without enzymes. These non-enzymatic reactions complicate biosynthetic analysis of NPs and play important roles in diversifying the structure of the products. Therefore, knowledge on the non-enzymatic reactions is important for elucidating the biosynthetic mechanism. This review focuses on non-enzymatic reactions we recently encountered during biosynthetic studies of four types of NPs (viridicatins, Sch210972, lentopeptins, and lentofuranine).

Graphical abstract
Development of a simple screening method for analyzing cereulide toxin in fried rice using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Koike Hiroshi , Kanda Maki , Monma Chie , Yoshikawa Souichi , Hayashi Hiroshi , Matsushima Yoko , Ohba Yumi , Hayashi Momoka , Furuta Natsumi , Okada Wakaba , Nagano Chieko , Yokoyama Keiko , Yokoyama Tomoko , Sasamoto Takeo
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The presence of cereulide, an emetic toxin produced by Bacillus cereus, in fried rice samples is critical evidence of food poisoning even in situations where B. cereus could not be detected. This study aims to develop a screening method for analyzing cereulide in fried rice using the QuEChERS procedure and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS).

Methods

Cereulide was identified and quantified in fried rice samples using the QuEChERS extraction method and LC–MS/MS. The accuracies of the methods were determined by analyzing fortified blank samples at two concentrations (10 and 50 µg/kg) conducted on three samples daily for five days.

Results

The QuEChERS procedure removed matrix compounds from fried rice. Characteristic MS/MS spectra enabled the identification of cereulide. As the matrix effects in seven fried rice samples were within ± 6%, an external solvent calibration curve could be used for quantification. This method exhibited good accuracy ranging from 88 to 89%. The relative standard deviations for both repeatability and intra-laboratory reproducibility were < 4%. These standard deviations satisfied the criteria of the Japanese validation guidelines for residues (MHLW 2010, Director Notice, Syoku-An No. 1224–1). The limit of quantification was 2 μg/kg. The applicability of this method was confirmed using the analysis of cereulide in fried rice samples incubated with emetic Bacillus cereus.

Conclusions

The QuEChERS extraction procedure described herein showed substantial promise as a reliable screening tool for cereulide in fried rice sample.
EEG resting state alpha dynamics predict an individual’s vulnerability to auditory hallucinations
Authors: Honcamp H. , Duggirala S. X. , Rodiño Climent J. , Astudillo A. , Trujillo-Barreto N. J. , Schwartze M. , Linden D. E. J. , van Amelsvoort T. A. M. J. , El-Deredy W. , Kotz S. A.
Published: March 2024

Task-free brain activity exhibits spontaneous fluctuations between functional states, characterized by synchronized activation patterns in distributed resting-state (RS) brain networks. The temporal dynamics of the networks’ electrophysiological signatures reflect individual variations in brain activity and connectivity linked to mental states and cognitive functions and can predict or monitor vulnerability to develop psychiatric or neurological disorders. In particular, RS alpha fluctuations modulate perceptual sensitivity, attentional shifts, and cognitive control, and could therefore reflect a neural correlate of increased vulnerability to sensory distortions, including the proneness to hallucinatory experiences. We recorded 5 min of RS EEG from 33 non-clinical individuals varying in hallucination proneness (HP) to investigate links between task-free alpha dynamics and vulnerability to hallucinations. To this end, we used a dynamic brain state allocation method to identify five recurrent alpha states together with their spatiotemporal dynamics and most active brain areas through source reconstruction. The dynamical features of a state marked by activation in somatosensory, auditory, and posterior default-mode network areas predicted auditory and auditory-verbal HP, but not general HP, such that individuals with higher vulnerability to auditory hallucinations spent more time in this state. The temporal dynamics of spontaneous alpha activity might reflect individual differences in attention to internally generated sensory events and altered auditory perceptual sensitivity. Altered RS alpha dynamics could therefore instantiate a neural marker of increased vulnerability to auditory hallucinations.
It is Not Too Late for Reconciliation Between Israel and Palestine, Even in the Darkest Hour
Authors: Komesaroff P. A.
Published: March 2024

The conflict in Gaza and Israel that ignited on October 7, 2023 signals a catastrophic breakdown in the possibility of ethical dialogue in the region. The actions on both sides have revealed a dissolution of ethical restraints, with unimaginably cruel attacks on civilians, murder of children, destruction of health facilities, and denial of basic needs such as water, food, and shelter. There is a need both to understand the nature of the ethical singularity represented by this conflict and what, if any, options are available to allow the reconstruction of communication between the warring parties. This article seeks to address these tasks by analysing the conflict as inherently an ethical one, in the sense that it exposes a rupture in the fabric of communicative relationships that has evolved systematically out of the deep cultural structures from which all protagonists have emerged. Drawing on the work of Levinas, Habermas, Arendt, and others, and referring to the specific circumstances in the region, it examines the ethical sources of the crisis and tries to identify conditions for its resolution. The possibility of reconciliation—that is, of refiguring relationships to open up a space for dialogue to create pathways to heal the ruptures—is examined. The dark legacy of the Holocaust is identified as an abiding cultural vulnerability for both societies. It is concluded, however, that the rich history of partnerships and collaborations between Jews and Palestinians provides a robust infrastructure on the basis of which a sustainable peace might be built, providing a much-needed source of hope.
Synthesis and Optical Properties of Erbium-Doped Sodium Silicate in Sol-Gel Matrix
Authors: Mansour A. M. , Abou Hammad Ali B. , El Nahrawy Amany M.
Published: March 2024

In this study, we investigated how the concentration of erbium (0.0, 1, 2 mol% Er) affects the structural and optical properties of thin films made from sol-gel sodium silicate doped with erbium nitrate, thermally treated at 250 °C. Through systematic investigation, we explore the structural evolution and optical behavior of the thin films across varying Er3+ concentrations. The sol-gel demonstrated effective capabilities for substantial concentrations of Er3+ oxides through doping at lower calcination temperatures. The spectroscopic characteristics were studied using visible-near infrared spectroscopy (UV–vis–NIR), transmission electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Increasing the Er ratio decreased both the transmission and the energy band gap (3.6–3.34 eV) of the films while the absorption peak increased. The obtained results suggest that Er3+ activators demonstrate advantageous optical properties in the evaluated sodium silicate glass matrix. With the introduction of Er, optical transmittance ranges from 85 to 55% in the visible and near-infrared (NIR) regions, highlighting their advantageous characteristics. This research contributes to advancing the understanding of erbium-doped thin films for potential applications in optoelectronic devices and photonics.
Compounds from Agathis dammara exert hypoglycaemic activity by enhancing glucose uptake: lignans, terpenes and others
Authors: Yu Zhe-Wei , Cai Bang-Ping , Xie Su-Zhi , Zhang Yi , Wang Wen-Hui , Liu Shun-Zhi , Bin Yan-Lin , Chen Qi , Fang Mei-Juan , Qi Rong , Li Ming-Yu , Qiu Ying-Kun
Published: March 2024

In this study, two new kaurane diterpenes (16, 17), together with 12 lignans (1–12), a triterpene (15), and two other compounds (13, 14) were isolated from the woods of Agathisdammara. The structure of the new compound was determined by HR ESIMS and 1D/2D NMR spectroscopy, and its absolute configuration was determined by electronic circular dichroism (ECD) exciton chirality method. Compounds 5, 11, 14 exhibit significant hypoglycaemic activity in zebrafish, and their mechanism of action is to enhance glucose uptake in zebrafish.

Graphical Abstract
New q-rung orthopair fuzzy Aczel–Alsina weighted geometric operators under group-based generalized parameters in multi-criteria decision-making problems
Authors: Özlü Şerif
Published: March 2024

The concept of q-rung orthopair fuzzy set (q-ROF) defined as generalization of intuitionistic fuzzy set (IFS) and Pythagorean fuzzy set (PyFS) has more flexible structure according to several clusters. Therefore, it is a benefit tool to obtain various results for different values of q. The basic benefit of generalized concepts is to rate level of truth and falsity and reduce to error margin. Thus, while the final decision is decided by experts, the most accuracy finding is to present. Aczel–Alsina t-norm (AA-TN) and t-conorm (AA-TCN) structures were defined by Aczel and Alsina in 1982. The both concepts include parameters changing according to prefer, decision, and request of experts. In this paper, q-rung orthopair fuzzy Aczel–Alsina weighted geometric operator (q-ROFAAWG) is produced and also ordered and hybrid concepts (q-ROFAAOWG, q-ROFAAHWG) are obtained using Aczel–Alsina operators (AAOs). Hence, this operator is expanded to generalized q-rung orthopair fuzzy Aczel–Alsina weighted geometric operator (Gq-ROFAAWG), ordered and hybrid concepts (Gq-ROFAAOWG, Gq-ROFAAHWG) using single parameter. Finally, group-based generalized q-rung orthopair fuzzy Aczel–Alsina weighted geometric operator (GGq-ROFAAWG), ordered and hybrid concepts (GGq-ROFAAOWG, GGq-ROFAAHWG) are proposed and their properties are worked. Moreover, an algorithm-based multi-criteria decision-making is given and applied over a numerical example to illustrate the effective of the proposed method. The results are evaluated for different values of parameters. In addition to, comparative analysis is developed to show the superiority of proposed approach than existing methods.
Social Media and Early Psychosis Intervention: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature
Authors: Li Iris , Estafanous Abram , De Choudhury Munmun , Alvarez-Jimenez Mario , Birnbaum Michael L.
Published: March 2024

Purpose of Review

Early intervention (EI) is now seen as the most evidence-based approach to improving outcome for youth with first episode psychosis and youth at clinical high risk for psychosis. However, despite the established benefits of EI, several challenges persist, including lengthy and convoluted pathways to care, poor engagement in services, and high rates of relapse. There is hope that the use of technology, and specifically social media, can address some of these challenges. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the existing literature on social media use and its implications for EI in youth experiencing early psychosis.

Recent Findings

Several studies have identified the potential roles that social media can play in early psychosis intervention including (1) as a source of objective and clinically meaningful digital information, (2) as a means to improve access to care, and (3) as a tool to enhance treatment delivery.

Despite risks, social media holds promise in enhancing early psychosis intervention though more research is needed. We outline its potential clinical applications and consider next steps for integrating social media data and use into clinical practice, aiming to maximize the benefits of social media use while minimizing associated risks.
Perceived Detention Environment and Mental Health of Detainees in Immigration Detention Centers in Spain
Authors: Paloma Virginia , Benítez Isabel , Agüero-Collins Armando , López-Núñez Carla , Saavedra-Macías Francisco J.
Published: March 2024

The increase in migratory flows worldwide has led to the creation of detention centers as a form of control of irregular migration. Recipient countries are responsible for protecting detainees’ right to mental health, but the literature suggests that immigration detention centers are environments associated with complex mental health needs among the detainees. This study aims to approach the mental health of people detained in the immigration detention centers in Spain, a southern border of Europe. Eighty-seven migrants coming from different Latin American and African countries were interviewed using an adaptation of the Measure of Quality of Life in Detention (MQLD; Bosworth & Gerlach, 2020) to measure the perceived detention environment and The Hopkins Symptom Checklist-25 (HSCL-25; Derogatis et al., 1974) to assess mental health. The results show a high prevalence of detainees with significant levels of anxiety and depression (69%) and attempts at self-harm within the detention centers (19.5%). A more positive perception of the detention environment—especially concerning institutional decency and the relationship with officers—is related to a lower degree of negative mental health symptoms. Finally, people detained for more than 2 weeks assess the detention environment more negatively than those detained for less time. Scientific contributions and social implications to ensure the mental health of detainees from a human rights-based approach are discussed.
Theory of self-generated vortex flows in a tokamak magnetic island
Authors: Choi G. J.
Published: March 2024

We present a gyrokinetic theory of an E$$\times$$
×
B vortex flow in a magnetic island self-generated from turbulence in a collisionless tokamak plasma. We have found that after fast collisionless damping, the self-generated vortex flow arrives at a residual level higher than the Rosenbluth-Hinton level predicted in the tokamak geometry. In the longer term, the residual vortex flow undergoes further damping with a deformation toward a zonal-vortex mixture, making open streamlines near the X-points that reduce the isolated region of the island. It is due to the helical symmetry breaking by the toroidal precession, expected to be stronger in higher-temperature plasmas and in lower aspect ratio tokamaks. A strong enough background vortex flow can significantly suppress the toroidicity-induced damping and deformation of the self-generated vortex flow, proposing that the island boundary is a key location for the bifurcation of the confinement state.